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The Shattered Darkness
Born of light. Bound to darkness.
Kyra Reid, the saviour of a divine war, has spent centuries hiding from the darkness pulsating in her mind. Hailed as a hero, she wears her legacy like a mask, concealing a dangerous truth even from herself. But when fate drags her and a group of strangers back to a place where memories blur and danger breathes, secrets buried in blood begin to awaken.
As walls whisper forgotten truths and ancient powers awaken, Kyra is forced to confront the past she buried and the power she fears, all while a figure from the shadows watches her. Cold, cruel, and far from what he seems. His presence awakens something within her. Something ancient. Something hungry.
As magic fractures and an unseen enemy rises, Kyra is caught between duty and desire, fear and power.
The shadows whisper her name.
And in their call lies a resist the darkness within... or unleash it.
For readers who crave forbidden magic, subtle romance, and haunting secrets, this dark fantasy weaves a world where life and death are bound by fragile threads.
Kyra Reid, the saviour of a divine war, has spent centuries hiding from the darkness pulsating in her mind. Hailed as a hero, she wears her legacy like a mask, concealing a dangerous truth even from herself. But when fate drags her and a group of strangers back to a place where memories blur and danger breathes, secrets buried in blood begin to awaken.
As walls whisper forgotten truths and ancient powers awaken, Kyra is forced to confront the past she buried and the power she fears, all while a figure from the shadows watches her. Cold, cruel, and far from what he seems. His presence awakens something within her. Something ancient. Something hungry.
As magic fractures and an unseen enemy rises, Kyra is caught between duty and desire, fear and power.
The shadows whisper her name.
And in their call lies a resist the darkness within... or unleash it.
For readers who crave forbidden magic, subtle romance, and haunting secrets, this dark fantasy weaves a world where life and death are bound by fragile threads.
308 pages, Paperback
Published December 25, 2025
4 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Verkolf
1 book14 followersFrom a young age, I loved getting lost in books, fascinated by how words could create entire worlds on paper.
In 2023, I decided to take on the challenge of writing my very own book. It hasn’t been easy. There have been long nights, countless rewrites, and moments of doubt, but now I’m getting closer to finishing a story that feels fresh, different, and one I genuinely believe readers will love as much as I do.
I’m so excited to share my work when the time comes, and I can’t wait to keep growing and creating!
...
Hailey is an upcoming author born in The Hague, the Netherlands. She writes primarily dark romance, fantasy, and romantasy, and dreams of becoming a full-time author after completing her studies in film and literature. When she’s not reading or writing, Hailey can usually be found curled up at home with a cup of hot chocolate, listening to music or watching movies.
In 2023, I decided to take on the challenge of writing my very own book. It hasn’t been easy. There have been long nights, countless rewrites, and moments of doubt, but now I’m getting closer to finishing a story that feels fresh, different, and one I genuinely believe readers will love as much as I do.
I’m so excited to share my work when the time comes, and I can’t wait to keep growing and creating!
...
Hailey is an upcoming author born in The Hague, the Netherlands. She writes primarily dark romance, fantasy, and romantasy, and dreams of becoming a full-time author after completing her studies in film and literature. When she’s not reading or writing, Hailey can usually be found curled up at home with a cup of hot chocolate, listening to music or watching movies.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 8, 2025
This was a unique and beautifully written fantasy read. I loved the concept of this one and it definitely had me hooked especially through the whole mystery aspect.
Generally, we need more standalone fantasies, so that’s already a win—and it’s also not a very long book. I would have loved even more context and background about the world though, so that especially the ending could have hit even harder. However, that ending was so unexpected and has me excited for more books in the series! 👀
The writing was beautiful and overall incredibly impressive for a debut novel. I’m coming in as a romantasy and spicy-romance lover, so personally I would have loved a lot more romance in this one. And maaaaybe some day I will get more (hopefully!!!) 👀😍
However, I understand why that wouldn’t have worked maybe, and even though this book can be read as a standalone, it still feels like a great setup for the series/universe.
3.75 ⭐️
I very kindly received an ARC and am so grateful for that!
Generally, we need more standalone fantasies, so that’s already a win—and it’s also not a very long book. I would have loved even more context and background about the world though, so that especially the ending could have hit even harder. However, that ending was so unexpected and has me excited for more books in the series! 👀
The writing was beautiful and overall incredibly impressive for a debut novel. I’m coming in as a romantasy and spicy-romance lover, so personally I would have loved a lot more romance in this one. And maaaaybe some day I will get more (hopefully!!!) 👀😍
However, I understand why that wouldn’t have worked maybe, and even though this book can be read as a standalone, it still feels like a great setup for the series/universe.
3.75 ⭐️
I very kindly received an ARC and am so grateful for that!
January 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Shattered Darkness (ARC)
Shattered Darkness is an ambitious dark fantasy with a rich, original universe and a story that grows stronger as it unfolds. While the opening can feel slightly chaotic due to the rapid introduction of names, concepts, and worldbuilding, the narrative quickly finds its footing.
Once past the early chapters, the pacing improves significantly, the world becomes clearer, and the characters gain depth. The atmosphere is well crafted, the concept is compelling, and the second half of the book is immersive and highly entertaining. With more space to explore the world and Kyra’s origins, the story could have been even more impactful, but the potential here is undeniable.
A solid and promising read for fans of dark fantasy and complex worlds.
--------------------------------------
Shattered Darkness is an ambitious novel, driven by an original universe and a plot that grows stronger as the story unfolds.
While the opening requires a brief adjustment period, the reading experience quickly becomes engaging and genuinely entertaining.
The first chapters immerse the reader in a still-unstructured chaos: a large amount of information, names, and concepts are introduced rapidly, which can make the beginning feel slightly disorienting. Readers search for their footing, both within the world and among the characters, and the lack of a clearly anchored point of view at the outset reinforces this feeling. That said, this narrative choice ultimately makes sense once the story becomes more firmly established.
From the second half onward, the novel truly finds its rhythm. The plot flows more smoothly, the world becomes clearer, and the narrative balance improves significantly. The characters gain depth, the atmosphere is well controlled, and the originality of the concept comes through much more strongly. The imagined world is rich, intriguing, and developed enough to create genuine immersion.
That said, the story could have been even more impactful and immersive if the worldbuilding had been explored in greater detail. The novel would have benefited greatly from taking more time to develop Kyra’s origins, particularly her rise to the role of Crown Advisor, as well as expanding on the families and the broader dynamics of the world in which the story takes place. This would not have harmed the pacing; on the contrary, a longer text would have allowed for deeper immersion, strengthening both emotional impact and reader attachment to the characters. The universe is so rich and promising that one would gladly explore every corner of it.
Special mention goes to the creativity of the world and the strong potential for what comes next: once it finds its footing, Shattered Darkness delivers a gripping, exciting, and promising read. Despite a somewhat chaotic beginning, the second half more than makes up for it and leaves a very positive overall impression.
A recommended read for fans of dark fantasy and complex worlds, especially for those who enjoy stories that take time to fully unfold.
Shattered Darkness is an ambitious dark fantasy with a rich, original universe and a story that grows stronger as it unfolds. While the opening can feel slightly chaotic due to the rapid introduction of names, concepts, and worldbuilding, the narrative quickly finds its footing.
Once past the early chapters, the pacing improves significantly, the world becomes clearer, and the characters gain depth. The atmosphere is well crafted, the concept is compelling, and the second half of the book is immersive and highly entertaining. With more space to explore the world and Kyra’s origins, the story could have been even more impactful, but the potential here is undeniable.
A solid and promising read for fans of dark fantasy and complex worlds.
--------------------------------------
Shattered Darkness is an ambitious novel, driven by an original universe and a plot that grows stronger as the story unfolds.
While the opening requires a brief adjustment period, the reading experience quickly becomes engaging and genuinely entertaining.
The first chapters immerse the reader in a still-unstructured chaos: a large amount of information, names, and concepts are introduced rapidly, which can make the beginning feel slightly disorienting. Readers search for their footing, both within the world and among the characters, and the lack of a clearly anchored point of view at the outset reinforces this feeling. That said, this narrative choice ultimately makes sense once the story becomes more firmly established.
From the second half onward, the novel truly finds its rhythm. The plot flows more smoothly, the world becomes clearer, and the narrative balance improves significantly. The characters gain depth, the atmosphere is well controlled, and the originality of the concept comes through much more strongly. The imagined world is rich, intriguing, and developed enough to create genuine immersion.
That said, the story could have been even more impactful and immersive if the worldbuilding had been explored in greater detail. The novel would have benefited greatly from taking more time to develop Kyra’s origins, particularly her rise to the role of Crown Advisor, as well as expanding on the families and the broader dynamics of the world in which the story takes place. This would not have harmed the pacing; on the contrary, a longer text would have allowed for deeper immersion, strengthening both emotional impact and reader attachment to the characters. The universe is so rich and promising that one would gladly explore every corner of it.
Special mention goes to the creativity of the world and the strong potential for what comes next: once it finds its footing, Shattered Darkness delivers a gripping, exciting, and promising read. Despite a somewhat chaotic beginning, the second half more than makes up for it and leaves a very positive overall impression.
A recommended read for fans of dark fantasy and complex worlds, especially for those who enjoy stories that take time to fully unfold.
January 11, 2026
I wish this cover image for this book was clear because it does have a stunning cover that matches the vibe of the story perfectly.
♡lovely world building
♡unique and likable characters
♡good pacing
♡surprise twists
♡an ending I didn't expect
There were a couple of things that I found to be confusing with the plot, POV, and timeline. However, these things didn't hold me back from progressing in the story. This was suspenseful, surprising, unique, and overall, a fun read. I stayed up 'til 3am with this one - I regret nothing.
♡lovely world building
♡unique and likable characters
♡good pacing
♡surprise twists
♡an ending I didn't expect
There were a couple of things that I found to be confusing with the plot, POV, and timeline. However, these things didn't hold me back from progressing in the story. This was suspenseful, surprising, unique, and overall, a fun read. I stayed up 'til 3am with this one - I regret nothing.
January 12, 2026
wow
this book wasn't what I was expecting I read as an arc and it did not disappoint, from the start there was mystery and a great plot that kept you guessing giving little bits I really loved this book I picked it up and didn't put it back down until I'd finished. definitely a 5 star read for me
this book wasn't what I was expecting I read as an arc and it did not disappoint, from the start there was mystery and a great plot that kept you guessing giving little bits I really loved this book I picked it up and didn't put it back down until I'd finished. definitely a 5 star read for me
November 28, 2025
The Shattered Darkness by Hailey Verkolf — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This is hands down one of the best dark fantasy books I’ve ever read.
The writing is smooth, engaging, and super easy to follow, which I loved. The character development—especially Kyra’s growth—was done amazingly well, and the worldbuilding felt rich without being overwhelming.
The story starts strong and hooked me instantly. There was always something happening, so I never lost interest. (I literally stopped listening in class because I was so into it.)
Trigger warnings (personal):
If you’re sensitive to scenes involving death or killing, I’d recommend being cautious, as these themes appear throughout the book.
I’m very grateful to have received this book as an ARC from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
This is hands down one of the best dark fantasy books I’ve ever read.
The writing is smooth, engaging, and super easy to follow, which I loved. The character development—especially Kyra’s growth—was done amazingly well, and the worldbuilding felt rich without being overwhelming.
The story starts strong and hooked me instantly. There was always something happening, so I never lost interest. (I literally stopped listening in class because I was so into it.)
Trigger warnings (personal):
If you’re sensitive to scenes involving death or killing, I’d recommend being cautious, as these themes appear throughout the book.
I’m very grateful to have received this book as an ARC from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
December 30, 2025
A dark, gothic mystery that feels like stepping into a candlelit nightmare you’re not sure you’ll escape.
(3.75 rounded up to 4)
Thank you so much to the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
The Shattered Darkness delivers strong gothic dark fantasy vibes from the very first page. The story wastes no time, opening in the middle of the action with a group of (mostly) strangers waking in an abandoned palace — a setting that’s eerie, atmospheric, and full of unanswered questions. The central mystery of how these characters might escape is compelling and serves as a strong throughline for the entire book.
In terms of scope, this read felt closer to a novella than a full-length novel. There’s enough complexity to keep things interesting, but the worldbuilding isn’t quite as expansive or detailed as I tend to prefer in longer fantasy works. Still, the focused approach works well for the story being told, especially when paired with the consistently morose, fantastical tone.
I also appreciated the subtle narrative tension — that lingering sense of can I trust what I’m being told from the FMC’s POV — as well as the romance subplot, which was handled with restraint and never overshadowed the main plot. While there’s definitely room for growth in the worldbuilding, this is a very promising debut with a strong atmosphere and an engaging core mystery!
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, and I think dedicated fans of dark fantasy will especially appreciate the mood, pacing, and sense of intrigue. I’m very interested to see how this world and this author’s writing evolve in future books, because there is a LOT to work with for new stories within this world!
(3.75 rounded up to 4)
Thank you so much to the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
The Shattered Darkness delivers strong gothic dark fantasy vibes from the very first page. The story wastes no time, opening in the middle of the action with a group of (mostly) strangers waking in an abandoned palace — a setting that’s eerie, atmospheric, and full of unanswered questions. The central mystery of how these characters might escape is compelling and serves as a strong throughline for the entire book.
In terms of scope, this read felt closer to a novella than a full-length novel. There’s enough complexity to keep things interesting, but the worldbuilding isn’t quite as expansive or detailed as I tend to prefer in longer fantasy works. Still, the focused approach works well for the story being told, especially when paired with the consistently morose, fantastical tone.
I also appreciated the subtle narrative tension — that lingering sense of can I trust what I’m being told from the FMC’s POV — as well as the romance subplot, which was handled with restraint and never overshadowed the main plot. While there’s definitely room for growth in the worldbuilding, this is a very promising debut with a strong atmosphere and an engaging core mystery!
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, and I think dedicated fans of dark fantasy will especially appreciate the mood, pacing, and sense of intrigue. I’m very interested to see how this world and this author’s writing evolve in future books, because there is a LOT to work with for new stories within this world!
January 4, 2026
The setting of the book was very new to me, I don't usually read dark fantasy. But this also seemed like a good place to start, it is easy to read and the setting is very intriguing.
This book seemed to be a perfect mix and balance of mystery and fantasy. Every chapter kept me on the edge, while I wanted to know more of what is happening, where are they and why.
The descriptions of the goo justice to the setting and even the side characters get there space. There is no overdoing or injustice done to the side-characters. They are beautifully created and there area is strategically defined.
There are a few questions that have gone unanswered for me, but I guess that will be the case considering it is the first book in a series.
This book seemed to be a perfect mix and balance of mystery and fantasy. Every chapter kept me on the edge, while I wanted to know more of what is happening, where are they and why.
The descriptions of the goo justice to the setting and even the side characters get there space. There is no overdoing or injustice done to the side-characters. They are beautifully created and there area is strategically defined.
There are a few questions that have gone unanswered for me, but I guess that will be the case considering it is the first book in a series.
January 4, 2026
I was glad to receive this ARC and was very impressed by this debut from Hailey!
This is a dark gothic mystery with some magic thrown in! The story is a great standalone that leaves you wondering how the group ended up in their predicament and how they will find their way out. This was a fresh plot line I haven’t read before.
I only took a star off because there was not a ton of world or character building. What is there is strong, but I enjoy falling more into the world and characters.
As a standalone, I found this to be an easy read that kept me wanting to turn the page and find out what was next!
This is a dark gothic mystery with some magic thrown in! The story is a great standalone that leaves you wondering how the group ended up in their predicament and how they will find their way out. This was a fresh plot line I haven’t read before.
I only took a star off because there was not a ton of world or character building. What is there is strong, but I enjoy falling more into the world and characters.
As a standalone, I found this to be an easy read that kept me wanting to turn the page and find out what was next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc read
5/5
This has been hands down. It's one of the best fantasy books I've read this yr 🙌
You start off immediately in the action. There is not a stagnate chapter anywhere. It kept flowing, and you wanted to know what happens next. I loved the mystery and secrets that just kept going. Amazing world building revolving around a castle type hallway covered in darkness gives the spooky vibe. Character description and development as you progressed were also on point.
If you love a good dark fantasy, mystery, secrets, and betrayal, read this book.
Big thank you to Hailey Verkolf for giving the opportunity to read and review❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
5/5
This has been hands down. It's one of the best fantasy books I've read this yr 🙌
You start off immediately in the action. There is not a stagnate chapter anywhere. It kept flowing, and you wanted to know what happens next. I loved the mystery and secrets that just kept going. Amazing world building revolving around a castle type hallway covered in darkness gives the spooky vibe. Character description and development as you progressed were also on point.
If you love a good dark fantasy, mystery, secrets, and betrayal, read this book.
Big thank you to Hailey Verkolf for giving the opportunity to read and review❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
January 9, 2026
4,5⭐️
First of all, I seriously recommend you reading this book, it was so good!!
I love the way it is written, it felt like I was in the characters’ mind and body, experiencing everything that was happening.
The FMC isn’t what we are used to and that only brought more mystery and atmosphere to the plot.
And that ending was something else, it caught me completely off guard and left me with even more questions!!
Can’t wait to see what happens next!!
First of all, I seriously recommend you reading this book, it was so good!!
I love the way it is written, it felt like I was in the characters’ mind and body, experiencing everything that was happening.
The FMC isn’t what we are used to and that only brought more mystery and atmosphere to the plot.
And that ending was something else, it caught me completely off guard and left me with even more questions!!
Can’t wait to see what happens next!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow where to start there is so much ! Let's start with this I loved this ! It starts off so quickly and your literally running right from the first page. They are all trapped in the castle with an ancient darkness hunting them down. There are so many twists and turns you can't trust anyone. I was gasping with shock as I turned each page. I am looking forward to reading more!
January 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this one. The Shattered Darkness feels atmospheric from the very first chapter, magic, shadows, and that constant sense that something bigger is lurking behind the scenes. I liked how the story balances action with real emotional moments, and the characters actually feel layered instead of perfect. It’s dark in places, but not hopeless, and the twists landed nicely. If you’re into fantasy with mystery, found power, and a bit of heartbreak, this is a solid read. It definitely kept me turning pages.
January 6, 2026
-4,5 stars-
Let’s start with saying how great this book was. The writing felt quick, refreshing, and the plot was something I have never seen before. The way the book was written almost makes it feel like a novella or prequel, which makes it an amazing set-up for more upcoming books in this universe. Because there wasn’t any heavy world building and the novel isn’t too long and starts right in the action, it makes it easy for usual non–dark fantasy readers to pick up.
The way the world building was set up I really liked, because instead of making it very dense, it was scattered throughout the book, combining it with the characters’ backstories, which makes the novel more accessible and readable for a bigger audience. However, I would have loved if some of the backstory could have been more expanded on. We got a lot of backstory on our main character, Kyra Reid, but it was cut really short in detail, which makes it feel like there is more to tell.
However, especially for a debut novel, after the first few pages the writing becomes smooth and easy to read, and the characters become really lovable. It isn’t easy to give characters dimension, especially in a book under 300 pages, but I think Hailey did a great job. I am excited for what is yet to come inside this universe.
Let’s start with saying how great this book was. The writing felt quick, refreshing, and the plot was something I have never seen before. The way the book was written almost makes it feel like a novella or prequel, which makes it an amazing set-up for more upcoming books in this universe. Because there wasn’t any heavy world building and the novel isn’t too long and starts right in the action, it makes it easy for usual non–dark fantasy readers to pick up.
The way the world building was set up I really liked, because instead of making it very dense, it was scattered throughout the book, combining it with the characters’ backstories, which makes the novel more accessible and readable for a bigger audience. However, I would have loved if some of the backstory could have been more expanded on. We got a lot of backstory on our main character, Kyra Reid, but it was cut really short in detail, which makes it feel like there is more to tell.
However, especially for a debut novel, after the first few pages the writing becomes smooth and easy to read, and the characters become really lovable. It isn’t easy to give characters dimension, especially in a book under 300 pages, but I think Hailey did a great job. I am excited for what is yet to come inside this universe.
January 8, 2026
This is a dark, Gothic fantasy with a healthy dose of mystery and intrigue! The first few chapters are paced intentionally slow, so stick with it. This is where we're bring introduced to the world and the main characters, and everything feels very off-key and stuck. This is intentional!!! We are SUPPOSED to feel as lost as our characters. Seriously, the sense of wrongness written into the story is incredible.
After the first chapters the action starts to pick up and things start clicking into place, I won't ruin the fun but that ending THREW ME! What!!! I'm so excited to see where this world goes!! I would just liked to see the characters more fleshed out since some of them felt like placeholders, that's really my only hangup. Amazing work!
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of this book, but that doesn't affect my rating at all!
After the first chapters the action starts to pick up and things start clicking into place, I won't ruin the fun but that ending THREW ME! What!!! I'm so excited to see where this world goes!! I would just liked to see the characters more fleshed out since some of them felt like placeholders, that's really my only hangup. Amazing work!
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of this book, but that doesn't affect my rating at all!
January 16, 2026
I really enjoyed this. It sucked me in from the beginning and kept me interested the whole time. I really liked the FMC Kyra. And the constant need to find out what happens next had me devouring this. I don't want to give anything away as I fully believe going into this with as little knowledge as possible made this that much more fun to read. I can't wait to see what happens next!
December 16, 2025
🏰 The Shattered Darkness 🏰
Krya Reid is the savior of the divine war. Considered a hero, Kyra keeps a dark secret. Suddenly she and a group of others a dropped into a place with just as dark secrets and dangers hiding at every corner.
Publication date: 25 December 25
Rating: 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off, I would like to thank the author, Hailey Verkolf for the ARC!
I absolutely enjoyed reading this dark fantasy! It had the perfect amount of broodiness, magic, and gothic atmosphere.
I love Kyra. I thought she was a complex FMC and had a lot of multitude. I can’t say too much as it would spoil, but she is a perfectly morally grey character in my opinion.
I really liked the writing style. I thought the plot was super interesting with having a group of people randomly end up in the same place, trying to find the cause and a way to survive. It felt almost like a DnD campaign!
I can’t wait to see where this series goes. I’d like to see more of the outside world!
I recommend the Shattered Darkness if you like dark fantasy, subtle romance, and MCs with dark secrets.
|Dark Fantasy|ARC Review|Fantasy Reads|TBR|Booksta|
Krya Reid is the savior of the divine war. Considered a hero, Kyra keeps a dark secret. Suddenly she and a group of others a dropped into a place with just as dark secrets and dangers hiding at every corner.
Publication date: 25 December 25
Rating: 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off, I would like to thank the author, Hailey Verkolf for the ARC!
I absolutely enjoyed reading this dark fantasy! It had the perfect amount of broodiness, magic, and gothic atmosphere.
I love Kyra. I thought she was a complex FMC and had a lot of multitude. I can’t say too much as it would spoil, but she is a perfectly morally grey character in my opinion.
I really liked the writing style. I thought the plot was super interesting with having a group of people randomly end up in the same place, trying to find the cause and a way to survive. It felt almost like a DnD campaign!
I can’t wait to see where this series goes. I’d like to see more of the outside world!
I recommend the Shattered Darkness if you like dark fantasy, subtle romance, and MCs with dark secrets.
|Dark Fantasy|ARC Review|Fantasy Reads|TBR|Booksta|
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews