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ShadowMist

Not yet published
Expected 1 Jun 26
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350 pages, Paperback

Expected publication June 1, 2026

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About the author

L.M. Sundwyn

1 book9 followers
I am a new author and have been working on the ShadowMist series for the past couple of years. I started on this journey after my entire life was flipped upside down (understatement of the year). I needed a new outlet for my feelings, emotions, and a way to escape to another world, so I decided to create my own magical one. Writing has helped me discover who I truly am and reclaim everything that was taken from me. This adventure I call life has inspired me to become a better person, mother, daughter, and friend. I hope you will follow me on this journey as I am still growing into the me I want to be.

“You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.” – Nightbirde.

Oh, and make sure to click that follow button! Updates, exclusive snippets, and release date information will be shared here!

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5 stars
31 (83%)
4 stars
6 (16%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Ria Morjaria.
23 reviews
May 17, 2026
4.5 star

Firstly, I want to say thank you to the author for providing me an ARC

I really enjoyed the story, the world and the magic system was interesting and written well. I love the FMC and the MMC, I am looking forward to seeing where their story goes and I hope in the rest of the series we find more about the other characters as well as I really liked them.

The ending of this story has got me so interested in where everything is going to go, I don’t know how I am going to wait until the next book is out. I would 100% recommend this story to anyone who loves magical world, found family and a badass FMC with an interesting background.
1 review1 follower
Currently Reading
May 17, 2026
This book has pulled me in from the first few paragraphs. The writing is very detailed and allows my imagination to piece together the characters, situations and places where events are unfolding. Within a few pages you are already invested in the characters and what will happen to them. Can't wait to continue reading this book and upcoming books in the series.
Profile Image for Maggie Valleau.
6 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 24, 2026
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the author for granting me the opportunity to be one of the selected ARC readers.

Drycartha is a beautifully crafted world, brought to life through vivid, immersive writing. The worldbuilding throughout the book is exceptional—rich, detailed, and easy to fall into. It truly feels as though you’re walking beside the characters with every step of their journey.
The magic system is refreshingly unique and develops organically as the story unfolds.
The FMC is a force from page one. Her sharp wit and unapologetic attitude immediately drew me in, and her character growth is portrayed with a perfect balance of courage, resilience, and vulnerability.

The MMC begins as strong, brooding, and seemingly unapproachable, yet he evolves into a character with surprising depth—one you come to understand far more than expected.
The supporting cast and the various creatures woven into the narrative are equally compelling (well… except for Jane—IFYKYK).

The slow burn romance is executed perfectly, and the ending left me eager for more. I cannot wait for the second book.

Congratulations to L.M. Sundwyn on a fantastic debut novel. Here’s to many more to come.
1 review1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 1, 2026
L.M provided a new world for me. This book took you to a new place that you could envision, smell and feel with the descriptions of the characters, landscapes and items alike. A world I wanted to jump into and explore. I want to see what the characters are seeing with my own eyes, I want to eat what they are eating haha, most importantly as I was reading, I was able to escape to this place with these characters like I was in on their little secrets!

I was sure I knew who my favourite characters were going to be, or I was trying to predict what things could mean. L.M. did an amazing job of layering these characters and making us love them, or not, or maybe we do. All of the dynamics of this book, ShadowMist, left a busy Mom unable to put it down; it made this Mom focus on something that was just for her for a little bit. It also left this Mom waiting for books 2, 3, and 4, maybe some prequels about some parents... hmmm??

All in all, I enjoyed this book, and it made me fall back in love with reading and even prioritize it!

I can't wait to step back into the world when I get my physical copy!

MUST READ!!

Profile Image for Korinne Chaney-Butler.
42 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 10, 2026
WOW!!! I just finished and that ending. Ok...I need to gather my thoughts. I had all these things organized in my mind about everything I enjoyed about this book but they have left my brain after that ending.

I absolutely loved every single character - even the Pegasus'. I loved the banter and their relationships. I loved that the FMC Ayvn was not weak, stupid or unrealistic. The dialog was very well written and natural to me. It was not stiff and "scripted", so to speak. The world building was slid in there seamlessly with no info dumping or slowing down the plot. This was well paced. Not overly slow and many parts were fast and I love a fast paced action packed book. The only thing I did not LOVE but I'm probably the only one that will say this, is that I wanted more action when the spice was happening. The spice was well done and everything, this is more of a "me" thing. I was so ready to know what happens next as far as the plot that I didnt want spice lol I am very much a plot > spice person so I'm sure everyone else will love this.

Solid 5 stars and I cannot WAIT for book two. 😭
Profile Image for Becky.
344 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 14, 2026
" You seem to have dropped something."
"Huh?"
"Your jaw." And he walked away.
This was so freaking good! I absolutely love a book with excellent banner, and this one had it in spades!!
At 18, Avyn was taken from her mother and forced to train to serve the upper class of her kingdom. Upon her graduation, she is chosen to serve the royal family the House of Darkness. But during a dinner service, a freak accident changes everything, and she discovers a world of ancient creatures and a buried history. Prince Zendryk is chosen by the king and queen to guide and mentor her.
I absolutely loved how every single character has a sense of humor and chemistry. It led to such wonderful banter between characters. I mean, every time I read Ulric say , "Unf@cking believable," I knew I was going to laugh.
But the tension, heat, and banter between Avyn and our MMC was intense. I loved that she put him in his place. I enjoyed the little nod to Pretty Woman with the scene about the place settings.
But the ending? I need book 2 like yesterday.


Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC Reader
Profile Image for jess_is_reading_msg_l8r.
56 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 12, 2026
I received an Arc of this book and I'm so glad I got to enter into the Kingdom of Drycartha early!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the writing was engaging and I liked Avyn right away. I loved that even through hardship she was able to have fun, love and be happy. Her fire and spirit was never dulled by her circumstances.

Discovering a little about the houses and magic in her new world was interesting and exciting. I would really love to learn more about everything in depth.

I wasn't sure of Zendryk at the start, it took me a bit longer to fall in love with him. It was delightful to see him trying to gain Avyn's attention and affection, his good deeds and heart won me over in the end.

The ending of the book was not what I was expecting which I always enjoy. I can't wait to see what happens next, I am sad, I am hopeful, I have so many questions to be answered! Thank you again for this opportunity 🙂
Profile Image for Lisa Lisa.
1 review3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 25, 2026
So fortunate to have been chosen to be an ARC reader of this incredible book!

FMC is strong-willed, badass and definitely someone you’d want in your corner. The beautiful and detailed setting descriptions transport you right into the gorgeous, magical world of Drycartha and the likability of the characters and creatures will keep you reading well past your bedtime. Action begins at unpredictable times and often turned “just one more chapter” into “oh my goodness, it’s 2am!”.

Admittedly, prior to this book I was not a romantasy reader. This book has absolutely opened up (and now has me CRAVING) this genre. Once I finished reading Shadowmist, I completely ignored my (rather large) TBR pile and instead started a new romantasy series to fill the void that finishing Shadowmist left. I cannot wait for book two!
Profile Image for Katerina Kuhlmann.
26 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 9, 2026
ARC Review

Our story is about Avyn Ashwood who was taken from her mother and home at the age of 18 to be trained for servitude at an academy. She is placed at the House of Darkness. Soon strange things begin to happen and her life as she knew it completely changes.

The emotional rollercoaster this book sent me on! First off this book has a healthy dose of sarcasm which I love! There are definitely characters you will absolutely hate and hate the more you read. However the loyalty between Avyn with her best friend Maya and also Prince Zen and Ulric is beautiful.

The slow burn and flirting between Avyn and Zen is so funny and their training sessions are 🔥 😮‍💨.

The book has pain, love, betrayal, mystery and sarcasm with an ending that leaves you wanting more!!!

But also F*** Jane, F*** ratface, F*** the Queen.
1 review
Review of advance copy
May 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I loved this book!

L.M. Sundwyn has created an immersive and exciting world that was impossible to step away from.
This is easily one of the best romantasy novels I’ve read in years; from the very first chapter, I was completely hooked and found myself unable to put it down.

The characters in this book are so well written. Ulric easily became my favourite character; he’s wonderfully goofy and hilarious, but beneath it all genuinely kind.
On the other hand, the MMC was the perfect “love-to-hate” addition — frustrating in all the best ways and impossible not to be invested in.

I’m usually very good at predicting plot twists, but this book genuinely kept me guessing. The ending delivered a cliffhanger so intense that I immediately craved book two!

Overall this book is 🔥 and a must read for romantasy lovers.
Profile Image for Cheyenne Lopez-White.
199 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 2, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. Avyn was ripped from her mother’s arms at the age of 18 and trained to serve in the homes of the upper class. Selected for the home of the Royal House of Darkness Avyn knows she better not mess this up. But after a freak accident at dinner service during a dinner service during a party she comes to learn that not everything you see in this world is as simple as it seems and that she herself may be more than she thought she was. Now she has to figure out where she fits in this new world while also figuring out how to navigate these feelings for this dashing but rogue-ish prince whom she can’t decide if his feelings are genuine or is she is just his flavor of the week.
Profile Image for Hailee Turney.
5 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 5, 2026
A must read!!!

Avyn was definitely my favorite part. She’s not overly perfect, she’s sarcastic, a bit stubborn, and feels shaped by everything she’s been through, which made her super easy to connect with. I liked watching her navigate everything thrown at her without losing that edge.

The setting and overall vibe were really interesting too. There’s a darker tone throughout the read, and it always feels like there’s more going on beneath the surface, which kept me hooked without giving too much away too quickly.

I also really liked the pacing it gave the story time to build naturally and made the tension and character moments land even better.

Overall, a solid read if you like Romantic fantasy with a strong main character!!
97 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 24, 2026
If I could give this book a million stars I would! This book was absolutely everything and is now one of my favorite reads of all the year! The world the author has created is unique and I know there is so much more that will be discovered. The banter and sarcastic natures of the characters for me made this book and made me love the characters even more. It did take a minute for the to get going and I questioned where the fantasy was but then the FMC is basically thrust into this world she never even knew existed around her. The romance is a sloooow burn with lots on tension but worth the wait. There are mythical creatures you can recognize and ones that are completely unique. You don’t want to miss this book!
1 review1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 7, 2026
Holy cow!

From the description of the characters (one of which was the most disgusting character descriptions I’ve ever read), to the scenery, to the magical details, this book put me right in their world.

Avyn was such a down to earth character that was enjoyable to embark on a journey with. I would think one thing, and she would actually say it in the book!

I am someone who tends to do a lot of cotrect guessing as I read… and with every twist and turn I was constantly caught off guard.

What a joy it was to be an ARC reader for this book!! Before I finished the last page, I let the author know she better already have that second book started!
Profile Image for Chantelle Pretorius.
6 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 13, 2026
Thank you for choosing me as one of your ARC readers! Oh my damn I need more!! I love this book. The FMC is strong and independent but also has her vulnerable moments. The MMC is special.. I loved him, I hated him, I swooned over him and I wanted to slap him for being stupid all at the same time. I love the supporting characters too and the mention of so many different magical creatures! Everything is described so beautifully I could vividly picture it all in my head as I read. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop, sleep is for the weak. Perfect amount of spice. The ending has left me wanting/needing more!
Profile Image for Caroline Hunt.
15 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 20, 2026
3.85 stars. This novel is a romantasy with just a little bit of spice (🌶️🌶️). Aside from the spice and a bit of language, this book could also be marketed to the YA genre. The magic system is interesting and a few fantasy elements were new and super fun (loved the lanterns. IYKYK). The slow burn was done perfectly. 5/5 stars there as well as the bantering. I felt like there was a little bit of world building/details/realism missing hence the 3.85stars. ShadowMist is definitely going to go on my physical trophy bookshelf and I would recommend it to others. ARC provided by author and sincerely appreciated by me!
Profile Image for Grace Bruce.
9 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 17, 2026
Wooowwww!
This is my first book from the lovely author and just wow !!
Such great banter and dialogue writing ! I love that despite it being a fantasy realm the dialogue feels relatable to the reader.
A great balance of humour and emotion throughout the book.
Suspense throughout! What is she really ? Who is the voice ?? I need to know !!!!!!
Such a fantastic world she has created with this story ! The fantasy is unique and super interesting. Kept me guessing until literally the last minute. Cannot wait to see what comes next for this series !
Profile Image for Bessy Mejia.
67 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 18, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️

I am officially obsessed with Shadowmist! L.M. Sundwyn has created an incredible world with a fascinating, well-crafted magic system. The chemistry between the FMC and MMC is top-tier, and the side characters completely stole my heart—I need more of them in the next book!

That cliffhanger/ending left me reeling, and waiting for the sequel is going to be torture. If you love badass main characters, found family, and rich fantasy worlds, add this to your TBR immediately!

Thank you to the author for the ARC!
1 review2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 27, 2026
Had the pleasure of being an ARC reader

The story is very compelling.
Strong lead character, GREAT side kicks!

It was hard to put down.
Once you start, you keep going!

That urgent need to know "what happens next??"

There are a lot of awesome mythical creatures that brings a refreshing take on them.

A hint of whimsy and spicy!

An ending that makes me demand a second book!

Would highly recommend!
9 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 9, 2026
I was so lucky to be able to ARC read this for the author. There are not enough stars for this book so I’m adding another ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It’s not often I find a new author that opens up a brand new world to grab me in. Every character is spell binding and the twists are so imaginative and the character pace is perfect.
I cannot wait for the second book I’m craving more. Well done for this incredible book 👏👏👏👏
1 review1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 10, 2026
I could not put this book down. I read it until the wee hours of the morning. The author used words and descriptions to bring it to life. Avyn was sooooo relatable and down to earth. I felt like I had a new friend after finishing the book.

Now, let’s talk about when I finished it, because I WANT MORE! I loved and hated the ending, only because it was a cliffhanger and I NEED to know what happens!!!!!!!!!

I cannot wait for book 2! Not to rush the author, but HURRY UP!
Profile Image for Skylar.
22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 11, 2026
What an ending, I’m definitely excited for book two!
The prologue was interesting, I liked how the book opened, and how already, we are given some insight to how different this world is. I liked how the pace picked up pretty quickly, it wasn’t very repetitive, dragged out, or slow moving. I liked all the characters, and the creatures used in this book! Avyn is so bold and sassy, I love her character! And Zen…I have no words…Zendryk the man you are!!!
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 14, 2026
L.M. Sundwyn chose me to be an ARC reader, and all I have to say is, WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS TO ME!? I cried, I laughed, I felt angry, and most of all, I could NOT put the book down. Watching Avyns character develop through the book, while holding onto her true self was absolutely beautiful. I screamed out when I read the last words on the last page. That could not be it. I need book two. Please don’t make me wait too long.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 14, 2026
I went into this book expecting the same old Romantasy… and somehow I still wasn’t prepared for how obsessed I’d become with these characters. The tension? Painful in the best way. The banter? Top tier. Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, another reveal dropped and suddenly I was questioning EVERYTHING.

The world feels atmospheric and addictive, and the descriptions of everything made me feel like I was in the story!

If this isn’t on your TBR add it now!
6 reviews
May 27, 2026
ARC review

First, I would like to thank the author for the ARC. The writing was fluent, and it was easy to follow the story. I liked the world-building. It was easy to follow, but at the same time very detailed. I liked the FMC, Avyn, as well as Ulric. I did miss a little more emotional depth between Avyn and Zendryk.

I would certainly recommend Shadowmist, and I’m eager to read the second book.
Profile Image for Kasey Phillips.
35 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 23, 2026
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader of this stunning fantasy. If Handmaids Tale met ACOTAR you’d get Shadowmist. A strong female character clearly written by a woman, whimsical creatures and a MMC you might have mixed feelings about, and an ending that will leave you wanting more. It’s absolutely worth a read.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 10, 2026
ARC reader

Amazing story and engaging characters.

L.M. has captured my heart with this book. I was in a reading slump and took a chance on this ARC, and I am so happy I did. She renewed my love for romantasy novels! I will be buying this the second it is released.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 13, 2026
THIS BOOK BLEW MY FREAKING MIND!
I am still reeling from reading this. That ending, omg! I can’t!!!!! Anytime I thought I knew where the plot was going, it would take an unexpected turn. Well done L.M.!!!! I cannot wait for book 2! Please tell me I don’t have to wait long!!!!
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 21, 2026
ShadowMist has everything I want in a romantasy: forbidden love, magical powers, sharp-witted banter, and a main character who refuses to back down. Every chapter left me needing ‘just one more.’ The chemistry alone deserves five stars.
1 review1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 25, 2026
ShadowMist was an emotional whirlwind that I was not ready for. I finished it a couple of days ago and had to take time to digest what I had just read. This book needs to be read. Not want. Need. I love when a book stays with you long after you finish reading. A must read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews