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ShadowMist #1
ShadowMist
Torn from her mother's arms at eighteen and molded into the perfect servant by a merciless academy, Avyn Ashwood now serves a crown built on blood and darkness. Every day is a hollow march of duty, that is, until the prince returns from battle, his victory trailed by shadows that follow him through the halls and into her thoughts.
Pulled beyond the life she knew, she uncovers a hidden world of ancient creatures, buried histories, and a mysterious voice that whispers from just beyond her reach. With every secret revealed, the boundary between rules and desire begins to fray.
Hunted by the attention of the very many she's forbidden to want, she must choose between the safety of obedience and the dangerous truth stirring within her, because some secrets refuse to stay buried, and some hearts were never meant to be bound.
Pulled beyond the life she knew, she uncovers a hidden world of ancient creatures, buried histories, and a mysterious voice that whispers from just beyond her reach. With every secret revealed, the boundary between rules and desire begins to fray.
Hunted by the attention of the very many she's forbidden to want, she must choose between the safety of obedience and the dangerous truth stirring within her, because some secrets refuse to stay buried, and some hearts were never meant to be bound.
- GenresFantasy
350 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2026
About the author
L.M. Sundwyn
2 books23 followersI 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!
“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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
July 16, 2026
Huge thank you to L.M. Sundwyn for gifting me a copy of Shadowmist! 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 stars
This story follows the FMC. She is taken from her mother at just 18 years old. She is forced to attend an academy where she's trained to become the perfect servant for the nobility. After being chosen to serve one of the noble houses. She begins uncovering a hidden world filled with magical creatures, forgotten histories, and a mysterious voice in her head. Along the way, she catches the attention of the prince.....someone she knows she's forbidden to want.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story! The concept of the servant academy felt unique and different. I loved the friendship between the FMC and her friend Maya. I was so sad when they were separated. It was so much fun watching Avyn settle into her new life, catch the prince's attention, discover magical creatures, uncover her powers, and watch the romance unfold.
My favorite character was definitely Ulric!! He had me laughing so many times!
That ending left me needing book two immediately!!! I can't wait to see where the story goes next!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 stars
This story follows the FMC. She is taken from her mother at just 18 years old. She is forced to attend an academy where she's trained to become the perfect servant for the nobility. After being chosen to serve one of the noble houses. She begins uncovering a hidden world filled with magical creatures, forgotten histories, and a mysterious voice in her head. Along the way, she catches the attention of the prince.....someone she knows she's forbidden to want.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story! The concept of the servant academy felt unique and different. I loved the friendship between the FMC and her friend Maya. I was so sad when they were separated. It was so much fun watching Avyn settle into her new life, catch the prince's attention, discover magical creatures, uncover her powers, and watch the romance unfold.
My favorite character was definitely Ulric!! He had me laughing so many times!
That ending left me needing book two immediately!!! I can't wait to see where the story goes next!
June 25, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for sending this to me.
This was a wild ride! I was laughing, my jaw was on the floor, and I was telling the author about my emotions every step of the way 🤣
I honestly thought this was just doing to be another academy book and WOW was I wrong!
The world building was immaculate, I was fully immersed in this world to the extent where I could pretty much see it in my mind. I love when I book doesn’t lose you in the world and I was never lost.
This book is fast pace which I really liked. I’m unsure how she packed so many details into 370 pages but I was blown away. I was never bored and like I mentioned before I was actually laughing out loud almost every chapter.
The FMC is a bold, fiery, sarcastic woman whose life completely flips inside down in a blink of an eye. The story follows her as she’s trying to take back control of her life and learn the new world she’s living in. The MMC definitely falls first and hard. He gives golden retriever energy but with some dark shadowy magic to go with it.
I even fell in love with the two main side characters, specifically Maya, who is the best friend we all wish we could have. There’s even a side character, Jane, that your suppose to hate and MAN do I hate her!
If you looking for a super fun read that’s going to leave you wanting more, grab this one! You won’t be disappointed.
This was a wild ride! I was laughing, my jaw was on the floor, and I was telling the author about my emotions every step of the way 🤣
I honestly thought this was just doing to be another academy book and WOW was I wrong!
The world building was immaculate, I was fully immersed in this world to the extent where I could pretty much see it in my mind. I love when I book doesn’t lose you in the world and I was never lost.
This book is fast pace which I really liked. I’m unsure how she packed so many details into 370 pages but I was blown away. I was never bored and like I mentioned before I was actually laughing out loud almost every chapter.
The FMC is a bold, fiery, sarcastic woman whose life completely flips inside down in a blink of an eye. The story follows her as she’s trying to take back control of her life and learn the new world she’s living in. The MMC definitely falls first and hard. He gives golden retriever energy but with some dark shadowy magic to go with it.
I even fell in love with the two main side characters, specifically Maya, who is the best friend we all wish we could have. There’s even a side character, Jane, that your suppose to hate and MAN do I hate her!
If you looking for a super fun read that’s going to leave you wanting more, grab this one! You won’t be disappointed.
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.
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.
Currently Reading
May 17, 2026This 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.
August 12, 2026
Oh my gosh! This was a fantastic read. It had a slower start that was perfect to begin building the tension and conflict that slowly unraveled throughout the book. There was enough to hook me as I kept going through, and I couldn’t stop reading. You could feel the building tension between the MMC and FMC and it was a great tension. They had the perfect banter together, and even the MMC’s friend added to the banter. As soon as the FMC and MMC came together, it was a beautiful moment and as the conflict continued, so did their feelings. The book ended with such a beautiful cliffhanger I literally cannot wait for the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2026
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this fantastic book! This story pulled me in straight away and was hard to put down. The story telling was one of the best I've read in a while. I will be eagerly awaiting seeing the story continue. I would definitely recommend giving this book a read.
July 18, 2026
Shadowmist is a debut romantasy by L.M. Sundwyn
What to expect
-Forbidden love
-Forced proximity
-Magical World
-Shadow magic
-He Falls First
-Fierce FMC
-Secrets
I enjoyed reading Shadowmist and thought it was a fantastic debut. It follows our FMC Avyn Ashwood, who is taken from her mother at the age of 18 to attend an academy where she is destined to serve the crown.
The story took off right from the start, and the world building and pacing kept me wanting to read more.
I loved getting to see Avyn and Prince Zendryk’s relationship develop, the chemistry between them was undeniable.
Did I mention that Avyn can hear a mysterious voice in her head!?!?! (Which adds even more mystery).
And that ending! It left me with so many questions. I’m excited to see what’s next for these characters.
Thank you so much L.M. Sundwyn for the gifted copy of Shadowmist.
What to expect
-Forbidden love
-Forced proximity
-Magical World
-Shadow magic
-He Falls First
-Fierce FMC
-Secrets
I enjoyed reading Shadowmist and thought it was a fantastic debut. It follows our FMC Avyn Ashwood, who is taken from her mother at the age of 18 to attend an academy where she is destined to serve the crown.
The story took off right from the start, and the world building and pacing kept me wanting to read more.
I loved getting to see Avyn and Prince Zendryk’s relationship develop, the chemistry between them was undeniable.
Did I mention that Avyn can hear a mysterious voice in her head!?!?! (Which adds even more mystery).
And that ending! It left me with so many questions. I’m excited to see what’s next for these characters.
Thank you so much L.M. Sundwyn for the gifted copy of Shadowmist.
June 26, 2026
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. The imagery was very beautiful. I enjoyed the main characters inner monologue and her character development. Well written spice that was not overwhelming to the story. Some great villians! Some interesting twists and turns, with an ending that makes you want book
August 11, 2026
This book had NO BUSINESS BEING THIS GOOD! I was so freaking hooked. It was a very original Romantasy! I loved the service academia vibes- it was something fresh I hadn’t read before. Also… do I have a new favorite shadow daddy?!? I think I do. 10/10 recommend, this book needs more hype immediately. I need book two now, please (;
July 25, 2026
4.75 stars!!! Did I read this in one day? Yes, yes, I did!
First, let me say that this book had the best pacing. I never felt like the story was rushed, I felt like the characters had time to develop, and the story progressed in a way that kept me interested, but that didn’t feel overwhelming. Like five out of five stars for pacing!
Avyn the FMC is very likable, she’s not a wuss, she is sarcastic, which I always love, and she has a really good heart. She is definitely like a lot of women and that they just carry the burden without asking for anything in return, which many of us do and it does end up hurting us in the end. I appreciate that she has people around her that see this about her and encourage her to put herself first every once in a while.
The MMC Zendryk is everything you want - his heart, he’s smart, he’s funny, he’s sarcastic, he’s protective, he goes for what he wants, and he’s loyal. Does he make a mistake mistakes? Abso-freakin-lutely! He’s still a guy! But he is always apologetic when he makes mistakes and that speaks volumes to his character.
There are so many likable side characters, Maya, who is Aven‘s best friend and is just a sarcastic and funny as she is. And then there’s Ulrich, who is Zendryk’s best friend, and he is hot and funny and a flirt, but also fiercely protective. These characters are all allowed to build relationship relationships, and given the space and time to do that, and none of it feels forced or rushed.
Without spoiling anything, the end did have me screaming, and there were tears. And I have a theory about what is going to be in book 2, but I could be totally wrong! Either way, you should pick up this book. It had magic, it had shifters, it had all kinds of cool magical creatures, and it had great banter! An all around good time and I can’t wait for more of this world!!
First, let me say that this book had the best pacing. I never felt like the story was rushed, I felt like the characters had time to develop, and the story progressed in a way that kept me interested, but that didn’t feel overwhelming. Like five out of five stars for pacing!
Avyn the FMC is very likable, she’s not a wuss, she is sarcastic, which I always love, and she has a really good heart. She is definitely like a lot of women and that they just carry the burden without asking for anything in return, which many of us do and it does end up hurting us in the end. I appreciate that she has people around her that see this about her and encourage her to put herself first every once in a while.
The MMC Zendryk is everything you want - his heart, he’s smart, he’s funny, he’s sarcastic, he’s protective, he goes for what he wants, and he’s loyal. Does he make a mistake mistakes? Abso-freakin-lutely! He’s still a guy! But he is always apologetic when he makes mistakes and that speaks volumes to his character.
There are so many likable side characters, Maya, who is Aven‘s best friend and is just a sarcastic and funny as she is. And then there’s Ulrich, who is Zendryk’s best friend, and he is hot and funny and a flirt, but also fiercely protective. These characters are all allowed to build relationship relationships, and given the space and time to do that, and none of it feels forced or rushed.
Without spoiling anything, the end did have me screaming, and there were tears. And I have a theory about what is going to be in book 2, but I could be totally wrong! Either way, you should pick up this book. It had magic, it had shifters, it had all kinds of cool magical creatures, and it had great banter! An all around good time and I can’t wait for more of this world!!
June 3, 2026
YES YES YES!! Romantasy is my favorite genre and I read A LOT of it and this debut Romantasy series was just immaculate! “Shadowmist” gives you all the fantasy things: there’s monsters, newly discovered magic, royalty, found family, bonded shifters, fairies and so much more! Shadowmist is also pretty spicy but also with lots of slow-burn angst.
I am extremely mad at L.M. Sundwyn, not because this book was bad, but because it was so good and now it’s OVER! 😭 This is the type of book that makes you feel all the emotions and then leaves you on a cliffhanger that makes you want to throw your kindle and curl into a ball. I throughly enjoyed this book and am immediately adding the paperback to my shopping cart!
If you enjoy a dark romantasy with high stakes, a unique magic system, and interesting creatures then this book needs to be on your TBR!
I am extremely mad at L.M. Sundwyn, not because this book was bad, but because it was so good and now it’s OVER! 😭 This is the type of book that makes you feel all the emotions and then leaves you on a cliffhanger that makes you want to throw your kindle and curl into a ball. I throughly enjoyed this book and am immediately adding the paperback to my shopping cart!
If you enjoy a dark romantasy with high stakes, a unique magic system, and interesting creatures then this book needs to be on your TBR!
June 2, 2026
Wow, what an ending!! The type that leaves you clicking the screen hoping, somehow, that you misread that you're at the end of the book!
The characters are well thought out and develop throughout the story to have you cheering for them and crying at their heartbreak. The magical animals add a whole other dimension to a well imagined world.
I can't wait for book 2 to see what happens on the rest of this emotional rollercoaster!
The characters are well thought out and develop throughout the story to have you cheering for them and crying at their heartbreak. The magical animals add a whole other dimension to a well imagined world.
I can't wait for book 2 to see what happens on the rest of this emotional rollercoaster!
June 1, 2026
I love a good book with a well created world. I am almost finished, and cannot wait to see how the story unfolds.
I am glad to have received this ARC book, and I cannot wait to read more !
I am glad to have received this ARC book, and I cannot wait to read more !
June 1, 2026
I want to say thanks to the author who provided me this book.
This book was a great read. It has a lot of world building, which made you suck in the story. I like a book with good world building it makes the story easier to follow. The FMC in this book is a bad ass. With powers she does not know about. Not sure what she is. If you love magic Hybrids and other magical creatures and a entertaining story this book is for you.
This book was a great read. It has a lot of world building, which made you suck in the story. I like a book with good world building it makes the story easier to follow. The FMC in this book is a bad ass. With powers she does not know about. Not sure what she is. If you love magic Hybrids and other magical creatures and a entertaining story this book is for you.
June 20, 2026
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to have an ARC copy of this book! I always love being able to get my hands on a book before everyone else!
Aavyn and Zen's story was most definitely fun to read. The idea of having very folklore/nature type of magic is always one of my favourite types of fantasy to read, and I really feel like the author captured the whimsy of this in the story. The idea of the little fairies creating tiny homes in the lanterns in an exchange for light had me cheesing so hard!
The banter between the MMC (zen) and FMC (aavyn) was pretty good. I do wish maybe there was a bit more back and forth before they jumped right into it, but it still scratched an itch. Sweetheart is never my favourite pet name in fantasy books but I feel like the character made it work for him.
I loved the monsters and the world building, I am very interested in seeing where the next books will lead as it seems so far that nothing is exactly as it seems. LOVE THAT.
I do wish that in the first book there was a little more from this voice that she hears from her bonded weapons. I felt like there was no progression in that relationship or should I say the understanding of what that relationship was. I think it would have been nice to have some sort of reveal as to what this voice meant for her, where it originates from etc. Even just having it actually answer some of her questions, even if it was with some cryptic answers, would have been better than the continual silence. It felt a little too repetitive. It seemed like we were getting somewhere near the end of the book but then it kind of flatlines again.
Ending it on a cliffhanger reaaaally has me interested in where this is going to go for the second book, I obviously have so many questions. I'm hoping for a little more magical creatures to come up in the second book now that she's where she shouldn't be (or is she 😈).
Aavyn and Zen's story was most definitely fun to read. The idea of having very folklore/nature type of magic is always one of my favourite types of fantasy to read, and I really feel like the author captured the whimsy of this in the story. The idea of the little fairies creating tiny homes in the lanterns in an exchange for light had me cheesing so hard!
The banter between the MMC (zen) and FMC (aavyn) was pretty good. I do wish maybe there was a bit more back and forth before they jumped right into it, but it still scratched an itch. Sweetheart is never my favourite pet name in fantasy books but I feel like the character made it work for him.
I loved the monsters and the world building, I am very interested in seeing where the next books will lead as it seems so far that nothing is exactly as it seems. LOVE THAT.
I do wish that in the first book there was a little more from this voice that she hears from her bonded weapons. I felt like there was no progression in that relationship or should I say the understanding of what that relationship was. I think it would have been nice to have some sort of reveal as to what this voice meant for her, where it originates from etc. Even just having it actually answer some of her questions, even if it was with some cryptic answers, would have been better than the continual silence. It felt a little too repetitive. It seemed like we were getting somewhere near the end of the book but then it kind of flatlines again.
Ending it on a cliffhanger reaaaally has me interested in where this is going to go for the second book, I obviously have so many questions. I'm hoping for a little more magical creatures to come up in the second book now that she's where she shouldn't be (or is she 😈).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2026
a great read!
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.
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.
May 26, 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.
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.
June 15, 2026
I was so excited to read Shadowmist! The dedication alone had me hooked—being taken from your home at eighteen and forced to train as a servant of the kingdom at an academy for two years? What a way to start the story....
Aryn is a strong and compelling FMC, even while struggling with her own doubts and challenges. Watching her journey unfold kept me turning the pages. And then there's Zendrik... the chemistry between Aryn and Zendrik is absolutely a constant roller-coaster of emotions! The tension, the longing, and every interaction between them had me completely invested in their story. I couldn't help root for Zendrik!
L.M. Sundwyn does an incredible job developing the characters and making their emotions feel real. I loved watching their relationship grow and seeing the loyalty and determination of the characters shine through. The world-building was immersive, the story was engaging, and the ending left me desperate for more. It was a prefect way to end the book but frustrating 😑 that I don't know what happens to Aryn.
Now I'm anxiously waiting for Book 2 because I need to know what happens next!
If you love fantasy romance, academy settings, unforgettable chemistry, and characters you'll root for, Shadowmist is definitely one to add to your TBR. 📚✨
Aryn is a strong and compelling FMC, even while struggling with her own doubts and challenges. Watching her journey unfold kept me turning the pages. And then there's Zendrik... the chemistry between Aryn and Zendrik is absolutely a constant roller-coaster of emotions! The tension, the longing, and every interaction between them had me completely invested in their story. I couldn't help root for Zendrik!
L.M. Sundwyn does an incredible job developing the characters and making their emotions feel real. I loved watching their relationship grow and seeing the loyalty and determination of the characters shine through. The world-building was immersive, the story was engaging, and the ending left me desperate for more. It was a prefect way to end the book but frustrating 😑 that I don't know what happens to Aryn.
Now I'm anxiously waiting for Book 2 because I need to know what happens next!
If you love fantasy romance, academy settings, unforgettable chemistry, and characters you'll root for, Shadowmist is definitely one to add to your TBR. 📚✨
August 27, 2026
I rather enjoyed this story, it is fast paced, great wording building and attention to detail, It has an interesting magic system, loveable characters with a splash spice.
It keeps you engaged from start to finish, leaving you hanging for book 2. Though I was not expecting the ending, leaving so many unanswered questions. How are we expected to wait till book 2.
It has everything you would want in a romantasy novel, forbidden love, forced proximity, unravelling secrets, magical world/system, spice and so much more.
Overall; I really enjoyed this book, the author did a fantastic job, looking forward to seeing the series progress and reading more of the series and future work in the future.
It keeps you engaged from start to finish, leaving you hanging for book 2. Though I was not expecting the ending, leaving so many unanswered questions. How are we expected to wait till book 2.
It has everything you would want in a romantasy novel, forbidden love, forced proximity, unravelling secrets, magical world/system, spice and so much more.
Overall; I really enjoyed this book, the author did a fantastic job, looking forward to seeing the series progress and reading more of the series and future work in the future.
August 14, 2026
Wow
I dont have many words, this was an absolutly amazing book, the world was so fleshed out the pinning was pined the side charicters are everything I wanted but didnt know I needed.
I devoured this book and can not wait to go back to this world in book 2!
This is a must read for romantasy readers!
I dont have many words, this was an absolutly amazing book, the world was so fleshed out the pinning was pined the side charicters are everything I wanted but didnt know I needed.
I devoured this book and can not wait to go back to this world in book 2!
This is a must read for romantasy readers!
June 25, 2026
This book is written so well, it is mysterious and magical. It constantly keeps you wanting more and makes it impossible to put down. I want a sequel so badly and hope that one is made soon!
July 11, 2026
An absolute must read. I loved it, hated it in the best way, fmc is bad ass. Mmc made me soo mad. Great writing, Maya is such a sweetie
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2026
Loved reading this! Its funny, witty and super emotional. The writing is chaotic in the best way and keeps you engaged the whole time.
August 16, 2026
I need the second book immediatelyyyy!! What a cliffhanger
July 14, 2026
4.75 stars. Ummmm I’ll just start by saying I finished this in less than 24 hours. I could not put it down! I could see this world so clearly and never had a hard time following along. What a great book 1! Despite what the author does to us at the very end…. I need book 2 NOW so I can have my questions answered. Please and thank you! Hehe
June 4, 2026
L.M. Sundwyn has created a whimsical, immersive world that is so magical. The writing is beautiful and atmospheric, and I fell in love with both the world of Drycartha and its characters.
Avyn feels raw and real. She's temperamental, sassy, sarcastic, and snarky, but also kind, compassionate, sensitive, and loving to the people she cares about, while still being a badass. Her connection to nature and creatures adds another layer of beauty to her character. She's relatable, and her thoughts, feelings, and struggles feel honest and authentic, making her easy to connect with.
ShadowMist follows Avyn Ashwood, who is taken from her mother at eighteen and sent to the Academy, where young women are trained to serve the wealthy families of Drycartha. After completing her training, she is assigned as a servant in the Kingdom of Drycartha at the House of Darkness. Avyn starts as a servant and catches the attention of Prince Zendryk.
Zendryk initially comes across as arrogant, as though he might treat the servant girls as nothing more than another conquest, but as the story progresses, he's actually very caring, compassionate, protective, and devoted to Avyn.
His growing affection for Avyn was hot and swoony. What begins as playful interactions and undeniable attraction develops into something much deeper. He really grew on me as a character, and I found myself completely pulled into their romance.
Throughout the book, the attraction, tension, longing, and slow burn between Avyn and Zendryk intensify. I felt every spark, every moment of emotional conflict, jealousy, desire, and even Avyn's frustration and anger. When their romance becomes forbidden, it really tugs at the heartstrings.
Some other well crafted aspects of the book were Avyn's inner dialogue and the distinct voice running through her mind, the wonderful side characters, especially her friendship with Maya, and Ulric (Where was he keeping all these pants?). I also enjoyed the fantasy creatures woven throughout the world, the spice, with Zendryk being both intense and respectful, and the willow tree that carries such a lovely presence throughout the story.
ShadowMist is a captivating read filled with compelling characters, magical creatures, emotional depth, a swoon-worthy romance, a heart-wrenching ending, and a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that leaves you wanting more. This was stunning!
Avyn feels raw and real. She's temperamental, sassy, sarcastic, and snarky, but also kind, compassionate, sensitive, and loving to the people she cares about, while still being a badass. Her connection to nature and creatures adds another layer of beauty to her character. She's relatable, and her thoughts, feelings, and struggles feel honest and authentic, making her easy to connect with.
ShadowMist follows Avyn Ashwood, who is taken from her mother at eighteen and sent to the Academy, where young women are trained to serve the wealthy families of Drycartha. After completing her training, she is assigned as a servant in the Kingdom of Drycartha at the House of Darkness. Avyn starts as a servant and catches the attention of Prince Zendryk.
Zendryk initially comes across as arrogant, as though he might treat the servant girls as nothing more than another conquest, but as the story progresses, he's actually very caring, compassionate, protective, and devoted to Avyn.
"It's you, it's only you. If you asked me to run away tomorrow, I would. You have had an unyielding grasp on my heart from the first day I saw you. I knew it was you. I didn't sleep that night. I stayed up thinking about the girl with the green eyes and raven hair. And now that I have you, I am not letting go. I will fight for you until my last breath."
His growing affection for Avyn was hot and swoony. What begins as playful interactions and undeniable attraction develops into something much deeper. He really grew on me as a character, and I found myself completely pulled into their romance.
Throughout the book, the attraction, tension, longing, and slow burn between Avyn and Zendryk intensify. I felt every spark, every moment of emotional conflict, jealousy, desire, and even Avyn's frustration and anger. When their romance becomes forbidden, it really tugs at the heartstrings.
Some other well crafted aspects of the book were Avyn's inner dialogue and the distinct voice running through her mind, the wonderful side characters, especially her friendship with Maya, and Ulric (Where was he keeping all these pants?). I also enjoyed the fantasy creatures woven throughout the world, the spice, with Zendryk being both intense and respectful, and the willow tree that carries such a lovely presence throughout the story.
ShadowMist is a captivating read filled with compelling characters, magical creatures, emotional depth, a swoon-worthy romance, a heart-wrenching ending, and a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that leaves you wanting more. This was stunning!
Review of advance copy received from Author
To begin, I have received an advance review copy of this book for free, and am providing my honest review voluntarily.
An enjoyable read if you like dark romantasy involving immortals and other creatures living in a world side by side with humans. In a world where the humans are taken from their homes at the age of 18 and reside in an academy for 2 years to learn how to properly serve the wealthy families of the kingdom. The men are trained to be guards while the women are trained to be maids.
At the end of the 2 years, Avyn is presented with all the other women of their class to the representatives for the wealthy families. Each representative walks up and down the line, questioning those they are interested in. For Avyn, only 1 representative shows interest in her. By the end of the process, Avyn is selected to go with the only representative who showed interest. During the lengthy carriage ride, Avyn is brought into the Royal household.
Although she starts service as a maid, Crown Prince Zendryk notices her and is drawn to her, but she doesn't want to have anything to do with him. Within a matter of weeks, it becomes evident that Avyn can see things....wolf shifters, Soulless, etc which a normal human shouldn't be able to see. This changes her status as it's believed she is a hybrid...a immortal & human. She is removed form service and the prince begins training her to be part of the immortal world.
Being in close proximity with the prince, she can't help being drawn to him and they become intimate, despite being betrothed to a princess of another kingdom. After a particular attack occurs where numerous staff of the royal household and guests from a ball are killed, Avyn's powers finally manifest in order to save those who have helped her, including the prince.
As a result, the King and Queen demand that she displays her powers, which she is unable to do on demand since she isn't sure how she did what she did. In anger, the Queen removes the Prince from training Avyn and instead brings in the master torturer to incentify Avyn into figuring out her powers quicker...the 'incentive' being torture of her best friend Maya. After the first session, Avyn sets the fireplace alight, and then sets the royal representative on fire, turning him to ash. Before she can deal with the torturer, Ulric steps in to help save Maya and the torturer is killed. After Avyn and Ulric get Maya back to Avyn's room and a healer is brought in to take care of Maya, Avyn decides to escape away from Zendryk and his family. Chased by the guards, she makes her way toward the lake with the Myravine who help her along her way.
An enjoyable read if you like dark romantasy involving immortals and other creatures living in a world side by side with humans. In a world where the humans are taken from their homes at the age of 18 and reside in an academy for 2 years to learn how to properly serve the wealthy families of the kingdom. The men are trained to be guards while the women are trained to be maids.
At the end of the 2 years, Avyn is presented with all the other women of their class to the representatives for the wealthy families. Each representative walks up and down the line, questioning those they are interested in. For Avyn, only 1 representative shows interest in her. By the end of the process, Avyn is selected to go with the only representative who showed interest. During the lengthy carriage ride, Avyn is brought into the Royal household.
Although she starts service as a maid, Crown Prince Zendryk notices her and is drawn to her, but she doesn't want to have anything to do with him. Within a matter of weeks, it becomes evident that Avyn can see things....wolf shifters, Soulless, etc which a normal human shouldn't be able to see. This changes her status as it's believed she is a hybrid...a immortal & human. She is removed form service and the prince begins training her to be part of the immortal world.
Being in close proximity with the prince, she can't help being drawn to him and they become intimate, despite being betrothed to a princess of another kingdom. After a particular attack occurs where numerous staff of the royal household and guests from a ball are killed, Avyn's powers finally manifest in order to save those who have helped her, including the prince.
As a result, the King and Queen demand that she displays her powers, which she is unable to do on demand since she isn't sure how she did what she did. In anger, the Queen removes the Prince from training Avyn and instead brings in the master torturer to incentify Avyn into figuring out her powers quicker...the 'incentive' being torture of her best friend Maya. After the first session, Avyn sets the fireplace alight, and then sets the royal representative on fire, turning him to ash. Before she can deal with the torturer, Ulric steps in to help save Maya and the torturer is killed. After Avyn and Ulric get Maya back to Avyn's room and a healer is brought in to take care of Maya, Avyn decides to escape away from Zendryk and his family. Chased by the guards, she makes her way toward the lake with the Myravine who help her along her way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating 4.5 (rounded to 5!)
Firstly, thank you to the author for giving me an ARC to read and review 💜✨ Congrats on your release day being TOMORROW!!! (June 1st).
I really enjoyed reading ShadowMist by L.M. Sundwyn. This story follows Avyn, a strong & sassy FMC who puts up with no bullsh*t! As a servant to the house of darkness, she is privy to limited information about who (and what) she serves. She quickly finds herself in a world of creatures, magic and connections she never thought could exist.
After about the 8th chapter, it started picking up for me and I was sucked straight in! I loved the witty banter, comedic timing and the well thought-out storyline. I love a good unexpected ending, and this one was done perfectly! (I can’t wait to see what happens next!). L.M. also does an amazing job of descriptive visualization, specifically when the magic realm starts to be explored. For anyone who loves romantasy, a fun & dangerous magic realm, strong FMC’s or forbidden love, this story is for you! 💙
L.M. Sundwyn created a world that you want to be apart of. She can make you laugh one moment, and cry the next. I felt everything the characters went tthough; the embarrassment, the heartbreak, the love, the fear and everything in between. A magical journey!
Thank you for sharing your work with us all! So excited for the next one 💜✨
Firstly, thank you to the author for giving me an ARC to read and review 💜✨ Congrats on your release day being TOMORROW!!! (June 1st).
I really enjoyed reading ShadowMist by L.M. Sundwyn. This story follows Avyn, a strong & sassy FMC who puts up with no bullsh*t! As a servant to the house of darkness, she is privy to limited information about who (and what) she serves. She quickly finds herself in a world of creatures, magic and connections she never thought could exist.
After about the 8th chapter, it started picking up for me and I was sucked straight in! I loved the witty banter, comedic timing and the well thought-out storyline. I love a good unexpected ending, and this one was done perfectly! (I can’t wait to see what happens next!). L.M. also does an amazing job of descriptive visualization, specifically when the magic realm starts to be explored. For anyone who loves romantasy, a fun & dangerous magic realm, strong FMC’s or forbidden love, this story is for you! 💙
L.M. Sundwyn created a world that you want to be apart of. She can make you laugh one moment, and cry the next. I felt everything the characters went tthough; the embarrassment, the heartbreak, the love, the fear and everything in between. A magical journey!
Thank you for sharing your work with us all! So excited for the next one 💜✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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!!
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!!
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