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The Eternal Shadow
Serafina knows, she shouldn’t take this new path. It’s a trail that she’s never seen before, despite running past this very spot, every day.
A mysterious force, tells her otherwise.
It’s on this path, that she slips into another world.
A Fae world.
A land split down the middle, ruled by the Butterfly and Moth Kingdoms. The Light and The Shadow.
A world, where her parents are alive and well, after disappearing ten years ago without a trace.
Serafina must make the treacherous journey to reach her parents, across The Eternal Shadow, guided by Aurelion, a warrior for The Light.
A man, who has made it very clear he doesn’t like her.
Until, he does.
Together, they must battle creatures of the night, Fae of The Shadows and a Moth Prince, who won’t stop till he has her for his bride.
A mysterious force, tells her otherwise.
It’s on this path, that she slips into another world.
A Fae world.
A land split down the middle, ruled by the Butterfly and Moth Kingdoms. The Light and The Shadow.
A world, where her parents are alive and well, after disappearing ten years ago without a trace.
Serafina must make the treacherous journey to reach her parents, across The Eternal Shadow, guided by Aurelion, a warrior for The Light.
A man, who has made it very clear he doesn’t like her.
Until, he does.
Together, they must battle creatures of the night, Fae of The Shadows and a Moth Prince, who won’t stop till he has her for his bride.
475 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 6, 2026
4 star read.
I got this book as an ARC to read, and I had so much fun with it! It's different to fantasy books I've read until now. The world is lovely and very well described. I loved the idea of using moth's and butterfly's as staples of the different sides of the world, it was quite unique.
In the beginning of the book I wasn't that sure if I enjoyed it, since there were just questions going off in my mind that annoyed me I didn't know the answer to. Once the story started to pick up, I did start enjoying it more. The book was full of little plot twists that kept you entertained throughout the book. I loved our main characters and side characters, which made the story a lot more enjoyable.
There were, however, 2 things that made this book a 4-star instead of a 5 star. One of those was that I had guessed the major plot twist at the beginning of the book, but it didn't bother me much and didn't detract from the story. However, the main thing that made this a 4 star was that the ending felt a bit rushed and fell a bit flat. The way this book ended felt unsatisfying given how the tension was built up.
Without spoiling something that happened which you knew was the 3rd act conflict, then for the next 30 pages it was ignored to only resolve the 3rd act conflict in 5 pages or so. That was a bit disappointing based on the build-up of the story.
Overall, the story was just very fun, very cute and magical to read. I'm not sure if it's a standalone or not, but I do hope new books with a different couple will follow! I need more of these characters!
I got this book as an ARC to read, and I had so much fun with it! It's different to fantasy books I've read until now. The world is lovely and very well described. I loved the idea of using moth's and butterfly's as staples of the different sides of the world, it was quite unique.
In the beginning of the book I wasn't that sure if I enjoyed it, since there were just questions going off in my mind that annoyed me I didn't know the answer to. Once the story started to pick up, I did start enjoying it more. The book was full of little plot twists that kept you entertained throughout the book. I loved our main characters and side characters, which made the story a lot more enjoyable.
There were, however, 2 things that made this book a 4-star instead of a 5 star. One of those was that I had guessed the major plot twist at the beginning of the book, but it didn't bother me much and didn't detract from the story. However, the main thing that made this a 4 star was that the ending felt a bit rushed and fell a bit flat. The way this book ended felt unsatisfying given how the tension was built up.
Without spoiling something that happened which you knew was the 3rd act conflict, then for the next 30 pages it was ignored to only resolve the 3rd act conflict in 5 pages or so. That was a bit disappointing based on the build-up of the story.
Overall, the story was just very fun, very cute and magical to read. I'm not sure if it's a standalone or not, but I do hope new books with a different couple will follow! I need more of these characters!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Started this ARC and I am already halfway through it and I’m really enjoying it so far. I love the story, the magic world and the characters. The main characters' love story is so sweet and I really like that they are very mature and communicative with each other. I can’t wait to see where it goes. Full review coming soon! 🩵🦋
💙Review💙
I finished the Eternal Shadow by Melissa Jean and I can say I enjoyed this book. I'll make a list of the likes and dislikes here:
What I liked:
🦋 I loved the vibe of the book, how the human world is described as dull and beige while the fae world is gliterring and vibrant.
🦋I like the fmc and her personality as I totally relate to how she feels and her frustrations, being a character that is easily liked by readers. I like that she is not the regular fmc of fantasy books, fearless and brave but with fears and flaws which make her all the more real and relatable in my opinion.
🦋The relationships between our two main characters was another thing I was fond of since they are both very mature and open with each other, always saying if the other had done something to upset them or apologize if they did something wrong. Furthermore, the other couples we got glimpses of were really interesting and I would have wanted more scenes with them but maybe we will get that in the future book :)
What I didn't like:
🦋 One thing I didn't particulary enjoyed was that the characters' jurney felt a bit too dragged on and repetitive, like they were endlessly getting into trouble and while it was captivating at first, near the end of the journey it already was getting repetitive. I can't say that it bothered me that much though.
🦋 I didn't like the ending of the book as I don't know if the identity of her parents was supposed to be a plot twist because I guessed that from the very begining. Moreover, the ending felt a bit hurried and silly ( I mean that the major conflict was solved too easily when they could have done that from the very begining and it would've been solved then).
All of that being said, it was an enjoyable read, not something that stands out but well-written and entertaining.
💙Review💙
I finished the Eternal Shadow by Melissa Jean and I can say I enjoyed this book. I'll make a list of the likes and dislikes here:
What I liked:
🦋 I loved the vibe of the book, how the human world is described as dull and beige while the fae world is gliterring and vibrant.
🦋I like the fmc and her personality as I totally relate to how she feels and her frustrations, being a character that is easily liked by readers. I like that she is not the regular fmc of fantasy books, fearless and brave but with fears and flaws which make her all the more real and relatable in my opinion.
🦋The relationships between our two main characters was another thing I was fond of since they are both very mature and open with each other, always saying if the other had done something to upset them or apologize if they did something wrong. Furthermore, the other couples we got glimpses of were really interesting and I would have wanted more scenes with them but maybe we will get that in the future book :)
What I didn't like:
🦋 One thing I didn't particulary enjoyed was that the characters' jurney felt a bit too dragged on and repetitive, like they were endlessly getting into trouble and while it was captivating at first, near the end of the journey it already was getting repetitive. I can't say that it bothered me that much though.
🦋 I didn't like the ending of the book as I don't know if the identity of her parents was supposed to be a plot twist because I guessed that from the very begining. Moreover, the ending felt a bit hurried and silly ( I mean that the major conflict was solved too easily when they could have done that from the very begining and it would've been solved then).
All of that being said, it was an enjoyable read, not something that stands out but well-written and entertaining.
June 18, 2026
This one was just okay for me.
I picked it up as an ARC read, and while there were things I enjoyed, it never quite lived up to its potential. The premise was what initially drew me in. A young woman finding herself in a fae world is exactly the kind of story I love, and there was plenty of room for adventure, magic, and discovery.
Unfortunately, the story fell a little flat.
The middle section dragged quite a bit, and I found myself skimming through parts just to keep the story moving. There wasn’t enough happening to maintain my interest, and the pacing really slowed down the overall reading experience.
My biggest issue, though, was how predictable everything felt. Most of the twists, reveals, and character developments were easy to see coming, which took away a lot of the excitement. I kept hoping the story would surprise me, but it largely followed the path I expected from the beginning.
That said, I didn’t dislike it. The fae world was interesting, and there were enough enjoyable moments to keep me reading until the end. I just wanted a bit more depth, stronger pacing, and a few unexpected turns along the way.
I picked it up as an ARC read, and while there were things I enjoyed, it never quite lived up to its potential. The premise was what initially drew me in. A young woman finding herself in a fae world is exactly the kind of story I love, and there was plenty of room for adventure, magic, and discovery.
Unfortunately, the story fell a little flat.
The middle section dragged quite a bit, and I found myself skimming through parts just to keep the story moving. There wasn’t enough happening to maintain my interest, and the pacing really slowed down the overall reading experience.
My biggest issue, though, was how predictable everything felt. Most of the twists, reveals, and character developments were easy to see coming, which took away a lot of the excitement. I kept hoping the story would surprise me, but it largely followed the path I expected from the beginning.
That said, I didn’t dislike it. The fae world was interesting, and there were enough enjoyable moments to keep me reading until the end. I just wanted a bit more depth, stronger pacing, and a few unexpected turns along the way.
May 1, 2026
I was hooked from the very first page. Serafina is such a relatable character, there were so many parts of her that I truly connected with.
From the moment she falls into the Land of Shadow, you feel as though you’re right beside her, stepping into this unknown world. The world building is rich and transportive; I found it completely immersive and captivating.
The creatures she encounters and the stops along her journey add a vibrant, engaging layer to the story.
The relationship between Serafina and Aurelion feels authentic and unfolds at just the right pace, leaving you eager for more with every chapter.
I absolutely adored the supporting characters as well. I could so easily imagine their backstories and would love to see their own stories explored.
Overall, it’s beautifully and cleverly written. I loved every page. I’m always in awe of authors who can create such detailed and imaginative fantasy worlds.
I wholeheartedly recommend this, along with Melissa Jean’s other stories.
From the moment she falls into the Land of Shadow, you feel as though you’re right beside her, stepping into this unknown world. The world building is rich and transportive; I found it completely immersive and captivating.
The creatures she encounters and the stops along her journey add a vibrant, engaging layer to the story.
The relationship between Serafina and Aurelion feels authentic and unfolds at just the right pace, leaving you eager for more with every chapter.
I absolutely adored the supporting characters as well. I could so easily imagine their backstories and would love to see their own stories explored.
Overall, it’s beautifully and cleverly written. I loved every page. I’m always in awe of authors who can create such detailed and imaginative fantasy worlds.
I wholeheartedly recommend this, along with Melissa Jean’s other stories.
June 17, 2026
I received an ARC copy of The Eternal Shadow.
Thank you to the berry agency for my ARC.
From the first chapter I fell down a rabbit hole, wanting to know more. I felt for Serafina, a job she didn’t like, a relationship that was more like a roommate to then have a surprise job offer in her hometown.
Going back to face memories. The ease of falling into the Land of Shadows was effortless and the adventure she goes on and the characters she comes to face along the way.
I will be diving into more works of Melissa Jean going forward.
Thank you to the berry agency for my ARC.
From the first chapter I fell down a rabbit hole, wanting to know more. I felt for Serafina, a job she didn’t like, a relationship that was more like a roommate to then have a surprise job offer in her hometown.
Going back to face memories. The ease of falling into the Land of Shadows was effortless and the adventure she goes on and the characters she comes to face along the way.
I will be diving into more works of Melissa Jean going forward.
June 12, 2026
This is an ARC review: I did like the storyline but the world building felt a bit chaotic to me. There were multiple things that I thought would be important to the story but were never mentioned again. Judging by the last part of the book, I thought this would have a sequel, but this seems to be a stand alone? A lot of things feel unfinished. Did like the concept!
June 8, 2026
I could be here all day listing how amazing this is but I cant so just trust me the world is to die for and the love between the mcs is torture its so slow
July 6, 2026
This is an ARC review.
The eternal shadow throws you into a new world. A land of light and shadow and a woman who is finding out who she truly is.
Sometimes the pace of the book felt a little off. Some things felt rushed, others were not really explained.
It is supposed to be a standalone. Yet i feel as if there is too much of the story missing to really be considered that.
As there will be more books in this series, I am excited to find out how the rest of the story unfolds.
I love the basis of the fantasy world, the light vs the dark and the magic connected to those realms.
If you want to read a fantasy that brings a fresh take, then i do really recommend reading this book.
I would love to see how this story and the author behind it grow.
The eternal shadow throws you into a new world. A land of light and shadow and a woman who is finding out who she truly is.
Sometimes the pace of the book felt a little off. Some things felt rushed, others were not really explained.
It is supposed to be a standalone. Yet i feel as if there is too much of the story missing to really be considered that.
As there will be more books in this series, I am excited to find out how the rest of the story unfolds.
I love the basis of the fantasy world, the light vs the dark and the magic connected to those realms.
If you want to read a fantasy that brings a fresh take, then i do really recommend reading this book.
I would love to see how this story and the author behind it grow.
May 31, 2026
I was lucky to be able to BETA read this one for Melissa.
My review is based on the BETA version and is subject to change once I've read the final version! 💕
Our FMC finds herself on an adventure in a fae world, undertaking a journey of discovery, with the company of our grumpy MMC.
A standalone fantasy with fae, magic, fated mates, found family and a bit of spice.
Originally this was going to be two books but was expanded into one. I'm yet to finish reading the final version with the ending but I'm enjoying the changes and improvements made just within the first few chapters!
My review is based on the BETA version and is subject to change once I've read the final version! 💕
Our FMC finds herself on an adventure in a fae world, undertaking a journey of discovery, with the company of our grumpy MMC.
A standalone fantasy with fae, magic, fated mates, found family and a bit of spice.
Originally this was going to be two books but was expanded into one. I'm yet to finish reading the final version with the ending but I'm enjoying the changes and improvements made just within the first few chapters!
June 2, 2026
This was a wonderful fantasy story. I absolutely loved the butterflies and the moths. Seraphina was such a sweet character. And when her and Aurelion put things aside to work together. That was awesome. The queens building was fantastic. And the description and the character development was so well done. I really enjoyed spending time in this world for awhile.
May 27, 2026
⭐️
DNF
Unfortunately this book just wasn’t for me. I really wanted to love it, but I struggled to fully connect with the story and characters. That being said, the writing itself was beautiful and atmospheric, and I can absolutely see why fantasy and fae lovers would enjoy this one. While it didn’t personally click for me, I still think it will find the right audience. I’d love to come back to this book at a different point in time and give it another try because I can definitely see the potential in it 🫶🏻💌
DNF
Unfortunately this book just wasn’t for me. I really wanted to love it, but I struggled to fully connect with the story and characters. That being said, the writing itself was beautiful and atmospheric, and I can absolutely see why fantasy and fae lovers would enjoy this one. While it didn’t personally click for me, I still think it will find the right audience. I’d love to come back to this book at a different point in time and give it another try because I can definitely see the potential in it 🫶🏻💌
June 17, 2026
I received an ARC copy of The Eternal Shadow. Thank you to the berry agency for my ARC! This was a really interesting story with a strong fmc. I feel like it dragged in some parts but it was well-written overall. I felt emerged in the world quickly!
May 9, 2026
Loved this book
Fantasy fae romance with magic butterflies and moths
Enjoyed my ARC copy
Would love to read a continuing story about what happens to Cora the FMC ‘s sister
Fantasy fae romance with magic butterflies and moths
Enjoyed my ARC copy
Would love to read a continuing story about what happens to Cora the FMC ‘s sister
May 5, 2026
This was my first ARC. it was a fun read & I was hooked from the first page.
The world building was beautifully descriptive and the magic system was easy to understand.
I loved watching the love between our MCs unfold and blossom.
Really hoping to see future books about side characters 🙏
The world building was beautifully descriptive and the magic system was easy to understand.
I loved watching the love between our MCs unfold and blossom.
Really hoping to see future books about side characters 🙏
July 22, 2026
3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Eternal Shadow was an enjoyable read with some really creative elements. It had a nice balance of light, funny moments alongside a brooding MMC, and I loved the long-lost family storyline.
While parts of the plot were somewhat predictable, it was still engaging enough that I wanted to keep turning the pages.
The standout for me was the world-building. Melissa Jean created an original world filled with unique creatures that felt fresh rather than recycled from other fantasy books.
Keep an eye out for
Their stars are next to each other that is not a coincidence….
The pacing was fast and well-balanced for most of the book, keeping the story moving. Unfortunately, the ending didn't quite land for me. It felt a little rushed and anticlimactic compared to the build-up, which left me wanting a stronger payoff.
Overall, despite a few predictable moments and an ending that didn't fully deliver, it was still an entertaining fantasy with imaginative world-building and memorable characters.
I’ll be reading the next book to find out what happens next!
The Eternal Shadow was an enjoyable read with some really creative elements. It had a nice balance of light, funny moments alongside a brooding MMC, and I loved the long-lost family storyline.
While parts of the plot were somewhat predictable, it was still engaging enough that I wanted to keep turning the pages.
The standout for me was the world-building. Melissa Jean created an original world filled with unique creatures that felt fresh rather than recycled from other fantasy books.
Keep an eye out for
Their stars are next to each other that is not a coincidence….
The pacing was fast and well-balanced for most of the book, keeping the story moving. Unfortunately, the ending didn't quite land for me. It felt a little rushed and anticlimactic compared to the build-up, which left me wanting a stronger payoff.
Overall, despite a few predictable moments and an ending that didn't fully deliver, it was still an entertaining fantasy with imaginative world-building and memorable characters.
I’ll be reading the next book to find out what happens next!
June 15, 2026
Loved this story so much. 5 stars
The mysterious way the story starts for Serafina had me on the edge of my seat.
The way the world is described made me want to pack my bags and also basically jump into a portal. Give me all the butterflies and moths.
The book does start slow but when it picks up you will not want to put it down.
I do wish it was maybe a bit longer only for somethings to feel not so rush or things that felt important to be mentioned again. I would love to read more books in this world because the supporting characters was amazing and I would love to read something were some of them are the main focus.
Loved the romance in this book the way you want to read more about it and just feel the love they have for one another.
Overall Loved it and will recommending this to my sister in law. And personally will be reading other stories of Melissa Jean this was my first story of hers.
The mysterious way the story starts for Serafina had me on the edge of my seat.
The way the world is described made me want to pack my bags and also basically jump into a portal. Give me all the butterflies and moths.
The book does start slow but when it picks up you will not want to put it down.
I do wish it was maybe a bit longer only for somethings to feel not so rush or things that felt important to be mentioned again. I would love to read more books in this world because the supporting characters was amazing and I would love to read something were some of them are the main focus.
Loved the romance in this book the way you want to read more about it and just feel the love they have for one another.
Overall Loved it and will recommending this to my sister in law. And personally will be reading other stories of Melissa Jean this was my first story of hers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an absolute joy to read from start to finish. The chemistry between Aurelion and Serafina really stood out. their enemies-to-lovers arc unfolds at just the right pace, making the slow burn feel natural and genuinely satisfying rather than forced. The supporting cast adds so much depth too, with memorable pairs like Jas & Tiviero, and Octavian & Thalindra bringing their own spark to the story.
The world-building is equally captivating, filled with vivid creatures and fascinating locations that make every step of the journey feel alive. I'd wholeheartedly recommend this to anyone looking for an engaging and immersive read.
The world-building is equally captivating, filled with vivid creatures and fascinating locations that make every step of the journey feel alive. I'd wholeheartedly recommend this to anyone looking for an engaging and immersive read.
May 17, 2026
This book is beautifully crafted and cleverly written. The author brings the story alive through imagination and fantasy. Serafina is a nice relatable character who is thrown into a tumultuous journey of a far world. I was beyond impressed with how the story played out. The characters are designed to be realistic and the plot is entertaining and engaging.
July 28, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I wasn’t sure at the start but it picked up and then I just couldn’t put the book down. I really loved the world building and the characters. I did feel as though the ending was rushed though. I’m hoping this book becomes a series so I can see the rest of the characters stories play out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is my first ARC and I loved it! As a fantasy romance lover, I couldn’t put this down.
Although it’s a long book, it didn’t feel that way once I got into the story. And when it finished, I wished it was even longer.
I can’t wait to read more about the side characters in future books!
Although it’s a long book, it didn’t feel that way once I got into the story. And when it finished, I wished it was even longer.
I can’t wait to read more about the side characters in future books!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews