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A Poison of Shadows

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Some debts are paid in darkness.

The rules are don't get attached, don't get caught, don't let anyone close enough to notice when something's wrong.

Nadia Voss has broken all three in the span of two weeks.

The shadow court's sentence was expected. So was the price on her head. But being stranded on horseback with Lorenzo Veyne—Kieran's rigid, rule-obsessed, devastatingly competent eldest brother—was not part of any plan she would have made willingly. Neither was losing access to the deep shadows, the one place in all the world that had ever felt like home.

She has no intention of telling him that.

Except Enzo notices everything. And the closer they get to Tharros—where traitors wear trusted faces and the conspiracy runs deeper than anyone knew—the harder it becomes to hide the things she's been carrying alone.

He calls it a strategic liability. She calls it none of his business.

By the time the walls come down, neither of them has a word for what it actually is.

The shadows do, though. They always knew.

624 pages, Paperback

Published July 9, 2026

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About the author

Annie Anderson

56 books2,496 followers
Annie Anderson is the author of the international bestselling Rogue Ethereal series. A United States Air Force veteran, Annie pens fast-paced Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy novels filled with strong, snarky heroines and a boatload of magic. When she takes a break from writing, she can be found binge-watching The Magicians, flirting with her husband, wrangling children, or bribing her cantankerous dogs to go on a walk.

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5 stars
99 (65%)
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40 (26%)
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9 (5%)
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2 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for De Rijdende Boekenwurm.
563 reviews32 followers
July 18, 2026
4,5

Thank you to Annie Anderson for the ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.

When Shadows Become a Prison

'A Poison of Shadows' proves that sometimes the greatest battles are not fought against monsters, but against the darkness we keep hidden inside ourselves.

Nadia Voss immediately stood out as a heroine who carries far more than the weight of the mission ahead of her. Every decision feels shaped by fear, loyalty, and the desperate need to protect those around her, even when it costs pieces of herself. Watching her struggle between strength and vulnerability made her journey incredibly compelling.

One of the biggest surprises was Lorenzo Veyne. At first, he appears cold, calculating, and entirely driven by rules. Yet beneath that disciplined exterior lies someone who notices everything others try so hard to hide. The slow evolution of trust between Nadia and Enzo is beautifully paced. Rather than relying on dramatic declarations, the relationship grows through quiet moments, mutual respect, and an increasing willingness to carry each other's burdens. It made every interaction feel meaningful.

The world continues to expand with political intrigue, dangerous alliances, hidden betrayals, and secrets lurking behind every corner. The conspiracy unfolding around the Shadow Court adds constant tension, while the shifting loyalties keep the story unpredictable without becoming overwhelming.

The pacing slows occasionally during the political developments, but those quieter moments also deepen both the characters and the world building. They allow emotions to breathe before the next danger emerges.

What stayed with me most was the emotional isolation running beneath every chapter. Losing the place that once felt like home becomes just as painful as facing the enemies waiting ahead, giving the story a layer of quiet melancholy that lingers long after the final page.

‘A Poison of Shadows’ delivers an engaging blend of fantasy, suspense, political intrigue, and a beautifully developed slow burn that leaves plenty to look forward to in the next installment.

Slow Burn Romance | Enemies to Allies | Forced Proximity | Shadow Magic | Political Intrigue | Hidden Secrets | Touch Her and You Die | Found Family | Protective Hero | Fantasy Romance
Profile Image for Julianne.
159 reviews3 followers
July 20, 2026
The world-building in this book is so beautiful and carefully constructed. The magic is not just something to be seen. It is also felt and heard… like another entity that the wielder is interacting with. The way she carries the reader through the scenes with magic being used made me feel as if I was there experiencing it all.

Lorenzo and Nadia are two balls of fire that work well together. They both feel “something” between them, but see it as nothing more than an inconvenience at first. Nadia is “the muscle” hired to protect the prince because of her unique abilities wielding shadows. She doesn’t want gentle words or for somebody to care for her. She takes her job seriously and lives up to their expectations. Enter Enzo… A broody vampire who insists on taking care of her and also happens to see right past her facade and into the depths of her heart.

The trauma/healing/growth was written very well, and I was so emotionally invested in their story! I laughed and cried… and if you know me, you know that I will recommend every book that is able to accomplish that!

A very big ‘thank you’ to Annie Anderson for the ARC!
Profile Image for Rachel.
2,496 reviews136 followers
July 9, 2026
Annie Anderson has outdone herself; A Poison of Shadows was spectacular. The prince and the mercenary. I loved Nadia and Enzo. Personality-wise, they were total opposites, so of course, they bumped heads, or should I say Nadia was being Nadia, but when it comes to strategy and skill, they are a match. The romance was fantastic. Enzo is only soft for her. Nadia's less antagonistic (it's Nadia after all) but far more open with him. They become obsessed and perfected the touch him/her and... trope. And the way they read each other, the connection that they formed, and the lengths that they will go to for one another. They understand each other down to their very core, and it was everything.


Gods. I don't know what I was expecting from this book, but it wasn’t this. This book had a haunted house vibe. You know the danger is there, lurking, ready to take you out, but you don't know the where or the when. That's this book. With vampires and shadow fae, I expected gore and horror, but not this level of creepy. Haunted forests, unfriendly shadows, creepy towns, gods—that's just the beginning of it. Between the atmosphere, the action, and the mystery, it was hard to look away. Every time I dove back in, I was excited and anxious because the tension was there, and believe me, that string was ready to snap. There was one epic twist where I would swear my soul left my body. I can still feel the trauma. A Poison of Shadows is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. Why would you want to? It's a fantastic series, great for those looking for a sweeping fantasy romance.
Profile Image for Ilinca Mitchell.
12 reviews
July 20, 2026
Do you want anxiety? Do you want to feel like death lurks in every shadow everywhere you go? Do you want emotional damage? Well do I have the book for you.
This story kept me on my toes every page and just when I thought I knew where things are going I didn't. In the best way ofc.
I fell in love with Nadia and loved watching her be a badass that grows into her powers and annoys the heck out of Enzo ofc. The banter was so good and they make a great team.
The world building was straightforward in a good way and you never felt like you don't know what's going on even when some info was withkept.
The writing itself was very good. Great pacing too. I did find two grammar mistakes but I read the ARC version so those might have been fixed for the final version.
Overall you definitely need to read this book if you like morally gray heroines, fated mates, forced proximity, touch him/her and d*e, and other awesome tropes that just make this book all the better.
Thank you Annie for the ARC it was truly an honor to read and I've already preordered the beautiful collectors edition off her website which you should totally do too. 100/10 would read again
Profile Image for Amanda Lee.
21 reviews5 followers
July 7, 2026
First, I just want to say thank you for trusting me with an early copy of this book! It was such an honor to read before release.

I fell in love with this world in Book 1, and this sequel absolutely did not disappoint.
Nadia and Enzo’s story was everything I hoped it would be and more! If you love:

* Vampires
* Shadow walkers
* “Touch her and die”
* “Touch him and die”
* Witty banter
* Action-packed pages
* Strong bonds
* Untrue queens
* Just the right amount of spice

Then this book is for you!
This story had me hooked from page one, and I had such a hard time putting it down. I loved watching the mystery unfold, seeing the characters grow, and experiencing every twist along the way. Annie Anderson delivered another incredible addition to this world, and I already can’t wait for what’s next!
Profile Image for Barb Shuler.
Author 105 books158 followers
June 25, 2026
If it were possible to give a book more than 10 stars, this one would be one that got 20 stars. No jokes. No lies.

This book is full of banter, snark, hate, fighting and chaos. Utter chaos. The kind that has you laughing on one page and on the edge of your seat on the next, only to wide eyed on the next. Clutch your pearls or yell at a moody, broody vampire. Ya know, it’s the best kind of chaos. 😆

Lorenzo and Nadia are a whole bushel of emotions with a side of total bad*ssary. Like, for real. Just read it, you’ll see. Get your drinks and snacks ready. Once you start, you won’t be able to stop!
Profile Image for M.
46 reviews
July 16, 2026
Loved Loved Loved!

These two characters are so much fun! I love the snark. I love the patient but fiercely loving man. This world is dark and yet so perfectly written that even when you are crying and gripping your blankets because you cannot read fast enough to know what is going to happen, you still feel hopeful and safe. I cannot wait for the 3rd installment!
Profile Image for Shiela White.
19 reviews
July 22, 2026
I got stuck, in the best way

I knew I would like this book, I just wasn't prepared. It took me a while to finish because I became so attached to the characters that I had to choose the best time and place to finish it.
I did not want to ugly cry at work, so I put off finishing it. And I was right. These characters grab your attention and your emotions and don't let go. So I got stuck on deciding to finish it and know what happens, or wait and let myself linger in the world Annie Anderson created.
Profile Image for TheLiteraryMug.
294 reviews9 followers
July 10, 2026
In a whirlwind of razor sharp banter, brutal battles, comical moments, and enough mayhem to keep you hooked! This second novella in the Whisperbound series delivers far more than romance.

Loved her relatability! Nadia’s self discovery is carved through grief, impossible choices, and hard won strength, making her growth feel both authentic and unforgettable. As she and Enzo clash, tease, and slowly dismantle each other’s walls, their bond evolves into something fierce and unshakable, a love forged in bloodshed, loyalty, and utter mayhem. Even when the world threatens to tear them apart, their connection refuses to break.

If you love memorable characters, epic fights, witty banter, with emotional depth! That keeps your heart racing, this is one you’ll want on your shelf. I do!!


Profile Image for Ellensco.
27 reviews
July 10, 2026
When starting the book I didn't feel like this would become a 5 star read, but after 30 % in , there was a major shift for me. Might be my own mood; definitely finding out i am a BIG moodreader haha..

I HAVE YOU ( sigh* yess girll)

I think I annotated 85 % of the book while reading the ebook haha, the swoon worthy lines, the inner monologue, the way she looks at him, the way he looks en and thinks of her . SOOO FREAKING GOOD!!

And of course don't let me forget about the tears you drove me to! several time in this book, you demonic women 😂 I yelled and cursed at you at the end ( you know which part!) , so if you thought you heard something it was me!

So yes definitly 5 star read

- She is the ShadowQueen
- Vampire Prince
- generational trauma
- closed off personalities
- mates
- banter ( they are hilarious together)
- romance
- slow - medium burn
- Court intrigue
- Rising to power
Profile Image for Dayzee.
934 reviews14 followers
July 20, 2026
Fated mates at its best!!!

Shes is the moral grey character and im here for it!! Such an awesome story! im loving the whisperbound books series by annie! Each one a can be read as a standalone! They are So passionate ❤️❤️and full of men who will burn 🔥 the entire world to keep the woman they love safe!!! im a fan! 👌
Profile Image for Sarahschaoticreads .
42 reviews9 followers
July 22, 2026
Another phenomenal read!

Annie has done it again and I absolutely loved this book. A prince and a mercenary are just what I needed. I always love good banter. Not only does this have an MMC who will go to no end for her, the FMC will do the same. I loved both books in this series and am ready for more!
Profile Image for Andrea.
5 reviews
July 9, 2026
Review of an advanced readers copy provided by Authur

Sooooo goood. Annie Anderson never disappoints!!! I laughed, I cried. The Adventure and Romance 🥵 Beware you will loose sleep!! Idk who is better Enzo or Kieran and I love Kieran!!! 6 stars ⭐️.

Annie is an auto buy for me!! If you haven’t checked out her books you are missing out!!
8 reviews
July 10, 2026
Annie Anderson knocked it out of the park with this one! A Poison of Shadows was amazing. When she’s describing the wrong woods; so creepy. From there the tension just kept building. Loved her sassy FMC. Highly recommend reading this one and book 1 A Silence of Shadows.
Profile Image for Joy D.
356 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2026
If I could give this one more than 5 stars, I would. I loved it that much....what a great story...Enzo and Nadia were the perfect MCs!! I always wish for more after such a good book!!
Profile Image for Ashleigh Grigsby.
9 reviews
July 16, 2026
A Poison of Shadows ( Whisperbound book 2)
ARC review

GET YOUR COPY OF THE NEXT INSTALLMENT OF THE WHISPERBOUND SERIES!

My rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5

This is book 2 in the Whisperbound series!

The book instantly grabbed a hold of me and didn't let go! The anticipation in this story had me engrossed, riveted, and at the edge of my seat!

I knew to keep my expectations open and to expect the unexpected but the scenery and imagery is so well written, I was able to clearly envision this fantasy/romantasy/horror/thriller world of the Whisperbound. The way a handful of scenes had me mesmerized and transported to the Whisperbound world, I adore!

This story has a feisty FMC, Nadia, a shadow walker spitfire and a MMC, Lorenzo, who is a vampire prince who exercises control in every way, shape, and form. Their dialogue and inner monologue made for some very great banter and scenes that now live rent-free in my head.

The suspense and build of this story gives slow burn a whole new meaning.

And by the time everything falls apart, neither Nadia nor Lorenzo knows what to call what’s been suspensefully growing between them.

The shadows, though, they do. They always knew.

A Poison of Shadows is the second book in a series of interconnected standalone romantasy novels.

These are complete stories interconnected by blood, deception, and magic.

What to expect one dangerously controlled vampire prince, one shadow-walking heroine powered by spite and sharp objects, and a mission that turns “watch his back” into something entirely too personal that neither one of them have experienced.

This story contains mature themes and dark romantic fantasy tension included!

Reader discretion advised!

Thank you Annie Anderson for delivering another EPIC read! And for the opportunity to read the e-ARC!

GET YOUR COPY NOW!!

#APoisonofShadows #romantasy #forcedproximity #VampireMMC/ShadowFaeFMC
@authorannieanderson
@annieande
Profile Image for Literary Purrception.
73 reviews7 followers
July 18, 2026
3.75 stars rounded up to 4 stars

I am super thankful to have received an advanced copy of A Poison of Shadows by Annie Anderson. I am not a stranger to Annie’s World of Veynetheir, but this book was so far my favorite (Moonbound Bonds is my second). For me it was the character dynamic between the FMC and MMC plus the stakes and situations they found themselves in that put this at the top.

I was a complete sucker for Nadia and Enzo. Nadia, in particular, is someone I fell so hard in love with. She is smart, dangerous, sarcastic, and funny. My heart ached and soared for her throughout this book and I became so invested in her as a character. Don’t get me wrong the MMC, Enzo, is great and I do adore him and how great of a partner he is, but Nadia is the star here. The relationship dynamics and the banter is fabulous and had me chuckling and smiling more times than I could count.

Additionally, I really enjoyed the mystery and the battles that took place. It felt high stakes and mysterious. Like a puzzle, we were waiting for the final pieces to connect to see/understand the full picture. Overall, the rollercoasters of this installment of the Whisperbound series was refreshing to me.

I will say in the last 20-25% of the book the pacing either slowed down or felt more drawn out. As if the world building was being done a little too heavily at this stage of the story compared to the beginning. It was still enjoyable for me, but I did find that I struggled with my focus more than I should have been for the last roughly 10% of the book. This ultimately is why it became a 3.75 star versus a 4 star for me. Still overall enjoyed the experience.

Would I recommend this read? Absolutely. I’m looking forward to the next installment in the series and definitely plan to continue reading the work in this world.
Profile Image for Christy.
78 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 7, 2026
ARC Review

🔮📚 A Poison Of Shadows (Whisperbound Series Book 2) by Annie Anderson 📚🔮

Ma'am. What. The. Literal. Fuck!

I could not put this book down. Nadia and Enzo had me completely captivated from beginning to end. Their banter, chemistry, love story, healing, and the trust they slowly built with each other made this such an addictive read.

Every chapter pulled me in deeper, and just when I thought I knew where Annie Anderson was taking the story, she completely pulled the rug out from under me.

The last few chapters had me ready to throw my phone. The absolute mindfuckery Annie wrote had me staring at my screen in disbelief, and I had to keep reading to find out what happened next. Thank God I did, because otherwise I probably would have started a riot... or cried. Maybe both.

This sequel raised the stakes in every possible way and left me desperate for the next book.

Thank you so much to Annie Anderson for the opportunity to read and review this ARC ahead of release!

✨ A Poison In Shadows releases this Thursday, July 9! Be sure to grab your copy if you're looking for a fantasy romance filled with unforgettable characters, incredible chemistry, and twists that will leave you reeling.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars

What's the last book that had you saying, "What did I just read?!" Drop it in the comments—I need more books that leave me speechless! 👇📚

#ARCreview #Bookstagram #RomantasyReads #fantasyreads #bookish
Profile Image for MaD.
729 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 8, 2026
After reading the first book in the Whisperbound series, I couldn't wait for Nadia's story. Her Shadow Fae character really caught my attention and drew me. I could tell there was more to her and Book #2...'A Poison of Shadows'...proved me right.

Dispatched by the Vampire King to watch his eldest son's back on the way to Tharros, Nadia finds it difficult to keep her facade around Enzo. The banter, the ribbing, the threats all coalesce into her undoing.
But the story is not just about her. Enzo not only must learn to bend some of his rigid ingrown rules and training as he battles the traitors and rot on the way to his realm. Learning the give and take dealing with Nadia's style...and realizing her true place in his life. He still must come to terms with why his father bypassed him in succession for the crown...giving it to his younger brother instead.

The author takes us on a rollercoaster ride of adventure, excitement, danger, and intrigue. But the ride also includes the kaleidoscope of emotions Nadia and Enzo must endure. Who can be trusted? Who is watching in the deep shadows?
As the reader, I felt every laugh, tear, and emotion. It was as if I was riding was riding alongside Sugar, and experienced every scene with them. (Definitely wanting to knock a few heads together on repeated occasions! 😂)
Truly an awesome read. It comes out soon... do yourself a favor and dive into this great storyline.



I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review
Profile Image for Merissa (Archaeolibrarian).
4,325 reviews124 followers
July 19, 2026
A POISON OF SHADOWS is the second book in the Whisperbound series. Although it says each book is an interconnected standalone, I would recommend at least reading Book 1 (A Silence of Shadows) before reading any other. I haven't read that book, and I do feel as though I missed out on some of the basic world-building/magic system/etc.

Nadia and Lorenzo are a perfect pair, even if they don't admit it to each other to begin with. Nadia has a lot of sharp edges that she uses a whetstone on often enough. Lorenzo keeps his own counsel, whether that's big plans or minor details. And both of them are petty enough to use whatever they can against anyone who has slighted them. They were great!

I think the thing for me was that not only do I feel like I missed out, but certain phrases and descriptions were repeated when there was no need. This happened often enough to jolt me out of the story each time.

I will say that I loved this world, though, and definitely want to read more about it. It was a gripping story set in a world I want more of. If you've read the first book, then I think you will thoroughly enjoy this one.

** The same worded review will appear elsewhere. **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
Jul 17, 2026
Profile Image for Susan (Purplegalaxyreads94).
312 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 1, 2026
First, I’d like to thank Annie Anderson for the gifted eARC of A Poison Of Shadows to read and provide my honest, spoiler free review.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My Thoughts:
The Whisperbound series continues to get better and better! Following Nadia and Lorenzo as they end up stranded together, we get to see just how much these two can bicker and get on each other’s nerves. However, even with their differences, the journey to Tharros proved to be a bit of a difficult one, especially for Nadia when she is trying her hardest to not let anyone see her for who she truly is.

The time that they spend together surrounded by untrustworthy people, I felt like Nadia was so relatable trying her hardest to not let anyone see past the walls she built up around herself. Having Enzo be the one to see right through her just makes the tension build higher with each passing moment. The struggle of protecting yourself from people around you, even the one person who might truly care about you can be difficult and scary so I loved seeing that continue on in this installment.

The plot, the world building, the shadow elements, all of it together made for a pretty entertaining story and I cannot wait to see how this series continues on in the future.
5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 3, 2026
I’ve read every Annie Anderson book that’s been published, and this is the first one that’s landed at 3.5 stars for me. That isn’t because the story is weak—it isn’t. The world-building, political intrigue, and overall plot kept me invested from beginning to end. Enzo really grew on me, and Aldric’s storyline was one of my favorite parts of the book.

My biggest struggle was with the prose. Certain words, phrases, and sentence structures were repeated often enough that they pulled me out of the story. By the end, I found myself anticipating specific descriptors and expressions instead of focusing on the scene itself. It wasn’t one particular word—it was the cumulative effect of several recurring choices that made the writing feel more repetitive than what I’ve come to expect from this author.

I also found Nadia’s internal voice less engaging than she was as a supporting character in the first book. I loved her in A Silence of Shadows, but spending an entire novel in her POV didn’t work as well for me.

Even with those issues, I still enjoyed the story and absolutely plan to continue the series. Annie Anderson has been an auto-buy author for me for a long time, and one weaker entry doesn’t change that. I’m excited to see where the series goes next.
Profile Image for Katie.
14 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 5, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars

A Poison of Shadows lives up to the high standards set by Annie Anderson, making it a must-read for her fans. Every book she releases solidifies her status as an auto-buy author.

What truly sets this story apart is the captivating relationship between Nadia and Enzo. Their undeniable chemistry from the start is complemented by the natural development of their bond. Enzo’s fierce protectiveness is balanced with respect for Nadia’s strength and independence, while Nadia refuses to let anyone define her. Enzo admires her resilience rather than trying to change her. Their witty banter, heartfelt moments, and genuine trust build a strong foundation for every emotional scene.

Beyond the romantic entanglements, the magic system, action, and mystery keep the reader engaged and invested. The pacing is relentless, and every twist propels the story forward. Annie Anderson’s talent for creating characters you genuinely care about shines through in her plot, making it impossible to put down.

If you’re a fan of urban fantasy with compelling characters, fantastic world-building, high-stakes action, and a romance built on trust, respect, and incredible chemistry, A Poison of Shadows is an absolute must-read. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
858 reviews2 followers
July 10, 2026
3.5 rounded down to 3 because of the last 25% of the book. Thus far this is my favorite installment in the Veynetheiur world. I only made it 100ish pages into A Silence of Shadows before I dropped it, Moonbound Lies is a prequel which was good but short and Moonbound Bonds was an angstfest from start to finish. This one was also pretty angsty but it wasn't as overwhelming with Nadia and Enzo as it was with Sable and Harkan.

I really liked the first 75% of this book Nadia and Enzo are both excellent characters and their chemistry was written well. The journey was enjoyable and I really like Nadia's powers. However the closer we get to the final confrontation the worse it got. It was really repetitive, the final battle was way overwritten and then it jumped into some truly candy ass moments that made me roll my eyes repeatedly. Particularly the interaction with Aldric's family and Nadia's uncle. I disliked both of those tremendously. It didn't particularly bother me in this installment but the worldbuilding in general is not tremendously detailed and it really could use some further fleshing out in my opinion. It doesn't bother me enough to stop reading though. I will likely read anything else the author publishes in this world.
157 reviews
July 12, 2026
Book 2 in the Whisperbound series, how does Annie make the sequel even better than the first? Must be witchcraft.

Book 2 picks up soon after the events of Book 1 with my favorite shadow wielder Nadia. This book is an unstoppable adventure. Delightful chaos that has you laughing on one page and sobbing the next. While the book is a bit of a slower start, that does not last as you are thrown into multiple court intrigues and assassination attempts. The final battle is
The snarky banter between Enzo and Nadia had me kicking my feet like a silly girl. They have the type of banter that you are not sure will end with a kiss or a knife. (Sometimes both ;) ) You have to love when a FMC uses the MMC's full name to make sure he knows she is displeased.

Annie Anderson is an auto buy author for me. Her world building is great! I always enjoy the badass heroines she writes and the MMCs that appreciate their chosen mate. Her prose takes you through the angst and tribulations with just the right amount of spice!

A big thank you to Annie Anderson and her team for allowing me a chance to read an e-ARC.

Profile Image for Aria .
371 reviews
August 2, 2026
A Poison of Shadows is an atmospheric and emotionally intense fantasy romance with a strong sense of danger, secrecy, and slow-building tension. Nadia is a compelling heroine, especially as she struggles with the consequences of her choices while trying to protect the parts of herself she refuses to reveal.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Nadia and Enzo. He is controlled, observant, and frustratingly focused on rules, while Nadia is guarded, independent, and determined not to let anyone see her vulnerabilities. Their forced proximity creates plenty of sharp dialogue and tension, and I liked watching their distrust gradually shift into something more complicated.
The journey to Tharros kept the story moving, while the political intrigue and underlying conspiracy added depth to the romance. The shadow magic also gave the book a distinctive atmosphere, and I enjoyed how closely it was tied to Nadia’s identity and sense of belonging.
A few aspects of the plot and worldbuilding felt like they could have been explored further, which is why this was a 4-star read rather than a 5-star one for me. Still, this was an engaging and beautifully moody story with secrets, danger, reluctant trust, and a romance that develops through small but meaningful moments.
Profile Image for Panda.
58 reviews
July 9, 2026
Thank you to Annie Anderson and BookFunnel for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this book.

This is Book 2 of Whisperbound Series.

Triggers
Exile from Court
Wounds (emotional and physical)

Tropes
Forced Proximity
Vampire MMC/Shadow Fae FMC
Dual POV (Nadia & Enzo (Lorenzo))

Spice
2.5/5

I had acquired a household and a fiancé in the same five minutes. At this rate, by breakfast someone would hand me a province and an infant. - Nadia’s Thoughts

“Evara doesn’t want you.” - Nadia

Two weeks on horseback with a very rigid Vampire Prince and a King-ordered Shadow Fae...what could go wrong? OR what could go right?

I loved the banter between Enzo and Nadia. PLUS Sugar was just perfect. I loved her snarkyness (I do wish there was more like from Book 1).

The first half of the book was super slow in my opinion, but that could be because they were travelling to their final destination. Once they reached their destination...whoooooboy. The pace picked up significantly.

All in all, I very much enjoyed the story, the banter, and the ending.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,897 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2026
In the previous book I had wondered whether all six princes would be accounted for and they are at almost the end of this book. Will they each get their own story?

Nadia is a mercenary hired by the vampire king to protect Prince Lorenzo, his firstborn. Enzo, as she calls him, is journeying to visit his holdings. Right off the bat, Sugar, the horse Nadia is given to ride, wins my best character vote. It’s too bad that she isn’t included in the whole book. I guess once they reach their final destination her presence is no longer needed.

Nadia has a complicated past which I will sum up by stating her stepmother has been hunting her for over one hundred years for fear that Nadia will take her place as the rightful Queen.

Anyway their travels are not without peril and circumstances force them to become Whisperbound. The vampire king reveals Enzo’s destiny which he had known before Enzo was born but had withheld. The final battle is nail bitingly suspenseful as things take a turn for the worst. I mean really, really bad. Evil stepmother, indeed. Nadia’s father is no prize either.
Profile Image for Kristie Lynne.
11 reviews
July 17, 2026
A Poison of Shadows review

The story follows Nadia and Enzo’s journey of self discovery as they traverse through much of their terrain and cities. Annie never misses with her levels of sass- and these two are no exception! The entire time we are with them we have the delight of witnessing their banter back and forth.

One thing I really enjoyed about this is that we usually have a shadow daddy, so the fact that we get a badass shadow mommy this time around? Chef’s kiss. It was a refreshing change of pace from what a lot of romantasy novels tend to go with. (Not to say they aren’t great! Trust me when I say I love a good shadow daddy as much as the next romantasy fan, but a switch up is always appreciated! c: )

The best part about this book? While it helps to read the other novels for worldbuilding, this can definitely be read as a standalone in my opinion.
If you like bad babes who get things done and men who know how to let the ladies lead, this is definitely a great choice of novel for you!
Profile Image for Lois.
1,330 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 1, 2026
Wow, I'm exhausted. This book is full on from beginning to end. The plot is dark and violent and quite a bit angsty, but the characters are fabulous. Nadia is bold and snarky (just as an Annie Anderson heroine should be). I adored her internal monologues and her tongue as sharp as her blades. But as well as brave and fearless (and occasionally stupid), she is also vulnerable in ways she is not used to and not equipped for. Enzo is stoic, emotionally repressed and suffering from, what feels like, abandonment issues, but he is also fiercely loyal, utterly competent and .... desperately in love whilst trying to do the right thing, You wouldn't think they would work together. Two warriors who internalise their feelings, but they do, on every level.

The plot did not go where I was expecting as was all the better for it. The battles, the destruction, the enemies were, at times terrifying. This world that Annie has built is spectacular in it's beauty and devastation.
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