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Wings of Shadow and Prophecy
She was born to rule. But destiny has other plans.
Iona Zialni, eldest daughter of Queen Alecia and heir to the throne of Thorius, carries Defender magic in her blood — the strength of the bear, the cunning of the wolf. Yet something deeper stirs within her, a winged truth she’s never been allowed to explore.
Refusing the future carved out for her, Iona sets out with a small group of young nobles who believe she deserves the chance to choose her own path. Beyond the borders of home, the world is stranger and more dangerous than she imagined, and the answers she seeks may cost more than she expects.
As secrets rise and loyalties shift, Iona must confront the question she’s never been permitted to ask. Who is she, if not the future queen?
Wings of Shadow and Prophesy is book one of The Shadow Wing Trilogy. If you like strong heroines, magical intrigue, and mythical creatures, you’ll love this spin-off from the author’s epic romantasy Queenmaker’s Saga.
Iona Zialni, eldest daughter of Queen Alecia and heir to the throne of Thorius, carries Defender magic in her blood — the strength of the bear, the cunning of the wolf. Yet something deeper stirs within her, a winged truth she’s never been allowed to explore.
Refusing the future carved out for her, Iona sets out with a small group of young nobles who believe she deserves the chance to choose her own path. Beyond the borders of home, the world is stranger and more dangerous than she imagined, and the answers she seeks may cost more than she expects.
As secrets rise and loyalties shift, Iona must confront the question she’s never been permitted to ask. Who is she, if not the future queen?
Wings of Shadow and Prophesy is book one of The Shadow Wing Trilogy. If you like strong heroines, magical intrigue, and mythical creatures, you’ll love this spin-off from the author’s epic romantasy Queenmaker’s Saga.
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About the author
Bernadette Rowley
19 books74 followersBernadette Rowley is an Australian epic fantasy romance author who is also a veterinarian. After flirting with picture books, junior fiction and space opera, Bernadette was challenged to write a romance in 2011 and she hasn’t looked back.
First published by Penguin Australia and then Pan Macmillan Australia, Bernadette is now an independently published author. The Queenmakers Saga contains twelve books spanning the genres of fantasy romance and romantic fantasy.
Her favorite tropes are enemies to lovers, forced proximity and forbidden romance. Strong themes include the horse/human bond and healing.
When not at her desk, Bernadette can be found absorbed in a good romance or romantic suspense, swimming, walking or having coffee with friends.
First published by Penguin Australia and then Pan Macmillan Australia, Bernadette is now an independently published author. The Queenmakers Saga contains twelve books spanning the genres of fantasy romance and romantic fantasy.
Her favorite tropes are enemies to lovers, forced proximity and forbidden romance. Strong themes include the horse/human bond and healing.
When not at her desk, Bernadette can be found absorbed in a good romance or romantic suspense, swimming, walking or having coffee with friends.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
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November 4, 2025Wings of Shadow and Prophecy is now available by clicking the link above. Happy release day!
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy is now with my ARC readers. Countdown to official release of the first book in my new trilogy Shadow Wing Quest begins...seven days to go!
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy has completed formatting in both ebook and paperback. Copies are ready to go to ARC readers. If you would like an ARC copy please let me know via my author email : bernadette@bernadetterowley.com
If you like the book, I'd love an early review here and on Amazon.
Release date August 28, 2026.
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy is now with my ARC readers. Countdown to official release of the first book in my new trilogy Shadow Wing Quest begins...seven days to go!
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy has completed formatting in both ebook and paperback. Copies are ready to go to ARC readers. If you would like an ARC copy please let me know via my author email : bernadette@bernadetterowley.com
If you like the book, I'd love an early review here and on Amazon.
Release date August 28, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Shadow Wing Quest is a strong and engaging start to a coming-of-age fantasy trilogy. Iona, a powerful shapeshifting Defender and eldest daughter of the queen, believes her true winged form is yet to awaken. Choosing truth over the throne, she sets out on a daring quest that becomes a journey of self-discovery and found family.
With rich world-building, a compelling heroine, and heartfelt themes of identity and courage, this book is a captivating five-star read.
With rich world-building, a compelling heroine, and heartfelt themes of identity and courage, this book is a captivating five-star read.
September 2, 2026
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy is a fantasy, filled with magic and adventure. Once the quest began I was totally hooked. I enjoyed the unexpected twists and turns, and there was plenty of excitement to keep the pages turning, even if fantasy is not your usual go to read. I can't wait till book two is released, to see what awaits for Princess Iona and her companions. Such a great young adult trilogy is unfolding here. Well done Bernadette.
September 14, 2026
Loved it.
August 25, 2026
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy is an engaging coming-of-age fantasy that follows Iona Zialni, a young woman born into a future that has already been chosen for her—but determined to discover who she truly is beyond the crown.
What I enjoyed most about the premise is the conflict between duty and identity. Iona is not simply fighting an external enemy; she is also questioning the role she has been born into and searching for the freedom to define herself. The magical elements, including Defender magic and the mystery surrounding her hidden winged nature, add an intriguing layer to her journey.
The story promises a world filled with political expectations, shifting loyalties, mythical creatures, secrets, and adventure. I also liked the coming-of-age aspect because it gives Iona's journey emotional weight alongside the fantasy elements. Her question—who is she if she is not simply the future queen?—creates a strong foundation for the story.
As the first book in the Shadow Wing Quest Trilogy, it feels like the beginning of a larger journey, with mysteries and possibilities that can continue to develop throughout the series.
Overall, this is a promising choice for readers who enjoy strong female protagonists, magical worlds, destiny-versus-choice themes, mythical creatures, and epic fantasy adventures. Bernadette Rowley creates a story centered not only on prophecy and magic, but also on the powerful journey of discovering who you are when everyone else thinks they already know.
What I enjoyed most about the premise is the conflict between duty and identity. Iona is not simply fighting an external enemy; she is also questioning the role she has been born into and searching for the freedom to define herself. The magical elements, including Defender magic and the mystery surrounding her hidden winged nature, add an intriguing layer to her journey.
The story promises a world filled with political expectations, shifting loyalties, mythical creatures, secrets, and adventure. I also liked the coming-of-age aspect because it gives Iona's journey emotional weight alongside the fantasy elements. Her question—who is she if she is not simply the future queen?—creates a strong foundation for the story.
As the first book in the Shadow Wing Quest Trilogy, it feels like the beginning of a larger journey, with mysteries and possibilities that can continue to develop throughout the series.
Overall, this is a promising choice for readers who enjoy strong female protagonists, magical worlds, destiny-versus-choice themes, mythical creatures, and epic fantasy adventures. Bernadette Rowley creates a story centered not only on prophecy and magic, but also on the powerful journey of discovering who you are when everyone else thinks they already know.
August 20, 2026
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy by Bernadette Rowley, is an amazing adventure that will leave you begging for more. I find it incredible that four young people who grew up so sheltered, would be willing and able to defy their parents and embark on a quest of this magnitude. They are angry when joined by Axon, but I think they slowly start to realize that his help is needed although they continue to treat him poorly. When they reach Brightcastle and discover all is not as it should be, they really start to wonder if they bit off more than they can chew.
The storyline is reasonably paced and well written. It tells of a grand adventure filled with wonder, awe, fear, sorrow, danger, mystery, prophecy and even dragons. It was easy to get wrapped up in the quest making it difficult to put down. The characters were well developed and engaging. I do find the princess to be a bit of a spoiled brat, but I suppose that is to be expected. I enjoyed her other companions-Tomas, Marlowe, Mica and Axon. Carac is a little tougher to decide about. All in all, they make a good group, where they are able to rely on each other and compliment each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Overall I enjoyed Wings of Shadow and Prophecy and recommend it.
The storyline is reasonably paced and well written. It tells of a grand adventure filled with wonder, awe, fear, sorrow, danger, mystery, prophecy and even dragons. It was easy to get wrapped up in the quest making it difficult to put down. The characters were well developed and engaging. I do find the princess to be a bit of a spoiled brat, but I suppose that is to be expected. I enjoyed her other companions-Tomas, Marlowe, Mica and Axon. Carac is a little tougher to decide about. All in all, they make a good group, where they are able to rely on each other and compliment each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Overall I enjoyed Wings of Shadow and Prophecy and recommend it.
August 30, 2026
This is a fabulous coming-of-age fantasy! When the FMC is given an ultimatum (to accept her fate as the next queen and find a husband) she sets off on a journey to discover herself instead. Instinctively, she knows she has a third form beyond her wolf and bear forms, but it remains latent and elusive. Knowing this may be her only chance to discover who she truly is, she begins her quest with her most trusted friends by her side. However, the path ahead is far from easy, and the group encounters plenty of unexpected challenges along the way.
I was completely captivated by this adventure. It was fast-paced, and I devoured it! I loved the dynamic between the FMC and her companions, and the plot twists kept me guessing about what would come next. The world-building was fascinating as well and added so much to the story.
Overall, I loved tagging along on this adventure, and I’m eager to see what vital lessons the FMC Ilearns in the next book of the series!
I received this ebook for free as an ARC reader but my review and opinion are my own.
I was completely captivated by this adventure. It was fast-paced, and I devoured it! I loved the dynamic between the FMC and her companions, and the plot twists kept me guessing about what would come next. The world-building was fascinating as well and added so much to the story.
Overall, I loved tagging along on this adventure, and I’m eager to see what vital lessons the FMC Ilearns in the next book of the series!
I received this ebook for free as an ARC reader but my review and opinion are my own.
August 29, 2026
So excited for the next generation!
I loved the first series by Bernadette but I feel like this one is going to be even better!
We start off with seeing all the characters from the original series and now their children too. It’s so satisfying to see where everyone has settled and I loved the twist this new book is taking.
The camaraderie is strong in this one as a whole crew of the kingdoms’ youth embark on a runaway adventure of finding oneself and a coming of age adventure. As their journey unfolds, magic runs amuck and time itself creates an unseen element they must navigate through.
A YA fantasy adventure with magic, shifters, prophecy, camaraderie and lots of twists.
Single pov told in third person
Characters-
Princess Iona Zialni - defender
Prince Tomas Zialni - Iona’s younger brother
Lord Carac Jacquemin of Issia - wolf shifter
Lady Marlowe Cosara - Iona’s best friend
Master Mica Delacost of Thorius
Master Axon Elvedarin of Tylevia
I loved the first series by Bernadette but I feel like this one is going to be even better!
We start off with seeing all the characters from the original series and now their children too. It’s so satisfying to see where everyone has settled and I loved the twist this new book is taking.
The camaraderie is strong in this one as a whole crew of the kingdoms’ youth embark on a runaway adventure of finding oneself and a coming of age adventure. As their journey unfolds, magic runs amuck and time itself creates an unseen element they must navigate through.
A YA fantasy adventure with magic, shifters, prophecy, camaraderie and lots of twists.
Single pov told in third person
Characters-
Princess Iona Zialni - defender
Prince Tomas Zialni - Iona’s younger brother
Lord Carac Jacquemin of Issia - wolf shifter
Lady Marlowe Cosara - Iona’s best friend
Master Mica Delacost of Thorius
Master Axon Elvedarin of Tylevia
August 24, 2026
I have read a few of this author's romantasy titles and so I thought it would be fun to see how Alecia's daughter turned out. This book begins 17 years after the previous saga was completed. Iona Zialni is the main character and the story is told almost completely in her point of view. She's a typical 18 year old girl except she's a shape shifter and heir to a throne.
Iona is sure there is more to her than this- though you might think being a magical being and a queen in waiting would be enough for most people. But I'm not going to spoil the story for you. Read now to see why Iona is fed up with her lot and what she does about it. Good job Ms Rowley!
Iona is sure there is more to her than this- though you might think being a magical being and a queen in waiting would be enough for most people. But I'm not going to spoil the story for you. Read now to see why Iona is fed up with her lot and what she does about it. Good job Ms Rowley!
August 17, 2026
I really enjoyed Wings of Shadow and Prophecy by Bernadette Rowley. It was an enjoyable read that kept me interested throughout,and I loved getting lost in the story and seeing everything unfold.
A really enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes next. Definitely one for readers who enjoy fantasy and a good story to escape into.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A really enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes next. Definitely one for readers who enjoy fantasy and a good story to escape into.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 4, 2026
Good Start
I was given this book as an ARC. This isn’t my normal kind of book so it took me a while to get into the writing, but once it gets going it’s a good beginning to this series. It’s got dragons which is an automatic win in my book. Fast pace the heroine builds in who she becomes as the book progresses. Can’t wait to read the next in series.
I was given this book as an ARC. This isn’t my normal kind of book so it took me a while to get into the writing, but once it gets going it’s a good beginning to this series. It’s got dragons which is an automatic win in my book. Fast pace the heroine builds in who she becomes as the book progresses. Can’t wait to read the next in series.
September 15, 2026
I had this book recommended to me by a friend and enjoyed it immensely. My favourite stories have always been fantasy quests undertaken by a group of friends and this didn’t disappoint. Makes me keen to read the next book in the trilogy and also the books of the Queenmakers Saga, though I hear they are romantasy. I’d love to see more of this world,
October 11, 2026
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy is an engaging fantasy story with magic, adventure, and mystery. Iona’s journey to discover her true identity makes the story interesting, and her courage adds depth to her character. The plot offers a lovely mix of secrets, friendships, and unexpected discoveries. A great choice for readers who enjoy fantasy adventures!
August 28, 2026
What an amazing story. Iona is heir to the throne but she’s has special magic as well. Something else seems to happen, what could it be. This story and its characters won’t disappoint, it’s definitely binge worthy. Don’t miss out.
August 19, 2026
Wings of Shadow and Prophecy kept me wanting to read it. When I got to the end, I wanted to read more. Looking forward to continuing the Iona’s coming of age story.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews