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Wilder Oak Woods #1
How To Claim A Shadow King
I always knew my bloodline would demand a price... I just assumed it would involve a dusty ballroom and a mortal lord.
I never expected my stepfather to trade my hand to an ancient entity with burning ember eyes and zero respect for personal space.
The moment the fabled King of Shadows claims me, I’m swept away into a ruined fortress hidden deep in the Wild Oak Woods. On the outside, Castle Shadow is all crumbling stone and creepy rumors. Inside? It’s a warm, sentient mansion that happens to be an aggressive matchmaker.
Even worse, it turns out I'm a witch, and a light bursts from my skin every time the Shadow King gets under it. Malakai insists he can help me control my magic, but his lessons look a lot less like mentorship and a lot more like breathless kisses in the forest.
The more time we spend together, the more I realize he isn't a heartless monster... and I might even like him. But a wild fae magic is stirring, and my new home (and possessive new husband) are right in its path. If I want to protect the Wild Oak Woods, I’ll have to unleash the power inside me... and claim the Shadow King along with it.
I never expected my stepfather to trade my hand to an ancient entity with burning ember eyes and zero respect for personal space.
The moment the fabled King of Shadows claims me, I’m swept away into a ruined fortress hidden deep in the Wild Oak Woods. On the outside, Castle Shadow is all crumbling stone and creepy rumors. Inside? It’s a warm, sentient mansion that happens to be an aggressive matchmaker.
Even worse, it turns out I'm a witch, and a light bursts from my skin every time the Shadow King gets under it. Malakai insists he can help me control my magic, but his lessons look a lot less like mentorship and a lot more like breathless kisses in the forest.
The more time we spend together, the more I realize he isn't a heartless monster... and I might even like him. But a wild fae magic is stirring, and my new home (and possessive new husband) are right in its path. If I want to protect the Wild Oak Woods, I’ll have to unleash the power inside me... and claim the Shadow King along with it.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2026
About the author
January Bell
56 books610 followersJanuary Bell writes steamy sci-fi and fantasy romance with a guaranteed happily ever after. Combining pure escapism, a little adventure, and a whole lotta love makes for romance that's a world apart. For the latest updates, follow her on Instagram and Twitter and subscribe to her newsletter for exclusive content. Is there a character you would like to see featured in a future novel or novella? Don't be shy! She'd love to hear from you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 6, 2026
LOVED this book. I love the Wild Oak Woods series that January Bell has created. They are interconnected, but this can be read alone. Definitely a must read if you like January’s books or are looking for somewhere to start!
September 12, 2026
3.5
How to Claim a Shadow King was a pretty quick and enjoyable read. I also went into it without realizing it was the fourth book in a series, even though in some places it is marketed as a first in the series. Thankfully, it seems to be made up of interconnected standalones, and I never felt confused or like I was missing something important since the story introduces characters from the other books and gives enough information about the wider situation for everything to make sense, even without having read the previous books.
The story follows Aveline, whose stepfather trades her hand to the mysterious Shadow King, Malakai, an ancient being with burning ember eyes who takes her away to Castle Shadow, a ruined fortress hidden in the Wild Oak Woods. Except the castle isn't quite the dark and terrifying place the rumours make it out to be. It is actually a warm, almost living home with a personality of its own and, apparently, a strong interest in making sure its new residents fall in love.
Aveline and Malakai’s relationship builds slowly, with plenty of yearning before things finally develop. I liked the way their relationship gradually grows into one based on mutual respect and genuine partnership rather than simply being dictated by fate. I also enjoyed seeing Aveline try to introduce Malakai to the human world and watching him navigate all these unfamiliar situations. He definitely has his fair share of embarrassing moments and social mishaps, but I appreciated that he never really gives up. Well, at least not entirely, considering he spends part of the beginning basically letting himself grow mould. Still, I liked how he tries to meet Aveline halfway without frightening or overwhelming her, while also trying to rebuild the connection they once had.
Aveline could be a little frustrating at times, especially when her stubbornness felt stronger than her willingness to understand Malakai’s perspective. At the same time, I can understand where she was coming from. So many things are revealed to her, and so much happens around her in such a short amount of time, that it makes sense for her to feel overwhelmed and defensive. I really appreciated her determination to maintain her agency after having so many decisions made for her, but there were moments when I wished she had taken a step back and considered Malakai’s feelings a little more. I also would have loved to see her spend more time with her coven and actually have the space to talk through everything that was happening to her. I think those conversations could have added another layer to her character and given her a chance to process everything rather than constantly having to react to the next thing happening.
The world and magical elements were also interesting, although I definitely wanted more. I would have loved to learn more about their previous lives and the history behind their bond, especially how their connection is tied to keeping the fae at bay. There was even a moment when Aveline dreams about one of her previous lives while she is in danger, and I couldn’t help wondering why we didn’t get something similar while she was with Malakai. It could have been such a good opportunity to give us more insight into their past and strengthen the emotional connection between them. We get little pieces of that history throughout the story, but I never felt like I got the complete picture. Considering how important their previous lives are to the current conflict, I think expanding that part of the story would have made the emotional stakes much stronger.
I also really enjoyed the cosy fantasy atmosphere. The ruined castle, the Wild Oak Woods, the magic and the familiars all worked really well together and gave the story that comforting autumnal feeling that makes it especially fun to read during the cooler season.
And Ter! Aveline’s familiar was easily one of my favourite parts of the book. His personality was fantastic, and his constant bickering with his witch made some of my favourite moments. I honestly would have happily taken more scenes with the two of them.
My biggest issue was probably the final conflict. There is quite a lot of build-up surrounding the threat to the Wild Oak Woods, but when the actual confrontation finally arrives, it feels surprisingly quick. I was expecting a little more action and resolution after everything that had been building up. The same goes for some of the characters’ backstories. I kept wanting just a little more depth and history, especially because I think it could have made the story even more impactful.
Overall, this was a cosy and enjoyable romantasy that I genuinely liked, but I wish it had been more developed and given me more time to connect with the characters and feel the emotional weight of everything happening. The worldbuilding, past lives and final conflict all had potential for more depth, and I think a longer story could have made the whole experience much more impactful. I’m still curious enough to go back and discover the previous books in the series, though, and I’d recommend this one if you’re looking for a quick, cosy romantasy with a slow-burn romance.
Thank you to @literaryloveontheline for letting me have the chance to read this ARC!
How to Claim a Shadow King was a pretty quick and enjoyable read. I also went into it without realizing it was the fourth book in a series, even though in some places it is marketed as a first in the series. Thankfully, it seems to be made up of interconnected standalones, and I never felt confused or like I was missing something important since the story introduces characters from the other books and gives enough information about the wider situation for everything to make sense, even without having read the previous books.
The story follows Aveline, whose stepfather trades her hand to the mysterious Shadow King, Malakai, an ancient being with burning ember eyes who takes her away to Castle Shadow, a ruined fortress hidden in the Wild Oak Woods. Except the castle isn't quite the dark and terrifying place the rumours make it out to be. It is actually a warm, almost living home with a personality of its own and, apparently, a strong interest in making sure its new residents fall in love.
Aveline and Malakai’s relationship builds slowly, with plenty of yearning before things finally develop. I liked the way their relationship gradually grows into one based on mutual respect and genuine partnership rather than simply being dictated by fate. I also enjoyed seeing Aveline try to introduce Malakai to the human world and watching him navigate all these unfamiliar situations. He definitely has his fair share of embarrassing moments and social mishaps, but I appreciated that he never really gives up. Well, at least not entirely, considering he spends part of the beginning basically letting himself grow mould. Still, I liked how he tries to meet Aveline halfway without frightening or overwhelming her, while also trying to rebuild the connection they once had.
Aveline could be a little frustrating at times, especially when her stubbornness felt stronger than her willingness to understand Malakai’s perspective. At the same time, I can understand where she was coming from. So many things are revealed to her, and so much happens around her in such a short amount of time, that it makes sense for her to feel overwhelmed and defensive. I really appreciated her determination to maintain her agency after having so many decisions made for her, but there were moments when I wished she had taken a step back and considered Malakai’s feelings a little more. I also would have loved to see her spend more time with her coven and actually have the space to talk through everything that was happening to her. I think those conversations could have added another layer to her character and given her a chance to process everything rather than constantly having to react to the next thing happening.
The world and magical elements were also interesting, although I definitely wanted more. I would have loved to learn more about their previous lives and the history behind their bond, especially how their connection is tied to keeping the fae at bay. There was even a moment when Aveline dreams about one of her previous lives while she is in danger, and I couldn’t help wondering why we didn’t get something similar while she was with Malakai. It could have been such a good opportunity to give us more insight into their past and strengthen the emotional connection between them. We get little pieces of that history throughout the story, but I never felt like I got the complete picture. Considering how important their previous lives are to the current conflict, I think expanding that part of the story would have made the emotional stakes much stronger.
I also really enjoyed the cosy fantasy atmosphere. The ruined castle, the Wild Oak Woods, the magic and the familiars all worked really well together and gave the story that comforting autumnal feeling that makes it especially fun to read during the cooler season.
And Ter! Aveline’s familiar was easily one of my favourite parts of the book. His personality was fantastic, and his constant bickering with his witch made some of my favourite moments. I honestly would have happily taken more scenes with the two of them.
My biggest issue was probably the final conflict. There is quite a lot of build-up surrounding the threat to the Wild Oak Woods, but when the actual confrontation finally arrives, it feels surprisingly quick. I was expecting a little more action and resolution after everything that had been building up. The same goes for some of the characters’ backstories. I kept wanting just a little more depth and history, especially because I think it could have made the story even more impactful.
Overall, this was a cosy and enjoyable romantasy that I genuinely liked, but I wish it had been more developed and given me more time to connect with the characters and feel the emotional weight of everything happening. The worldbuilding, past lives and final conflict all had potential for more depth, and I think a longer story could have made the whole experience much more impactful. I’m still curious enough to go back and discover the previous books in the series, though, and I’d recommend this one if you’re looking for a quick, cosy romantasy with a slow-burn romance.
Thank you to @literaryloveontheline for letting me have the chance to read this ARC!
September 25, 2026
i was WAITING impatiently for this ever since January revealed the cover (the traditional armour with tiddies out is iconic) and it was so hot and sweet and fun!!
i do love all the other wild oak books so i was always gonna vibe with this but Malakai is top tier. i do think if you’re coming in without having read the others, you would miss so much context and easter eggs so would definitely recommend reading in order.
the incarnation plot line was well done because Adeline is still treated as her own self and not just all the previous versions of her - Malakai treats her as a lovely combination of all his past feelings alongside respect and love for the new her. don’t get me wrong he is DOWN BAD OBSESSED but it doesn’t seem like he’s basing that on all his past memories of her.
they work well as a couple because even though some times they are infuriatingly clueless and chaotic, they’re still patient and respectful to each other - malakai’s chapters were everythinggggggg to me.
i just love january’s writing and her world building, i feel so immersed and cosy every time.
thanks for the arc january & literary love on the line ❤️
i do love all the other wild oak books so i was always gonna vibe with this but Malakai is top tier. i do think if you’re coming in without having read the others, you would miss so much context and easter eggs so would definitely recommend reading in order.
the incarnation plot line was well done because Adeline is still treated as her own self and not just all the previous versions of her - Malakai treats her as a lovely combination of all his past feelings alongside respect and love for the new her. don’t get me wrong he is DOWN BAD OBSESSED but it doesn’t seem like he’s basing that on all his past memories of her.
they work well as a couple because even though some times they are infuriatingly clueless and chaotic, they’re still patient and respectful to each other - malakai’s chapters were everythinggggggg to me.
i just love january’s writing and her world building, i feel so immersed and cosy every time.
thanks for the arc january & literary love on the line ❤️
September 23, 2026
“𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙙, 𝘼𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚,” 𝙄 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙡 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣, 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙖 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙨𝙥.
𝙄 𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙝 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙨.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙮, 𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧.
How to Claim a Shadow King by @januarybellromance
Malaki is just the perfect book boyfriend. He’s obsessed and possessive with Aveline. He’s patient. All he wants her to do is to be happy and safe, and he’ll wait for her as long as she needs.
How to Claim a Shadow King has the same cozy fantasy magic and community of the books in the Wild Oak Woods series, but the stakes are higher. Aveline and Malaki have to solidify their union to save the Wild Oak Woods from the fae.
I loved all of the appearances by the previous main characters. It was so much fun. I love them all and it was fun to see them through the eyes of Malaki and Aveline.
I can’t wait to read How to Wed a Wild God 😉
Thank you so much for the eARC! Available now!
𝙄 𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙝 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙨.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙮, 𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧.
How to Claim a Shadow King by @januarybellromance
Malaki is just the perfect book boyfriend. He’s obsessed and possessive with Aveline. He’s patient. All he wants her to do is to be happy and safe, and he’ll wait for her as long as she needs.
How to Claim a Shadow King has the same cozy fantasy magic and community of the books in the Wild Oak Woods series, but the stakes are higher. Aveline and Malaki have to solidify their union to save the Wild Oak Woods from the fae.
I loved all of the appearances by the previous main characters. It was so much fun. I love them all and it was fun to see them through the eyes of Malaki and Aveline.
I can’t wait to read How to Wed a Wild God 😉
Thank you so much for the eARC! Available now!
September 7, 2026
Imagine having been brought up knowing that you’ve never measured up to your position in life, and now you’re firmly on the shelf in courtier terms, a nearly 30-year-old presumably ordinary human duchess. You’ve been promised in marriage to someone you’ve never laid eyes on, and while he’s undoubtedly gorgeous, he’s also expecting you to capitulate instantly to this marriage, literally acting as if you’d always known him. Then you find out you’ve been reincarnated countless times over the centuries, and always led to this otherworldly being who expects your fealty and love full stop. Who in their right mind could accept such a preposterous notion? Certainly not Aveline, the FMC we find in this book by the wonderful January Bell.
As the book unfolds, Aveline slowly comes to terms with some of her suppressed memories of previous incarnations, while trying to establish and maintain agency in the present. There’s a wealth of emotions she experiences and her reactions are every bit as vacillating as one could expect they’d be as she adjusts to so many unsettling truths being revealed in such a short period of time, especially within the long history of her soul’s journey(s).
Malakai in the beginning comes off as somewhat arrogant and entitled, but he falls quickly for this iteration of his bride, and becomes her biggest champion.
All these revelations are also rolling out against the threats by the warring fae factions of the realm. At the book’s close, our couple may have their HFN, but the larger situation is far from settled. This reader is looking forward to the next installment.
I was fortunate to have received an advance reader copy from the author and Literary Love on the Line, and I’m sharing my honest review.
As the book unfolds, Aveline slowly comes to terms with some of her suppressed memories of previous incarnations, while trying to establish and maintain agency in the present. There’s a wealth of emotions she experiences and her reactions are every bit as vacillating as one could expect they’d be as she adjusts to so many unsettling truths being revealed in such a short period of time, especially within the long history of her soul’s journey(s).
Malakai in the beginning comes off as somewhat arrogant and entitled, but he falls quickly for this iteration of his bride, and becomes her biggest champion.
All these revelations are also rolling out against the threats by the warring fae factions of the realm. At the book’s close, our couple may have their HFN, but the larger situation is far from settled. This reader is looking forward to the next installment.
I was fortunate to have received an advance reader copy from the author and Literary Love on the Line, and I’m sharing my honest review.
September 24, 2026
Overall, I enjoyed this addition to the Wild Oak Woods series/world.
I think as I was getting closer to the end, I was trying to savor it as much as I could.
I very much respect Aveline’s desire to have autonomy over her choices (especially when it came to the Shadow King, Malakai.)
“I would not have you come to because you are afraid and have no choices. I would rather be chosen with…with love, than with fear.” 🫠❤️🩹🥹
I would definitely say that this is a cozy, fantasy that can technically be read a standalone but is MUCH better if read after the other 3 books in this world.
I feel like this book had a good blend of yearning while still progressing the story in a way that wasn’t boring.
I ESPECIALLY loved the mentions of Malakai’s leather lingerie (IYKYK) 🤣 and I also loved how much Malakai admired her sharp tongue and sass.
Also also, sentient house was a perfect addition to this world of magic.
I am very much looking forward to future installments of this AND to get my hands on a shelf trophy to go with my other Wild Oak Woods books 🥰
*Thank you to @literaryloveontheline for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC of January’s. I adore her as an author and a person.
I think as I was getting closer to the end, I was trying to savor it as much as I could.
I very much respect Aveline’s desire to have autonomy over her choices (especially when it came to the Shadow King, Malakai.)
“I would not have you come to because you are afraid and have no choices. I would rather be chosen with…with love, than with fear.” 🫠❤️🩹🥹
I would definitely say that this is a cozy, fantasy that can technically be read a standalone but is MUCH better if read after the other 3 books in this world.
I feel like this book had a good blend of yearning while still progressing the story in a way that wasn’t boring.
I ESPECIALLY loved the mentions of Malakai’s leather lingerie (IYKYK) 🤣 and I also loved how much Malakai admired her sharp tongue and sass.
Also also, sentient house was a perfect addition to this world of magic.
I am very much looking forward to future installments of this AND to get my hands on a shelf trophy to go with my other Wild Oak Woods books 🥰
*Thank you to @literaryloveontheline for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC of January’s. I adore her as an author and a person.
September 11, 2026
I'd like to start by thanking the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book to read. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
Let me start by saying, this is an interconnected standalone and you don't have to read the other books to understand this one because I hadn't. But it certainly will help for the little character moments and what not. I will be going back to pick up the other books ASAP though because I had such a good time in this world.
Malakai certainly had to work to get Aveline to love and trust him, and he had to work to get me to do so as well. But he is an Elder God shadow daddy who has to learn how to be a romantic partner and how to build a relationship. Aveline was so clueless at times, and could have learnt from her familiar or from anyone but she was so guarded and reluctant to let things be true at first that it was painful. Get a man though who is willing to learn what you need and want, and then implement what he learns because that is sexy as hell!
I am so excited for the next book because we got a glimpse of the others and I fear they will be truly delightful pairings!! I also just really enjoyed this world and want to be in it even more. I wish it had been longer so we could spend more time with our characters, but it was still a really good read and super easy to get through.
Tropes: sentient house (castle) | witches | elder god | fated mates | magic | obsessed mmc | talking familiar | yearning | tension | fmc gains powers | shadow daddy |
Other: questionable horse naming | interconnected standalone |
Let me start by saying, this is an interconnected standalone and you don't have to read the other books to understand this one because I hadn't. But it certainly will help for the little character moments and what not. I will be going back to pick up the other books ASAP though because I had such a good time in this world.
Malakai certainly had to work to get Aveline to love and trust him, and he had to work to get me to do so as well. But he is an Elder God shadow daddy who has to learn how to be a romantic partner and how to build a relationship. Aveline was so clueless at times, and could have learnt from her familiar or from anyone but she was so guarded and reluctant to let things be true at first that it was painful. Get a man though who is willing to learn what you need and want, and then implement what he learns because that is sexy as hell!
I am so excited for the next book because we got a glimpse of the others and I fear they will be truly delightful pairings!! I also just really enjoyed this world and want to be in it even more. I wish it had been longer so we could spend more time with our characters, but it was still a really good read and super easy to get through.
Tropes: sentient house (castle) | witches | elder god | fated mates | magic | obsessed mmc | talking familiar | yearning | tension | fmc gains powers | shadow daddy |
Other: questionable horse naming | interconnected standalone |
September 11, 2026
**Thank you to the Author for the ARC; all opinions are my own.**
4 ⭐️
2.5 🌶
This next installment in the Wild Oak Woods series was a lot fun and it was great to get to know some of the Elder Gods and sort of know more about the impeding fae threat! Malakai was ready to go all in immediatel , but we love a respectful king in this house! Aveline didn't really know a lot, if anything, about her new world, so sometimes I wanted to ring her neck. BUT! overall, I had a great time and it was nice to be back in this cozy series.
I really liked how the two MCs magic worked together (light and dark) and I thought that was really cool! Can't wait for the next one, I have a feeling Nerissa is going to eat this god alive 😏
☆sentient castle
☆horses with funny names
☆witch x elder god
☆fated mates
☆magic
4 ⭐️
2.5 🌶
This next installment in the Wild Oak Woods series was a lot fun and it was great to get to know some of the Elder Gods and sort of know more about the impeding fae threat! Malakai was ready to go all in immediatel , but we love a respectful king in this house! Aveline didn't really know a lot, if anything, about her new world, so sometimes I wanted to ring her neck. BUT! overall, I had a great time and it was nice to be back in this cozy series.
I really liked how the two MCs magic worked together (light and dark) and I thought that was really cool! Can't wait for the next one, I have a feeling Nerissa is going to eat this god alive 😏
☆sentient castle
☆horses with funny names
☆witch x elder god
☆fated mates
☆magic
October 19, 2026
This was not the story for me. The premise of the plot is what drew me in. It was such an interesting idea. An immortal being searching for the reincarnated soul of his mate to hopefully complete and finally seal their bond.
But I found the characters to be incredibly frustrating and inconsistent in their behaviour and personality. There was not a strong enough build on their respective backgrounds to support how the narrative portrays them. One behaves like a child throwing a tantrum, and the other like sour pre-teen. The supporting cast of characters did not do much to uplift them or the interactions in the narrative.
There is a lot of potential in the worldbuilding we got. If I could have found something to like in the characters that I liked, I think I would be more willing to give the world another try. Sadly this is not the sort of stroy for me.
But I found the characters to be incredibly frustrating and inconsistent in their behaviour and personality. There was not a strong enough build on their respective backgrounds to support how the narrative portrays them. One behaves like a child throwing a tantrum, and the other like sour pre-teen. The supporting cast of characters did not do much to uplift them or the interactions in the narrative.
There is a lot of potential in the worldbuilding we got. If I could have found something to like in the characters that I liked, I think I would be more willing to give the world another try. Sadly this is not the sort of stroy for me.
August 31, 2026
This was a cozy fantasy romance type read that reminded me a lot of beauty and the beast. It was sweet and to the point without feeling too fast paced or cheesy.
I think this was a really cute read that is perfect to kick off the start of fall cozy cool season!
The only thing is I wish the characters backstories had been expanded upon in the plot a bit more. We get snip it’s but not the full story. I felt like I was left a tad underwhelmed on that one point alone and would’ve absolutely adored this read even more than I already did if we saw more of past the past lives in connection to the current ones and conflicts.
I think this was a really cute read that is perfect to kick off the start of fall cozy cool season!
The only thing is I wish the characters backstories had been expanded upon in the plot a bit more. We get snip it’s but not the full story. I felt like I was left a tad underwhelmed on that one point alone and would’ve absolutely adored this read even more than I already did if we saw more of past the past lives in connection to the current ones and conflicts.
Review of advance copy received from Author
By now, I've made my peace with the fact that January holds me under her spell. The spell is irrevocable and eternal, and yet I don't mind it one bit. Her magic is welcome in all things.
How To Claim A Shadow King is another one of January's gems, but of a darker, shadowier kind. A dark, brooding king who would destroy worlds for the one he yearns for. And we all love that kind, don't we?
The spice was sizzling, the banter was witty, and the romance was delicious. I loved seeing the characters we know and love again, and I enjoyed the omnipresent element of sisterhood and camaraderie. January delivered the most delicious concoction, and I'm eager for you to taste it for yourself.
Thank you, January, for allowing me to read an early copy of this beautiful story.
How To Claim A Shadow King is another one of January's gems, but of a darker, shadowier kind. A dark, brooding king who would destroy worlds for the one he yearns for. And we all love that kind, don't we?
The spice was sizzling, the banter was witty, and the romance was delicious. I loved seeing the characters we know and love again, and I enjoyed the omnipresent element of sisterhood and camaraderie. January delivered the most delicious concoction, and I'm eager for you to taste it for yourself.
Thank you, January, for allowing me to read an early copy of this beautiful story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
💞 Romance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
👩 FMC: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🛡️ MMC: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💚 Relationship Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌍 Worldbuilding: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
⚔️ Plot/Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐½☆
🌶️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️
🔥 Spice Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💭 Yearning: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I was mostly satisfied with How to Claim a Shadow King. It's an emotionally comfortable, slow-burn romantasy with an arranged/reluctant marriage, mutual respect, plenty of yearning, and a male lead who is very much all in once he figures himself out.
I enjoyed Aveline for most of the book. She's strong-willed and determined to retain her agency after having so many choices made for her, which I appreciated. However, her pride and stubbornness occasionally became frustrating, particularly towards the end. There were moments when she seemed able to acknowledge Malachai's emotions without taking the extra step of genuinely considering his perspective. At times, her anger felt less like an adult weighing difficult choices and more like emotional immaturity.
Malachai, on the other hand, really worked for me. His reactions to the unfamiliar world and circumstances he finds himself in felt believable, and towards the end he was doing much of the emotional lifting in their relationship. Once he's in, though, he's **all in**. By the end, there is genuine mutual respect and appreciation between them, which also comes through beautifully in the way they work together with their magic.
The romance itself is very emotionally comfortable. There's a reluctant-bride/arranged-marriage element and an amusing grumpy/sunshine flip-flop as the characters develop. It's definitely a slow burn, with only a couple of major spicy scenes, but there is a WHOLE LOT of yearning beforehand. 🔥 When the spice finally arrives, it feels like a natural payoff to everything that's been building between them — and those scenes are fire.
The worldbuilding and magical structure feel familiar for historical romantasy rather than particularly groundbreaking, but I enjoyed discovering the world organically through the townspeople and characters. Ter, the talking familiar, was easily one of my favourite additions.
My biggest issue was the final conflict. There was considerably more build-up than actual on-page action, and the battle itself felt surprisingly quick after everything leading up to it.
Overall, this was a cosy and enjoyable romantasy with an excellent MMC, a strong if occasionally frustrating FMC, genuine partnership, lots of yearning, and a romance that feels emotionally safe. The pacing of the final conflict kept it from being a higher rating for me, but I'd still happily recommend it — especially if you enjoy slow-burn arranged marriages where the MMC falls hard.
Also, the artwork in the special edition is absolutely beautiful. 😍
💞 Romance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
👩 FMC: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🛡️ MMC: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💚 Relationship Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌍 Worldbuilding: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
⚔️ Plot/Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐½☆
🌶️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️
🔥 Spice Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💭 Yearning: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I was mostly satisfied with How to Claim a Shadow King. It's an emotionally comfortable, slow-burn romantasy with an arranged/reluctant marriage, mutual respect, plenty of yearning, and a male lead who is very much all in once he figures himself out.
I enjoyed Aveline for most of the book. She's strong-willed and determined to retain her agency after having so many choices made for her, which I appreciated. However, her pride and stubbornness occasionally became frustrating, particularly towards the end. There were moments when she seemed able to acknowledge Malachai's emotions without taking the extra step of genuinely considering his perspective. At times, her anger felt less like an adult weighing difficult choices and more like emotional immaturity.
Malachai, on the other hand, really worked for me. His reactions to the unfamiliar world and circumstances he finds himself in felt believable, and towards the end he was doing much of the emotional lifting in their relationship. Once he's in, though, he's **all in**. By the end, there is genuine mutual respect and appreciation between them, which also comes through beautifully in the way they work together with their magic.
The romance itself is very emotionally comfortable. There's a reluctant-bride/arranged-marriage element and an amusing grumpy/sunshine flip-flop as the characters develop. It's definitely a slow burn, with only a couple of major spicy scenes, but there is a WHOLE LOT of yearning beforehand. 🔥 When the spice finally arrives, it feels like a natural payoff to everything that's been building between them — and those scenes are fire.
The worldbuilding and magical structure feel familiar for historical romantasy rather than particularly groundbreaking, but I enjoyed discovering the world organically through the townspeople and characters. Ter, the talking familiar, was easily one of my favourite additions.
My biggest issue was the final conflict. There was considerably more build-up than actual on-page action, and the battle itself felt surprisingly quick after everything leading up to it.
Overall, this was a cosy and enjoyable romantasy with an excellent MMC, a strong if occasionally frustrating FMC, genuine partnership, lots of yearning, and a romance that feels emotionally safe. The pacing of the final conflict kept it from being a higher rating for me, but I'd still happily recommend it — especially if you enjoy slow-burn arranged marriages where the MMC falls hard.
Also, the artwork in the special edition is absolutely beautiful. 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Summary
A tall, almost-30-something woman named Aveline has lived a sheltered life without knowing anything about magic, so it's hardly any wonder that the first time she sees a tall, dark shadow daddy in a cloak she loses her mind and oops now they're fated mates! Look, all this poor woman wanted was to be wooed by a vaguely dangerous, ripped Elder god wearing (what she likes to call) battle lingerie. It's hardly fair that suddenly they've been soulmates for thousands of years and she didn't even know, okay?
Other things Aveline didn't know: his name (it's Rhys Malaki), that he has two brothers (they're A LOT), that ravens can talk and also be familiars, and oops she's a witch with a decently-sized coven. SURPISE, BB! While she tries to figure all this out and be indignant about it, evil forces are trying to get into the enchanted realm she now occupies. And they can only be stopped by building a barrier with sex magic. I hate when that happens.
There's just a lot going on in her life that's not related to a magical bond with a king of shadows (like dealing with a sentient castle). Naturally, it's really inconvenient that not only is he super-hot, he's also around constantly and she's got centuries of repressed memories (of banging) to try and forget. And is he being charming...? And like...listening to her and asking for consent...? And just generally trying...? The bar is so low, folks, but I'm cheering for him.
Vibes
Do you like asshole familiars and opposing magical forces? Fae and elder gods and shadow magic? How about yearning and a man that is so down bad? Also it's funny and I laughed at several moments. There were a couple phrases that took me out of the story (I hate modern slang in my romantasy), but overall what a fun ride that not only has a conclusion but very obviously leads directly into the next story. Give it a try - you'll love the battle lingerie. Aveline certainly does!
Spice Rating
🌶️🌶️ / 5
Tropes
Romantasy
Magical Bond / Fated Mates
Consent King
Dislike to Love
Fish out of Water
Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Mating Frenzy
Only Soft for Her
Shadow Daddy
Slow Burn
Touch Her and Die
Virgin Heroine
First in Series
First Person, Dual POV
Summary
A tall, almost-30-something woman named Aveline has lived a sheltered life without knowing anything about magic, so it's hardly any wonder that the first time she sees a tall, dark shadow daddy in a cloak she loses her mind and oops now they're fated mates! Look, all this poor woman wanted was to be wooed by a vaguely dangerous, ripped Elder god wearing (what she likes to call) battle lingerie. It's hardly fair that suddenly they've been soulmates for thousands of years and she didn't even know, okay?
Other things Aveline didn't know: his name (it's Rhys Malaki), that he has two brothers (they're A LOT), that ravens can talk and also be familiars, and oops she's a witch with a decently-sized coven. SURPISE, BB! While she tries to figure all this out and be indignant about it, evil forces are trying to get into the enchanted realm she now occupies. And they can only be stopped by building a barrier with sex magic. I hate when that happens.
There's just a lot going on in her life that's not related to a magical bond with a king of shadows (like dealing with a sentient castle). Naturally, it's really inconvenient that not only is he super-hot, he's also around constantly and she's got centuries of repressed memories (of banging) to try and forget. And is he being charming...? And like...listening to her and asking for consent...? And just generally trying...? The bar is so low, folks, but I'm cheering for him.
Vibes
Do you like asshole familiars and opposing magical forces? Fae and elder gods and shadow magic? How about yearning and a man that is so down bad? Also it's funny and I laughed at several moments. There were a couple phrases that took me out of the story (I hate modern slang in my romantasy), but overall what a fun ride that not only has a conclusion but very obviously leads directly into the next story. Give it a try - you'll love the battle lingerie. Aveline certainly does!
Spice Rating
🌶️🌶️ / 5
Tropes
Romantasy
Magical Bond / Fated Mates
Consent King
Dislike to Love
Fish out of Water
Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Mating Frenzy
Only Soft for Her
Shadow Daddy
Slow Burn
Touch Her and Die
Virgin Heroine
First in Series
First Person, Dual POV
September 10, 2026
Thank you to Lauren at Literary Love on the Line for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
What a TIME I had with this book!! How to claim a shadow king was my first of January's books, and I really enjoyed the vibes, setting and banter between our two main characters.
Aveline is the Duchess of Stormspire, raised to be wed into an arranged marriage and kept sheltered most of her life. She's whisked away by an Elder God; Malakai, the King of the Shadow Keep, where yearning, confused feelings and lots of tension ensues.
I really liked the dynamic between the two, especially as Aveline desperately wanted to be in control of her choices and have the chance to court Malakai properly before being wed.
The YEARNING was so so well done and I was obsessed with how gentle and considered Malakai became after a few mistakes in the beginning of their story. He was determined to win Aveline's affections, and their romance was both sweet and sexy!!
The side characters were such a lovely addition, and I'd have loved to see even more from the coven and their adorable partners. It was such a lovely part of Aveline's journey to learn more about her magic, and I really enjoyed seeing more of the Wild Oak Woods and it's cast of characters.
I'm excited to see where the next two stories go with Malakai's brothers, as they were so silly and had my giggling anytime they appeared! I just know they're going to be so much fun to read about!!
The way January fleshed out the setting, side characters and further plot lines was done really well, especially for a shorter page count. I'd have liked to see a little more plot and romantic development, and wished the book was maybe 50-100 pages longer to help with that, as it all felt quite rushed in the last 15% to tie everything up neatly.
I'd definitely recommend the book to anyone who loves a cute monster/paranormal romance, or if you're looking for something a little cosier in the romantasy genre, I can't wait to read the next books in the series!
What a TIME I had with this book!! How to claim a shadow king was my first of January's books, and I really enjoyed the vibes, setting and banter between our two main characters.
Aveline is the Duchess of Stormspire, raised to be wed into an arranged marriage and kept sheltered most of her life. She's whisked away by an Elder God; Malakai, the King of the Shadow Keep, where yearning, confused feelings and lots of tension ensues.
I really liked the dynamic between the two, especially as Aveline desperately wanted to be in control of her choices and have the chance to court Malakai properly before being wed.
The YEARNING was so so well done and I was obsessed with how gentle and considered Malakai became after a few mistakes in the beginning of their story. He was determined to win Aveline's affections, and their romance was both sweet and sexy!!
The side characters were such a lovely addition, and I'd have loved to see even more from the coven and their adorable partners. It was such a lovely part of Aveline's journey to learn more about her magic, and I really enjoyed seeing more of the Wild Oak Woods and it's cast of characters.
I'm excited to see where the next two stories go with Malakai's brothers, as they were so silly and had my giggling anytime they appeared! I just know they're going to be so much fun to read about!!
The way January fleshed out the setting, side characters and further plot lines was done really well, especially for a shorter page count. I'd have liked to see a little more plot and romantic development, and wished the book was maybe 50-100 pages longer to help with that, as it all felt quite rushed in the last 15% to tie everything up neatly.
I'd definitely recommend the book to anyone who loves a cute monster/paranormal romance, or if you're looking for something a little cosier in the romantasy genre, I can't wait to read the next books in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Duchess of Stormspire, Aveline, has always known she would marry for political reasons, but that doesn’t mean she’s fine with it. She certainly did not expect her betrothed to be Malakai, the eldritch King of Shadows. Malakai is still adjusting to having a corporeal form again, and his manners are practically non-existent. He knows Aveline is the reincarnation of his mate, but she clearly has no memories of him. Even worse, she has no knowledge of her inherent magic and she’s refusing to bend to his demands. With fae powers threatening them from every side, can the two work together to restore the barrier before Wild Oak Woods is destroyed?
Aveline is sick of having her future decided for her. While she accepts her betrothal to Malakai, she insists that Malakai treat her with respect and include her in decision making. Ultimately she needs to decide for herself if she wants to accept the bond between them and the realities of her magic. Thankfully she has a whole coven of witches looking out for her and trying to help.
On the other hand, Malakai is rather bewildered by Aveline, but he’s not going to let his own pride get in the way of his future happiness. With some help from the men associated with the coven in Wild Oak, he sets out to truly court his beloved. But his inhuman viewpoint does give him some hiccups along the way.
How to Claim a Shadow King was a truly delightful cozy monster romance with two strongwilled protagonists, a mouthy raven, and slew of personable side characters. Every page was a joy to read as Aveline and Malakai worked to develop their relationship in a satisfactory way. A true meeting of the minds within a soul bond.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Aveline is sick of having her future decided for her. While she accepts her betrothal to Malakai, she insists that Malakai treat her with respect and include her in decision making. Ultimately she needs to decide for herself if she wants to accept the bond between them and the realities of her magic. Thankfully she has a whole coven of witches looking out for her and trying to help.
On the other hand, Malakai is rather bewildered by Aveline, but he’s not going to let his own pride get in the way of his future happiness. With some help from the men associated with the coven in Wild Oak, he sets out to truly court his beloved. But his inhuman viewpoint does give him some hiccups along the way.
How to Claim a Shadow King was a truly delightful cozy monster romance with two strongwilled protagonists, a mouthy raven, and slew of personable side characters. Every page was a joy to read as Aveline and Malakai worked to develop their relationship in a satisfactory way. A true meeting of the minds within a soul bond.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 13, 2026
***I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you January Bell and Literary on the Line for the ARC!***
Overall, a decent read. I think I would have liked it a little longer for more world-building and diving deeper into Aveline's past lives; but it wasn't a book ruiner for me.
Aveline is a human (or so she thought) who was betrothed to an unknown king (or so she thought was unknown) and then was thrown into the thick of it with no soft landing. It gave Howl's Moving Castle but more fantasy, spicy scenes, and instant found family with magical creatures of all varieties.
At first, I did NOT like Malakai, but he quickly learned the error of his ways and aimed to correct them immediately. We appreciate a real man who admits their mistakes and then actually fix those mistakes.
In a rarity, I actually disliked the sentient Castle. Normally, I love a sentient castle but this one was not Aveline's friend. It would throw a tantrum when it didn't get what it wanted (which same) but to ignore and violate Aveline's boundaries after being thrown into the middle of a magical battle that somehow would only be fixed with her sleeping with the King and she's a virgin; it was disappointing and disgusting the Castle wouldn't respect that. I also felt Aveline's familiar was supposed to resemble Calcifer from Howls but Ter was just an asshole. Immediately made demands and would put down Aveline knowing she didn't know what was going on and was never working with her - both the Castle and Ter were almost her enemies (in my eyes).
I don't know if I'll continue the series ( which is the story of Malakai's brothers finding their mates), but if I do happen to read them I won't be mad.
Overall, a decent read. I think I would have liked it a little longer for more world-building and diving deeper into Aveline's past lives; but it wasn't a book ruiner for me.
Aveline is a human (or so she thought) who was betrothed to an unknown king (or so she thought was unknown) and then was thrown into the thick of it with no soft landing. It gave Howl's Moving Castle but more fantasy, spicy scenes, and instant found family with magical creatures of all varieties.
At first, I did NOT like Malakai, but he quickly learned the error of his ways and aimed to correct them immediately. We appreciate a real man who admits their mistakes and then actually fix those mistakes.
In a rarity, I actually disliked the sentient Castle. Normally, I love a sentient castle but this one was not Aveline's friend. It would throw a tantrum when it didn't get what it wanted (which same) but to ignore and violate Aveline's boundaries after being thrown into the middle of a magical battle that somehow would only be fixed with her sleeping with the King and she's a virgin; it was disappointing and disgusting the Castle wouldn't respect that. I also felt Aveline's familiar was supposed to resemble Calcifer from Howls but Ter was just an asshole. Immediately made demands and would put down Aveline knowing she didn't know what was going on and was never working with her - both the Castle and Ter were almost her enemies (in my eyes).
I don't know if I'll continue the series ( which is the story of Malakai's brothers finding their mates), but if I do happen to read them I won't be mad.
September 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
👑witch/elder god
👸🏼fated mates
👑sentient castle
👸🏼slow burn
👑arranged marriage
👸🏼he’s obsessed
Av is a duchess whose stepfather trades her in marriage to the Shadow King Malakai. He takes her to his castle which turns out to be something unexpected.
She learns that she and Malakai are fated mates and have lived prior lives together that she can’t remember.
Malakai remembers more about their past than she does and he expects them to pick back up where they left off. Aveline is having none of that.
Aveline’s step father treated her poorly and as a pawn. She seemed to obey him and was meek while living with him. I was surprised at how demanding and hot tempered she was around Malakai due to her past.
I get that she was kept in the dark about a lot of things and Malakai was domineering in the beginning. I just felt her bossiness and demands were a little off putting.
My favorite parts were the sentient castle and Ter Aveline’s familiar. Ter held nothing back and let her know what a fool she was being. I also enjoyed Malakai’s brothers. They really got a kick out of Aveline.
I did feel like the book should have expanded on the couple’s past relationship a bit more. I felt like there were questions I didn’t get answered. Also, I wish the book was maybe 10% longer at the end. I felt like there was this big build up but then the conflict was so quickly resolved.
Apparently this was book four in the series but as interconnected stand alones I didn’t feel like I was missing out.
The book was a cozy, fast read and overall I enjoyed it.
I liked it enough that I would read more in the series.
👑witch/elder god
👸🏼fated mates
👑sentient castle
👸🏼slow burn
👑arranged marriage
👸🏼he’s obsessed
Av is a duchess whose stepfather trades her in marriage to the Shadow King Malakai. He takes her to his castle which turns out to be something unexpected.
She learns that she and Malakai are fated mates and have lived prior lives together that she can’t remember.
Malakai remembers more about their past than she does and he expects them to pick back up where they left off. Aveline is having none of that.
Aveline’s step father treated her poorly and as a pawn. She seemed to obey him and was meek while living with him. I was surprised at how demanding and hot tempered she was around Malakai due to her past.
I get that she was kept in the dark about a lot of things and Malakai was domineering in the beginning. I just felt her bossiness and demands were a little off putting.
My favorite parts were the sentient castle and Ter Aveline’s familiar. Ter held nothing back and let her know what a fool she was being. I also enjoyed Malakai’s brothers. They really got a kick out of Aveline.
I did feel like the book should have expanded on the couple’s past relationship a bit more. I felt like there were questions I didn’t get answered. Also, I wish the book was maybe 10% longer at the end. I felt like there was this big build up but then the conflict was so quickly resolved.
Apparently this was book four in the series but as interconnected stand alones I didn’t feel like I was missing out.
The book was a cozy, fast read and overall I enjoyed it.
I liked it enough that I would read more in the series.
August 31, 2026
I received this advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The banter in this book was full tilt sass the entire time. It was glorious!!
Malakai is dark, broody, and a bit dumb at times about what a woman needs from a relationship. Aveline is a being created out of pure sarcasm and snark. She is hilarious, and is so tired of everyone controlling her life. She is 1000% done with that nonsense and isn't afraid to say it. The slow burn romance was so freaking good, and watching these two beautiful idiots figure themselves out was so satisfying. It's one of those books where you want to yell at them to stop being so stupid about each other. I loved every second of it! The yearning, there was so much yearning OMG it was intense.
The pacing was fantastic, and this book is so hard to put down. You just want to keep going to see what happens next. It's a pretty good mix of cozy and action too.
I feel like you do need to read the Wild Oak Woods series to get the full enjoyment of this book, because some of the characters from those books play important parts. I hadn't read all of them yet, but I didn't have any issues following along with the story. The world building was great, and they were explained enough that it was good to go. I do plan on finishing those, and comping back to read this one again. I bet it will be even better the second read!
The banter in this book was full tilt sass the entire time. It was glorious!!
Malakai is dark, broody, and a bit dumb at times about what a woman needs from a relationship. Aveline is a being created out of pure sarcasm and snark. She is hilarious, and is so tired of everyone controlling her life. She is 1000% done with that nonsense and isn't afraid to say it. The slow burn romance was so freaking good, and watching these two beautiful idiots figure themselves out was so satisfying. It's one of those books where you want to yell at them to stop being so stupid about each other. I loved every second of it! The yearning, there was so much yearning OMG it was intense.
The pacing was fantastic, and this book is so hard to put down. You just want to keep going to see what happens next. It's a pretty good mix of cozy and action too.
I feel like you do need to read the Wild Oak Woods series to get the full enjoyment of this book, because some of the characters from those books play important parts. I hadn't read all of them yet, but I didn't have any issues following along with the story. The world building was great, and they were explained enough that it was good to go. I do plan on finishing those, and comping back to read this one again. I bet it will be even better the second read!
September 30, 2026
This book was the perfect amount of cuteness and coziness, yearning, magic, action, and seduction that made it such a fun read!
I love a good shadow daddy any day of the week, but having one who is willing to court her, worships every aspect of her, and yearns!? Take my heart, because it is yours now!
Even though Adeline (FMC: raised as a human Duchess who discovers that she's actually a witch, and, on top of that, has been promised to a... being) and Malakai (MMC: our broody shadow daddy, more commonly known as an Elder God) are opposites, literally, she's light and he's shadow, the way they fit together makes their bond absolutely worth it.
I loved that January Bell described Adeline as a spoiled Duchess who has zero problems admitting that she is, but who also gets to work when things get serious and knows how to set boundaries! (And after reading about Malakai's battle lingerie, I believe that was no easy feat, so kudos to her! )
And then there's Malakai, who is the perfect MMC for her. He's protective, caring, has no problem learning and becoming better, and is able to see her for who she is while also seeing her potential. All of that makes him veeeery attractive in my eyes.
The whole book is an easy, entertaining read, filled with lots of funny puns and banter, heated moments, and beloved characters. A cozy, magical read with just the right amount of spice and shadow-daddy energy!
Thank you so much to January Bell and Literary Love on the Line for this ARC!
I love a good shadow daddy any day of the week, but having one who is willing to court her, worships every aspect of her, and yearns!? Take my heart, because it is yours now!
Even though Adeline (FMC: raised as a human Duchess who discovers that she's actually a witch, and, on top of that, has been promised to a... being) and Malakai (MMC: our broody shadow daddy, more commonly known as an Elder God) are opposites, literally, she's light and he's shadow, the way they fit together makes their bond absolutely worth it.
I loved that January Bell described Adeline as a spoiled Duchess who has zero problems admitting that she is, but who also gets to work when things get serious and knows how to set boundaries! (And after reading about Malakai's battle lingerie, I believe that was no easy feat, so kudos to her! )
And then there's Malakai, who is the perfect MMC for her. He's protective, caring, has no problem learning and becoming better, and is able to see her for who she is while also seeing her potential. All of that makes him veeeery attractive in my eyes.
The whole book is an easy, entertaining read, filled with lots of funny puns and banter, heated moments, and beloved characters. A cozy, magical read with just the right amount of spice and shadow-daddy energy!
Thank you so much to January Bell and Literary Love on the Line for this ARC!
September 22, 2026
4.25⭐️
*Thanks so much January Bell for the eARC*
I went into this book blind and I really enjoyed it. It really was a cozy monster romance with spice and some funny moments.
I loved that the shadow king was a yearning & patient person omg!!! The way he just wanted his mate to love him back, but in her terms did something to me!! It had me rooting for him even harder.
Ter had me laughing with his grumpiness! I literally LOL most of the time he talked. He was so rude but sometimes I felt like that’s what the duchess needed in order to have a reality check. Nonetheless, the shadow King was not afraid to let Ter know he was NOT allowed to speak to her like that at times. So yasss king.
Now Aveline. She like many women, was surpressed and told what to do, how to act, from a young age. She knew she would be eventually married off when she came of age but, she knew she wished she had a say in who she married. When she met Malachi, she was unsure of him, as she should be. Then as time passed, she got to know him and see that her mate really did love her. He had to re-learn how to use her magic and eventually with Malachis help, they did it!
This was such a good, easy read for the fall time!
*Thanks so much January Bell for the eARC*
I went into this book blind and I really enjoyed it. It really was a cozy monster romance with spice and some funny moments.
I loved that the shadow king was a yearning & patient person omg!!! The way he just wanted his mate to love him back, but in her terms did something to me!! It had me rooting for him even harder.
Ter had me laughing with his grumpiness! I literally LOL most of the time he talked. He was so rude but sometimes I felt like that’s what the duchess needed in order to have a reality check. Nonetheless, the shadow King was not afraid to let Ter know he was NOT allowed to speak to her like that at times. So yasss king.
Now Aveline. She like many women, was surpressed and told what to do, how to act, from a young age. She knew she would be eventually married off when she came of age but, she knew she wished she had a say in who she married. When she met Malachi, she was unsure of him, as she should be. Then as time passed, she got to know him and see that her mate really did love her. He had to re-learn how to use her magic and eventually with Malachis help, they did it!
This was such a good, easy read for the fall time!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Malakai's devotion to Aveline was so swoonworthy; his inner thoughts and the way he yearned for her was sweet. He quickly grows to love her for her and not just the idea of her or just because they were fated. Who doesn't love a shadow daddy who is completely infatuated with his fated mate?
Aveline is sassy, with a sharp tongue, and I like how she refuses to tolerate the entitled, mannerless behavior of the Elder Gods around her. Her frustration and her need to have control over her own life and to choose for herself was understandable even when I just wanted her to give in to the attraction and complete the bond with Malakai.
The side characters help to make the world feel full. Aveline's familiar and Malakai's brothers brought some fun and chaos to the story. I was excited to see a few familiar faces from Wild Oak Woods and to see what those characters are up to. How to Claim a Shadow King could be read on its own, but would recommend reading the previous series to get the full experience. I enjoyed the dangling threads we get that make it clear there is more to come. I'm excited for the next installment!
- I read an advance copy, and I am leaving an honest review.
Aveline is sassy, with a sharp tongue, and I like how she refuses to tolerate the entitled, mannerless behavior of the Elder Gods around her. Her frustration and her need to have control over her own life and to choose for herself was understandable even when I just wanted her to give in to the attraction and complete the bond with Malakai.
The side characters help to make the world feel full. Aveline's familiar and Malakai's brothers brought some fun and chaos to the story. I was excited to see a few familiar faces from Wild Oak Woods and to see what those characters are up to. How to Claim a Shadow King could be read on its own, but would recommend reading the previous series to get the full experience. I enjoyed the dangling threads we get that make it clear there is more to come. I'm excited for the next installment!
- I read an advance copy, and I am leaving an honest review.
September 15, 2026
January Bell is one of my favorite authors because she knows how to write devoted, obsessed and dedicated men who would do anything for their partners. Nothing is better than a big scary man who would be anything and everything to get his girl to smile at him, even for a moment. The beginning of this book definitely doesn’t start out that way but Malakai is quickly whipped into shape by the cast MMCs from the previous series. They quickly tell him, to win the affection of Aveline, he must be patient, obedient, and ready to fall at her feet and give over control. MY FAVORITE type of MMC!
The light and dark elements between them were so beautiful. I loved seeing their magic mix, especially when things out hot and heavy. The way his shadows kept reaching out to her was so adorable. I ate up every moment was desperate, needy Malakia just waiting for her to yes and be real for him. Then seeing Aveline come into her own and take control, it was amazing. I really loved this continuation of the original series, which is very near and dear to my heart. It’s also a perfect fall read and I definitely recommend it!
The light and dark elements between them were so beautiful. I loved seeing their magic mix, especially when things out hot and heavy. The way his shadows kept reaching out to her was so adorable. I ate up every moment was desperate, needy Malakia just waiting for her to yes and be real for him. Then seeing Aveline come into her own and take control, it was amazing. I really loved this continuation of the original series, which is very near and dear to my heart. It’s also a perfect fall read and I definitely recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well this was a deliciously fun time.
You gave me a sassy, mouthy FMC who wants to take her power back and finally be in control of her life, and a broody, obsessive, yearning, shadow daddy thats absolutely infatuated with her, but has to cool his jets and actually court her.
It was pretty hilarious.
The world building was good. We got enough to set up what I am assuming is a trilogy. We got witches, a town, familiars, and brothers. I really enjoyed all the side characters a lot and the little nuggets being dropped for the next books with the brothers.
The romance was delicious. SO MUCH YEARNING AND TENSION.
For me, it would have been a five star read if we got more plot or more smut. It's a shorter book at under 300 pages, and it felt light on plot and smut and I wish it would have had more of one or the other, or both and been longer! I also desperately wanted more with the witches and more with the magical training!
But, still enjoyed the hell out of it and will definitely be reading the next books!
You gave me a sassy, mouthy FMC who wants to take her power back and finally be in control of her life, and a broody, obsessive, yearning, shadow daddy thats absolutely infatuated with her, but has to cool his jets and actually court her.
It was pretty hilarious.
The world building was good. We got enough to set up what I am assuming is a trilogy. We got witches, a town, familiars, and brothers. I really enjoyed all the side characters a lot and the little nuggets being dropped for the next books with the brothers.
The romance was delicious. SO MUCH YEARNING AND TENSION.
For me, it would have been a five star read if we got more plot or more smut. It's a shorter book at under 300 pages, and it felt light on plot and smut and I wish it would have had more of one or the other, or both and been longer! I also desperately wanted more with the witches and more with the magical training!
But, still enjoyed the hell out of it and will definitely be reading the next books!
September 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely could not put down this “I’ve loved you in every lifetime” arranged marriage cozy fantasy. It was fun and sweet and the perfect amount of “Beauty and the Beast IS my fave!”
Aveline has always known hers would be a political arranged marriage, as a Duchess and whatnot, but when she’s taken to Wild Oak Woods she’s surprised to immediately announce that SHE’S the one who will marry the elder god. The King of Shadows, Malakai has some surprises for her - like his magical sentient castle, and the fact she’s a powerful witch, and that they’re fated mates that have loved each other for centuries. Oh. And they need to cement their bond cause they’re about to be in a war with both the Seelie and Unseelie Fae. Just low stakes things.
First of all, I LOVED the absolute yearning. He may be an elder god, but homeboy is down bad for Aveline and I loved it. I also love the found family in this whole series and the coven takes Aveline in right away, giving her so much she hadn’t had in life before. Per usual, I also think January Bell is so funny, so this made me laugh out loud. I love this world so much and I can’t wait for the books from Malakai’s brothers and their “one way to woo someone is by kidnapping them” game plans. Just another absolute hit out of the park from January and a great the nights are getting longer read!
#books #bookstagram #bookreview #romancebook #fantasyromance
I absolutely could not put down this “I’ve loved you in every lifetime” arranged marriage cozy fantasy. It was fun and sweet and the perfect amount of “Beauty and the Beast IS my fave!”
Aveline has always known hers would be a political arranged marriage, as a Duchess and whatnot, but when she’s taken to Wild Oak Woods she’s surprised to immediately announce that SHE’S the one who will marry the elder god. The King of Shadows, Malakai has some surprises for her - like his magical sentient castle, and the fact she’s a powerful witch, and that they’re fated mates that have loved each other for centuries. Oh. And they need to cement their bond cause they’re about to be in a war with both the Seelie and Unseelie Fae. Just low stakes things.
First of all, I LOVED the absolute yearning. He may be an elder god, but homeboy is down bad for Aveline and I loved it. I also love the found family in this whole series and the coven takes Aveline in right away, giving her so much she hadn’t had in life before. Per usual, I also think January Bell is so funny, so this made me laugh out loud. I love this world so much and I can’t wait for the books from Malakai’s brothers and their “one way to woo someone is by kidnapping them” game plans. Just another absolute hit out of the park from January and a great the nights are getting longer read!
#books #bookstagram #bookreview #romancebook #fantasyromance
September 12, 2026
Continuing after How to Please a Princely Fae from the first series, where the 3 elder gods are released during the fall festival, the Wild Oak Woods coven becomes integral to stopping the Seelie and Unseelie attacks on the border thresholds.
Although it advances the overall plot, this story is not one of my favourites. Imo it should have been called How to Claim the Duchess of Stormspire! Malakai was all in right from the moment they met, and Aveline was…exhausting. Contrary, quick to anger and frankly irrational, she blew hot and cold leaving Maliki bewildered by her actions and tip toeing around her for the entire story. Instead of attempting to develop a respectful partnership, Aveline uses emotional manipulation to stay in control of their relationship and that left me feeling uncomfortable.
And I’m still wondering who her stepfather was actually sending her away to be married to…
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Although it advances the overall plot, this story is not one of my favourites. Imo it should have been called How to Claim the Duchess of Stormspire! Malakai was all in right from the moment they met, and Aveline was…exhausting. Contrary, quick to anger and frankly irrational, she blew hot and cold leaving Maliki bewildered by her actions and tip toeing around her for the entire story. Instead of attempting to develop a respectful partnership, Aveline uses emotional manipulation to stay in control of their relationship and that left me feeling uncomfortable.
And I’m still wondering who her stepfather was actually sending her away to be married to…
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2026
I received this ARC as a gift from the author and Literary Love on the Line, through Bookfunnel.
This book is the first in a new series by January Bell. It still takes place in Wild Oak Woods, as well as some of the characters cross-over but you don't have to read them in order to enjoy this book.
I loved this book. Loved Aveline and Malakai. Ter was an awesome add, no nonsense. I loved watching the growth in the characters, the setting sounded beautiful, the characters were interesting and made me want to know more about them! And the spice, whoo, definitely need a fan or some ice once it hits because wow!
There were sweet moments, moments where the miscommunication made you want to reach in and give them both a shake, funny moments, and some moments that kept you on the edge of your seat.
-Found Family
-Fated mates
-Headstrong, Duchess FMC
-Stubborn, Elder God MMC
-He Falls First
-Animal Companion(s)
-Magic
-Sentient Castle
This is a great book and worth the read!
This book is the first in a new series by January Bell. It still takes place in Wild Oak Woods, as well as some of the characters cross-over but you don't have to read them in order to enjoy this book.
I loved this book. Loved Aveline and Malakai. Ter was an awesome add, no nonsense. I loved watching the growth in the characters, the setting sounded beautiful, the characters were interesting and made me want to know more about them! And the spice, whoo, definitely need a fan or some ice once it hits because wow!
There were sweet moments, moments where the miscommunication made you want to reach in and give them both a shake, funny moments, and some moments that kept you on the edge of your seat.
-Found Family
-Fated mates
-Headstrong, Duchess FMC
-Stubborn, Elder God MMC
-He Falls First
-Animal Companion(s)
-Magic
-Sentient Castle
This is a great book and worth the read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 stars. This story is dual POV, well written, and a fast-paced, fated mates, arranged mating unwanted by female lead, fantasy romance between Aveline, the female witch lead who was raised as an ordinary human duchess, and Malakai, the male forest god lead, who has met and lost his fated mate many times and is desperate to form a lasting relationship. I enjoyed Aveline’s determination to have input on her life and choices. I enjoyed Malakai’s confusion and his growing willingness to provide Aveline with whatever she needed. I enjoyed the necessarily speedy relationship that blossomed into actual intimacy. I enjoyed the steamy intimate scenes. I enjoyed the banter, and the supportive secondary characters who emphasised the importance of consent for a confused Malakai. I enjoyed the ending.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
September 10, 2026
This book has had been riveted from the first page. I love Aveline and her stubbornness. She gives her opinion and is not afraid of Malakai. In fact she does everything in her power to rile him! If she was timid, Malakai would have been bored of her in five minutes, but he loves the challenge and her spontaneity.
I love the introduction of Malakai‘s brothers as they seem to have the emotional intellect of schoolboys and I can’t wait to see how they cope in their own stories.
This book, takes a shallow dive into the dangers that will be faced in this series. I love the intrigue, danger, and how deadly the fae will be, and cannot wait for those little nuggets of information to be revealed in later books.
This is a fun read, with many longing looks, and two stubborn people that shouldn’t work, but are oh so right for each other.
I love the introduction of Malakai‘s brothers as they seem to have the emotional intellect of schoolboys and I can’t wait to see how they cope in their own stories.
This book, takes a shallow dive into the dangers that will be faced in this series. I love the intrigue, danger, and how deadly the fae will be, and cannot wait for those little nuggets of information to be revealed in later books.
This is a fun read, with many longing looks, and two stubborn people that shouldn’t work, but are oh so right for each other.
September 10, 2026
loved it !! love this series !! love, love, love Malakai and Aveline !!! love Sandwich, Pickles, Gravy boat and Peanut !! and maybe Ter... this is their story... a fun fast paced action rom/com drama... she's always known that she would have an arranged marriage but, not to whom ... he's waited for hundreds of years for her to come back to him... and he knows nothing about wooing... nothing !!! and his brothers are worse and funny !!! she's the last Duchess in her line...her mother and stepfather only see her as something to elevate them... he's the Shadow King.. immortal.. and elder god... she has no idea that she's a witch... and has been reincarnated many times...and then, the veil is thinning and has cracks in places... the unseelie and seelie courts are advancing ... they must unite to fix this !!!
this was so good !!!
received this on an ARC, my honest review...
this was so good !!!
received this on an ARC, my honest review...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fun read set in a world I can't wait to dive back into. I enjoyed the characters, including the side characters who seem to probably have their own stories in other books. I wish for a bit more world building as I have a fair amount of questions. The MFC often acted much younger than she was supposed to be, and I don't understand the relationship with her mother or step father. Was he really saving her for the shadow king? How would they know? Did that mean they knew she had magic and just never told her? Why didn't she realize sooner she had magical abilities? If you knew the fate of the whole area including the townspeople you have grown close to, wouldn't you just have sex with the hot shadow king who has been nothing but charming and respectful to you (after the first day.)? So many questions. I wanted the answers because I was enjoying the book and wanted the compete picture.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for honest review.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for honest review.
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