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17 days and 06:17:28
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Shadoward
Not yet published
Expected 15 Sep 26Win a free print copy of this book!
17 days and 06:17:28
5 copies available
U.S. only
A princess on the run. A lord with a dark reputation. A masked killer who never stops.
Lysandra, a powerless princess of the flame, is announced marriageable to a court of vipers. That same night, she's hit with a premonition of her own death: a masked killer is coming for her, but she doesn't know how or when.
She cuts her hair and flees to the edges of the kingdom, taking refuge in the castle of Lord Alaris, descendant of the god of night. He's as dangerous as he is alluring, the kind of distraction she should stay away from, and far too perceptive. But he has something she needs to survive, if she can only get close enough to steal it.
Proximity to Alaris is its own kind of risk, and the longer she stays, the less she wants to run. As Lysandra plays the thief and unravels the mystery around her future death, she discovers more is at stake than her own survival.
The royal life she ran from is not what it seems...and neither is Alaris.
Can she untangle the truth in time to save both herself and her kingdom from a dark fate?
Shadoward is the first book of the Divinial Duology, an epic fantasy romance featuring hidden royalty, a morally gray lord of night, and forced proximity. A slow burn with spicy scenes, it contains content intended for readers 18+.
Lysandra, a powerless princess of the flame, is announced marriageable to a court of vipers. That same night, she's hit with a premonition of her own death: a masked killer is coming for her, but she doesn't know how or when.
She cuts her hair and flees to the edges of the kingdom, taking refuge in the castle of Lord Alaris, descendant of the god of night. He's as dangerous as he is alluring, the kind of distraction she should stay away from, and far too perceptive. But he has something she needs to survive, if she can only get close enough to steal it.
Proximity to Alaris is its own kind of risk, and the longer she stays, the less she wants to run. As Lysandra plays the thief and unravels the mystery around her future death, she discovers more is at stake than her own survival.
The royal life she ran from is not what it seems...and neither is Alaris.
Can she untangle the truth in time to save both herself and her kingdom from a dark fate?
Shadoward is the first book of the Divinial Duology, an epic fantasy romance featuring hidden royalty, a morally gray lord of night, and forced proximity. A slow burn with spicy scenes, it contains content intended for readers 18+.
550 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 21, 2026
Thank you Alison Archer for the opportunity to read an ARC of Shadoward!
Currently picking up my jaw from off the floor and trying to gather my thoughts.
Lysandra is a powerless princess of the flame, and upon her 21st birthday she is declared marriageable. However that night she dreams of a masked killer coming into her room. Her only thought is survival and if she wants to live, she can’t stay in the palace.
Under disguise as a servant she finds herself working for Lord Alaris. Alaris had a reputation that Lysandra knows she should stay away from, but she can’t. She finds herself drawn to him, trying to unravel the mystery of the masked man and trying to understand Alaris.
Lysandra starts off seeming naive about the world outside of the Palace, it’s all she’s really ever known. But throughout her escape and refuge she grows into a stubborn, reckless, strong person. Shes passionate, dedicated and guarded.
Alaris is mysterious, he comes off as a smug playboy, but he’s guarded and secretive. When it comes to Lysandra he will do anything to keep her safe and feel comfortable.
The chemistry between them, the tension that builds. It’s a slow-burn, you get a splash of teasing here and there until the final moment. Together they are balanced, they are electric and I love them so much!
The friendships Lysandra forms with those closest to Alaris, she discovers a bit more about herself. What she wants from this new life.
The ending…that cliffhanger! Because what do you mean! Why!? I need to know what’s next for Lysandra and Alaris, because that ending just left me with so many questions.
Currently picking up my jaw from off the floor and trying to gather my thoughts.
Lysandra is a powerless princess of the flame, and upon her 21st birthday she is declared marriageable. However that night she dreams of a masked killer coming into her room. Her only thought is survival and if she wants to live, she can’t stay in the palace.
Under disguise as a servant she finds herself working for Lord Alaris. Alaris had a reputation that Lysandra knows she should stay away from, but she can’t. She finds herself drawn to him, trying to unravel the mystery of the masked man and trying to understand Alaris.
Lysandra starts off seeming naive about the world outside of the Palace, it’s all she’s really ever known. But throughout her escape and refuge she grows into a stubborn, reckless, strong person. Shes passionate, dedicated and guarded.
Alaris is mysterious, he comes off as a smug playboy, but he’s guarded and secretive. When it comes to Lysandra he will do anything to keep her safe and feel comfortable.
The chemistry between them, the tension that builds. It’s a slow-burn, you get a splash of teasing here and there until the final moment. Together they are balanced, they are electric and I love them so much!
The friendships Lysandra forms with those closest to Alaris, she discovers a bit more about herself. What she wants from this new life.
The ending…that cliffhanger! Because what do you mean! Why!? I need to know what’s next for Lysandra and Alaris, because that ending just left me with so many questions.
August 27, 2026
I received this as an advanced reader copy.
Genuinely loved this and couldn’t put it down 100% in my top reads of 2026 so far. Great pacing, great plot whilst still within the realms of the genre but not so much that it felt repetitive or overdone at any point. Characters were well developed for a book of this length. I did predict the plan they would go with (it’s a Romantasy after all I think most avid readers of the genre would so not a really a big deal) but the twist at the end! I will be returning for book two and I will be inpatient about it!
Genuinely loved this and couldn’t put it down 100% in my top reads of 2026 so far. Great pacing, great plot whilst still within the realms of the genre but not so much that it felt repetitive or overdone at any point. Characters were well developed for a book of this length. I did predict the plan they would go with (it’s a Romantasy after all I think most avid readers of the genre would so not a really a big deal) but the twist at the end! I will be returning for book two and I will be inpatient about it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Recieved an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
For all the drama and violence, I'd label this an intimate fantasy romance. We get pulled into the world of Lysandra, a pampered princess at the sidelines of her family. We see this world in its faults, its joy, and its pain through her very inexperienced eyes. It gives the whole experience an air of lightness to what could otherwise be rather heavy. At times that same lightness makes you feel a bit lost in the plot, like you've been unwittingly caught in the waves of the author's machinations, like its moving around you rather than experiencing it. I spent a good portion of this book rather confused, which can equally be a flaw of this book as well as a product of our female lead.
Then enters tall, dark, and hunky (yes, I see him as a walking cliche). He broods, he's moody, he does all the things. Buff, strong, valiant, and loyal. And by what I'm reading it sound like he does *all* the things behind closed doors too, so enjoy the crumbs of spice. As a male lead, he is *chef's kiss* picture perfect. Now, if only they would just talk to each other...but its okay, since its true love...right? (wink wink, nudge nudge)
Everyone else in this world exists for plot-driven dialogue, quiet scheming with a heaping helping of side-eye, or just cute catch-your-breath moments. This book is not one for the side characters since the focus is on Lysandra with Alaris being a pivotal character of Lysandra's life. This book holds much potential for Lysandra's growth, and I hope it comes quickly.
As the lead novel in a duology, its an interesting beginning to a world of magic, gods, and mortals. I really look forward to how this world and this story grows.
3.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
For all the drama and violence, I'd label this an intimate fantasy romance. We get pulled into the world of Lysandra, a pampered princess at the sidelines of her family. We see this world in its faults, its joy, and its pain through her very inexperienced eyes. It gives the whole experience an air of lightness to what could otherwise be rather heavy. At times that same lightness makes you feel a bit lost in the plot, like you've been unwittingly caught in the waves of the author's machinations, like its moving around you rather than experiencing it. I spent a good portion of this book rather confused, which can equally be a flaw of this book as well as a product of our female lead.
Then enters tall, dark, and hunky (yes, I see him as a walking cliche). He broods, he's moody, he does all the things. Buff, strong, valiant, and loyal. And by what I'm reading it sound like he does *all* the things behind closed doors too, so enjoy the crumbs of spice. As a male lead, he is *chef's kiss* picture perfect. Now, if only they would just talk to each other...but its okay, since its true love...right? (wink wink, nudge nudge)
Everyone else in this world exists for plot-driven dialogue, quiet scheming with a heaping helping of side-eye, or just cute catch-your-breath moments. This book is not one for the side characters since the focus is on Lysandra with Alaris being a pivotal character of Lysandra's life. This book holds much potential for Lysandra's growth, and I hope it comes quickly.
As the lead novel in a duology, its an interesting beginning to a world of magic, gods, and mortals. I really look forward to how this world and this story grows.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks to the author for this ARC!
4 to 4.5 stars for Shadoward, and I will definitely be reading the next book!
Here's what's great about this book:
An interesting world with elemental and animal magic systems
A smart and not-naive FMC
A mystery with a whodunnit flavor
Funny banter between the FMC and MMC, especially in the first half of the book
Skilled writing from this author
Here's what I found challenging:
The pace drops off in the second half of the book and it gets a bit repetitive and slow
It feels like this book is about 100 pages too long and some of the "adventures" Lysandra has in the beginning could've been edited down
I wish the glossary had been at the beginning of the book because that would've really helped with keeping track of the magic system/hierarchy (I didn't read it until the end . . . whoops)
Some of the magic and hierarchy are not well-explained or the explanation feels rushed or a bit too simplistic. I could've used more background info on the history of this world. This lack of info can make it a little difficult to understand what is going on exactly.
The evil characters are one-dimensional and evil for the sake of being evil without much of a backstory as to why they're evil.
I would've liked to have seen more interactions with the side characters.
The whole book is about who this "masked man" is, but you don't get a satisfying answer . . . but I'm sure there's more to come in the next book.
If you loved Throne of Glass, you'll enjoy this book (especially because the FMC shares the same name as a pivotal character from that series).
4 to 4.5 stars for Shadoward, and I will definitely be reading the next book!
Here's what's great about this book:
An interesting world with elemental and animal magic systems
A smart and not-naive FMC
A mystery with a whodunnit flavor
Funny banter between the FMC and MMC, especially in the first half of the book
Skilled writing from this author
Here's what I found challenging:
The pace drops off in the second half of the book and it gets a bit repetitive and slow
It feels like this book is about 100 pages too long and some of the "adventures" Lysandra has in the beginning could've been edited down
I wish the glossary had been at the beginning of the book because that would've really helped with keeping track of the magic system/hierarchy (I didn't read it until the end . . . whoops)
Some of the magic and hierarchy are not well-explained or the explanation feels rushed or a bit too simplistic. I could've used more background info on the history of this world. This lack of info can make it a little difficult to understand what is going on exactly.
The evil characters are one-dimensional and evil for the sake of being evil without much of a backstory as to why they're evil.
I would've liked to have seen more interactions with the side characters.
The whole book is about who this "masked man" is, but you don't get a satisfying answer . . . but I'm sure there's more to come in the next book.
If you loved Throne of Glass, you'll enjoy this book (especially because the FMC shares the same name as a pivotal character from that series).
Review of advance copy received from Author
💫ARC REVIEW💫
6🌟 READ.
This is a very fresh & original romantasy. Something you won't see in every day books.
This books pulls you in from chapter one. The pacing is phenomenal, all of the characters are likable (even our morally ambiguous ones), & this a story you want to invest in!
Lysandra - my girl. I absolutely ADORE her. Doing one of the hardest things - leaving the only life you know - to escape a fate you dont even have a full grasp of is INSANE. And she did it wildly with conviction. I feel like a lot of FMC's turn out to be Mary Sue's in most romantasies but Lysandra isn't. She's messy, scared, alone, clawing her way into a new reality to save her life.
Alaris - new book HUSBAND alert! Oh, everything about him is perfection. I love a false narrative, especially when its used to cover up a brewing movement. Alaris is charming & smooth, both in his words & actions. Even when Lysandra was known under a false name & as someone only needing a job, he was there to watch over her & protect her. You wont be disappointed in this MMC.
The plot twists were twisting!!! One or two were obvious, AT LEAST TO ME, & thats fine! The others however..... GOT ME! Reliving past deaths, finding out your family is not who you thought, linking yourself to another God.... GIRL! Back to back, these revelations do NOT give you a moment to breathe!
& that ending? Perfect cliffhanger ending. No notes. My jaw was HANGING open by the end.
I am absolutely IN LOVE with this book & cannot wait for me. Thanks to the author for providing an ARC copy to recieve an honest review!
6🌟 READ.
This is a very fresh & original romantasy. Something you won't see in every day books.
This books pulls you in from chapter one. The pacing is phenomenal, all of the characters are likable (even our morally ambiguous ones), & this a story you want to invest in!
Lysandra - my girl. I absolutely ADORE her. Doing one of the hardest things - leaving the only life you know - to escape a fate you dont even have a full grasp of is INSANE. And she did it wildly with conviction. I feel like a lot of FMC's turn out to be Mary Sue's in most romantasies but Lysandra isn't. She's messy, scared, alone, clawing her way into a new reality to save her life.
Alaris - new book HUSBAND alert! Oh, everything about him is perfection. I love a false narrative, especially when its used to cover up a brewing movement. Alaris is charming & smooth, both in his words & actions. Even when Lysandra was known under a false name & as someone only needing a job, he was there to watch over her & protect her. You wont be disappointed in this MMC.
The plot twists were twisting!!! One or two were obvious, AT LEAST TO ME, & thats fine! The others however..... GOT ME! Reliving past deaths, finding out your family is not who you thought, linking yourself to another God.... GIRL! Back to back, these revelations do NOT give you a moment to breathe!
& that ending? Perfect cliffhanger ending. No notes. My jaw was HANGING open by the end.
I am absolutely IN LOVE with this book & cannot wait for me. Thanks to the author for providing an ARC copy to recieve an honest review!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
* I would like to begin by saying that I received this book as arc in exchange for an honest review. I GREATLY thank the author for giving me a chance to read this before the world can have it too.
Y’ALL! This book is going to make it into the big leagues I just know it. The storyline is UNIQUE! It is COZY! It is FAST PACED! It is GRIPPING! I actually need about a thousand more pages of this book. In front of my eyeballs. Processing in my brain. RIGHT NOW!
I don’t want to give away too much of this book because I want people to go into it the same way I did where it was slightly vague, but then the storyline weaves and it becomes so magical. The FMC is a princess fleeing the unsettling feeling of death, but along the way we see her grow into herself and I LOVED that she took on such unique jobs to find some freedom.
I only have two qualms (one is a minor, tiny spoiler). 1. I wish she had named the dang birds! They needed cutesy little names (I ask for so little). And 2. That absolute cliffhanger of an ending was DIRTY! I flipped the page looking for the next chapter and THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT IN THE BOOK! I need the next installment of these series in the next 5 minutes or I may die.
I can’t thank the author enough for writing this masterpiece and I cannot freaking WAIT for how the rest of this series will pan out. This is easily one of my favorite books of the year!
Character development: 5/5
Spice: 1.5/5
Plot: 5/5
World building: 4/5
Y’ALL! This book is going to make it into the big leagues I just know it. The storyline is UNIQUE! It is COZY! It is FAST PACED! It is GRIPPING! I actually need about a thousand more pages of this book. In front of my eyeballs. Processing in my brain. RIGHT NOW!
I don’t want to give away too much of this book because I want people to go into it the same way I did where it was slightly vague, but then the storyline weaves and it becomes so magical. The FMC is a princess fleeing the unsettling feeling of death, but along the way we see her grow into herself and I LOVED that she took on such unique jobs to find some freedom.
I only have two qualms (one is a minor, tiny spoiler). 1. I wish she had named the dang birds! They needed cutesy little names (I ask for so little). And 2. That absolute cliffhanger of an ending was DIRTY! I flipped the page looking for the next chapter and THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT IN THE BOOK! I need the next installment of these series in the next 5 minutes or I may die.
I can’t thank the author enough for writing this masterpiece and I cannot freaking WAIT for how the rest of this series will pan out. This is easily one of my favorite books of the year!
Character development: 5/5
Spice: 1.5/5
Plot: 5/5
World building: 4/5
August 28, 2026
Well… Shadoward absolutely finished me.
I became completely consumed by this book. The further I got, the harder it was to put down, and by the final stretch I was stressed, invested, theorizing about everything, and completely locked in.
Lysandra was such an interesting FMC to follow, especially as the mysteries surrounding her power and her past slowly began to unravel. I loved how the worldbuilding expanded alongside her discoveries, with divine magic, mythology, political conflict, and the fascinating connection between power, memory, and time.
And the MMC?? 🥵
The banter and chemistry between these two were easily some of my favourite parts. I loved the progression of their relationship, the tension, vulnerability, little reveals, and eventual emotional and physical payoff. I was completely invested in them.
And then there’s that ending…
I will say absolutely nothing because it needs to be experienced completely unspoiled, but those final chapters had me questioning EVERYTHING. I finished this book genuinely rattled and immediately wanted to go back and look for all the things I might have missed.
Romantasy, mystery, gods and divine magic, incredible banter, a romance I became way too emotionally attached to, and an ending that absolutely wrecked me.
Five stars. I need book two immediately.
I became completely consumed by this book. The further I got, the harder it was to put down, and by the final stretch I was stressed, invested, theorizing about everything, and completely locked in.
Lysandra was such an interesting FMC to follow, especially as the mysteries surrounding her power and her past slowly began to unravel. I loved how the worldbuilding expanded alongside her discoveries, with divine magic, mythology, political conflict, and the fascinating connection between power, memory, and time.
And the MMC?? 🥵
The banter and chemistry between these two were easily some of my favourite parts. I loved the progression of their relationship, the tension, vulnerability, little reveals, and eventual emotional and physical payoff. I was completely invested in them.
And then there’s that ending…
I will say absolutely nothing because it needs to be experienced completely unspoiled, but those final chapters had me questioning EVERYTHING. I finished this book genuinely rattled and immediately wanted to go back and look for all the things I might have missed.
Romantasy, mystery, gods and divine magic, incredible banter, a romance I became way too emotionally attached to, and an ending that absolutely wrecked me.
Five stars. I need book two immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the gifted eARC!
Genre: Dark Romantasy
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 2/5
Cliffhanger: Yes
Noteworthy: Book 1 of an incomplete duology. Single first-person POV. Content warnings provided. Available on KU. Expected publication date is 9/15/2026.
Standing ovation for this debut Romantacy. I swear Alison wrote this book just for me because it ticked so many of my boxes. There is a suspense element that reads like a thriller and I ate it up!
This story follows Ly who is the youngest daughter to the fire Emperor. She has visions of a masked man hunting and killing her but she knows no one will believe she is in danger. In this book we follow her journey to stay a step ahead of her would be murderer while trying to figure out the who and when of it all. This sets up and unfolds so beautifully and when I tell you I was a nervous wreck in the last 10% I'm not exaggerating. My anxiety was through the roof.
This is well written with beautifully placed twists and turns that will have you questioning how you didn't see it coming. This book is exactly why you support indie authors and give their books a chance. If you love darker romantic fantasy you have to give this book a try. I'm so excited to see where the final book takes us!
Genre: Dark Romantasy
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 2/5
Cliffhanger: Yes
Noteworthy: Book 1 of an incomplete duology. Single first-person POV. Content warnings provided. Available on KU. Expected publication date is 9/15/2026.
Standing ovation for this debut Romantacy. I swear Alison wrote this book just for me because it ticked so many of my boxes. There is a suspense element that reads like a thriller and I ate it up!
This story follows Ly who is the youngest daughter to the fire Emperor. She has visions of a masked man hunting and killing her but she knows no one will believe she is in danger. In this book we follow her journey to stay a step ahead of her would be murderer while trying to figure out the who and when of it all. This sets up and unfolds so beautifully and when I tell you I was a nervous wreck in the last 10% I'm not exaggerating. My anxiety was through the roof.
This is well written with beautifully placed twists and turns that will have you questioning how you didn't see it coming. This book is exactly why you support indie authors and give their books a chance. If you love darker romantic fantasy you have to give this book a try. I'm so excited to see where the final book takes us!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars ✨
Wow! This is an impressive debut book by Allison Archer. This is the 1st book in a dark romantasy duology. It has all the elements I love in a book: mystery, magic, gods, a dark hero, a smart resourceful heroin, and a little bit of spice.
Our MFC, Lysandra, is a powerless Princess to the flame empire. She has a premonition that she will be killed if she stays at the Sunrise Palace. A masked assassin is after her, but she knows no one will believe her. To survive, she escapes Shadoward, away from the palace towards the edges of the realm. She meets our MMC, Alaris, on the run who agrees to let Ly work at his estate. Ly continues to get visions of the masked assassin killing her, so she works tirelessly to figure out who sent him and why.
This book is fast paced and keeps you guessing the whole time. There are well executed twist and turns throughout the book, so I never knew what was coming. I devoured this book in 2 days.
This will be on kindle unlimited, releasing September 15th, so definitely recommend adding it to your TBR.
Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! This is an impressive debut book by Allison Archer. This is the 1st book in a dark romantasy duology. It has all the elements I love in a book: mystery, magic, gods, a dark hero, a smart resourceful heroin, and a little bit of spice.
Our MFC, Lysandra, is a powerless Princess to the flame empire. She has a premonition that she will be killed if she stays at the Sunrise Palace. A masked assassin is after her, but she knows no one will believe her. To survive, she escapes Shadoward, away from the palace towards the edges of the realm. She meets our MMC, Alaris, on the run who agrees to let Ly work at his estate. Ly continues to get visions of the masked assassin killing her, so she works tirelessly to figure out who sent him and why.
This book is fast paced and keeps you guessing the whole time. There are well executed twist and turns throughout the book, so I never knew what was coming. I devoured this book in 2 days.
This will be on kindle unlimited, releasing September 15th, so definitely recommend adding it to your TBR.
Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an ARC from author and below is my honest review:
Okay...that ending was diabolical. Like what the heck? I did not expect that at all. I was starting to get confused with the FMC's pov from her other lives coz it keeps switching back and forth between the old one and her current ones. Tbh, this book took me a bit to get into. It was such a slow start that we didn't even meet the MMC till almost after a quarter of the book and even then I wasn't sure if he was actually the MMC coz like a masked man? I was hoping he'll be the MMC but dang I was wrong. Anyway, the world-building is not bad as well. Pretty interesting concept actually. The magic system is actually cool as well since it's not your usual shadow daddies x mortals or something. I find it refreshing.
Only rating it 4 stars coz at some point I got bored with Lysandra's personality. I also didn't feel any kind of tension between her and Alaris tho you can tell that he is yearning really badly.
Ngl tho, I was mostly distracted with wedding preparations while reading this so I may have to reread this book when the next book comes out.
Thanks for letting me be a part of the ARC team for this 🫶
Okay...that ending was diabolical. Like what the heck? I did not expect that at all. I was starting to get confused with the FMC's pov from her other lives coz it keeps switching back and forth between the old one and her current ones. Tbh, this book took me a bit to get into. It was such a slow start that we didn't even meet the MMC till almost after a quarter of the book and even then I wasn't sure if he was actually the MMC coz like a masked man? I was hoping he'll be the MMC but dang I was wrong. Anyway, the world-building is not bad as well. Pretty interesting concept actually. The magic system is actually cool as well since it's not your usual shadow daddies x mortals or something. I find it refreshing.
Only rating it 4 stars coz at some point I got bored with Lysandra's personality. I also didn't feel any kind of tension between her and Alaris tho you can tell that he is yearning really badly.
Ngl tho, I was mostly distracted with wedding preparations while reading this so I may have to reread this book when the next book comes out.
Thanks for letting me be a part of the ARC team for this 🫶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐➕➕
Ok Romantasy fans - here it is. The next 6 star read to sweep the bookish community.
I read this book in less than 48 hours while working my full time job. My dinner went cold while reading the last 10%.
I LOVED these characters. We have a princess not afraid to take control of her life despite the consequences, we have Gods, we have a unique magic system and cosmic power. This is a romantasy story that feels familiar because you love it and are entwined with it, not because the story reads like any other.
I couldn't put this book down in the same way I couldn't put down The Poison Daughter, The Ascended, Web of Vows and Vengeance, and Kissed by the Gods. All 5⭐ PLUS reads for me, this is the tier this book is in.
I have so many quotes I want to share but revealing anything early would be a disservice to your experience reading this book.
I am so thrilled to have received a free advance copy of this book from the author. I'll be over here on the edge of my seat waiting to hear about a sequel.
👏👏👏
Ok Romantasy fans - here it is. The next 6 star read to sweep the bookish community.
I read this book in less than 48 hours while working my full time job. My dinner went cold while reading the last 10%.
I LOVED these characters. We have a princess not afraid to take control of her life despite the consequences, we have Gods, we have a unique magic system and cosmic power. This is a romantasy story that feels familiar because you love it and are entwined with it, not because the story reads like any other.
I couldn't put this book down in the same way I couldn't put down The Poison Daughter, The Ascended, Web of Vows and Vengeance, and Kissed by the Gods. All 5⭐ PLUS reads for me, this is the tier this book is in.
I have so many quotes I want to share but revealing anything early would be a disservice to your experience reading this book.
I am so thrilled to have received a free advance copy of this book from the author. I'll be over here on the edge of my seat waiting to hear about a sequel.
👏👏👏
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book, and it was one of the best things that’s happened to me in months. Shadoward is the perfect book if you’re looking for something fresh in the romantasy space!
This story’s strengths for me were in two main areas: momentum and tension. Lysandra’s character is chock full of agency, and our girl has a lot to get done. No matter what she’s working toward, she’s making hard choices and dealing with the consequences. She keeps you turning the page to see where she’s headed next. As for the tension, I mean that in every way you’re thinking. The stakes of the plot are sky high, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make time for the push-and-pull between our leading pair. Ly and Alaris have fantastic chemistry. I wouldn’t quite call this a slow burn, but it strings you along and makes every beat of the romance feel earned.
Overall, this is one of the best books I’ve read all year. It’s not even out yet and I’m already hungry for the sequel!
This story’s strengths for me were in two main areas: momentum and tension. Lysandra’s character is chock full of agency, and our girl has a lot to get done. No matter what she’s working toward, she’s making hard choices and dealing with the consequences. She keeps you turning the page to see where she’s headed next. As for the tension, I mean that in every way you’re thinking. The stakes of the plot are sky high, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make time for the push-and-pull between our leading pair. Ly and Alaris have fantastic chemistry. I wouldn’t quite call this a slow burn, but it strings you along and makes every beat of the romance feel earned.
Overall, this is one of the best books I’ve read all year. It’s not even out yet and I’m already hungry for the sequel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got the chance to read Shadoward before its release, and let me tell you… I need more!! 😭
I loved the whole universe and the creativity behind it. Even the names of the places and characters were beautiful and made everything feel so unique.
Shadoward was excellent when it came to both the characters and the plot. This book is full of revelations, secrets, and SO much more. I pride myself on figuring out plots pretty easily, but Shadoward was unpredictable in the best way, making it impossible for me to put down. I finished it in just a few days, and it left me wanting more (I need answers to my questions!!)
And the slow burn… I loved the tension and chemistry SO, SO, SO much. Honestly, I loved it enough that I’m probably going to reread this book just for that reason haha
This was an easy 5/5 for me, and I genuinely cannot wait for the second book. In the meantime, I’ll just be crying myself to sleep… 🥲
I loved the whole universe and the creativity behind it. Even the names of the places and characters were beautiful and made everything feel so unique.
Shadoward was excellent when it came to both the characters and the plot. This book is full of revelations, secrets, and SO much more. I pride myself on figuring out plots pretty easily, but Shadoward was unpredictable in the best way, making it impossible for me to put down. I finished it in just a few days, and it left me wanting more (I need answers to my questions!!)
And the slow burn… I loved the tension and chemistry SO, SO, SO much. Honestly, I loved it enough that I’m probably going to reread this book just for that reason haha
This was an easy 5/5 for me, and I genuinely cannot wait for the second book. In the meantime, I’ll just be crying myself to sleep… 🥲
Review of advance copy received from Author
Is this book perfect? No. Did I love it? Hell yes.
I had the pleasure of receiving an advanced reader copy of this book. The book was well written with detailed world building, an interesting power system of incarnials and divinials, the offsprings of gods and goddesses, and a combination of some of my favorite tropes. I found the FMC, Lysandra, as likable and felt the motivators of the character’s actions to be realistic.
I am so excited for the next book and will definitely be recommending this to some friends!
I would prefer to give it a 4.75/5. The reason I gave a 0.25 reduction was due to a few plot holes but am overall so impressed with Archer’s ability to close plot points and world building that takes this book from a plotless romantasy to an enjoyable fantasy romance.
I had the pleasure of receiving an advanced reader copy of this book. The book was well written with detailed world building, an interesting power system of incarnials and divinials, the offsprings of gods and goddesses, and a combination of some of my favorite tropes. I found the FMC, Lysandra, as likable and felt the motivators of the character’s actions to be realistic.
I am so excited for the next book and will definitely be recommending this to some friends!
I would prefer to give it a 4.75/5. The reason I gave a 0.25 reduction was due to a few plot holes but am overall so impressed with Archer’s ability to close plot points and world building that takes this book from a plotless romantasy to an enjoyable fantasy romance.
Review of advance copy
*advance reader copy review - thank you book funnel and Alison Archer*
3.5 🌟
What an interesting story! I think the character development of our FMC was well done; her experiences allowed growth that aligned with the plot well. I was slightly confused with the "why" at the beginning, but it was fully revealed at the end. Some of the language used my the FMC was a bit immature, but it was so overwhelming to the point of distracting. The world building was more on the minimal side, but it did suit the story. My biggest disappointment was the lack of magic system development. How it came to be, why certain people have it, what determines it's strengths, how does it develop into new skills - these questions weren't tackled. I will say the surprise at the end was jaw dropping - I wasn't expecting that!
3.5 🌟
What an interesting story! I think the character development of our FMC was well done; her experiences allowed growth that aligned with the plot well. I was slightly confused with the "why" at the beginning, but it was fully revealed at the end. Some of the language used my the FMC was a bit immature, but it was so overwhelming to the point of distracting. The world building was more on the minimal side, but it did suit the story. My biggest disappointment was the lack of magic system development. How it came to be, why certain people have it, what determines it's strengths, how does it develop into new skills - these questions weren't tackled. I will say the surprise at the end was jaw dropping - I wasn't expecting that!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got sent this book by the author as an ARC and boy am i glad i did!
I dont even know what to say without giving spoilers but i really really liked this book🙏🏼❤️
I loved that the FMC isnt an overly stubborn lead who is sassy all the time. I liked that she would actually think about her actions and even change her mind when she realised that maybe she had made a mistake and apologise!
Looooved the MMC and his neverending patience.
I really enjoyed that the two main characters dont spend the whole book in miscommunication as some books tend to do
And just the whole story is just....ugh i loved it. Easily one of my top faves and gave me something a little different than the usual romantasy books.
I also loved where it went with her initial vision of seeing her own death👐❤️
Recommend!
The sad thing is i now need to wait ages for the 2nd🤣 but happy to wait
I dont even know what to say without giving spoilers but i really really liked this book🙏🏼❤️
I loved that the FMC isnt an overly stubborn lead who is sassy all the time. I liked that she would actually think about her actions and even change her mind when she realised that maybe she had made a mistake and apologise!
Looooved the MMC and his neverending patience.
I really enjoyed that the two main characters dont spend the whole book in miscommunication as some books tend to do
And just the whole story is just....ugh i loved it. Easily one of my top faves and gave me something a little different than the usual romantasy books.
I also loved where it went with her initial vision of seeing her own death👐❤️
Recommend!
The sad thing is i now need to wait ages for the 2nd🤣 but happy to wait
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book received as an advance copy from the author.
Shadoward got better and better the further into the book I got, with a fantastic plot twist at the end just to ensure I'm fully invested for book 2!
I really enjoyed reading this book, I won't go into the details of plot as many other reviews already talk about that but the mfc and mmc are both likable characters and really got me hooked into the book, I'd love to see the side characters developed into the second book as they have a great base from the first but that didn't detract from a great plot with some guessable twists but importantly some that I didn't see coming.
Thank you to the Alison Archer for my ARC, I loved reading the book and can't wait to see where you take the story.
Shadoward got better and better the further into the book I got, with a fantastic plot twist at the end just to ensure I'm fully invested for book 2!
I really enjoyed reading this book, I won't go into the details of plot as many other reviews already talk about that but the mfc and mmc are both likable characters and really got me hooked into the book, I'd love to see the side characters developed into the second book as they have a great base from the first but that didn't detract from a great plot with some guessable twists but importantly some that I didn't see coming.
Thank you to the Alison Archer for my ARC, I loved reading the book and can't wait to see where you take the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I just finished Shadoward, my pulse is still racing, and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series! I enjoyed how the story unfolded - learning layer by layer about the world, magic, and characters along the way.
I liked the FMC who occasionally makes impulsive choices, and REALLY liked the shadow daddy. The buildup to the spice was so good. And I was totally floored by the way it ended.
My one suggestion would be to move the glossary/information at the end of the book to the front by the map - so I would know it was there if I wanted to reference it.
I just finished Shadoward, my pulse is still racing, and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series! I enjoyed how the story unfolded - learning layer by layer about the world, magic, and characters along the way.
I liked the FMC who occasionally makes impulsive choices, and REALLY liked the shadow daddy. The buildup to the spice was so good. And I was totally floored by the way it ended.
My one suggestion would be to move the glossary/information at the end of the book to the front by the map - so I would know it was there if I wanted to reference it.
August 24, 2026
*I received a free advance copy of this book from the author*
Ohhh this was such a fun read! It start a little slow but one you get in to it it’s hard to put down.
The story is compelling, the MMC is mysterious and funny and oh my god the plot twist and cliffhanger at the end!
My husband had to listen to me talk about the last 5 pages for at least 20 minutes when I finished reading😂
I thought that the other characters didn’t get a lot of page time and depth, but it didn’t hurt the story and I hope to learn more about them in the next book, that I’m already waiting for with A LOT of questions hahah!
Ohhh this was such a fun read! It start a little slow but one you get in to it it’s hard to put down.
The story is compelling, the MMC is mysterious and funny and oh my god the plot twist and cliffhanger at the end!
My husband had to listen to me talk about the last 5 pages for at least 20 minutes when I finished reading😂
I thought that the other characters didn’t get a lot of page time and depth, but it didn’t hurt the story and I hope to learn more about them in the next book, that I’m already waiting for with A LOT of questions hahah!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If youre looking for a book with twists you dont see coming, and a cliff hanger that'll leave you saying "WHAT?!"
This is your book.
I was given the opportunity of reading this book as an ARC and I'm so glad I did. I absolutely loved it. I fell in love with these characters and the places.
I would love to compare it to something but it stands alone. The story line is unique in itself, she creates a world to fall into and characters that hide secrets you dont see coming. The leading lady is strong, secretive, stubborn, and vulnerable. The leading man, mysterious, protective and twisty!
Would I recommend it? Yes.
But if she doesnt start writing a second book soon I'm going to lose it.
This is your book.
I was given the opportunity of reading this book as an ARC and I'm so glad I did. I absolutely loved it. I fell in love with these characters and the places.
I would love to compare it to something but it stands alone. The story line is unique in itself, she creates a world to fall into and characters that hide secrets you dont see coming. The leading lady is strong, secretive, stubborn, and vulnerable. The leading man, mysterious, protective and twisty!
Would I recommend it? Yes.
But if she doesnt start writing a second book soon I'm going to lose it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
What a beautiful story 💖
There’s something so incredibly atmospheric about this book, I was completely drawn into the world the author has created in a very short space of time while reading it.
The writing is so immersive and wonderfully descriptive with a story that keeps you wanting to discover what happens next! ✨
A gorgeous read that I’d absolutely recommend to anyone who loves a seductive, twisty romantasy about a murder that hasn’t happened yet 👀
Coming out on the 15th of September ❤️
Thank you @authoralisonarcher for allowing me to be on the ARC team and I have highly loved reading a free copy of Shadoward early - I can’t wait for book 2!
What a beautiful story 💖
There’s something so incredibly atmospheric about this book, I was completely drawn into the world the author has created in a very short space of time while reading it.
The writing is so immersive and wonderfully descriptive with a story that keeps you wanting to discover what happens next! ✨
A gorgeous read that I’d absolutely recommend to anyone who loves a seductive, twisty romantasy about a murder that hasn’t happened yet 👀
Coming out on the 15th of September ❤️
Thank you @authoralisonarcher for allowing me to be on the ARC team and I have highly loved reading a free copy of Shadoward early - I can’t wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shadoward is an interesting premise - Different than many of the other romantasy books I’ve read.
I really enjoyed the world building and the story telling aspects. While the dialogue was a little bit cheesy at times, it didn’t take away from the larger story.
Lysandra is a likeable and interesting protagonist, while not the best decision maker at times. Her motivations were also a bit silly; many of her problems could have easily been solved through communication. This could be a bit frustrating.
Overall, I look forward to reading the sequel when it eventually comes out!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I really enjoyed the world building and the story telling aspects. While the dialogue was a little bit cheesy at times, it didn’t take away from the larger story.
Lysandra is a likeable and interesting protagonist, while not the best decision maker at times. Her motivations were also a bit silly; many of her problems could have easily been solved through communication. This could be a bit frustrating.
Overall, I look forward to reading the sequel when it eventually comes out!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOW 🤩
Okay so I’m gonna need book 2 like now please 😂 Thank you so much Alison Archer for letting me be an arc reader, I loved your story. The slow burn!! the tension!! The relationship!! The twist at the end!! Having consumed a lot of stories I often get a good intuition of where something may go but this book had me guessing till the end, I had suspicions but then got thrown off and made to question it all over again. Fantastic!
One important question though, where can I find me an Alaris 😍
Okay so I’m gonna need book 2 like now please 😂 Thank you so much Alison Archer for letting me be an arc reader, I loved your story. The slow burn!! the tension!! The relationship!! The twist at the end!! Having consumed a lot of stories I often get a good intuition of where something may go but this book had me guessing till the end, I had suspicions but then got thrown off and made to question it all over again. Fantastic!
One important question though, where can I find me an Alaris 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️’s SHADOWARD by @authoralisonarcher, out September 15 👇
•
I’m going to need more pages of this book very soon.. I devoured this book in two days. I want to wrap up Alaris & Lysandra and protect them from the world 🥺
The way this is written helped me build such a perfect picture of who they are and what their world looks like. Super grateful to of received an arc for this 📚🩶
•
girl on the run
🎭 dual secret identities
🩹 hurt/comfort
⚔ touch her and die
💘 he fell first, he fell harder
🏰 forced proximity
🔥 slow burn, 3/5 spice
🛏 one bed
🔁 plot + reread payoff
•
I’m going to need more pages of this book very soon.. I devoured this book in two days. I want to wrap up Alaris & Lysandra and protect them from the world 🥺
The way this is written helped me build such a perfect picture of who they are and what their world looks like. Super grateful to of received an arc for this 📚🩶
•
girl on the run
🎭 dual secret identities
🩹 hurt/comfort
⚔ touch her and die
💘 he fell first, he fell harder
🏰 forced proximity
🔥 slow burn, 3/5 spice
🛏 one bed
🔁 plot + reread payoff
August 22, 2026
Review of advance copy received from the author
I am so glad I read this book. It’s written so well and the story is so compelling that I just couldn’t stop reading. I loved both the FMC and the MMC so much and their chemistry was so good. I’ll be reading this again soon, especially after that ending. I cannot wait for the next book and I will be recommending this to all of my friends! This is one of my favourite books from this year!
I am so glad I read this book. It’s written so well and the story is so compelling that I just couldn’t stop reading. I loved both the FMC and the MMC so much and their chemistry was so good. I’ll be reading this again soon, especially after that ending. I cannot wait for the next book and I will be recommending this to all of my friends! This is one of my favourite books from this year!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! I have been extremely fortunate to receive an advanced copy from the author. This was a fantastic read, I couldn’t put it down. Once I started it I knew it was going to be good.
There is the right amount of suspense and my heart was in my mouth throughout the last couple of chapters.
I definitely would not have guessed the ending which makes it even better!
I would totally recommend this to anyone, fantastic story.
Thank you Alison for creating this gem of a book.
There is the right amount of suspense and my heart was in my mouth throughout the last couple of chapters.
I definitely would not have guessed the ending which makes it even better!
I would totally recommend this to anyone, fantastic story.
Thank you Alison for creating this gem of a book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me in a chokehold from the first page. The banter, the character development, and the neverending plot twists just when I thought I had everything figured out kept me clutching my kindle until the very last page wanting more.
Lysandra's development from sheltered princess to survivor taking control of her life was *chef's kiss* , and I can't wait to see what book 2 has in store for her.
Only negative is now I have to wait for the next book to dive back in. 😅
Lysandra's development from sheltered princess to survivor taking control of her life was *chef's kiss* , and I can't wait to see what book 2 has in store for her.
Only negative is now I have to wait for the next book to dive back in. 😅
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so so good! It had me up all hours of the night - just needing to know what came next!! It had elements that were new to me in a Romantasy, which I loved. I had those physical reactions that we WANT from our characters! My heart actually ached, my belly was flipping and flopping, my heart was racing. I absolutely devoured this book and was entirely consumed by it!
Very grateful I had the opportunity to read this book in advance. I cannot wait for book 2!
Very grateful I had the opportunity to read this book in advance. I cannot wait for book 2!
August 28, 2026
ADVANCED READERS COPY!
I am so thankful that I was able to read shadoward early! I finished this book in 2 days! It was so good and the plot twists! The ending I need another book right now! I will also be needed a book trophy! Absolutely ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! The banter and the character development! Phenomenal! I loved it! If you loved romantasy and high stakes this is definitely the book for you! Now I loved hawks as well! 🖤🗡️
I am so thankful that I was able to read shadoward early! I finished this book in 2 days! It was so good and the plot twists! The ending I need another book right now! I will also be needed a book trophy! Absolutely ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! The banter and the character development! Phenomenal! I loved it! If you loved romantasy and high stakes this is definitely the book for you! Now I loved hawks as well! 🖤🗡️
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