A King of Shadow

by Bella Forrest

SECRETS LURK IN THE DARKEST CORNERS...

The longer Hazel and her fellow Shadians stay in Nevertide, the more of a mystery the hidden land becomes to them - and when events within Hellswan take a more sinister, disturbing turn, it's becoming harder to know who to trust.

All Hazel does know is that danger is closing in, just like the shadows that lurk in every corner of the castle - and within the heart of her new king...

Return to the lives of the Novaks. Buy now!

*Beware of spoilers in the reviews below that are without spoiler alerts*

Genres: Vampires, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Young Adult, Paranormal, Magic, Dragons

215 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 17, 2016

About the author

UPDATE MARCH 11, 2024:

BELLA IS BACK!

*** New, updated online store at https://BellaForrest.com

*** New books coming soon

*** Possible Film/TV series coming soon

*** Stay up to date by joining our e-mail list at https://BellaForrest.com/join

###

Bella Forrest is a lover of fantasy, romance, action, and mystery infused stories with twists you don’t see coming. She has sold over fifteen million books since her first novel was published in 2012.

Check out her website for a full list of her books: https://BellaForrest.com

Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BellaForrest...

Here's a list of some of Bella's books:

DARKLIGHT

Darklight (Book 1)
Darkthirst (Book 2)
Darkworld (Book 3)
Darkblood (Book 4)
Darktide (Book 5)
Darkbirth (Book 6)
Darkfall (Book 7)
Darkwilds (Book 8)
Darkhunt (Book 9)

A LOVE THAT ENDURES (Trilogy)
A Love that Endures 1
A Love that Endures 2
A Love that Endures 3

HARLEY MERLIN AND THE SECRET COVEN

Harley Merlin and the Secret Coven (Book 1)
Harley Merlin and the Mystery Twins (Book 2)
Harley Merlin and the Stolen Magicals (Book 3)
Harley Merlin and the First Ritual (Book 4)
Harley Merlin and the Broken Spell (Book 5)
Harley Merlin and the Cult of Eris (Book 6)
Harley Merlin and the Detector Fix (Book 7)
Harley Merlin and the Challenge of Chaos (Book 8)
Harley Merlin and the Mortal Pact (Book 9)
Finch Merlin and the Fount of Youth (Book 10)
Finch Merlin and the Lost Map (Book 11)
Finch Merlin and the Djinn's Curse (Book 12)
Finch Merlin and the Locked Gateway (Book 13)
Finch Merlin and the Forgotten Kingdom (Book 14)
Finch Merlin and the Everlasting Vow (Book 15)
Finch Merlin and the Blood Tie (Book 16)
Finch Merlin and the Legend of the Luminary
Persie Merlin and Leviathan's Gift (Book 18)
Persie Merlin and the Door to Nowhere (Book 19)
Persie Merlin and the Witch Hunters (Book 20)
Persie Merlin and the Dying Song (Book 21)

THE CHILD THIEF

The Child Thief (Book 1)
Deep Shadows (Book 2)
Thin Lines (Book 3)
Little Lies (Book 4)
Ghost Towns (Book 5)
Zero Hour (Book 6)

HOTBLOODS

Hotbloods (Book 1)
Hotbloods (Book 2): Coldbloods
Hotbloods (Book 3): Renegades
Hotbloods (Book 4): Venturers
Hotbloods (Book 5): Traitors
Hotbloods (Book 6): Allies
Hotbloods (Book 7): Invaders
Hotbloods (Book 8): Stargazers

THE GENDER GAME

The Gender Game (Book 1)
The Gender Secret (Book 2)
The Gender Lie (Book 3)
The Gender War (Book 4)
The Gender Fall (Book 5)
The Gender Plan (Book 6)
The Gender End (Book 7)

THE GIRL WHO DARED TO THINK

The Girl Who Dared to Think (Book 1)
The Girl Who Dared to Stand (Book 2)
The Girl Who Dared to Descend (Book 3)
The Girl Who Dared to Rise (Book 4)
The Girl Who Dared to Lead (Book 5)
The Girl Who Dared to Endure (Book 6
The Girl Who Dared to Fight (Book 7)

A SHADE OF VAMPIRE

Season 1: Derek & Sofia’s story

Books 1 to 7

Season 2: Rose & Caleb’s story

Books 8 to 16

Season 3: The Shade continues with a new hero...

Books 17 to 24

Season 4: A Clan of Novaks

Books 25 to 32

Season 5: A Dawn of Guardians

Books 33 to 41

Season 6: A Gift of Three

Books 42 to 50

Season 7: A Call of Vampires

Books 51 to 59

Season 8: A Voyage of Founders

Books 60 to 68

Season 9: A Birth of Fire

Books 69 to 77

Season 10: An Origin of Vampires
An Origin of Vampires (Book 78)
A Game of Death (Book 79)
A Veil of Dark (Book 80)
A Bringer of Night (Book 81)
A Circle of Nine (Book 82)
A Bender of Spirit (Book 83)
A Memory of Time (Book 84)
A Shard of Soul (Book 85)
A Break of Seals (Book 86)

Season 11: A Shade of Mystery
A Shade of Mystery (Book 87)
An Isle of Mirrors (Book 88)
A Sanctuary of Foes (Book 89)
A Ruler of Clones (Book 90)
A Gate of Light (Book 91)
A Dawn of Worlds (Book 92) ➜ Coming soon!

Reviews

[Hannah Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good!

So much emotion! Loved every last word and also love visiting my second home! Love the shade and all its people.

[Judy Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

ABSOLUTELY SPELLBINDING !!!
Title: A King of Shadow
Series: A Shade of Vampire
Designation: Book Thirty-Six of a Multi-Novel Series (Full-Length Book Four of Season Five), NOT a Standalone Read, Cliffhanger, 322 Pages
Author: Bella Forrest
Genre: Teen/Young Adult/ Coming of Age Paranormal/Supernatural/Fantasy Romance
Reading Platform: Kindle Unlimited
My Rating: FIVE SPELLBINDING STARS *****
**Although this review is not shown as an Amazon verified purchase, I read this book using the Amazon Kindle Unlimited which kinda is a purchase since I pay Amazon a monthly fee to borrow and read any of the books enrolled in the Kindle Unlimited program.

A King of Shadows is the thirty-sixth riveting release in the international bestselling megahit series, A Shade of Vampire, and Bella Forrest has left me totally breathless - again! Like thousands of my fellow Shaddicts around the world, I've been hooked since the first book of the series and now eagerly await each new release. And it's no surprise that Forrest has delivered another new gripping adventure that curls our toes, makes our hearts pound and keeps us begging for more! This is a beautifully written young adult saga unlike any I've ever read. Quite simply, it's an irresistibly delicious all-you-can-eat buffet of fantasy, adventure, and supernatural coming of age romance. But never fear, my friends, it's also anirresistibly tasty treat for us older adults who remain young at heart! The story is well crafted, imaginative, thrilling, fast paced, action packed, suspenseful, sweet, romantic and at times, also dark and mysterious. Whew, what a mouthful, but these are only a few of the words that come to mind after reading this incredible chronicle of the Shade, its inhabitants, and their enemies. The narrative is exceptionally well written in the first person with multiple points of view. Each chapter is told by one of the primary characters (and there are many), which I believe gives more depth and perspective to the story while adding insight into their thoughts, fears, and motivations. The dialogue is smart, well executed and flows effortlessly. Although the premise and plot for the series are intriguing as well as compelling, it's truly the magnificent cast of larger than life characters that make the biggest impact. They are well developed, fascinating, captivating, engaging, endearing and quite literally, out of this world! They explode from the pages, grab your imagination, capture your heart and hold you completely and totally enthralled from beginning to end. Forrest skillfully combines all of these elements to craft a beautifully written paranormal romance filled to the brim with danger, action, adventure, fantasy, mystery, suspense, magic, supernatural beings, loyalty, heartbreak, betrayal, angst, hope, passion, love and plot twists that will blow your mind. After thirty-six releases in one series, some might think the story has grown old or stagnant, but nothing could be farther from the truth. After reading every single one of the thirty-six books, there are two things I've learned beyond a shadow of a doubt. First, when reading anything written by Bella Forrest, always expect the unexpected and two, absolutely nothing is ever impossible as we've all witnessed time and time again. In each book Forrest pens, she takes her readers on an emotionally thrilling roller coaster ride, unlike any other, one that keeps us on the edge of our seat and riveted to each page while screaming, "OMG - that didn't just happen!" And the icing on the cake, Forrest's books are always exceptionally well-crafted, edited, formatted and have gorgeous covers! I'm not a professional reviewer but I know what I like, what I love and what I don't and I love this series! I've never experienced anything like it. After reading Book 32: A Day of Glory, the seventh and final release of season four, I had to ask myself, how in the world will Forrest ever be able to surpass her last release? But never fear my friends, Forrest has once again exhibited her extraordinary talent, remarkable skill, and incredible imagination by giving us yet another riveting new adventure featuring more of our new generation of young heroes with all of our beloved favorites also along for the ride.
Premise:
Twenty-two years have passed since Ben Novak, Prince of The Shade, married the beautiful half blood River Giovanni. And much has changed in those years. The King and Queen of The Shade, Derek and Sophia Novak, are now proud grandparents, four times over and many of the other residents are also proud parents. Wow! Time really flies, doesn't it? Ben and River Novak have one nineteen-year-old half fae daughter, Grace, who, despite incredible odds, survived becoming a Bloodless and has just married Lawrence Conway, the man responsible for saving her life. Grace and Lawrence were married in a lovely ceremony in The Hearthlands officiated by half dragon and former Shade resident Heath. Ben and River also have a fairly new addition to their family. Two years ago, they discovered River had a son named Field, an adult Half-blood/Hawk hybrid who was the result of an invasive IBSI experiment performed while River was held prisoner twenty years earlier. Derek and Sophia's daughter, Shade Princess Rose Novak, has been happily married to Caleb Achilles for over 20 years. They have two human children, Hazel, age seventeen, and Benedict, age fourteen. Kiev and Mona Novalic have one nineteen-year-old son named Brock who is half warlock. Witches Ibrahim and Corrine have been blessed with a lovely nineteen-year-old full blooded witch daughter named Arwen who, despite her mother's objection, is dating Brock. Vampires Claudia and Yuri Lazaroff have a twenty-year-old human daughter, Ruby. Vampires Ashley and Landis Vaughn also have a fifteen-year-old human son Julian. Even the dragon residents of The Shade have flourished. Dragon shifter Jeriad and his human wife Sylvia now have a son, handsome strapping twenty-one-year-old half dragon Heath who now resides in The Hearthlands, his father's former realm. And there have many other happy unions among the residents. Aiden and Kailyn have been married for twenty-two years and adopted one of the werewolf pups recovered from the Harpies. Abby and Erik also took the plunge along with Micah and Kira, Eli and Shayla, and the two Jinn Aisha and Horatio who have a beautiful baby girl named Riza. And not surprisingly, ice dragon Lethe also has a human bride and now resides inside the protective boundaries of The Shade. Surprisingly, long time bachelor Lucas Novak is now a thriving resident of The Shade community but is no longer a bachelor. Yikes! For the first time in his 500 years of existence, he truly fell in love with Marion, the woman rescued from the Ogre realm, and has become a loving husband as well as father to Marion's daughter Avril. And of course, we all remember Xavier and Vivienne's beautiful daughter, Victoria Vaughn who married werewolf Bastien Blackhall in Season Four. Victoria and Bastien are now the proud parents of an adorable wolf hybrid son named Jovi . But as much as things have changed, there are still many things that have remained the same, including The Shade's mission to protect Earth from The Shade's many enemies, some known and some yet to be discovered.

A Dawn of Guardians: Book Thirty-three (first release of Season Five)
Our story resumes two years after The Shadow League defeated the IBSI and ousted them from power. Our brave heroes of The Shade no longer operate from the shadows and have become the official and very public protectors of Earth and all its many realms and there are many...some yet to be discovered with strange and unfamiliar beings. As a result of their victory over the IBSI as well as their new public personas, the founders of TSL have become familiar faces around the globe making it impossible to travel anywhere without being recognized. In keeping with their responsibilities and duties, the name of the group has now been changed to the Global Agency for Supernatural Protection or GASP with Derek Novak as the Chairman/CEO and the other original members of TSL holding the key executive management positions. Even after finding the Bloodless cure and the elimination of the threat posed by the IBSI, supernatural crime still exists but with GASP having facilities and agents located the world over, it's handled professionally and expediently. And of course, they have maintained the alliances with the other supernatural realms made during the IBSI takedown. Their most recent case began with a call from the Greek island of Crete where tourists and locals have been mysteriously disappearing without a trace along with unexplained noises during the night and strange reports of vehicles being strangely mangled. All the incidents seem to be centered in the area surrounding the archaeological site of Knossos. Some of the more superstitious residents of the island fear the bizarre disturbances could be the result of Minotaurs, creatures of myth and legend returning to terrorize the island from the hidden ruins of the labyrinth. But are minotaurs real? Who could even say, especially after their recent discovery of several new supernatural species? Regardless, Derek and Sophia along with the other members of GASP from The Shade are scheduled to leave for Crete to investigate the case. And while their parents are conducting their investigation on Crete, Rose and Caleb Achilles' human children, seventeen-year-old Hazel and fourteen-year-old Benedict, along with Claudia and Yuri Lazaroff's twenty-year-old human daughter Ruby, and Landis and Ashley Vaughn's fifteen-year-old human son Julian are being shipped off to Murkbeech Island off the coast of Scotland for two weeks of summer camp where they will learn how to survive in the wilderness. It's a bit of a family tradition since this is the same wilderness training retreat Ben and Rose were sent when they were teenagers and we all remember how they ultimately ended up in Hawaii and the misadventures that ensued. Oh my! I wonder if history will repeat itself and they'll also wind up being kidnapped and in mortal danger as did Rose and Ben? It seems they do! Oh no! But will our group of young heroes be able to manage on their own and save themselves? I guess we'll see!

A Sword of Chance: Book Thirty-Four (second release of Season Five)
We discovered in Book 33, history does indeed repeat itself! And now in Book 34, while the Shadian members of GASP mount an investigation on the island of Crete, Hazel, Benedict, Ruby and Julian arrived on Murkbeech Island for summer camp survival training only to be abducted by a group of mysterious malevolent supernatural beings called sentries who hail from Nevertide, a previously unknown realm to the Shade. Our young Shadians were kidnapped by the Hellswan brothers, Tejus, Jenus, Zerus and Ferros, all princes of the Hellswan Kingdom. The Hellswan bloodline has ruled the Hellswan Kingdom for many moons and hope to continue for many more. Hazel learns that the Nevertide realm is made up of six separate kingdoms, each with its own ruling king or queen but all under the overall jurisdiction of one of the kingdom monarchs who also holds the title of Emperor of Nevertide and that Emperor just happens to be the King of Hellswan...the brothers' father. But unlike most kingdoms, these titles are not inherited, they are won in competitions. Sentries are large beings averaging seven feet tall and look mostly human. They possess heightened strength and speed, but unlike humans, their power is not derived from the food they eat but rather is sustained by feeding off the mental energy of others, much like vampires survive from ingesting blood. The sentries have found that certain special humans make the best donors and the Hellswan brothers need Hazel, Benedict, Ruby and Julia to be their power source for a trial where the sentries compete against each other. The winner will then participate in another trial for the position as the new King of Hellswan, then go on to hopefully also compete and win the title of Emperor as had their father before them, thereby keeping the seat of power for Nevertide in the Hellswan Kingdom. Their human captives are used as nothing more than batteries, useless, disposable and discarded when exhausted. And trials or no trials, the cycle will simply repeat with Sentries crossing dimensions when their human captives die, seeking and kidnapping more victims to use for their feeding habits and pleasure...unless Hazel, Benedict, Ruby and Julian can find a way to stop it...or maybe find a who to help them stop it. Trying to stay alive is proving to be quite the challenge for the young people so helping the right Sentry to win the competition might be their only way to survive. Clearly, their only hope is to somehow escape and alert their GASP family members to the actions of the sentries and the threat they pose to humanity. But whom can they trust to help them? Would it be Hazel's champion, Prince Tejus Hellswan, or Ruby's contender, commoner and people's choice, Ashbik Goode? Both are competing in the trials, but will our young heroes also be disposable to them once they win??? We'll see!

A Race of Trials: Book Thirty-Five(Third release of Season Five)
All Hail The King! Our story resumes in Nevertide after the devastating fiasco of the first trial in which many of the participants were eliminated...or did not survive. Yikes! Only twenty contenders now remain including the obvious ministers' choice and son of the now deceased King of Hellswan, Prince Tejus Hellswan, and the peoples' favorite, commoner Ashbik Goode. Seven perilous trials remain, each fraught with treacherous unyielding danger for the contestants as well as their humans. As tensions continue to rise, a new player suddenly appears on the board, Oueen Trina Seraq, but is she friend or foe? Why is she so determined for Ashbik Goode to become the victor and new king? And why is she equally determined for Prince Tejus to lose? As Ruby and Hazel become more emotionally involved with their champions, friendships and loyalties are tested, and our young heroes and heroines are drawn deeper into the darkness of Nevertide. Secrets, lies, betrayal, and dark mysterious forces continue to wreak havoc as unknown dangers continue to threaten their well-being and safe return to The Shade. Meanwhile, GASP continues the investigation into the strange unexplained disappearances on the island of Crete. They've exhausted all leads but are no closer to solving the mystery or locating the now five missing victims who seem to have no significant commonality and no similarities to connect them other than possibly their wealth. It's slowly becoming evident that several of the supernatural aspects of the case such as the minotaur hoofprints may be nothing more than a series of intentionally planted fake clues. But why, and by whom? Unfortunately, they have yet to learn the fate of Ruby, Hazel, Benedict and Julian. How much longer can our young heroes survive before the members of GASP realize their children have also been abducted and are no longer safe on MurkBeech Island? And once they do, will they be able to help? Until now, no one from The Shade has ever heard of the Sentries much less the medieval Nevertide Realm. It seems our young Shadians may be on their own. They have a plan but will they be able to save themselves? Oh my!
Only one contender will win... A King will be crowned... Who will reign victorious and become the new King of Hellswan? But more importantly, what will it mean for our brave young Shadians??? We'll see!

A King of Shadow: Box Thirty-Six (Book Four of Season Five)
Our story resumes with a new king being crowned in the of Kingdom of Hellswan and once again a Hellswan descendent wins the crown. With Hazel's assistance, Tejus Hellswan has defeated Ashbik and won the final trial thereby insuring his claim to the throne. Unfortunately for Tejus, he soon learns he has acquired much more than just the crown; he has also inherited the ominous ancient secrets hidden within the walls of the palace for centuries. Sinister long-forgotten entities aided by unknown enemies with malevolent intentions are at work, and with the Imperial Trials to determine the new emperor of Nevertide still to come, the situation has become grim. Julian is still missing but to make matters even worse, the mind of Hazel's brother Benedict appears to have become possessed by an mysterious dark entity and he has also disappeared. The palace along with all its inhabitants has been surrounded by an invisible barrier of unknown origin and the inhabitants have now all become prisoners. The fate of the Hellswan Kingdom along with our Shadian heroes has become most dire. Hazel finally reveals her home, her true identity and her supernatural heritage resulting in Tejus now seeing the beautiful brave Hazel in a new light. With no help in sight, Hazel resorts to what she knows best...books. The starcrossed young couple once again work together seeking answers in the tomes of long-forgotten ancient Sentry history. Despite Hazel and Tejus' determination to fight their undeniable attraction , they continue to grow closer as each is forced to confront and finally acknowledge the escalating affection between them. But Hazel and Tejus are not the only couple with increasing attachments. Ruby and Ashbik have also become much more than friends but as their feelings have grown, so has the danger. It seems, they too, have fallen victim to the evil forces at play. As the danger grows even nearer and the situation grows more dire, whom do our young heroes trust? How can they determine who is friend and who is foe? And who will become the new emperor of Nevertide? But things are not as they seem! They never are when residents of The Shade are involved. Thankfully, help may be on the way. The family members of GASP are finally aware their children are missing from Murkbeech Island and now they must do what they do best... solve the mystery, locate their loved ones and defeat the evil which threatens them. But will they be able to find them before it's too late? Will the Novaks once again prevail? We'll see!

Two beautiful, brave, young adult human heroines-check! Two courageous human teenage heroes -check! A new realm inhabited by a dark, mysterious race of unknown supernaturals-check! A previously unknown species of supernatural beings-check! Two new enemies who may become new heroes-we'll see! Two new characters with questionable motives who may be more than they seem-check! An army of supernatural heroes with a new name-check! A magnificent cast of characters including a new young generation of heroes-check! A plethora of supernatural beings including sentries, mutants, vampires, werewolves, witches, dragons, ogres, jinn, fae, nymphs, goblins, dervins, fairies and brownies-you bet! More new creatures that we've never before encountered-check! A dangerous new enemy with malevolent intentions-check! Danger, drama, adventure, suspense, betrayal and deviously dark evil machinations-check! Two sweet budding romances-Heck yeah! We have lift off! That and a whole lot more! Buckle up my lovelies for another exciting new adventure with all our favorite residents of The Shade including a brand new generation of heroes, all working together to battle old enemies along with a few new ones as well. I can hardly wait for An Empire of Stones, the next installment in the Season Five adventure releasing December 20, 2016, featuring our newest generation of heroes! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!

[Mikayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

again not fantastic

i dont know why i keep reading, this part of the series is horrible and is uninteresting me. i hope it gets better soon or ill have to stop reading.

[Jade Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever read a book so good, once you finished your mind is all over the place? Well, if you have, you know what I am going through and how I feel!!

This journey Bella is taking us on has me dying to know more and more. It's like a drug, you can't get enough of!! .... Now I know, some people do not like cliffhangers, but that is one of the reason I absolutely love reading these books. 1. I never lose interest and 2. There is always a 'next', always something else going on and that I love ♡

I hope you guys enjoy reading, guessing and waiting like I have done! Happy Reading ♡

[Kelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kids of the Shade

I enjoyed this book but at times I felt like it was dragging a bit. Still good! Going on to the next to make sure everyone makes it home.

[Donna Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a review from my blog: www.donnasthoughtsonbooks.wordpress.com

♥♥♥♥♥

Man will these kids ever catch a break. And will Tejus ever give into his feelings?

This book picks up where the last book left off. Julian comes to and realizes that he has been taken. I don't know what that bitch of a Queen is up too and how she is involved with the power of the stones but I hope we find out soon.

Benedict realizes that the stones and Queen Tina is not a good thing, but he can't fight the power they have over him. He is getting very scared and he confides in one of the other humans that share a room with them. She tells him he needs to tell his sister but that is not happening.

Tejus keeps fighting his attraction for Hazel and she doesn't know what to make of it. There is something holding him back but he won't share what it is, and she is bound and determined to find out what it is.

There is a lot of strange things happening at the castle and with Julian missing and no one can find him it has them all on edge. When Ash, Ruby, and Benedict go out in town to try to find him they run across some things that have Benedict freaked out. But, he still refuses to tell Ruby or Hazel because he doesn't want them stressing out over it while they are trying to find Julian.

Some weird things start happening at the castle after Benedict goes missing and it almost pushes Hazel over the edge. She is going crazy with Julian missing and now her brother out there looking for him.

 When Benedict shows up in his room to confide in the human she is amazed that he is able to even be in the castle, but she promises him she will follow him that evening if he starts to sleepwalk. She is able to follow him up until a certain point then she freaks out because she promised him and now she can't keep her promise. So she does the only thing she thinks she can do and that is to tell Hazel.

When she tells Hazel she shows her what she is talking about and Hazel tells her to go and get Tejus. After he sees what is going on they come up with a plan to break the barrier after Benedict comes back.

They get everyone ready and show them how to mind-meld so it is less painful to the humans and makes a stronger connection as well. While they are doing all of this Hazel and Tejus try to stay in the moment to instruct them on how to do it but they get pulled into their own thoughts and man what a thought it was. I wished Tajus would tell her what would have to happen for them to be together and let Hazel decide for herself if she wants to risk it, even thought I am not really sure what would have to happen.

They decide not to talk about what happened and focus on trying to save Benedict. After they see him walking up the tunnel they are shocked at how he looks. He acts like he doesn't even see them standing there. They break the barrier but something else happens that you will have to read to find out what it is but it is bad.

While Ash and Ruby were out looking for Julian one old lady told Ruby to watch out for Ash that she didn't trust the Queen. Ruby didn't really trust her either but told the lady she would do her best. While they were spending some rare alone time and getting cozy the Queen appeared and offered Ash a job. Ruby didn't like it because he had just told her that he would go back to earth with her when they were able to leave.

He told her that he would only work for the Queen for as long as the barrier was up. She was worried about him being there and he wants her to go but she can't leave her friends. When they get back to the castle they are locked out and go back to the Queen's castle until they are allowed back in the castle. She does not like what is going on its like every time they try to get close to each other someone always interrupts them. Ash tells her not to worry so much but she can't help it.
Tejus admitted something to himself and Hazel admitted the same to herself but I will leave that little tidbit hanging for you to find out what it is when you read it but keep it in mind.

Back on earth they know something is wrong and when they get to the camp they see that something really bad happened. When they see shadows of people coming from around the building they are floored because they were human but they looked lifeless in their eyes. They tried to attack Rose and the rest of the group but they are easy to handle and Corrine gets them put under a spell to hold them down. They try to talk to one and he is not making any sense whatsoever. One of them thinks that Rose is Hazel and she pretends to be but he is still not making any sense.

They decided to check out the cabin and found Benedict's shirt and cell phone. They also found Julian's wallet next to some very large footprints. They knew right then that someone had taken them and it was more than likely not human. They decided to take some of the more talkative humans back to The Shade hospital to try to get them better the rest they were taking to local hospitals. They would alert all of the group once they got back to The Shade and set out looking for the kids. They pitied anyone who took them.

Ben got a visitor from the past that he thought he would never see again. Sherus said he was not sure why he was there but that he needed to speak to him and his father. Sherus was one of the people he hoped to never see again.

I can't wait for the next book to be released on December 20, 2016. Even though it is only a few weeks away that seems like such a long time when I am dying to know what is happening with everyone.

Here are some questions that you can ask yourself and get answered while you are reading?

Does Hazel and Tejus find the stone she gave to Benedict?


What happened to Benedict?

What happened to Julian?

What does Hazel and Tejus admit to themselves?

What does Tejus reveal when they did a mind-meld?

What did they share when they were showing everyone how to mind-meld?

How cozy are Ruby and Ash getting?

There is a lot of secrets revealed and some that leave you hanging on trying to figure out what is going on, but it is a great read. I highly recommend this book.

Thank you for reading my blog and I hope you will enjoy the book.

Until Next Time: Happy Reading.

[Maria Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nymphs

Strange things are happening in Hellswan and they are only going to get worse. Hazel and Tejus are doing everything they can to figure out the mystery behind the evil entity. Ash and Ruby are stuck at Queen Trinas castle. But while Ash is getting chummy with the queen Ruby is looking for answers. And poor Benedict, if only he would have just told someone sooner what was going on. Who knows what will happen to him now. The upside though is that I am definitely feeling the love between Ruby and Ash and they are pretty cute. While Tejus and Hazel are slowly getting there. I wish Tejus would stop being so closed off and stubborn and just speak his true feelings for once. This story is definitely getting more interesting especially with the surprise guest Ben receives.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars for this one. I enjoyed the end but found I lost interest mid way through and found it difficult to finish due to the repetitive nature of Benedicts sleep walking and the Viking ship wreck and the predictability of tejus and hazels relationship. Although their chemistry is well written I would love to read of a truly independent heroine within these narratives.

I’m intrigued where sherus comes into things but this has been strung out for the whole book which is frustrating. I’m hoping the next book will answer this question, find gasp more of a feature.

[D.R.Slater · Rating 4 out of 5]

A king of Shadow

This novel tend to be a just a tag slow and felt it needed a lot more substance in the storyline. It's become madame as the author was trying to squeeze out the last creative thoughts to this ongoing series.

[Marisol Acevedo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah, what now?!? So many adventures!!

Well didn’t see that ending, lol

The kids are sure n a world wind. Of course they are. When have Novak’s gone missing and NOT had a rollercoaster of a time!! Lol

Won’t ruin it but you have to read it!!!!

Off to #37

[kate...l · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

What can I say really , another great story from the shade on to no 37 now x keep them coming bella

[Danette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

I Love the series. I don't want to sleep because I can't put the books down! I read every chance I get

[Sharlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read as usual!

Really like the vamps and sups. On to the next shade adventure and seeing where it takes us! The chase is on!

[Kelly Gunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Left on another cliffhanger. Next 3 books coming tomorrow. Still loving these books!

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

the rains are crazy and poor ruby and ash could not get back into the castle and benedict and his night walks having to ask yelena to watch over him as julian is missing at least now the parents are on track in the attempt to rescue the kids and i cant wait to see what they think of the kingdom and lets see who can break the walls spells and to see queen trina for who she really is

[Jessica Nadeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love love love

I’m addicted through and through! I just cannot get enough of these books! I wish someone would turn them into a show or movie some day!

[Lacy Bright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed the over due tension come to an end in this book with Tejus and Hazel! Looking forward to see what's ahead for them and ashbik and ruby!

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

From a camping adventure to being trapped in another world with even more supernatural creatures, this epic saga continues to draw me into its complex web! They are surviving with the guardians and still awaiting their parents to find them. This edition of the saga does not fail to deliver on mystery, suspense, and twists and turns to keep you guessing! Another great read and always pleased! This voluntary review is based against a Kindle Unlimited copy.

[Kai · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe I got the first book in this series for free and was instantly hooked. I generally don't like such short books (and these are short!) but since they release so often it was easy to deal with.

I was very pleasantly surprised by the fact that the author could still make the stories interesting after 36 books, but she has managed beautifully. Its nice to see characters that you fell in love with continue to grow and thrive! Reading about their children and their adventures has been a wonderful ride.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know how she does it...the twists and turns Bella takes within these novels....such an imagination. Now I am counting the days until December 20 when ASOV 37 comes out. I can't wait. I want to know what and who this entity is controlling the kingdom and what happened to Benedict? What is Queen Trina up to and what does she want with Ash and then what is Sherus up to; what does he need with Ben? Then the romance between Ruby and Ash and I love what is going on with King Tejus and Hazel but will Hazel lose herself in Tejus; she pretty much already has but he keeps pushing her away because he doesn't want to destroy all that she loves for her to become a sentry to be his wife and Queen. More to be revealed in ASOV 37!

[Wendy Thorpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a series, I don't want it to end

I can't believe it's almost over. This has been one of the best series of books I've read. I am constantly impressed with the writing, twists and turns of the many families in the shade. I feel like I've been there watching everyone grow up and continue their own journeys. I would love to see this on T.V. or the big screen. It totally deserve s it. Shaddicks rule.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness!

Finally they know about poor Benedict, I was so on edge and wished he would just tell his sister already! I'm also happy (not that its anything to be happy about!) that all the parents know that something has happened to the kids. I'm also curious to know about what Sherus is so worried about! Argh I have to wait to find out!

[Tiffany Spicer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cliffhangers leave you wanting more!!!

Bella has left me speechless once again and craving the next book. This was another breathtaking thrill ride that left you shocked at every turn. Somehow tying back into an earlier story. If your a fan of any of Bella's work, you won't b disappointed.

[Greta Riordan]

Loved it. I love all the relationships that are developing, Yay. Anyone else realise that Novak women have a tendancy to fall in love with their kidnappers? Sophia, Rose, Hazel... or that the Novak men always seem to become possessed by something evil, Derek, Ben, Benedict?

[Chali’Inaru · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exillerating

Omg I can't this is just to much... Just when you think you're gonna get the answers you seek Boom twists ugh now I'm sweating feeling lime an addict need more . I really lime this story and ruby better find Julius, that poor boy, bring it on the 20th hurry Bella

[Judith Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Shade of Vampire 36: A King of Shadow by Bella Forest

This book was just as fantastic as all the rest of the books in the series. I can't wait till the next book is released.

[Ann Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

As always Bella has written a great book leaving you wanting to read the next one straight away great story line as always

[qiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't get enough

This is at far the best adventure in the supernatural world I have ever experienced. It feels so real and believe able, great read.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hero's or villains

Good read more and more mysteries are afoot and finally parents and GASP can get involved and now Sherus king of the face. Can't wait to see what happens next

[Catherine Peavy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome series!!!

Great series that leaves you wanting more.
you need to read the series in order but you don't have to wait long until the next book comes out.