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Heir to the Crown #4
Shadow of the Crown
Treachery! Treason! Trolls?
Fooled into thinking they are returning heroes, the entourage's royal welcome is cut short when they mysteriously collapse; all but Nikki, the one nobody trusted.
Lady Nicole Arendale's past is shrouded in mystery, but it's slowly unravelling as secrets long buried are exposed, threatening everyone's future. Never one to rely on anyone's help, she has no choice but to return to her previous life if she has any hope of saving them.
Set on a path she neither expected nor wanted, they are running for their lives, searching for a safe haven in the midst of the coming storm. She could simply slip into the night, but something keeps her with them, yearning for a glimmer of hope.
Driven to see this adventure through to the end, she must now choose; her future or theirs?
Fooled into thinking they are returning heroes, the entourage's royal welcome is cut short when they mysteriously collapse; all but Nikki, the one nobody trusted.
Lady Nicole Arendale's past is shrouded in mystery, but it's slowly unravelling as secrets long buried are exposed, threatening everyone's future. Never one to rely on anyone's help, she has no choice but to return to her previous life if she has any hope of saving them.
Set on a path she neither expected nor wanted, they are running for their lives, searching for a safe haven in the midst of the coming storm. She could simply slip into the night, but something keeps her with them, yearning for a glimmer of hope.
Driven to see this adventure through to the end, she must now choose; her future or theirs?
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2019
334 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Paul J. Bennett
48 books524 followersPaul J Bennett (b. 1961) emigrated from England to Canada in 1967. His father served in the British Royal Navy, and his mother worked for the BBC in London. As a young man, Paul followed in his father’s footsteps, joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1983. He is married to Carol Bennett and has three daughters who are all creative in their own right.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 23, 2020
These characters are fast becoming my best friends. I can't wait to dive into the next book in the series which must be as riveting as the first four books in the series...
January 26, 2019
Shadow of the Crown is the fourth book in the Heir to the Crown series by Paul Bennett. It is a very well written fantasy series telling the story of Gerald, Anna, Henry, Nikki and Penelope, amongst other major and minor characters. The scenes are well described, there is a good balance of dialog and narrative and the battle scenes are very vivid. It's clean good fun - no unnecessary sexual encounters and the dialog is clean.
In Shadow of the Crown, Princess Anna tries to bring together allies to fight for control of Merceria, bringing down her brother, Prince Henry who is under the control of a Necromancer. Along the way, we see how Henry has tricked Anna by first throwing her a banquet welcoming her back to court, but she and her friends having to escape and set off on their adventure of the novel. You'll have to read it to see how it comes out. It's good fun.
I've read Tolkein, Martin, Abecrombie, Hobb, and others, but honestly, I like the Heir to the Crown series much better. I can follow the characters and the story lines much more easily, making it more enjoyable and reading isn't work.
Although Shadow of the Crown can stand alone, I'd recommend that the reader start the series at the beginning with Servant of the Crown and read all four. You won't be disappointed and I think it will make Shadow of the Crown that much more enjoyable.
In Shadow of the Crown, Princess Anna tries to bring together allies to fight for control of Merceria, bringing down her brother, Prince Henry who is under the control of a Necromancer. Along the way, we see how Henry has tricked Anna by first throwing her a banquet welcoming her back to court, but she and her friends having to escape and set off on their adventure of the novel. You'll have to read it to see how it comes out. It's good fun.
I've read Tolkein, Martin, Abecrombie, Hobb, and others, but honestly, I like the Heir to the Crown series much better. I can follow the characters and the story lines much more easily, making it more enjoyable and reading isn't work.
Although Shadow of the Crown can stand alone, I'd recommend that the reader start the series at the beginning with Servant of the Crown and read all four. You won't be disappointed and I think it will make Shadow of the Crown that much more enjoyable.
January 12, 2019
It was amazing..The writing,the plot-line,the wonderful,wonderful characters!! more than once brought a tear to my eye...you want a masterful,epic story? You want characters,relatable,fully-formed,yet growing with each page read? You want action and suspense up to your eyeballs,with wit to match?? STOP LOOKING,HERE IT IS!!! Honest-to-goodness epics written by a master storyteller.read it for yourself,I dare ya.
January 24, 2019
On the return of Princess Anna of Merceria a banquet was given by her brother King Henry honoring her return. Lady Nicole Arendale's had been released from her services the Princess. She got to noticing as the princesses entourage started passing out she pretended to pass out also, hands gripped her arms preparing to lift her as they were informed that she was one of Valmar's. Lady Penelope Cromwell commanded that they be taken to the dungeons and housed individually. They were all to be executed as traders to the country. They were to be tortured to death. Lady Nicole was awakened given some money and sent on her way. To find out who survives and what they do you have to read the book's it's a very good book and well written there is no sexual encounters in the book but there is violence should be aware of this before you read. It is a good book...
December 23, 2019
This book contained a lot of repetition from prior books. Still this was a very well-crafted story and is continually revolving. Excellent characters and engaging story lines for those of us who like knights, kings, queens and their families. The commoners are the best characters and a wide variety makes for more interest in the book. I like the trio of Gerald, Anna and Beverly working together and their conquest of all things for someone with no formal education. They are exceptional in all their skills. I will continue to read books about Merceria and the prime actions of the main players. I am currently well into Fate Of The Crown and awaiting the conclusion of what appears a great battle on the horizon. Is there more treachery and treason to come in book #5
January 22, 2019
Amazing. This book start where he last book ended. The Princess is welcomed back by her brother King Henry, but all is not as it seems. Being imprisoned, then escaping Anna and her loyal companions are off on a new adventure that will stretch from Mercia to Westland and points in between. As always the characters are full of life and expanding themselves into hero’s and heroines. I totally loved this book and am waiting for the next amazing adventure for Princess Anna and her Knights of the Hound. Grab your copy, curl up with a drink and lose yourself in the masterfully told adventures from Mercia. Highly recommend.
March 17, 2020
Saving a kingdom to save themselves
Paul Bennett has done it again. Shadow of the Crown brings home the delegation sent to Westwood only to be thrown in the dungeon. How will they survive? Of course they do but then it is on to save the kingdom of Westwood. Will they have enough troops? Will they survive against the army of the Clans that outnumber them 3 to 1? Follow Anna and Gerald with their friends Beverly, Arinam, Hayley, Revi and Nikki to save a kingdom to save themselves. I love the plot twists and the battle maneuvers. But most of all the characters show forth their courage and integrity as they engage in their battles both on and off the field.
Paul Bennett has done it again. Shadow of the Crown brings home the delegation sent to Westwood only to be thrown in the dungeon. How will they survive? Of course they do but then it is on to save the kingdom of Westwood. Will they have enough troops? Will they survive against the army of the Clans that outnumber them 3 to 1? Follow Anna and Gerald with their friends Beverly, Arinam, Hayley, Revi and Nikki to save a kingdom to save themselves. I love the plot twists and the battle maneuvers. But most of all the characters show forth their courage and integrity as they engage in their battles both on and off the field.
April 19, 2019
Another amazing, well told tale of epic adventure. I have come to expect great things from this author, and I haven't been disappointed yet! The whole book has a wonderful flow to it, seamlessly moving between points of view and never once losing the reader in the process. And the battle scenes? These are definitely some of the best and most creative battle scenes I have ever read. This book was practically impossible to put down!
January 20, 2019
Another great episode in the world Paul built! His world is well defined and the characters seem realistic. You will read and feel like part of the story, fighting the good fight for right. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and recommend the entire series too anyone that appreciates great Sword and Sorcery Fantasy!
June 11, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book. This is a great addition to the Heir to the Crown series. Even though the author does a good job of explaining the characters, I am glad that I read every book in this series. Princess Anna is growing up and fell in love with Prince Alric. Gerald has become a great general.
April 10, 2020
This is a well written book about Kings and Princess, good and evil that I have read in a few years. The back stabbing and murder that started this book was believable. That they lived through it was tremendous. Starting with five people basically and by the end of the book having a small army was great
January 27, 2019
Couldn't put it down.
Once again Bennett has produced a " got to finish it now" book. Great job with a great store line. Characters you love.
Can't wait for the next one. When will it be available?
Once again Bennett has produced a " got to finish it now" book. Great job with a great store line. Characters you love.
Can't wait for the next one. When will it be available?
May 1, 2019
Great character development continues in this 4th book in the series. Great battle scenes as well as constantly adding new twists to the plot lines. It’s definitely not concluded and I am only sorry that now I must wait for the next book to come out.
August 31, 2019
A great installment to the Heir of the Crown. The story of treason, courage and loyalty continues for Princess Anna and her Knights. She will find new allies to battle the cunningly Dark Queen and her corrupt of a brother, King Henry. An enjoyable fast paced read.
January 23, 2019
This is a story of treason, courage, determination and loyalty.
This is another book from Mr. Bennett that I will enjoy reading
again and again.
Well done.
Phyllis S.
This is another book from Mr. Bennett that I will enjoy reading
again and again.
Well done.
Phyllis S.
January 25, 2019
Every time I read one of Paul Benntt's books, I am amazed. He is just a fantastic story teller. The stories completely come to life. I loved this book!!!!!
January 27, 2019
I really liked this fourth book with more details on other races, new countries. I even surprised myself laughing aloud. If you like Michael J Sullivan, give it a try!
April 13, 2025
The story continues with lots of action. The plot is good. I look forward to the next book.
April 16, 2019
Enjoyed reading!
I admit I enjoyed reading this post and the series so far. Now, I have to wait for for more. A fan!
I admit I enjoyed reading this post and the series so far. Now, I have to wait for for more. A fan!
November 26, 2019
3.5 stars. Good continuation.
December 30, 2019
Another intriguing read.
September 23, 2020
Love the development of the characters
January 5, 2021
Action! Action! Action! Never a dull moment in Shadow of The Crown, Book 4 of the series. I read this in the space of four days because I had to read this every chance I got.
I love the way Anna is maturing. The wisdom she shows far outstrips her 15 years. She has also proven herself to be a 'warrior' Princess and, as such, has had little trouble getting the races she encounters to commit to her cause.
Gerald is also coming into his own as a leader of troops. His worst enemy is himself as he struggles to come to grips with the fact that their allies are prepared to take his direction and follow him into battle.
Ravi's powers are also increasing and now that there are a few more mages in Anna's entourage, he should be able to learn even more spells.
This series just keeps getting better and I can't wait to read the remaining books. Thank you Paul for a very engrossing tale. Happy reading.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of Shadow of The Crown free from the author and have chosen to leave a review.
I love the way Anna is maturing. The wisdom she shows far outstrips her 15 years. She has also proven herself to be a 'warrior' Princess and, as such, has had little trouble getting the races she encounters to commit to her cause.
Gerald is also coming into his own as a leader of troops. His worst enemy is himself as he struggles to come to grips with the fact that their allies are prepared to take his direction and follow him into battle.
Ravi's powers are also increasing and now that there are a few more mages in Anna's entourage, he should be able to learn even more spells.
This series just keeps getting better and I can't wait to read the remaining books. Thank you Paul for a very engrossing tale. Happy reading.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of Shadow of The Crown free from the author and have chosen to leave a review.
October 6, 2023
A quick rehash of the cliffhanger from Heart of the Crown and the story is off and running.
It's a brutal start to the story and it will have lasting impacts on Anna and her followers. But Anna is a young woman who is growing to become the Queen that Merceria needs. As she physically matures, so does her intellect, her battle skills, her language and people skills. The reader will readily follow along as she makes this arduous journey. She has built a support network around herself and the goals she has for Merceria. Her people skills bring her allies, maybe even very unexpected allies.
This story brings the magic of Merceria to the reader. Turns out the their neighbor, Weldwyn, can contribute greatly to this magic. But it's not all magic, there are powerful soldiers who can bring the best efforts of the soldiers to bear against the enemy. There is lots of action in this story, much of it battle oriented. Yet it is the characters and their support of each other which brings the power of this story to the reader.
It's a brutal start to the story and it will have lasting impacts on Anna and her followers. But Anna is a young woman who is growing to become the Queen that Merceria needs. As she physically matures, so does her intellect, her battle skills, her language and people skills. The reader will readily follow along as she makes this arduous journey. She has built a support network around herself and the goals she has for Merceria. Her people skills bring her allies, maybe even very unexpected allies.
This story brings the magic of Merceria to the reader. Turns out the their neighbor, Weldwyn, can contribute greatly to this magic. But it's not all magic, there are powerful soldiers who can bring the best efforts of the soldiers to bear against the enemy. There is lots of action in this story, much of it battle oriented. Yet it is the characters and their support of each other which brings the power of this story to the reader.
March 9, 2021
Torn down from the heights of success and thrown into the dungeon of despair, Anna and her Knights of the Hound suffer greatly, and yet the Gods look kindly upon her as it appears she had great deeds to perform. A long cross-country escape leads them to a fantastic discovery, which in turn reunites them with beloved friends. From there the founding of a new home and on to the forging of powerful new allies. Anna, Gerald, Beverly, and the rest all play a part in fighting back the shadows that threaten not only the lands of Merceria but far beyond as well.
As with the earlier book of this series, I recommend Shadow of the Crown with the same gusto. Pick it up and enjoy a nice session without having to keep track of your bonuses and saving throws. (If you're not a gamer, don't worry. It was funny. Just smile and nod.)
As with the earlier book of this series, I recommend Shadow of the Crown with the same gusto. Pick it up and enjoy a nice session without having to keep track of your bonuses and saving throws. (If you're not a gamer, don't worry. It was funny. Just smile and nod.)
July 11, 2024
Heir to the Crown #4
Shadow of the Crown
Paul J. Bennett
More sword than sorcery. Intrigue, political assassination, and treachery. Eliminating your competitors is a tradition well documented in Biblical times.
The humans in this narrative are joined by a life mage, a dwarf, and use fire portals to travel vast distances to visit orcs, elves, and other stranger beings.
Princess ANNA works to regain her father’s throne accompanied by her faithful dog, Tempus and a cast of knights, dwarfs, orcs and a mage or two.
The story devolves into a series of battles that proceed like a mighty chess game.
Shadow of the Crown
Paul J. Bennett
More sword than sorcery. Intrigue, political assassination, and treachery. Eliminating your competitors is a tradition well documented in Biblical times.
The humans in this narrative are joined by a life mage, a dwarf, and use fire portals to travel vast distances to visit orcs, elves, and other stranger beings.
Princess ANNA works to regain her father’s throne accompanied by her faithful dog, Tempus and a cast of knights, dwarfs, orcs and a mage or two.
The story devolves into a series of battles that proceed like a mighty chess game.
April 8, 2025
Heroes return only to be tricked and imprisoned! It is up to a dubious lady to rescue them and save the princess. Paul j. Bennett shocks and amazes the reader with this twist in the Mercerian Saga. Can this so called traitor prove her loyalty and save the day? Perilous intrigues and evil plots need to be foiled. Nikki will need all her skills to change the fate of the surviving royal party. Princess Anna receives unexpected help in the form of a grey wolf—but will it be enough? The reader will be spellbound by the vivid descriptions of bravery and horrified by the depths of evil. I couldn’t put Shadow of the Crown down! I truly recommend this book.
July 7, 2024
Shadow of the crowd is the best so far
The world building was epic, the further character development was on point, and the emotional toll was next level. Loved this volume and look forward to the next we learned so much of this world that I can only image what's next. Enjoy the adventure
The world building was epic, the further character development was on point, and the emotional toll was next level. Loved this volume and look forward to the next we learned so much of this world that I can only image what's next. Enjoy the adventure
January 7, 2025
Fantastic
I found this series by accident and I am loving it! Watching Anna grow from a young child to a young woman has been fun and interesting! The battles she fights, the people that follow her, and even her love of Alric. All make it more and more fun! There are plenty of plot twists . I also enjoy Gerald, Beverly, Hayley, Revi, and the others!
I found this series by accident and I am loving it! Watching Anna grow from a young child to a young woman has been fun and interesting! The battles she fights, the people that follow her, and even her love of Alric. All make it more and more fun! There are plenty of plot twists . I also enjoy Gerald, Beverly, Hayley, Revi, and the others!
August 20, 2022
Shadow of the Crown, 4th in the series Heir to the Crown, brought me back to old friends and their adventures with great joy. I love this action packed storyline, as well as, the relatable and interesting people that populate it! I highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews