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The Venatrix Chronicles #1
Daughter of Shades
A huntress with no past. A rival with a secret.
A kingdom’s fate hangs in the balance . . .
Ayleth and her shade move as one, ever hungry for the hunt. Under her mentor’s tight control, she fears her memories are being stolen. Now nineteen, apprenticed for as long as she can remember to the mysterious Holy Order, she longs to rise in the ranks and banish untamed spirits for the prophesied Golden Prince.
When shadowy threats descend on the crown, Ayleth seizes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prove her worth in open competition. Seeking to win the prince’s favor and escape her scheming mentor, she resolves to hold her own against Terryn, a handsome, arrogant opponent who may be more than a match for her untested powers.
But as the two rivals follow a trail beyond the Great Barrier and confront legendary evil, the stolen secrets of Ayleth’s past may return to haunt her . . .
Can Ayleth win the trial and reclaim her true self? Can she even survive her first day?
Daughter of Shades is the first breathtaking book in The Venatrix Chronicles YA fantasy series. If you like kick-butt heroines, intriguing worlds of magic, and slow-burn romance then you’ll love Sylvia Mercedes’s action-packed story.
A kingdom’s fate hangs in the balance . . .
Ayleth and her shade move as one, ever hungry for the hunt. Under her mentor’s tight control, she fears her memories are being stolen. Now nineteen, apprenticed for as long as she can remember to the mysterious Holy Order, she longs to rise in the ranks and banish untamed spirits for the prophesied Golden Prince.
When shadowy threats descend on the crown, Ayleth seizes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prove her worth in open competition. Seeking to win the prince’s favor and escape her scheming mentor, she resolves to hold her own against Terryn, a handsome, arrogant opponent who may be more than a match for her untested powers.
But as the two rivals follow a trail beyond the Great Barrier and confront legendary evil, the stolen secrets of Ayleth’s past may return to haunt her . . .
Can Ayleth win the trial and reclaim her true self? Can she even survive her first day?
Daughter of Shades is the first breathtaking book in The Venatrix Chronicles YA fantasy series. If you like kick-butt heroines, intriguing worlds of magic, and slow-burn romance then you’ll love Sylvia Mercedes’s action-packed story.
429 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2019
1839 people are currently reading
5414 people want to read
About the author
Sylvia Mercedes
37 books2,258 followersHi, there. I'm Sylvia: cat-lover, tea-drinker, book-addict, and avid fan of the Kickbutt Heroine Fantasy Genre! If you like reading about tough heroines with extraordinary powers facing their demons and saving their loved ones . . . then we ought to be friends!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
August 8, 2019
Daughter of Shades by Sylvia Mercedes
*****5*****
I thoroughly enjoyed Daughter just as much as its predecessor Song of Shadows. Ms. Mercedes expands on her amazing magic-building and world-building all while introducing us to great new characters. I love Ayleth, she's fierce and smart but also timid and ignorant all at the same time. She's really brought to life on the pages of this book. I love the complexities of the magic and the ease with which Ms. Mercedes weaves it into the fabric of the world and the story. The author managed to weave suspense, awe, excitement and humor all into one book. Watching Ayleth and Larantha hunt the shade taken was a wild ride and I didn't want to put the book down. I truly love the writing and I can't wait to delve further into Ayleth's past and see where her journey takes her. Ayleth makes the list as a Kick-butt-heroine.
The prequel book was SO good I can't wait for this one!!
*****5*****
I thoroughly enjoyed Daughter just as much as its predecessor Song of Shadows. Ms. Mercedes expands on her amazing magic-building and world-building all while introducing us to great new characters. I love Ayleth, she's fierce and smart but also timid and ignorant all at the same time. She's really brought to life on the pages of this book. I love the complexities of the magic and the ease with which Ms. Mercedes weaves it into the fabric of the world and the story. The author managed to weave suspense, awe, excitement and humor all into one book. Watching Ayleth and Larantha hunt the shade taken was a wild ride and I didn't want to put the book down. I truly love the writing and I can't wait to delve further into Ayleth's past and see where her journey takes her. Ayleth makes the list as a Kick-butt-heroine.
The prequel book was SO good I can't wait for this one!!
November 11, 2019
***3.5 Stars***
I'm intrigued by the world and the concept of Shades. I think the author did a good job coming up with an interesting concept and "hook" for the story. Plus, I love a creepy sentient wood and the Witchwood is just that. My only real complaint is that the pacing felt off. I know it's a short book, but everything from around the 50% mark and on felt a little rushed. Overall, though, it's an interesting start. Let's see what book 2 brings.
I'm intrigued by the world and the concept of Shades. I think the author did a good job coming up with an interesting concept and "hook" for the story. Plus, I love a creepy sentient wood and the Witchwood is just that. My only real complaint is that the pacing felt off. I know it's a short book, but everything from around the 50% mark and on felt a little rushed. Overall, though, it's an interesting start. Let's see what book 2 brings.
July 31, 2019
Interesting concept, basic writing.
Let's start with the plot. I like the overall idea of the venators, their jobs and how it fits into the story. It's well thought out and you can tell that there will be more information and lore. The shades seemed to be less defined (which again, I think will be resolved in the later novels) which are called upon by playing songs. While I love the idea and the image, it is very hard in my opinion to decribe in a way that is informative and descriptive at the same time. I remember very little about it and I was bit annoyed at the scenes happening in their minds as they added little to the story. Those scenes were written choppy with random descriptions and felt like they were in the book because they were "cool" and no ther reason.
The writing is more telling than showing. There are several instances of simple talk about what could happen, Ayleths thoughts and reiterations that are unnecessary. We get descriptions about how much stronger Hollis than her skinny appearance but no times where we can see that. The characters also talk to themselves a lot, lips moving unconsciously and all.
Overall, I was engaged in the story and I am excited to see where the story goes.
I received a digital advanced reading copy from the author for an honest review.
Let's start with the plot. I like the overall idea of the venators, their jobs and how it fits into the story. It's well thought out and you can tell that there will be more information and lore. The shades seemed to be less defined (which again, I think will be resolved in the later novels) which are called upon by playing songs. While I love the idea and the image, it is very hard in my opinion to decribe in a way that is informative and descriptive at the same time. I remember very little about it and I was bit annoyed at the scenes happening in their minds as they added little to the story. Those scenes were written choppy with random descriptions and felt like they were in the book because they were "cool" and no ther reason.
The writing is more telling than showing. There are several instances of simple talk about what could happen, Ayleths thoughts and reiterations that are unnecessary. We get descriptions about how much stronger Hollis than her skinny appearance but no times where we can see that. The characters also talk to themselves a lot, lips moving unconsciously and all.
Overall, I was engaged in the story and I am excited to see where the story goes.
I received a digital advanced reading copy from the author for an honest review.
March 8, 2021
Looove it! The first few chapters bored me a bit but once Ayleth meets The Golden Prince, it got way more interesting from there. I was still surprised to find out who exactly the Prince was and can’t believe I didn’t realize it at the time 🤷🏻♀️
Oh! Then we meet Terryn. Ayleth’s handsome opponent. I got quite a few laughs from him and the curses he couldn’t stop running in to! He doesn’t come off as likable at all but you just know that he is that “one” that is going to steal your heart by the end. Needless to say, I adore Terryn and can’t wait to see what happens next! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh! Then we meet Terryn. Ayleth’s handsome opponent. I got quite a few laughs from him and the curses he couldn’t stop running in to! He doesn’t come off as likable at all but you just know that he is that “one” that is going to steal your heart by the end. Needless to say, I adore Terryn and can’t wait to see what happens next! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2019
I was completely swept away by the first story in this series (the prequel novella Song of Shadows) and couldn't wait to dig into the series proper!
Unlike the standalone novella, this is obviously just the first instalment in a much bigger story (though it doesn't leave you hanging on a cliffhanger), and it's one that I'm eager to read to its conclusion.
The worldbuilding is one of my favourite things about this series. The setting is a cut crisper and sharper than your usual generic medievalish fantasy setting, with a fleshed-out fantasy religion and some utterly evocative French/Spanish-style names. Then, there's the awesomely creepy Witchwood and magic system. The best way to describe the flavour of this series so far is to say that it's a sort of cross between Garth Nix's Abhorsen series and Lois McMaster Bujold's Chalion books, and if that doesn't get you excited then I don't know what to do with you.
The characters are a lot of fun too! I loved that Ayleth, who has a Feral shade that manifests as a wolf, is a bit of a bruiser - she has super strength and a growly voice and isn't tiny and petite and delicate, which is nice for those of us who also aren't. There's a slow-burn romance between Ayleth and the uptight young venator with whom she's competing for a dangerous posting, and that was also a lot of fun - I look forward to many more books' worth of Terryn being scandalised by everything Ayleth does. The plot is twisty and full of all sorts of tantalising mysteries just waiting to be revealed, and to cap it off, it's fabulously written by someone who really knows how.
Sylvia Mercedes shot right into my pantheon of favourite indie authors when I read Song of Shadows. I think I still like that book a bit better than this one - it was such a gorgeously dark and breathless little story - and Daughter of Shades is a little slower paced, a little lighter and brighter at first, though it gets much more dark and creepy in the final quarter. Even if you haven't read any indie fiction before, if you like Chalion or Abhorsen, then you should definitely give this a read. It's well worth it.
Unlike the standalone novella, this is obviously just the first instalment in a much bigger story (though it doesn't leave you hanging on a cliffhanger), and it's one that I'm eager to read to its conclusion.
The worldbuilding is one of my favourite things about this series. The setting is a cut crisper and sharper than your usual generic medievalish fantasy setting, with a fleshed-out fantasy religion and some utterly evocative French/Spanish-style names. Then, there's the awesomely creepy Witchwood and magic system. The best way to describe the flavour of this series so far is to say that it's a sort of cross between Garth Nix's Abhorsen series and Lois McMaster Bujold's Chalion books, and if that doesn't get you excited then I don't know what to do with you.
The characters are a lot of fun too! I loved that Ayleth, who has a Feral shade that manifests as a wolf, is a bit of a bruiser - she has super strength and a growly voice and isn't tiny and petite and delicate, which is nice for those of us who also aren't. There's a slow-burn romance between Ayleth and the uptight young venator with whom she's competing for a dangerous posting, and that was also a lot of fun - I look forward to many more books' worth of Terryn being scandalised by everything Ayleth does. The plot is twisty and full of all sorts of tantalising mysteries just waiting to be revealed, and to cap it off, it's fabulously written by someone who really knows how.
Sylvia Mercedes shot right into my pantheon of favourite indie authors when I read Song of Shadows. I think I still like that book a bit better than this one - it was such a gorgeously dark and breathless little story - and Daughter of Shades is a little slower paced, a little lighter and brighter at first, though it gets much more dark and creepy in the final quarter. Even if you haven't read any indie fiction before, if you like Chalion or Abhorsen, then you should definitely give this a read. It's well worth it.
November 8, 2020
Interesting start to a new saga, set in a dark, richly built world that had a few not-too-subtle fairy tale references that made me pretty happy. (Their order wears red hoods and her shade is a wolf; the legendary villain is named Odille, and there is a sleeping curse that requires a kiss to break) I have a couple guesses where this is going, but this book closes with more questions than answers. One star knocked for the fact that I spent a good portion of the climax very lost, which made it hard to stay engaged.
Still, I look forward to finding out where this story is going!
Still, I look forward to finding out where this story is going!
July 11, 2019
It was hard to stop reading this. Attention gripping, thrilling and absolutely mesmerizing book. I was so into the story that I didn't want ot to ever finish. The story is simply fantastic with awesome and lovable characters. Looking forward to the book two with so much excitement.
August 15, 2019
This book in one sentence: In a world where spirits possess beings and imbue them with magical powers, Ayleth is both possessed, and a hunter of other possessed, trying to find her place, understand her past and compete for the prince's favor.
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️
My recommendation: This both is a well balanced mix of classic YA fantasy tropes and completely unique world building elements, in a way that is compelling and stands out. For a debut novel, this is really well written and I didn't see any of the editing errors I often find in self-published works. I love the magic system in this book and found it really original. The characters are fun, and I always enjoy a frenemies story line. Morality is fairly nebulous and unlike many YA fantasy stories, I don't actually know where this story is going. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Tropes: Orphan with mystery past, reluctant allies.
Content warnings: violence, death, kidnapping
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️
My recommendation: This both is a well balanced mix of classic YA fantasy tropes and completely unique world building elements, in a way that is compelling and stands out. For a debut novel, this is really well written and I didn't see any of the editing errors I often find in self-published works. I love the magic system in this book and found it really original. The characters are fun, and I always enjoy a frenemies story line. Morality is fairly nebulous and unlike many YA fantasy stories, I don't actually know where this story is going. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Tropes: Orphan with mystery past, reluctant allies.
Content warnings: violence, death, kidnapping
June 30, 2021
4.25 Stars
This was such an enjoyable story and Ayleth's character exceeded my expectations. Her snarky attitude and personality kept my interest piqued.
This was such an enjoyable story and Ayleth's character exceeded my expectations. Her snarky attitude and personality kept my interest piqued.
Want to read
June 18, 2020that cover is STUNNING!!!
November 11, 2019
This book definitely took me a lot longer to read than usual, but overall I did still enjoy it. (Struggled to rate this)
I think my favourite thing about this book was the concept. I really loved the idea and concept of the world we are seeing unfold in this story. I think the magic system and the shades are so incredibly interesting! I found it really difficult to get into this story but the thing that kept me reading was the intrigue of finding out how the world was going to unfold.
I think the writing in this was very very basic and at times there was a lot of unnecessary wordiness that made it difficult to stay interested. I also found that the way the chapters were divided were a little disjointed at times which made some scenes of the book that were meant to be intensive very underwhelming.
As far as the characters go, I do really like these characters and I’m intrigued to see where the relationships between the two main characters we followed in the book go. I am also very interested to see the story of the main heroine unfold and become clear.
I think my favourite thing about this book was the concept. I really loved the idea and concept of the world we are seeing unfold in this story. I think the magic system and the shades are so incredibly interesting! I found it really difficult to get into this story but the thing that kept me reading was the intrigue of finding out how the world was going to unfold.
I think the writing in this was very very basic and at times there was a lot of unnecessary wordiness that made it difficult to stay interested. I also found that the way the chapters were divided were a little disjointed at times which made some scenes of the book that were meant to be intensive very underwhelming.
As far as the characters go, I do really like these characters and I’m intrigued to see where the relationships between the two main characters we followed in the book go. I am also very interested to see the story of the main heroine unfold and become clear.
December 2, 2019
Books with shades, ghosts, possessing spirits, etc. aren't usually my thing. But I'd heard good things about this series, so I decided to try it out.
I'm glad I did! The storyworld in this book is very well crafted, and it stands firmly in the fantasy realm rather than the paranormal, which was fine by me.
Ayleth is a great main character. Impulsive. Sure of herself. Yet she has a lot to learn, even if she is very capable. Terryn (hope I'm spelling that right since I listened to the audiobook) is a great foil to her. Deliberate. A rule follower. Yet willing to push the boundaries when necessary.
The whole concept of Shades was a really interesting twist to a magic system. It's a magic system that is scary even if it is powerful. I can't wait to see how it plays out in future books!
Also, the audiobook was really well done. Emily Lawrence is one of my favorite narrators, so don't hesitate to snag the audiobook if listening is your preferred reading method.
I'm glad I did! The storyworld in this book is very well crafted, and it stands firmly in the fantasy realm rather than the paranormal, which was fine by me.
Ayleth is a great main character. Impulsive. Sure of herself. Yet she has a lot to learn, even if she is very capable. Terryn (hope I'm spelling that right since I listened to the audiobook) is a great foil to her. Deliberate. A rule follower. Yet willing to push the boundaries when necessary.
The whole concept of Shades was a really interesting twist to a magic system. It's a magic system that is scary even if it is powerful. I can't wait to see how it plays out in future books!
Also, the audiobook was really well done. Emily Lawrence is one of my favorite narrators, so don't hesitate to snag the audiobook if listening is your preferred reading method.
September 24, 2021
A great start to what promises to be a thrilling fantasy series! The story is well-written, inventive, and surprisingly frightening. There are a lot of unanswered questions, and in truth, this felt more like a prequel story than anything else, but I did enjoy it.
Ayleth is an ambitious, strong young woman who carries incredible power. Despite being new to her chosen destiny, she proves to be quite capable. She crosses paths with different characters, one of whom is Terryn, who has a dark secret as well. I think they both played off each other very well, though I would have liked a little more time to get to know them both.
The author has a vivid imagination, and I actually really enjoyed the settings Mercedes immersed me in, especially when it came to the end. It was creepy, exciting, and definitely piqued my interest.
The story could have been longer and answered more questions that I had, but the writing is solid and I'm intrigued enough by the world-building and lore to continue. If you enjoy headstrong female characters, inventive magic, mystery, and a dash of horror, this could be the series for you.
Ayleth is an ambitious, strong young woman who carries incredible power. Despite being new to her chosen destiny, she proves to be quite capable. She crosses paths with different characters, one of whom is Terryn, who has a dark secret as well. I think they both played off each other very well, though I would have liked a little more time to get to know them both.
The author has a vivid imagination, and I actually really enjoyed the settings Mercedes immersed me in, especially when it came to the end. It was creepy, exciting, and definitely piqued my interest.
The story could have been longer and answered more questions that I had, but the writing is solid and I'm intrigued enough by the world-building and lore to continue. If you enjoy headstrong female characters, inventive magic, mystery, and a dash of horror, this could be the series for you.
June 3, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this book....
Positives: The writing was so slow paced, it was kind of relaxing. But when things got tense, they got TENSE. Also, this actually does feel like the first book of a series - as in to say, not everything is fixed. The heroine's arc was set up but it wasn't fully developed (enjoyed the realism of non-conclusive arcs right in the first book.) The main plot points were set up but not resolved. There was the books plot, which was basically solved but there's still a lot more to discover. The author was clearly not afraid to make use of the series format to bring in slow character development and such things. The worldbuilding was done extremely well, as were the plot/conflicts/relationships that were set up. It was immersive and dark and played with symbolism pretty effectively!
Negatives: Some might find the slow pacing to be a negative, but I suppose that's based on opinion. I did at times think that the decision making and turn abouts were a bit wooden, meaning they were set up effectively, but when the time for decisions came, it was too abrupt or confusing. Also, tonally, I sometimes though the more YA elements didn't integrate smoothly with the darkness of the dark(ish) fantasy genre.
Opinion: I can't really find any fault with the mechanics and set up of the story that much. But my own negative opinions kind of stem from the religious system. It feels so...Christian in some ways - though there are enough doubts about it in-story to make me hope the religion is proved false or changed or something. I don't know...call me sexist, but it was uncomfy to see a female-based monotheism. It would've been fine, but then there was this three aspects of the Goddess (Heart, Soul, something) and...well, yeah, that bothered me a bit. Still, though, despite some of the YA elements and religion-y aspects that I didn't like muchly, I enjoyed the book. It was so well-written, much slowly paced with a lot of relaxation for the sequels and coming character arcs/relational developments. There's still so much mystery left to solve, and seeds of doubt planted in our minds wondering it all of this is even good or real or what is true...
That said, I'm going to hold reading the sequel in favor of other books. :D Basically, I liked the book and the world and the story, but I didn't much like some of its content. I'll hold off judging it until I complete the series. After all, even if the sixth book is still ????, the seventh might prove to connect all these things masterfully and in a really awesome way. Hey?
Content: A few mentions/scenes of nakedness. Not the explicity, sexual kind, though. Some non-romantic kissing. A few uses of the d-word. Also, this book IS dark with all its shadows and witches, so there can be some creepy things - this is definitely more of an older-YA read.
Positives: The writing was so slow paced, it was kind of relaxing. But when things got tense, they got TENSE. Also, this actually does feel like the first book of a series - as in to say, not everything is fixed. The heroine's arc was set up but it wasn't fully developed (enjoyed the realism of non-conclusive arcs right in the first book.) The main plot points were set up but not resolved. There was the books plot, which was basically solved but there's still a lot more to discover. The author was clearly not afraid to make use of the series format to bring in slow character development and such things. The worldbuilding was done extremely well, as were the plot/conflicts/relationships that were set up. It was immersive and dark and played with symbolism pretty effectively!
Negatives: Some might find the slow pacing to be a negative, but I suppose that's based on opinion. I did at times think that the decision making and turn abouts were a bit wooden, meaning they were set up effectively, but when the time for decisions came, it was too abrupt or confusing. Also, tonally, I sometimes though the more YA elements didn't integrate smoothly with the darkness of the dark(ish) fantasy genre.
Opinion: I can't really find any fault with the mechanics and set up of the story that much. But my own negative opinions kind of stem from the religious system. It feels so...Christian in some ways - though there are enough doubts about it in-story to make me hope the religion is proved false or changed or something. I don't know...call me sexist, but it was uncomfy to see a female-based monotheism. It would've been fine, but then there was this three aspects of the Goddess (Heart, Soul, something) and...well, yeah, that bothered me a bit. Still, though, despite some of the YA elements and religion-y aspects that I didn't like muchly, I enjoyed the book. It was so well-written, much slowly paced with a lot of relaxation for the sequels and coming character arcs/relational developments. There's still so much mystery left to solve, and seeds of doubt planted in our minds wondering it all of this is even good or real or what is true...
That said, I'm going to hold reading the sequel in favor of other books. :D Basically, I liked the book and the world and the story, but I didn't much like some of its content. I'll hold off judging it until I complete the series. After all, even if the sixth book is still ????, the seventh might prove to connect all these things masterfully and in a really awesome way. Hey?
Content: A few mentions/scenes of nakedness. Not the explicity, sexual kind, though. Some non-romantic kissing. A few uses of the d-word. Also, this book IS dark with all its shadows and witches, so there can be some creepy things - this is definitely more of an older-YA read.
July 28, 2019
Daughter of Shades
by Sylvia Mercedes
Book 1 of the Venatrix Chronicles series
Rating: 4/5
Wow. This book takes you on a whirlwind ride of adventure and it’s nonstop. The author’s creativity and imagination truly came out in the world-building of this story, and it’s only just beginning.
There’s so much mystery surrounding the first few chapters that it was a bit confusing but as more of the world-building occurs, you start to understand what’s happening (or so you think?)
Ayleth is a shade huntress apprentice who was raised and trained as someone who could control her shade in order to banish other shades, evil spirits. She is very good at her job but she fears something is wrong with her memories. Her mentor tells her she is not quite ready to go off on her own, but Ayleth decides to take matters into her own hands. A dangerous job has opened up and Ayleth sets off to prove that she is worthy of the post. She is not the only one up for the spot though and finds herself in a competition with Terryn, who also seems to be very good at what he does. As the couple venture beyond the Great Barrier to uncover the mystery, they find Ayleth may not be what she seems.
Having never read anything from Sylvia Mercedes before, I was most attracted to the cover of this book before anything else. Who doesn’t love an exciting book cover? However, once I started reading this book, I became consumed by this different, yet riveting world that she’d created. It was difficult to put the book down and even when finished, I craved more. I guess I will have to impatiently wait for the next book. The characters are fun and mysterious and I want to find out more about them and their histories. I love a good mystery filled with secrets and adventure and romance.
Highly recommend this new book in this new series! You won’t want to miss it.
My thanks to the author for an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
by Sylvia Mercedes
Book 1 of the Venatrix Chronicles series
Rating: 4/5
Wow. This book takes you on a whirlwind ride of adventure and it’s nonstop. The author’s creativity and imagination truly came out in the world-building of this story, and it’s only just beginning.
There’s so much mystery surrounding the first few chapters that it was a bit confusing but as more of the world-building occurs, you start to understand what’s happening (or so you think?)
Ayleth is a shade huntress apprentice who was raised and trained as someone who could control her shade in order to banish other shades, evil spirits. She is very good at her job but she fears something is wrong with her memories. Her mentor tells her she is not quite ready to go off on her own, but Ayleth decides to take matters into her own hands. A dangerous job has opened up and Ayleth sets off to prove that she is worthy of the post. She is not the only one up for the spot though and finds herself in a competition with Terryn, who also seems to be very good at what he does. As the couple venture beyond the Great Barrier to uncover the mystery, they find Ayleth may not be what she seems.
Having never read anything from Sylvia Mercedes before, I was most attracted to the cover of this book before anything else. Who doesn’t love an exciting book cover? However, once I started reading this book, I became consumed by this different, yet riveting world that she’d created. It was difficult to put the book down and even when finished, I craved more. I guess I will have to impatiently wait for the next book. The characters are fun and mysterious and I want to find out more about them and their histories. I love a good mystery filled with secrets and adventure and romance.
Highly recommend this new book in this new series! You won’t want to miss it.
My thanks to the author for an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
October 8, 2019
I really enjoyed this one!
In this story we have our h, Ayleth, a young shade bound apprentice working for a government entity called the Holy Order. Being shade bound basically means you have a conscious spirit inside of you that can give you strength and power if you learn to harness it, or can complete take over and destroy your body if you let it free. (But it really depends on what kind of shade you get though. Some are content to just experience a life outside of their realm)
The book starts with Ayleth trying to impress upon her mentor that she is ready to take on the responsibility of going on her own hunts, and starting a new chapter in her life. While Ayleth and those in her Order are Shade bound- it is their duty to eliminate other people infested with shades, and return freed Shades back to their realm.
When Ayleth realizes that her mentor might be keeping things from her- as well as holding her back- she strikes out on her own to meet the famed Golden Prince to get her new assignment and start an adventure of her own.
I really liked the characters, world building, and magic systems. Oh, and the banter/competition between Terryn and Ayleth was pretty hilarious.
In this story we have our h, Ayleth, a young shade bound apprentice working for a government entity called the Holy Order. Being shade bound basically means you have a conscious spirit inside of you that can give you strength and power if you learn to harness it, or can complete take over and destroy your body if you let it free. (But it really depends on what kind of shade you get though. Some are content to just experience a life outside of their realm)
The book starts with Ayleth trying to impress upon her mentor that she is ready to take on the responsibility of going on her own hunts, and starting a new chapter in her life. While Ayleth and those in her Order are Shade bound- it is their duty to eliminate other people infested with shades, and return freed Shades back to their realm.
When Ayleth realizes that her mentor might be keeping things from her- as well as holding her back- she strikes out on her own to meet the famed Golden Prince to get her new assignment and start an adventure of her own.
I really liked the characters, world building, and magic systems. Oh, and the banter/competition between Terryn and Ayleth was pretty hilarious.
April 9, 2021
I enjoyed this beginning to this series. She is a very good story teller and I like her characters. I loved the way this ended and am excited to pick up the next. I missed the romance in this one but I am assuming that will be coming. The kisses at the end were hilarious so fingers crossed something develops there. This is a fun fast paced coming into adulthood type book. The world is pretty fascinating. I've never read a book like this so it was interesting to me that the shades lived inside them.
These have plenty of fantasy violence. They are assassins in a way who kill the shade and the person who is taken by one. The characters do get roughed up. There is some nudity, it is no sexual. This would be a Pg13 movie.
These have plenty of fantasy violence. They are assassins in a way who kill the shade and the person who is taken by one. The characters do get roughed up. There is some nudity, it is no sexual. This would be a Pg13 movie.
July 8, 2019
This series is set in a world of shades and mortals, witches and venators. Ayleth is our kick-butt venatrix, who despite her rough exterior, is truly a woman underneath. She struggles and blushes, but fights like a mad-woman. All grit and muscle. I connected well with her, actually. Haha!
If you like deep, layered characters, action with vivid imagery, and side undertones of romance you will love this book. It will take you from boroughs, to palaces, to the deepest parts of hell. And leave you breathless through it all. (I'm pretty sure I'm going to need an adrenal supplement for a few weeks).
Thrilling read!
~Ariel~
If you like deep, layered characters, action with vivid imagery, and side undertones of romance you will love this book. It will take you from boroughs, to palaces, to the deepest parts of hell. And leave you breathless through it all. (I'm pretty sure I'm going to need an adrenal supplement for a few weeks).
Thrilling read!
~Ariel~
September 28, 2023
I finally got to try a Sylvia Mercedes book, I wanted to start with this series and then go on from there with her other books. So, while it took a minute to get into and understand the world and what in the hell was going on, once that hit, I was totally invested, this was good. There's alot going on, and I have a million damn questions. I loved when they were in the witchwood, place is terrifying. I've got the next one, so off I go.
January 6, 2021
Loved everything about this story. The world building was amazing in a way that wasn't confusing and dragged you in. Can't wait to read the next one.
March 31, 2022
Book 1 in the Venatrix Chronicles
Princess...Prophecy...Hidden Daughter...Shade Huntress...Curses...Witches...
A captivating magical adventure filled with self-sacrifice and the beginnings of a slow-burn romance filled with lots of banter. Realization that working together is better than being alone.
Excited for book 2
Princess...Prophecy...Hidden Daughter...Shade Huntress...Curses...Witches...
A captivating magical adventure filled with self-sacrifice and the beginnings of a slow-burn romance filled with lots of banter. Realization that working together is better than being alone.
Excited for book 2
March 15, 2021
A really good book, I enjoyed it and thought it was a good start to the story. The setting is quite unique with the worlds and the characters, and it's so nice and rare to read something so new!! Nice slow burn romance that doesn't take up the entire story but rather compliments it. Dragged on a few times but overall really good!
And that cover is GORGEOUS!
→3.5 stars
And that cover is GORGEOUS!
→3.5 stars
January 20, 2020
My first fiction read of 2020! I received this book for Christmas, and I couldn't wait to dive in. Secrets, shades, and empowered beings. This story plunges you into a world like none I've ever read before. The world building is massive, but I feel like it's only the tip of the iceberg. AND there are gorgeous maps! In the beginning, I was a bit confused as I tried to see how people and events were related to each other, but that faded as I grew accustomed to the new story world and the characters. The main character is strong yet relate-able, desiring to strike out on her own and prove herself. I love the chemistry between the characters. The author hinted at so many secrets, possibilities, and challenges to come, I am looking forward to seeing how it will all play out throughout the rest of the series. The story ended well, leaving us with just a taste of the characters and what is to come. I really enjoyed the story, and maybe I'll love it, but first I want to see how some things play out in the rest of the series. I have a feeling this is just a start to a most epic adventure. I definitely recommend this book to readers (older teens and beyond) who enjoy a bit of a dark, gritty, creepiness in their adventures with a hint of romance to come.
April 25, 2021
Hm, this one has me a bit torn. I almost dropped it after chapter 9 because I felt slow. We were 9 chapters in and hadn’t even gotten to anything in the summary of the book on Goodreads. The plot hadn’t started yet. However, the next chapter after that was fast paced and flowed quickly so I ended up finishing the book easily enough.
The characters don’t have strong personalities in this book. I’m inclined to believe that they will perhaps in the next book because this whole book felt a prologue. It answered no questions and basically only introduced characters and the premise. I don’t know what the purpose of this book is and that’s not a good thing.
Also, because I don’t know the personality of MC, I didn’t feel like her reasons for leaving home for this contest were justified. We don’t know how she was raised or what kind of person she is, we can infer that she was raised strictly, but her tendency to go against the rules and do things without permission would go against that notion of strictness. So she’s rebellious? But why? What in her life happened to make her distrust the one who raised her? Yes we readers know Hollis is lying, but MC shouldn’t know since her memory is being tampered with. In her mind, Hollis is the only person who cares about her. It just doesn’t convince me of her motives and I don’t like having to work so hard to justify a character’s actions. That’s the job of the writer IMO.
Idk it wasn’t a strong first book for me. Again, we didn’t answer any questions at all in this book so I am curious. However, there’s 7 books in this series and that is a commitment I’m not sure I can give at this point :/ I might be risking a reading block if I continue
The characters don’t have strong personalities in this book. I’m inclined to believe that they will perhaps in the next book because this whole book felt a prologue. It answered no questions and basically only introduced characters and the premise. I don’t know what the purpose of this book is and that’s not a good thing.
Also, because I don’t know the personality of MC, I didn’t feel like her reasons for leaving home for this contest were justified. We don’t know how she was raised or what kind of person she is, we can infer that she was raised strictly, but her tendency to go against the rules and do things without permission would go against that notion of strictness. So she’s rebellious? But why? What in her life happened to make her distrust the one who raised her? Yes we readers know Hollis is lying, but MC shouldn’t know since her memory is being tampered with. In her mind, Hollis is the only person who cares about her. It just doesn’t convince me of her motives and I don’t like having to work so hard to justify a character’s actions. That’s the job of the writer IMO.
Idk it wasn’t a strong first book for me. Again, we didn’t answer any questions at all in this book so I am curious. However, there’s 7 books in this series and that is a commitment I’m not sure I can give at this point :/ I might be risking a reading block if I continue
July 1, 2019
I received this novel as an ARC from Ms.Mercedes. Thank you!
This novel follows the venatrix Ayleth, with her shade Laranta. Ayleth wants to venture on her own, since the Chosen Prince is looking for another to fill the role of a missing venator. Ayleth and her shade work will together, but some would feel she gives her shade too much freedom if they discover she has not suppressed her shade. On her journey, Ayleth meets a venator named Terryn, who has a rather icy appearance and attitude. He trained under Fendrel, who is considered a very powerful venator whereas Ayleth trained under the venatrix Hollis, but Hollis has been keeping secrets from Ayleth. Terryn and Ayleth both have ambitions, yet end up being forced to work together to solve the mystery of the disappearance of one of their own by the prince. The prince will determine who gets the position, yet believes they will need each other to help solve the many arising questions. As they work to discover where the missing venator is, they will have more questions than answers and a whole lot of trouble coming their way.
This novel follows the venatrix Ayleth, with her shade Laranta. Ayleth wants to venture on her own, since the Chosen Prince is looking for another to fill the role of a missing venator. Ayleth and her shade work will together, but some would feel she gives her shade too much freedom if they discover she has not suppressed her shade. On her journey, Ayleth meets a venator named Terryn, who has a rather icy appearance and attitude. He trained under Fendrel, who is considered a very powerful venator whereas Ayleth trained under the venatrix Hollis, but Hollis has been keeping secrets from Ayleth. Terryn and Ayleth both have ambitions, yet end up being forced to work together to solve the mystery of the disappearance of one of their own by the prince. The prince will determine who gets the position, yet believes they will need each other to help solve the many arising questions. As they work to discover where the missing venator is, they will have more questions than answers and a whole lot of trouble coming their way.
June 30, 2022
This had a really interesting premise, and some very entertaining scenes, but I found the pacing to be just a bit off. The plot hinted by the blurb doesn't actually start until halfway through the story. I was also expecting an actual competition, in which she and an opponent have to team up to win, but there wasn't one at all. It was more like two people who couldn't get along had to complete a single chore.
I feel bad saying this because I know the narrator is award-winning, but I think a big part of why I didn't enjoy this as much as I could have was because of the narrator's voice. I found her voice nasally and weepy, especially during the parts with lots of emotional tension. There was a wind witch character in the latter quarter of the story who positively sounded like she was on the verge of sobbing the entire time.
I'm curious to find out what happens between Ayleth and Taran(? I think that's how it's spelled), but I'm not sure if the storytelling of the rest of the books would be paced like this too.
I feel bad saying this because I know the narrator is award-winning, but I think a big part of why I didn't enjoy this as much as I could have was because of the narrator's voice. I found her voice nasally and weepy, especially during the parts with lots of emotional tension. There was a wind witch character in the latter quarter of the story who positively sounded like she was on the verge of sobbing the entire time.
I'm curious to find out what happens between Ayleth and Taran(? I think that's how it's spelled), but I'm not sure if the storytelling of the rest of the books would be paced like this too.
April 16, 2020
Oh wow, what a fast-paced, terrifying adventure this book plunged me into. I had to stop reading it at bedtime, partly because I couldn't put it down when I should be sleeping, and partly because it gave me somewhat scary dreams! I'm diving straight into book 2 to find out more about the mysterious character and history of Ayleth, the strange connection she has with her powerful shadow demon, and the dangerous quest she's literally ridden into. The world-building and complex magic system is rich and fascinating - this was an amazing start to a series.
April 14, 2021
This is one of those series that I just have to reread all the time. It's EVERYTHING I love and want in a book, all bound up together. Amazing writing, the COOLEST magic system, a sizzling slow burn romance, and so much action and beloved characters.
October 13, 2019
Very interesting read and characters. Lots of unanswered questions.
June 4, 2021
I NEED MORE TERRYN.
RTC.
RTC.
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