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Realm of Skuggar Series #1
Shadowspeak
Once there was a girl who spoke to shadows...
Rune's mother is uncaring and her brother is too young to protect her, so when Rune's father sells her to the depraved city of Wraith at the young age of ten, no one stops him. His last words to her are of a debt he cannot pay. The shadows who’ve kept Rune company as long as she can remember seem to know what he speaks of and yet they keep their silence.
And so Rune grows up living in servitude to Wraith’s brothel and its manipulative mistress, Agata, all while having only the faintest recollections of her forgotten childhood. Years later when she finally escapes Wraith, a wild place wrapped up in hedonism and old world ritual, she vows to never return...
When a child prince is kidnapped by a masked killer in a neighboring kingdom, however, Rune no longer has a choice. Joined by Weylin, her old love and a fellow Wraith runaway, she returns to the accursed city and the shadows of her past.
Not all is as it seems as threads of memory begin to unravel, revealing old lies and dark secrets.
The debt of her past may be too high to pay.
The shadows are speaking.
Death is waiting.
Shadowspeak is book one in the Realm of Skuggar series.
Rune's mother is uncaring and her brother is too young to protect her, so when Rune's father sells her to the depraved city of Wraith at the young age of ten, no one stops him. His last words to her are of a debt he cannot pay. The shadows who’ve kept Rune company as long as she can remember seem to know what he speaks of and yet they keep their silence.
And so Rune grows up living in servitude to Wraith’s brothel and its manipulative mistress, Agata, all while having only the faintest recollections of her forgotten childhood. Years later when she finally escapes Wraith, a wild place wrapped up in hedonism and old world ritual, she vows to never return...
When a child prince is kidnapped by a masked killer in a neighboring kingdom, however, Rune no longer has a choice. Joined by Weylin, her old love and a fellow Wraith runaway, she returns to the accursed city and the shadows of her past.
Not all is as it seems as threads of memory begin to unravel, revealing old lies and dark secrets.
The debt of her past may be too high to pay.
The shadows are speaking.
Death is waiting.
Shadowspeak is book one in the Realm of Skuggar series.
- GenresFantasy
Paperback
First published February 23, 2021
2 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Raven Eckman
27 books69 followersRaven is a freelance editor by night and fangirl at every other available opportunity.
She always knew books were her passion, well after her grandmother’s challenge to read a book a day, and obtained her B.A. in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Arcadia University.
Over the past four years, she has worked with a range of authors, both self-published and traditionally published, on short stories and novels from horror to contemporary in YA and Adult fiction.
Currently, she’s drowning in her TBR list, drafting her second WIP, brainstorming a new project, and expanding her freelancing business—all while looking for more bookish things to get involved with.
Her debut novel, Shadowspeak, will be published by Fox Pointe Publishing, LLP, in February 2021.
She is active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook when she remembers.
She always knew books were her passion, well after her grandmother’s challenge to read a book a day, and obtained her B.A. in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Arcadia University.
Over the past four years, she has worked with a range of authors, both self-published and traditionally published, on short stories and novels from horror to contemporary in YA and Adult fiction.
Currently, she’s drowning in her TBR list, drafting her second WIP, brainstorming a new project, and expanding her freelancing business—all while looking for more bookish things to get involved with.
Her debut novel, Shadowspeak, will be published by Fox Pointe Publishing, LLP, in February 2021.
She is active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook when she remembers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 24, 2022
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley (thank you Fox Pointe Publishing). All thoughts and opinions are my own.
🆗❌ Characters
❌ World-building
❌ Plot
❌ Pace / Flashbacks
DNF at 20%
This book is so confusing! We have no details about the world-building or the gods they believe in. There are mentions of rituals and ceremonies, but no explanation whatsoever. It is hard to keep track of what’s happening and to get invested in this book. There are many flashbacks dispersed through the chapters, but it makes it even harder to understand what is happening or why it is happening.
Almost half of the chapters consist of flashbacks, but we don’t know when they happened or why they are relevant to the story. Rune also has a rare ability, she is able to see and talk to shadows, but we don’t know why she has this ability, and half of the time I was not sure if she was seeing a shadow or someone real or how exactly she interacted with the shadows. Again, the back and forth between the present and the memories added even more confusion to the story-line.
From what I understood, Rune has been sold by her father when she was about 11 years old. We jump 5 years later, where she seems to be a kind of prostitute/courtesan? Her mistress beats her and forces her to take part in a ceremony where hunters (no idea who they are exactly) can bid at a silent auction to buy the people? Insert a weird almost-incest scene, and a not-so-clear escape through the woods with her lover (again, it is all quite confusing). Add a few vague and unrelated memories in the middle of the action, and then we jump again three years later, and Rune is a barmaid, trying to run away from her dark past. Honestly, I stopped after that because I was too confused, and after reading 20% of the book, I still had no idea where this story was going, and I didn’t have the motivation to keep reading.
Honestly, I don’t care at all about Rune, she has no personality, and there is not enough interaction for me to know and care about the other characters. There is also a hint of mystery about the masks that people are wearing, sometimes it seems almost as if the masks were sentient, but then again, we had no more details, so it just remained a weird mystery.
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🆗❌ Characters
❌ World-building
❌ Plot
❌ Pace / Flashbacks
DNF at 20%
This book is so confusing! We have no details about the world-building or the gods they believe in. There are mentions of rituals and ceremonies, but no explanation whatsoever. It is hard to keep track of what’s happening and to get invested in this book. There are many flashbacks dispersed through the chapters, but it makes it even harder to understand what is happening or why it is happening.
Almost half of the chapters consist of flashbacks, but we don’t know when they happened or why they are relevant to the story. Rune also has a rare ability, she is able to see and talk to shadows, but we don’t know why she has this ability, and half of the time I was not sure if she was seeing a shadow or someone real or how exactly she interacted with the shadows. Again, the back and forth between the present and the memories added even more confusion to the story-line.
From what I understood, Rune has been sold by her father when she was about 11 years old. We jump 5 years later, where she seems to be a kind of prostitute/courtesan? Her mistress beats her and forces her to take part in a ceremony where hunters (no idea who they are exactly) can bid at a silent auction to buy the people? Insert a weird almost-incest scene, and a not-so-clear escape through the woods with her lover (again, it is all quite confusing). Add a few vague and unrelated memories in the middle of the action, and then we jump again three years later, and Rune is a barmaid, trying to run away from her dark past. Honestly, I stopped after that because I was too confused, and after reading 20% of the book, I still had no idea where this story was going, and I didn’t have the motivation to keep reading.
Honestly, I don’t care at all about Rune, she has no personality, and there is not enough interaction for me to know and care about the other characters. There is also a hint of mystery about the masks that people are wearing, sometimes it seems almost as if the masks were sentient, but then again, we had no more details, so it just remained a weird mystery.
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February 11, 2021
Thank you to Fox Pointe Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC copy of Shadowspeak.
I'm at a loss for what to say about Shadowspeak. Rather than classifying it as dark fantasy, I'd probably go to the point of calling it psychological fantasy. There is something cathartic about this story, but it's hard to put my finger on what. It's deep and should make you feel if you listen. I liked Rune and sympathized with her and her journey. However, I was not expecting this to take me on the ride it did.
The story is good and complex, and the characters are well imagined. When you sit down with this book, prepare yourself to give the story the appropriate time and attention. If you do not sink into the voice and read carefully, readers, you will not enjoy this read. It doesn't fit with so many of today's fantasy reads where you can just sail through it and get the high points. In order to understand this book, you need to be able to absorb and think before you judge. The words on the page within one scene are easy enough to read, but overall, this book is hard to read for other reasons.
First, the subject matter is trauma. Everyone experiences trauma in their own way. I've never had PTSD, so it was initially hard for me to align myself with the randomness of Rune's narrative. I can respect it, but I cannot empathize. As a reader, it was difficult to put the snippets of memory together cohesively. I think a second read would do the trick.
Second, the perspective is so close to the main character that I felt inside her head for the entire book. At times, I felt like I couldn't breathe I was so close to Rune. Given the darkness and the subject matter, that's not an easy spot to be.
The author did an excellent job of immersion. I recommend to those who enjoy delving into the human psyche and trying to figure out what's going on with that person.
I'm at a loss for what to say about Shadowspeak. Rather than classifying it as dark fantasy, I'd probably go to the point of calling it psychological fantasy. There is something cathartic about this story, but it's hard to put my finger on what. It's deep and should make you feel if you listen. I liked Rune and sympathized with her and her journey. However, I was not expecting this to take me on the ride it did.
The story is good and complex, and the characters are well imagined. When you sit down with this book, prepare yourself to give the story the appropriate time and attention. If you do not sink into the voice and read carefully, readers, you will not enjoy this read. It doesn't fit with so many of today's fantasy reads where you can just sail through it and get the high points. In order to understand this book, you need to be able to absorb and think before you judge. The words on the page within one scene are easy enough to read, but overall, this book is hard to read for other reasons.
First, the subject matter is trauma. Everyone experiences trauma in their own way. I've never had PTSD, so it was initially hard for me to align myself with the randomness of Rune's narrative. I can respect it, but I cannot empathize. As a reader, it was difficult to put the snippets of memory together cohesively. I think a second read would do the trick.
Second, the perspective is so close to the main character that I felt inside her head for the entire book. At times, I felt like I couldn't breathe I was so close to Rune. Given the darkness and the subject matter, that's not an easy spot to be.
The author did an excellent job of immersion. I recommend to those who enjoy delving into the human psyche and trying to figure out what's going on with that person.
January 22, 2021
I will be honest, the description is what caught my interest not the cover but boy was it a good read. You will read about the harsh, confusing past and present life of Rune the girl who talks to shadows. She's abused, traded to Wraith, a city of the worst type of revelry and debauchery, escapes with her love only to return to pay a debt(s) that does not belong to her; all while having small bits of visions from the shadows to make sense of her past. This book had me feeling the angst, love and betrayal; I was totally invested. I fully felt like I was trying to solve the past and glimpses Rune was given right along with her.
I loved the atypical relations between characters because they are living in a harsh world, I could not predict how the relationship would unfold.
However, I was left a little unsatisfied for how the plot was resolved. I don't want to give any spoilers so you'll just have to find out for yourself because it really was a fantastic read.
I loved the atypical relations between characters because they are living in a harsh world, I could not predict how the relationship would unfold.
However, I was left a little unsatisfied for how the plot was resolved. I don't want to give any spoilers so you'll just have to find out for yourself because it really was a fantastic read.
January 11, 2021
***NetGalley***
I will be honest, the description is what caught my interest not the cover but boy was it a good read. You will read about the harsh, confusing past and present life of Rune the girl who talks to shadows. She's abused, traded to Wraith, a city of the worst type of revelry and debauchery, escapes with her love only to return to pay a debt(s) that does not belong to her; all while having small bits of visions from the shadows to make sense of her past. This book had me feeling the angst, love and betrayal; I was totally invested. I fully felt like I was trying to solve the past and glimpses Rune was given right along with her.
I loved the atypical relations between characters because they are living in a harsh world, I could not predict how the relationship would unfold.
However, I was left a little unsatisfied for how the plot was resolved. I don't want to give any spoilers so you'll just have to find out for yourself because it really was a fantastic read.
I will be honest, the description is what caught my interest not the cover but boy was it a good read. You will read about the harsh, confusing past and present life of Rune the girl who talks to shadows. She's abused, traded to Wraith, a city of the worst type of revelry and debauchery, escapes with her love only to return to pay a debt(s) that does not belong to her; all while having small bits of visions from the shadows to make sense of her past. This book had me feeling the angst, love and betrayal; I was totally invested. I fully felt like I was trying to solve the past and glimpses Rune was given right along with her.
I loved the atypical relations between characters because they are living in a harsh world, I could not predict how the relationship would unfold.
However, I was left a little unsatisfied for how the plot was resolved. I don't want to give any spoilers so you'll just have to find out for yourself because it really was a fantastic read.
February 7, 2021
I received this book as a beta reader through Fox Pointe publishing.
I agree with many of the other reviews in that it was very confusing at first. All of the back and forth between memories and reality without a lot of context of time was difficult to understand. I continued to read though because I realized that Rune likely had a lot of PTSD, and it seems that perhaps she was just as confused about her memories because they didn’t fully make sense. Once she had returned to Vodihr and was stabbed and taken by the shadows to learn more about her past, things started to come together and make a LOT more sense. She was learning of her past just as we were. In this way, the author did an excellent job in writing the book from Rune’s perspective and helping the reader fully experience the story as Rune was. The confusion may be a turn off for some people, as I’ve seen on the Goodreads reviews, but I noticed that those individuals also said they didn’t finish the book. In not finishing the book, they may have never understood the full story or appreciated the way the plot unfolds.
Overall, as a reader who likes engaging books, this was definitely engaging. I was constantly wondering how everything fit together in the story. It is complex and multi-faceted, just like any person’s life experience is. Things that may not make sense when you are 7 or 8 years old ultimately are leading to something you do as an adult. I have never personally experienced trauma or symptoms of PTSD, but from what I have learned through my education, the snippets of the past coming up through, seemingly, minor triggers (i.e. a song, a word, a person), are accurate to their experience. I think perhaps things could have come together in such a way to keep readers wondering while still feeling a sense of understanding while reading the story from the beginning, but I was satisfied with how it came together at the end since I read through the entire book, and also read through it quickly enough to remember the confusing elements from early chapters that made more sense as Rune gained knowledge of her story.
I agree with many of the other reviews in that it was very confusing at first. All of the back and forth between memories and reality without a lot of context of time was difficult to understand. I continued to read though because I realized that Rune likely had a lot of PTSD, and it seems that perhaps she was just as confused about her memories because they didn’t fully make sense. Once she had returned to Vodihr and was stabbed and taken by the shadows to learn more about her past, things started to come together and make a LOT more sense. She was learning of her past just as we were. In this way, the author did an excellent job in writing the book from Rune’s perspective and helping the reader fully experience the story as Rune was. The confusion may be a turn off for some people, as I’ve seen on the Goodreads reviews, but I noticed that those individuals also said they didn’t finish the book. In not finishing the book, they may have never understood the full story or appreciated the way the plot unfolds.
Overall, as a reader who likes engaging books, this was definitely engaging. I was constantly wondering how everything fit together in the story. It is complex and multi-faceted, just like any person’s life experience is. Things that may not make sense when you are 7 or 8 years old ultimately are leading to something you do as an adult. I have never personally experienced trauma or symptoms of PTSD, but from what I have learned through my education, the snippets of the past coming up through, seemingly, minor triggers (i.e. a song, a word, a person), are accurate to their experience. I think perhaps things could have come together in such a way to keep readers wondering while still feeling a sense of understanding while reading the story from the beginning, but I was satisfied with how it came together at the end since I read through the entire book, and also read through it quickly enough to remember the confusing elements from early chapters that made more sense as Rune gained knowledge of her story.
February 10, 2021
'Shadowspeak' is an odyssey into the main character's psyche and the story of how she triumphs over her trauma and fears. If the reader goes into this book expecting the 'same old, same old', the reader will be overwhelmed by the emotional intensity of the book's darkness; the complexity of the plot.
The author does a good job of portraying trauma and the physiological responses to that trauma; sensory, emotions, etc. Rune (M.C.) is at the mercy of her trauma and her abilities. Nine times out of ten, Rune is experiencing memories against her will. She doesn't know what she's going to see and when she's going to see it. The painful memories, in high-definition, re-traumatize her every single time. The key to reading this book is to understand the italics are memories and those memories could be from anyone. The author gives the main character a lot to overcome but she does do it. Rune does get a happy ending but it's not a Disney-ending, it's a realistic ending.
For the reader familiar with trauma and PTSD, 'Shadowspeak' is cathartic and eye-opening. For the reader unfamiliar with trauma and PTSD, this book is a visceral experience.
In short, 'Shadowspeak' is for the sophisticated reader... and someone who has an appreciation for the toll trauma can take in and on life.
The author does a good job of portraying trauma and the physiological responses to that trauma; sensory, emotions, etc. Rune (M.C.) is at the mercy of her trauma and her abilities. Nine times out of ten, Rune is experiencing memories against her will. She doesn't know what she's going to see and when she's going to see it. The painful memories, in high-definition, re-traumatize her every single time. The key to reading this book is to understand the italics are memories and those memories could be from anyone. The author gives the main character a lot to overcome but she does do it. Rune does get a happy ending but it's not a Disney-ending, it's a realistic ending.
For the reader familiar with trauma and PTSD, 'Shadowspeak' is cathartic and eye-opening. For the reader unfamiliar with trauma and PTSD, this book is a visceral experience.
In short, 'Shadowspeak' is for the sophisticated reader... and someone who has an appreciation for the toll trauma can take in and on life.
January 16, 2021
ARC from NetGalley
DNF @ 71%
For starters, that cover is an atrocity, and it makes the book seem so much younger than it is. This is a dark read. It seems Norse in influence. We follow Rune through confusing flashbacks throughout. Half the fucking book is in italics as we are living through Rune's memories with no guidance, no fucking clue what we are reading about, when or why. Things are slowly revealed later, but as you're reading it, it's really bloody confusing. I mean, even later it's fucking confusing.
I don't really even know Rune's personality after having read 71% of this book. I don't give a single shit about any character. I have no idea what was going on or why. I spent the entirety of my reading it frowning like.. dafuq am I reading? The plot is meandering, there is no character growth, no real reason to give a shit about anyone, no reason to keep reading honestly. I have no fucking idea what I just read. I want my time back.
DNF @ 71%
For starters, that cover is an atrocity, and it makes the book seem so much younger than it is. This is a dark read. It seems Norse in influence. We follow Rune through confusing flashbacks throughout. Half the fucking book is in italics as we are living through Rune's memories with no guidance, no fucking clue what we are reading about, when or why. Things are slowly revealed later, but as you're reading it, it's really bloody confusing. I mean, even later it's fucking confusing.
I don't really even know Rune's personality after having read 71% of this book. I don't give a single shit about any character. I have no idea what was going on or why. I spent the entirety of my reading it frowning like.. dafuq am I reading? The plot is meandering, there is no character growth, no real reason to give a shit about anyone, no reason to keep reading honestly. I have no fucking idea what I just read. I want my time back.
February 10, 2021
Shadowspeak kept me at the edge of my seat. It had me yelling "Run" right with the characters. This is one I would keep in my collection to read again!
January 26, 2021
This book is different. The main character suffers from PTSD, and when she's triggered--which happens often--the story jumps back and forth between different time periods in her life. She can also see ghosts (called shadows), and when she touches them, or sometimes when she touches a living person, she sees the ghost's or the living person's memories.
All of this jumping around can be disorienting at first, but it really puts you in the character's head--it's disorienting for her too--and I found it to be an interesting and bold approach to storytelling. There's also a lot of cool, Norse inspired world building that's really intriguing. The story is dark and brutal, which I love. So much betrayal and heartbreak!
There's a lot going on in the story, and I wasn't always sure what was happening or why, but it usually didn't bother me. In this way, it reminded me of "Wicked Saints." You don't have to be clear on every detail, as long as you're enjoying the ride. And for me, this ride was enjoyable!
All of this jumping around can be disorienting at first, but it really puts you in the character's head--it's disorienting for her too--and I found it to be an interesting and bold approach to storytelling. There's also a lot of cool, Norse inspired world building that's really intriguing. The story is dark and brutal, which I love. So much betrayal and heartbreak!
There's a lot going on in the story, and I wasn't always sure what was happening or why, but it usually didn't bother me. In this way, it reminded me of "Wicked Saints." You don't have to be clear on every detail, as long as you're enjoying the ride. And for me, this ride was enjoyable!
February 28, 2021
Extremely mentally challenging. Love the depth of various levels of memories. Very well written. Gifted,talented author.
May 20, 2024
"Shadowspeak" by Raven Eckman is an enthralling dark fantasy that masterfully blends suspense and mystery. This book was a fun read, and I particularly loved the suspenseful and mysterious elements that kept me hooked from start to finish. Though it was a bit slow at times, the overall story was engaging and well worth the read.
The plot centers around Rune, a girl sold to the depraved city of Wraith by her father to settle a debt. Growing up in servitude under the manipulative mistress Agata, Rune’s only companions are the shadows that seem to know more than they reveal. Years later, Rune escapes Wraith, but when a child prince is kidnapped in a neighboring kingdom, she is forced to return to the city she vowed never to revisit. With her old love, Weylin, by her side, Rune unravels the dark secrets of her past as the shadows begin to speak, and death looms at every turn.
Rune is a resilient and determined protagonist, and her journey is both compelling and heart-wrenching. The relationship between Rune and Weylin adds depth to the narrative, and Agata serves as a formidable and detestable villain.
Eckman’s writing is evocative, painting a vivid picture of the eerie and oppressive world of Wraith. The slower-paced sections of the book allow for deeper character development and world-building, enhancing the immersive experience. Themes of sacrifice, resilience, and identity are woven throughout the story, making it a thought-provoking read.
Overall, "Shadowspeak" is a captivating tale that will appeal to fans of dark fantasy and suspenseful mysteries. If you enjoy stories with a strong, resilient heroine and a richly imagined world, this book is for you. Despite some slow moments, the thrilling and mysterious journey of Rune will keep you engaged until the very end.
Thank you to the author for this lovely story! Find more reviews and giveaways of outstanding books like this one on my blog www.kimsbookreviewsandwritingahas.blog
The plot centers around Rune, a girl sold to the depraved city of Wraith by her father to settle a debt. Growing up in servitude under the manipulative mistress Agata, Rune’s only companions are the shadows that seem to know more than they reveal. Years later, Rune escapes Wraith, but when a child prince is kidnapped in a neighboring kingdom, she is forced to return to the city she vowed never to revisit. With her old love, Weylin, by her side, Rune unravels the dark secrets of her past as the shadows begin to speak, and death looms at every turn.
Rune is a resilient and determined protagonist, and her journey is both compelling and heart-wrenching. The relationship between Rune and Weylin adds depth to the narrative, and Agata serves as a formidable and detestable villain.
Eckman’s writing is evocative, painting a vivid picture of the eerie and oppressive world of Wraith. The slower-paced sections of the book allow for deeper character development and world-building, enhancing the immersive experience. Themes of sacrifice, resilience, and identity are woven throughout the story, making it a thought-provoking read.
Overall, "Shadowspeak" is a captivating tale that will appeal to fans of dark fantasy and suspenseful mysteries. If you enjoy stories with a strong, resilient heroine and a richly imagined world, this book is for you. Despite some slow moments, the thrilling and mysterious journey of Rune will keep you engaged until the very end.
Thank you to the author for this lovely story! Find more reviews and giveaways of outstanding books like this one on my blog www.kimsbookreviewsandwritingahas.blog
December 27, 2025
4.5/5 stars rounded up
Shadowspeak | Raven Eckman
After being sold by her father into years of servitude at a brothel, Rune has finally escaped to her freedom. All too soon, those from her past seek out her help to travel back to The House to save a kidnapped Prince. Rune, against her better judgement, agrees to use her ability to speak to shadows and lead them back to the land she worked so hard to escape.
I really enjoyed the way in which this book was written. It took me until about 10% to get into the hang of the format, but both current time and the past are represented in each chapter. Current time is written in plain text and the past is written in italic text. This style was unique and immersive. The pace of the story, due to the style of writing, was quick and consistent.
The magic system was new and refreshing. Rune's ability to speak to shadows, called Skuggar, was interesting. The Norse inspiration aided in the immersion of the magic system. I love a good animal sidekick, and Birgir is perfect. The way Birgir is used for emotional support was a good move on the author's part.
Throughout the story, Rune navigates PTSD and past traumas in a very raw and emotional way. As a reader, I could feel her struggles and fear - her emotional journey was written amazingly well.
If I were to read this story again, I would annotate. I found myself flipping back and forth often to refresh some of the earlier events as the plot unfolded. This was, in part, due to the writing style.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this novel! There was feminine rage, betrayal, lost memories, trauma, love, and mystery. I look forward to reading more from Raven Eckman.
Shadowspeak | Raven Eckman
After being sold by her father into years of servitude at a brothel, Rune has finally escaped to her freedom. All too soon, those from her past seek out her help to travel back to The House to save a kidnapped Prince. Rune, against her better judgement, agrees to use her ability to speak to shadows and lead them back to the land she worked so hard to escape.
I really enjoyed the way in which this book was written. It took me until about 10% to get into the hang of the format, but both current time and the past are represented in each chapter. Current time is written in plain text and the past is written in italic text. This style was unique and immersive. The pace of the story, due to the style of writing, was quick and consistent.
The magic system was new and refreshing. Rune's ability to speak to shadows, called Skuggar, was interesting. The Norse inspiration aided in the immersion of the magic system. I love a good animal sidekick, and Birgir is perfect. The way Birgir is used for emotional support was a good move on the author's part.
Throughout the story, Rune navigates PTSD and past traumas in a very raw and emotional way. As a reader, I could feel her struggles and fear - her emotional journey was written amazingly well.
If I were to read this story again, I would annotate. I found myself flipping back and forth often to refresh some of the earlier events as the plot unfolded. This was, in part, due to the writing style.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this novel! There was feminine rage, betrayal, lost memories, trauma, love, and mystery. I look forward to reading more from Raven Eckman.
April 1, 2022
This book hit me right in the "feels"!
Pros: from the very start, I immediately resonated with the "others", shadows, and abandonment. I KNEW I HAD to read Shadowspeak!
At first, I got a kind of Hunger Games vibe, but as the story progressed, the plot became something original and enticing unlike anything I've seen or read before (and I read a LOT).
Until the very end, I felt myself falling in love with Rune, her struggles and triumphs alike, as well as the entire world Eckman created. In ways, it even helped me to understand my own world and experiences that “shadow” Rune’s.
The characters are wholly consistent, Eckman is a true wordsmith (one of my most FAVORITE things about this book is how well written it is), and there are scenes I just didn't see coming but that were more than welcomed and needed for a cohesive, unrushed ending. I always love when authors take their time with tying everything up and make it worthwhile to read.
Cons: I had a little trouble at first understanding this world, but the more I read, the easier it was to get. It was complicated, not unlike our own, but well worth the time reading.
Conclusion: if you're looking for a read that's original, has action, is well written, and will still manage to grab your heartstrings (with its shadowy threads), this is IT.
(You'll get the shadowy reference once you give this one a read!)
Pros: from the very start, I immediately resonated with the "others", shadows, and abandonment. I KNEW I HAD to read Shadowspeak!
At first, I got a kind of Hunger Games vibe, but as the story progressed, the plot became something original and enticing unlike anything I've seen or read before (and I read a LOT).
Until the very end, I felt myself falling in love with Rune, her struggles and triumphs alike, as well as the entire world Eckman created. In ways, it even helped me to understand my own world and experiences that “shadow” Rune’s.
The characters are wholly consistent, Eckman is a true wordsmith (one of my most FAVORITE things about this book is how well written it is), and there are scenes I just didn't see coming but that were more than welcomed and needed for a cohesive, unrushed ending. I always love when authors take their time with tying everything up and make it worthwhile to read.
Cons: I had a little trouble at first understanding this world, but the more I read, the easier it was to get. It was complicated, not unlike our own, but well worth the time reading.
Conclusion: if you're looking for a read that's original, has action, is well written, and will still manage to grab your heartstrings (with its shadowy threads), this is IT.
(You'll get the shadowy reference once you give this one a read!)
August 25, 2023
So wow this is another book that I read that is so very different than I am used to reading. I had issues following shadow speak lol, but once I could get through that part, it was great. I was really trying to get into it, and it started getting really good. This is different than I am used to reading, but it is amazing how you can write a story like this. Amazing story, amazing plot and talking to shadows and following shadows, very interesting. Story got really good and I could not wait to turn the page to see what was going to happen next. I loved what you did with this story and really appreciated how hard this must have been to write. I met you at Cupboard Maker Books where I bought it from you there. I am sad I did not get the children books that day and am having a hard time finding them, but I will find them and want to read them as well. Great story, great author and amazing reading and writing. Shadow on!
September 26, 2023
I am not going to lie, it took me a bit to get into this one. The jumping back and forth from past memories to present, took some getting used to. But once I got the hang of it I flew right through it. The world building is so good.
Norse/ Viking vibe with a fantasy twist, trauma, curses, PTSD, mostly told from the FMC (Rune) perspective.
So much happens, this poor girl has been through so so much, (her flashbacks are DARK) but she finally escapes only to be asked to go back to the place that gave her nightmares, to help get a young prince back who was kidnapped. We get to go along this journey with her. The good and the bad. All of it came together beautifully at the end. 5 stars for this amazing debut
Norse/ Viking vibe with a fantasy twist, trauma, curses, PTSD, mostly told from the FMC (Rune) perspective.
So much happens, this poor girl has been through so so much, (her flashbacks are DARK) but she finally escapes only to be asked to go back to the place that gave her nightmares, to help get a young prince back who was kidnapped. We get to go along this journey with her. The good and the bad. All of it came together beautifully at the end. 5 stars for this amazing debut
October 25, 2023
Shadowspeak is a promising novel that showcases Raven Eckman's talent for storytelling - with its compelling characters, intricate world-building, and a plot that keeps you guessing.The author's ability to create a sense of atmosphere and tension is commendable, as readers are constantly yearning for more.
The pacing of the novel is generally well-maintained, with a steady build-up of suspense and action. However, there are moments where the story feels slightly rushed, particularly towards the climax, leaving some loose ends that could have been further explored.
I will say that this is a book that you should give your full attention to, and really take the time to think about what you’re reading to fully understand the story.
The pacing of the novel is generally well-maintained, with a steady build-up of suspense and action. However, there are moments where the story feels slightly rushed, particularly towards the climax, leaving some loose ends that could have been further explored.
I will say that this is a book that you should give your full attention to, and really take the time to think about what you’re reading to fully understand the story.
February 4, 2021
DNF 67%
This is a seriously dark read. The cover of this book doesn’t really reflect the content inside. It makes the book seem like it would appeal to a younger audience and in no way possible should this be for audiences under 18 years.
The author provides content warnings for sexual, emotion, physical, and verbal abuse of children and adults, incest, animal cruelty and drug use, plus a plethora of other pretty heavy topics.
Then there’s the book itself. I really struggled with how often this book jumped between the two time periods of Rune’s flashbacks and the present story. There’s no real guidance between these and as a whole, I was left very confused.
This is a seriously dark read. The cover of this book doesn’t really reflect the content inside. It makes the book seem like it would appeal to a younger audience and in no way possible should this be for audiences under 18 years.
The author provides content warnings for sexual, emotion, physical, and verbal abuse of children and adults, incest, animal cruelty and drug use, plus a plethora of other pretty heavy topics.
Then there’s the book itself. I really struggled with how often this book jumped between the two time periods of Rune’s flashbacks and the present story. There’s no real guidance between these and as a whole, I was left very confused.
October 7, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, it was different than other stories that I’ve read in this genre. There are a lot of flashbacks that occur and me seeing another reviewer indicate this I think helped in me catching on to that early on, and it was less confusing to follow, but the flash backs make sense to the present story. The MFV suffers from a lot of trauma and PTSD, as anyone would given the circumstances she’s been forced to be put in. I wish there had been background in to how and why Rune has her gift, and should this story continue I hope that can be explained more. Some things were confusing but again, the flashbacks helped to make those make sense as the story unfolded. Definitely give this book a chance, I thought it was beautifully done!
April 26, 2021
Slow build but once the characters and plot got put into action I couldn’t put it down! Twists at every corner as the story and the mystery unravels memory by memory.
Took a little bit for me to get used to the world building but this this is one of my favorite “worlds” I’ve read in a fantasy novel! Very different thanks others I’ve read which was why it look me a little to get used to it. I can’t wait till more books come out that take place here! I’m dying to know more
Trigger warnings are given for PTSD and Abuse.
Took a little bit for me to get used to the world building but this this is one of my favorite “worlds” I’ve read in a fantasy novel! Very different thanks others I’ve read which was why it look me a little to get used to it. I can’t wait till more books come out that take place here! I’m dying to know more
Trigger warnings are given for PTSD and Abuse.
January 5, 2022
Such a wild ride! I would almost classify this as a psychological thriller - but maybe that’s going a bit too far. 😅
I admit I felt very lost at first, but details slowly pour in throughout the story. I know some readers don’t care this style, but it is very fitting with this story since the main character is missing so much of her own life and you are on this journey with her learning more as she learns more about herself.
If you start this one, don’t give up too early! It’s definitely a different storytelling style (or it is to me), but I think it was worth reading and very enjoyable!
I admit I felt very lost at first, but details slowly pour in throughout the story. I know some readers don’t care this style, but it is very fitting with this story since the main character is missing so much of her own life and you are on this journey with her learning more as she learns more about herself.
If you start this one, don’t give up too early! It’s definitely a different storytelling style (or it is to me), but I think it was worth reading and very enjoyable!
April 15, 2024
Shadowspeak is not your typical fantasy read! The story is interesting and complex with some good characters! It's a little confusing with the timeline moving between past and present but its one of those books where the more you read the more you understans. The life Rune has lived has not been the best, past or present. Runes character is described in a way that you feel and see everything she does and with the trauma and pain it wasn't always easy. Overall it was an interesting and entertaining story!
October 15, 2023
Rune was a child who was ignored and left alone by Family who couldn't stand her. Able to see what other can't and longing for an escape. relationships and heart ache followed by adventure. In this first book rune faces challenges that helps her to learn how to overcome her own obstacles within herself and those around her. Being sold and taught that her looks are the only thing she has doesn't dull who she is.
December 29, 2023
This book is amazing! The main character has a tragic story, which is explored and explained in flashbacks throughout most of the chapters. At first I got a bit confused about whether I was reading a flashback or present shadow dialogue, but eventually that didn’t bother me, as the story was very gripping, especially the last half of the book. The twists and turns of the story are so well done, and the worldbuilding is wonderful.
October 25, 2023
I’ll start by saying yes this book can be a bit confusing at time causing you to have to re-read past parts, but to me the story was beautifully written with detail about the shadows she could see, her hard life as a child and so forth. It takes an interesting idea from a writer to dual language a book with a language one would never think to exist…and that’s what drew me in the most.
April 21, 2025
I enjoyed the book. It is one that you have to read and focus on to pick up the subtle clue throughout the book. The flashbacks at the beginning are a little confusing until you get the gist of the world being created. I hope there is a sequel. I would like to learn more about Rune, Weylin, Anik,Gael and the other characters. Fill in some more of the back story. It is worth the effort to read.
January 19, 2021
Umm... DNF
Based on the content warnings at the beginning of the book and the other reviews I think I need to skip this one.
~ Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this title ~
Based on the content warnings at the beginning of the book and the other reviews I think I need to skip this one.
~ Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this title ~
January 13, 2022
I could not finish this book. I was so confused. As soon as I understood one concept things would change. The constant flashbacks were annoying. I think I've only given 1, maybe 2, books a 1 star before, but this one definitely deserves it.
February 11, 2021
Plot was too confusing Dnf. A lot of triggering situations that are beyond cruel. The characters were not my favorite.
March 18, 2024
Read my full review at Nevy's Bookshelf
August 21, 2025
This book was hard for me on many levels. First, it is written with memories or flashbacks in italics. So within each chapter and most pages you as the reader are flashing back and flashing forward within the same moments. I have PTSD caused from abuse and flashbacks are real. Second, it addresses child abuse, spousal abuse, mental abuse and physical abuse. I know I did not gleam that from the back cover or I might not have attempted this book (given my history). Third, it was written from a non-Christian (possibly Wicken) viewpoint. It has sacrifices, bloodletting and worshiping of Pagen gods. From a literary standpoint, it was written well.
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