Shadow of the Fae

The Fae Chronicles #1

by Valia Lind

If I’m found, my life is over.

I was ready for a quiet and normal senior year. But then, I read something I wasn’t supposed to and now every illusion I had about my magic is shattered.

Something in my blood allows me to read spells thought to be lost long ago. It’s a power the courts of Faery will fight over…with me as collateral damage.

My two-part plan: Stay hidden. Stay alive.

Which is how I end up playing bounty hunter to magical items while living in Phoenix, Arizona.

When the breathtakingly beautiful and arrogant Fae prince finds me, I’m prepared for him to drag me kicking and screaming back to the Faery Realm.

He doesn’t. He decides to help. Or so he claims…

Gorgeous and deadly. A dangerous combination. And my only chance at survival.

If I don’t outwit the fae and learn to control my magic, I will lose my life. And all those I love will perish with me.

Featuring a fierce heroine, a broody prince, and all things magical, Shadow of the Fae is the first book in this fast-paced young adult paranormal romance series from the USA Today bestselling author Valia Lind!

***The Fae Chronicles is set within the world of Hawthorne, and while some small areas intersect, it's not necessary to read that series first to enjoy this one.

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Fiction, Urban Fantasy

178 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 30, 2020

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author. Photographer. Artist. Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Russia, Valia Lind has always had a love for the written word. She wrote her first published book on the bathroom floor of her dormitory, while procrastinating to study for her college classes. Upon graduation, she has moved her writing to more respectable places, and has found her voice in Young Adult fiction.
In 2015, her YA thriller, Pieces of Revenge, was the recipient of the Moonbeam Children's Book Award.
You can visit her online at http://valialind.com or follow her on Instagram, where she spends way too much time, @ValiaLind.
For a free book, sign up for her newsletter --> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/f0t1xi1qmr

Reviews

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This totally sucked me in from the get go! It’s a well written, fast paced, magical YA paranormal romance that will have you glued to its pages! With a strong kick ass heroine and a complicated and broody prince, this is full of drama, mystery and betrayal and I loved it!

[Kay Moody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery is such a great main character. I loved how she thought through all of her problems. I love that she did what needed to be done even when it was hard. My favorite part of this book was when she went to Faerie. :)

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story. Being able to read hidden spells is quite an achievement. Trying to keep it hidden is not so easy. Definitely intrigued.

[Laurie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot is unique & I enjoyed the story so far. It’s hard to tell if Avery will be in danger with the path she’s taking or if she has found new friendships to build on -but I’d love to find out in the next book! Having her unique ability makes it interesting & I wonder more about her parents’ pasts-recommend reading for sure.

[Carlynne Toomey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It is well written with storyline that draws you in and captivates you from the beginning. The characters are well developed and complex, the story world is well detailed and overall this was just a great read! I highly recommend it for fans of the Fae and anyone that enjoys well written fantasy!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good story that you enjoy from beginning to the end. I really enjoy how well Avery is written in to this story and I love seeing her as a strong heroine. Curious to see how the next book adds to the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marjorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ordinary student gets her life turned upside down when she finds she has an ultra-rare power - and then of course more odd things just keep coming out of the woodwork because things like that tend to act as a magnet. It is a bit of a mystery figuring things out right alongside Avery as she navigates new powers, new enemies, strange dreams, and odd relationship with the attractive and infuriating Derek.

Avery is a fun lead - bookish, tends towards logical/organized and fascinated by the science side of magic, she is also open to the natural organic parts of magic and a fierce fighter. She might be studious but she is not bashful or one to stand down easily. Bit of sass to her. Her background puts her in a good position for the situation she is in, but also leaves her vulnerable to quite a bit of heartbreak and betrayal. One thing that threw me off is she comes off as being about 5 years older than she is supposed to be. A slow burn enemies-to-lovers almost romance seems to be simmering in the background.

This is the first book in a new series, but the third set in this world. This book dives into a well established world and there is some reference to Hawthorne Chronicles and Thunderbird Academy but it is not necessary to have read them to enjoy and fully understand the events in this book. Fast paced book that covers a lot of ground and sets the stage for what is to come next. It had a good stopping point - but definitely makes me eager to see what happens next.

[Jess Boaden · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m going to give this book 2.5 stars but put it as 3 stars for good reads.

I did enjoy this book. And I did enjoy the concept. Although it was extremely repetitive. Avery’s way of thinking is consistent but is constantly telling us what she is thinking. Especially in regards to Derek, she is constantly saying that she doesn’t want to feel what she feels and that she’s shocked at why she feels that way and they shouldn’t but she can’t help it. It got a bit frustrating to read.

I didn’t feel like I was imaging the story along with the character, she was telling me everything, never showing the story.
The story is also very fasted paced at the beginning, then very slow when they are at the cabin, and picks up again when she leaves. This is fine but the cabin scenes were quite uneventful, which made it feel slower.

I also didn’t fully understand the relationship between Avery and Derek. Avery seems to fall for him extremely quickly. Which is common in shorter stories, but I didn’t feel (read) any chemistry between them at all.

Overall, it can be a quick enjoyable read but the repetition and quick paced romance may cause some annoyance.

[Mikky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Currently putting up past reviews from my Blog on GR because I forgot at the time oops 😅

I'm pretty sure my expectations after reading the synopsis got the better of me. This book promised a lot in that synopsis and what I got wasn't what I was expecting therefore I didn't love it.

The main characters were pretty bland, though that could be because I didn't read the original series this all started in. Even though it states that that isn't necessary, the heroine kept referring back to past events like I should know what she went through and I'm just over here floundering and trying to use my imagination to decipher what she went through to justify everything that was happening.

The hero started off interesting and actually having a semblance of a personality, but all that was undone after they got to Faery. His sudden lack of emotion became incredibly annoying and did nothing for the story.

I'll admit that when the heroine discovers how they manipulated her from the start was such a good twist! That was a fantastic point in the story but then it died down and continued on with the bland characters and okay storyline. It's clear this story wasn't for me and I don't intend to read any more books in this series.

[Valia Lind]

SHADOW OF THE FAE IS LIVE!!!! Make sure to grab your copy: ➔ https://amzn.to/33elVeM

I am so thankful to everyone who has already read and loved this book! Avery is such a fun character and she has taught me so much! I'm thrilled everyone is enjoying her story! My heart is full!!! <3

1. The next book in the series is coming soon! Stay tuned for all the updates!

2. To stay up to date with everything, make sure to subscribe to my newsletter! I make sure to include lots of book deals from other authors, as well as giveaways and writing insights!

3. I set up a text messages service to let you know about new releases and book deals! You can text VLindBooks to 31996 or click here to subscribe to text alerts!

4. My reader's group is growing! Become part of Valia's Warriors for exclusive insights, parties, and first looks!

Thank you, thank you, thank you, for reading my books! <3

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadow of the Fae reads like really good fanfiction for a world I know nothing about.

[Koisty · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had no expectations going into this… and after finishing it I am neither swept off my feet but not disappointed to have read it.

This book is well written and the writing did capture me from page 1 that I did end up enjoying the story… but it does have the feeling of 2000’s YA… my 14 year old self would have loved this and eaten up sassy powerful “bad girl” Avery. She would have wanted to be her in every way possible.. however 33 year old me has changed a bit in tastes and as a result I felt the amount of action in this book for how few pages there are is a lot so it moved very fast through scenes so doesn’t go very deep. This book would have been amazing if it went deeper than surface level and didn’t spend so much time focusing on plot development and forgetting about character development

I want a little more feeling and meat to my characterisation, I don’t necessarily want characters to “suffer” but I want them to work through issues properly. I was mega upset that Julian died in almost the first few chapters because I hate characters that are plot armour and just written to die… but besides a few pages of Avery dealing with it (almost only for 1 night). She kinda just moves on and that’s it… his betrayal would have hurt more if she felt more. As a result the shock factor of finding him alive didn’t emotionally cause as much of a reaction in me while reading, as Avery did seem to care for him but “not really”. I just feel “whelmed”.

Overall the story does have its moments of tenderness but also has moments that irritated me with Avery’s internal monologue of needing to repeat everything when she was processing situations.
Three times.
Three times.
Three times.

I don’t know what to make of Derek. He doesn’t talk much and is just McBroody really. I need a little more of him to make up my mind I wanted to like him but the book ended to soon to fully redeem my trust

Worth the read to pass the time and will continue the series.

[Aimee Bower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery is still on the run after being able to read a old book that everyone wants. Avery is in now in Phoenix trying to lay low and makes ends meets. She keeps feeling like someone is watching her. She runs into a what she thinks as a friend Julian. He wants to do a job and wants Avery to help. Avery has that feeling again, they run to see if they see anything. The Fae that has been following Avery has shown up, but he is not the worst thing coming.
Avery goes with the Fae because she has no choice. Avery finds out his name is Derek, he wants to help her. They go into hiding, Avery is has to remind herself he is the enemy. They get closer due to spending time in hiding. Avery is being attacked in her dreams. Avery has decided that she has no choice but to go Fairy and what happens next Avery or Derek could never see coming

This was a really good read. You are immediately drawn into the story, it has a lot of action, some magic and the beginnings of a romance. Avery will have to come to terms with her new life, what is going on with her powers, what her next steps are. Avery will not let anyone see her weak anymore.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Katheyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Shadow of the Fae” by Valia Lind marks the start a new YA UF paranormal series, set in the Hawthorne verse, “Hawthorne – The Fae Chronicle”. While the series is a great and welcome addition to the original “Hawthorne Chronicles”, it can be enjoyed by itself without any knowledge whatsoever of the original series.

Avery (FMC) is looking forward to an ordinary and easy senior year, she should know better. As some ancient power in her blood awakens and gives her the ability to read secret long lost believed spells, that undermine every knowledge of magic she had. Unfortunately for her, that makes her a high sought-after commodity in the Fae courts, and thus Avery is hunted by the Fae, intending to stay hidden and survive at all cost. But she wasn’t counting with a Fae Prince being just as drop-dead-gorgeous as infuriating pretentious and deciding the unthinkable…. to help her. Avery is not exactly convinced, as everybody knows the Fae as a rule don’t do favours and paying back is usually stiff.

A very good start into a new series, that combines Fae lore with interesting characters, twisted situation and a compelling plot. Avery and Prince McBroody (aka McAnnoying 😉) chemistry is amazing and a source of non-ending entertainment, the verse is both coherent with the Hawthorne Chronicles and fill with new elements that bring the story forward. A very good start into a new YA UF/Fae series.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review of this title. 3.5 stars

The story begins in a way that actually felt more new adult than YA - Avery is out in town reclaiming goods from a troll she has a knife-point. The way she moves about the city made her feel distinctly older and more mature than your typical YA opening, which was refreshing.

This is a new series set within the Hawthorne world. While it would make sense to read the Hawthorne series first for better background knowledge, it truly isn't necessary. VL is able to put you right into Avery's world without going into pages of explanations, rather she gives you enough to remind you of what has happened.

Avery and Derek's partnership grows, strengthens, breaks, and is constantly confusing in a good way. It makes sense. The things he slowly reveals give authenticity to the confusion.

I also love that the whole story was told from Avery's POV and we get to see her thought process play out. She's a strong protagonist learning not only to survive, but how to use her ever-changing magic.

[Karly Wise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, reading this book was a wild ride. In “Shadow of the Fae” you follow Avery, a strong kick ass heroine as she learns about her powers while she’s on the run from the Faery world. Along the way she meets Derek, the Fae Prince. She expects him to drag her back to the Faery Realm, but he doesn’t and claims he wants to help her. But is he telling the truth?
This book hooked me from the very first chapter, with the slow burn enemies to lovers romance to the action and adventures. This was an all around great paranormal romance book, and I NEED book 2.
WARNING!!! Major cliffhanger!!!
I can’t wait to see what else is in store for Avery and Derek in book 2.
I received this as a free ARC copy, but all opinions are my own.

[Finnely · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore Valia Lind's writing style. First person pov and present tense is my favorite, but this one was different in the way of bringing the reader along the MC's way of processing information and it was just very well done and unique. Looking forward to jumping into each and every world this author has written, which luckily is a lot. It's always a joy to find a new-to-me author with a lot of books to read.

Not a negative on the book, but I do wish that Goodreads had this series correctly sorted. I didn't realize there was a prequel short story or that there's a second book out now and a third one coming soon. I had to visit the authors page and scroll through everything to find the others.

[Rose Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must Read!
“Shadow of the Fae” is an awesome tale that draws you in from the first page. The story is fast-paced and action-filled. The main character, Avery is a girl to love and root for, but I’m having issues with Derek. Derek is disappointing, but redemption may be just around the corner. This tale is well-written, fast-paced, with plenty of drama, intrigue, betrayal, and action to make this an exciting read. The cliffhanger just adds to the character of this tale.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily

[fred jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

This is a great story, the start of a series. Avery can read a book no-one else can and is on the run because the ancients and the fae both want to use her ability and neither is subtle about it. She meets Derek part guard, part teacher, but is he a friend or an enemy. A fast paced adventure, lots of magic and developing powers. A slow burn romance that works well. The story is not a cliff hanger but does continue in book 2. I liked Avery a strong no nonsense character. I look forward to continuing the story

[Aizlynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. I was excited to read it after reading the prequel in Realms of Fae and Shadow. Avery is an interesting character, very much in the vein of Hermione. Though bookish, she is strong and resourceful. Derek is a bit of a conundrum. Though he shows great compassion, he is, in the end, fae. So who knows his ultimate motives or feelings. There is a lot going on here in the continued fight against the ancients. I am excited to continue this journey.

[Fran · Rating 4 out of 5]

This had a super catchy hook so of course, I had to read it. Not to mention the cover is amazing! This has a super amazing girl trying to be normal and hide and a fae that shows up and then of course everything gets complicated. I loved Avery. We got to observe her grow as a person and take a few steps closer to becoming the person she wants to be while dealing with magic and the fairy world. A good read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marilyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful story of Avery a witch/shifter that finds an ancient book at the academy she was attending. No one can read it but her and realizes that she got to go. She’s on the run and doesn’t know is anyone can help her or is she can trust anyone. Derek wants to help but she’s not sure. This storyline grabs you right away and doesn’t let you stop! The characters are developed and pull you into the story. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Rachel Benham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book. Avery is on the run. Her only friend, Julien, tries to get her to help him with a job. Then all hell breaks loose. She watches him die and she must learn to deal with Derek, a Fae who has been sent for her. When she makes a choice to go to the Fae realm, she is not prepared for the truths that are revealed to her. I can not wait to see how this plays out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marie Fraser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was an excellent opening book. It set scene for the book very well and the characters and the story were well written and well developed. I loved the individual character personalities and seeing the relationship dynamics evolve through the book. The story was action packed and full of twists and turns. It has suspense, intrigue, hot chemistry and emotion. I’d highly recommend this book!! I look forward to the next book in the series!!

I received an arc for a voluntary review.

[Ashley Buska · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

I have become such a fan of Valia Lind and this fantasy world! I’ve previously read The Thunderbird Academy series and Moonlight Mate. I’m starting to connect the dots in the world of Hawthorne/Faery and I love the connections. This journey with Avery and Derek might be one of my favorites. There are a some “oh no!” moments and a few “no way!!!” moments. The plot twists are great and completely unexpected. I can’t wait to continue on this adventure in the next book.

[Dayzee · Rating 5 out of 5]

🧚‍♂️ ✨Amazing!!!✨🧚‍♂️

I love this author so much! She always draws you in with her stories and never lets you go! I love the pace, the fae, magic, and heartwarming scenes that will have you aching and wanting more. Its beautiful written and a slow-burn-romance done perfect! i cant wait for the next book! Must read! #Derek&Avery#MagicfairyLove💚

[Sarah Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, love, love Avery!! Such an amazing read! Avery is a witch/shifter on the run after finding an ancient book no one could read but her. After finding the book at Thunderbird Academy Avery has to run to stay free, on the run for months she is finally found. Can Avery make the decision to save her friends and family? What happens if she goes to Faery? Must read with amazing twists and turns!

[Kelsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

This was a really good read. It grabs your attention from the start and you get invested with the characters really quickly. It was hard to put down, so be ready to read it in one sitting! I definitely recommend and can’t wait until the next one.

[Kaitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avery is a bad ass who doesn't let her disappointment in others get in her way. It's nice to see a YA Fantasy where there is a love interest but it is secondary in the plot. A great start to a new series!
Thanks to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are completely my own.

[Steiner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved reading this book. I like how at the beginning we were getting scraps of info about Avery and the book.
I like her and Derek tough they are highly frustrating, Derek even more I would love to have a little novella with his PoV
I can't wait for next book and am already marking the date on my calendar