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The Shadow Realms #1
Shadows of Fire
When the invitation to the Gloaming arrives, Lexi can’t believe that she, a half vampire, has been invited to enter the dark fae realm.
Her first trip to a Shadow Realm isn’t one she’ll soon forget once she meets Cole, a dark fae prince.
Fresh from the war that ravaged the mortal realm and devastated his family, Cole is struggling to piece his life back together when he encounters Lexi. He has always identified more with his dark fae side, but when her presence awakens the lycan part of him, Cole is unable to resist his attraction to her.
When the hostile tension between the different immortals erupts, Lexi flees the Gloaming for the mortal realm. Once home, she’s certain she’ll never see Cole again. She’s proven wrong when tragedy strikes. Lexi is unable to turn Cole away... even if helping him puts her in danger.
Can their growing love survive the cruelty of the Shadow Realms, or will they be the next to fall?
Enter the Shadow Realms. A world where vampires feast, lycans love deeply, dark fae seduce, witches cast their spells, dragons rule the skies... and treachery lurks around every corner.
***Due to sexual content, violence, and language, this book is recommended for readers 18+ years of age.***
Her first trip to a Shadow Realm isn’t one she’ll soon forget once she meets Cole, a dark fae prince.
Fresh from the war that ravaged the mortal realm and devastated his family, Cole is struggling to piece his life back together when he encounters Lexi. He has always identified more with his dark fae side, but when her presence awakens the lycan part of him, Cole is unable to resist his attraction to her.
When the hostile tension between the different immortals erupts, Lexi flees the Gloaming for the mortal realm. Once home, she’s certain she’ll never see Cole again. She’s proven wrong when tragedy strikes. Lexi is unable to turn Cole away... even if helping him puts her in danger.
Can their growing love survive the cruelty of the Shadow Realms, or will they be the next to fall?
Enter the Shadow Realms. A world where vampires feast, lycans love deeply, dark fae seduce, witches cast their spells, dragons rule the skies... and treachery lurks around every corner.
***Due to sexual content, violence, and language, this book is recommended for readers 18+ years of age.***
ebook
First published March 18, 2021
1588 people are currently reading
7318 people want to read
About the author
Brenda K. Davies
96 books2,279 followersBrenda K. Davies is the USA Today Bestselling author of the Vampire Awakening Series, Alliance Series, Road to Hell Series, Hell on Earth Series, and historical romantic fiction. She also writes under the pen name, Erica Stevens. When not out with friends and family, she can be found at home with her husband, son, dogs, cat, and horse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
September 15, 2024
i’ve never heard of this series before so i decided to pick it up on a whim and im glad i did. i dont think the story itself is amazing or anything, but it was very addictive and easy to read. the world building is so interesting with tons of different creatures like dragons, vampires, lycans, fae, etc. the two main characters are Cole and Lexi, Cole is the half lycan/dark fae prince and Lexi is half human/vampire, not much information is given on her background in this first book besides the fact that her father died in war. so im curious to see how her character will develop throughout the series.
Lexi and Cole’s interactions leaned heavy into instalust at the start, but after something is revealed about both of them their immediate connection made sense. Cole’s brothers and Lexi’s aunt were interesting characters too. the dragons in this world are used for destruction under the lord of the shadow realms and he poses a threat to all the kingdoms under his rule. the plot was so quick and fast paced, there was never a dull moment. the ending actually caught me off guard, so i just had to start the next one right away. this book was exactly what i needed and i flew through it, so much fun!
Lexi and Cole’s interactions leaned heavy into instalust at the start, but after something is revealed about both of them their immediate connection made sense. Cole’s brothers and Lexi’s aunt were interesting characters too. the dragons in this world are used for destruction under the lord of the shadow realms and he poses a threat to all the kingdoms under his rule. the plot was so quick and fast paced, there was never a dull moment. the ending actually caught me off guard, so i just had to start the next one right away. this book was exactly what i needed and i flew through it, so much fun!
October 17, 2025
FMC is half vampire and half human.
MMC is half dark fae and half lycan.
I really like where this was going.
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ NEWSLETTER ⟫
This is certainly one of those reads that I am glad I found on BookTok. There are so many different elements in this story that makes this unique.
The plot surrounds these kingdoms where the immortals are at odds with each other due to the different species. So this story takes place after a massive war has happened and people are just picking up the pieces per say.
Lexi, who is part vampire, part human has lost her father who was general during this big war. So she has become an outcast in her society because of her being half human. But one day she gets invited to this big party in the immortal realm known as the Gleaming or Shadow Realm (sadly, I can't tell you the difference). Where a prince who his name is Cole, the part dark fae and part lycran sees her and fall instantly in lust...*ahem* I mean in love with her.
I was a loved and hate about the dark fae characters in the story. Because they are written to be dark, sorta cruel immortals. But so far, all the dark fae immortals that are introduced are just teddy bears underneath it all. Not at all who they are painted to be. But I am curious to see how the characters develop after the sort of ending we are given.
So this book sort of leaned a little more towards the smut than the plot in the middle there. It was like as if ALL conflict is gone and lets focus on the smut. Not my thing, but thankfully it didn't last too long and we progressed onward.
The plot did slightly jumping around in the world building and certain moments in the story. But I will give it a chance because it's developing the main conflict of the story. There is a war between the immortals and now they are trying to figure out how to defeat the undefeatable foe. Dragons. So I am curious to see how the main conflict continues to develops.
Even though the plot was a little jumpy, the author wrote it in a way to keep you in suspense and I really am invested in how the direction of the story will go.
The ending was slightly ultra surprising and gruesome. This author knows how to write some wild scenes where it comes to fighting and such.
Shadows of Fire is such a fun read that I am certainly continuing the series.
MMC is half dark fae and half lycan.
I really like where this was going.
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ NEWSLETTER ⟫
This is certainly one of those reads that I am glad I found on BookTok. There are so many different elements in this story that makes this unique.
The plot surrounds these kingdoms where the immortals are at odds with each other due to the different species. So this story takes place after a massive war has happened and people are just picking up the pieces per say.
Lexi, who is part vampire, part human has lost her father who was general during this big war. So she has become an outcast in her society because of her being half human. But one day she gets invited to this big party in the immortal realm known as the Gleaming or Shadow Realm (sadly, I can't tell you the difference). Where a prince who his name is Cole, the part dark fae and part lycran sees her and fall instantly in lust...*ahem* I mean in love with her.
I was a loved and hate about the dark fae characters in the story. Because they are written to be dark, sorta cruel immortals. But so far, all the dark fae immortals that are introduced are just teddy bears underneath it all. Not at all who they are painted to be. But I am curious to see how the characters develop after the sort of ending we are given.
So this book sort of leaned a little more towards the smut than the plot in the middle there. It was like as if ALL conflict is gone and lets focus on the smut. Not my thing, but thankfully it didn't last too long and we progressed onward.
The plot did slightly jumping around in the world building and certain moments in the story. But I will give it a chance because it's developing the main conflict of the story. There is a war between the immortals and now they are trying to figure out how to defeat the undefeatable foe. Dragons. So I am curious to see how the main conflict continues to develops.
Even though the plot was a little jumpy, the author wrote it in a way to keep you in suspense and I really am invested in how the direction of the story will go.
The ending was slightly ultra surprising and gruesome. This author knows how to write some wild scenes where it comes to fighting and such.
Shadows of Fire is such a fun read that I am certainly continuing the series.
June 15, 2022
4 ✨
This was so entertaining!! But there were a few things that kept me from giving it 5 stars.
The Romance was amazing. I love Lexi and Cole as a couple.
When a male vampire pressed entirely too close against her back and she cringed away from him, Cole almost rose from his seat to kill him.
Men would kill to possess her, and he would kill them to make sure she stayed safe.
She was the most stunning woman he’d ever seen, and she was his. The wolf within him bellowed this knowledge over and over again.
She belongs in his arms, and he would do anything in his power to keep her there.
Come onnnn they’re so cute. I also loved how respectful Cole was to Lexi. While he had this dominant and alpha side, he never disrespected Lexi ONCE. (Well, except when he had a nightmare and choked her but that was one time!!!)
The World Building was so strange. I loved the idea of different realms for different species and this crazy psychotic guy waging war across the realms. BUT the way the world building was done, I felt like we got exposition/background throughout the novel and it made me feel disconnected from the plot. Also, in this world/realm they have jeans, spotty electricity, Harry Potter and Jaws, and use “milady” and travel on horseback? It’s all very strange and I didn’t love the real world references. Again, it took me out of the plot.
The Plot was sloooow to get where it was going. This 300ish page book felt more like a prequel novel than an actual first novel. We finally have an understanding where this is going to go in the last few chapters. (Also wtf was that ending!???)
The characters were good. Again it’s clear I love Cole. But we did have the virgin/innocence trope with Lexi which I admit I kind of hate.
Overall this book was really entertaining!! I’d def recommend it.
Thanks Leonie for the rec!!!
This was so entertaining!! But there were a few things that kept me from giving it 5 stars.
The Romance was amazing. I love Lexi and Cole as a couple.
When a male vampire pressed entirely too close against her back and she cringed away from him, Cole almost rose from his seat to kill him.
Men would kill to possess her, and he would kill them to make sure she stayed safe.
She was the most stunning woman he’d ever seen, and she was his. The wolf within him bellowed this knowledge over and over again.
She belongs in his arms, and he would do anything in his power to keep her there.
Come onnnn they’re so cute. I also loved how respectful Cole was to Lexi. While he had this dominant and alpha side, he never disrespected Lexi ONCE. (Well, except when he had a nightmare and choked her but that was one time!!!)
The World Building was so strange. I loved the idea of different realms for different species and this crazy psychotic guy waging war across the realms. BUT the way the world building was done, I felt like we got exposition/background throughout the novel and it made me feel disconnected from the plot. Also, in this world/realm they have jeans, spotty electricity, Harry Potter and Jaws, and use “milady” and travel on horseback? It’s all very strange and I didn’t love the real world references. Again, it took me out of the plot.
The Plot was sloooow to get where it was going. This 300ish page book felt more like a prequel novel than an actual first novel. We finally have an understanding where this is going to go in the last few chapters. (Also wtf was that ending!???)
The characters were good. Again it’s clear I love Cole. But we did have the virgin/innocence trope with Lexi which I admit I kind of hate.
Overall this book was really entertaining!! I’d def recommend it.
Thanks Leonie for the rec!!!
June 8, 2022
"That was...nice" she murmured.
"You might be the death of me, and the best you can say is ´that was nice´ ?"
"The death of you?" she asked.
"Yeah, but what a fantastic way to go."
This is a two POV book, told by the POVs of Cole and Lexi. It is written in third person perspective.
I loved Lexi as a FMC, she is smart,independent and cunning but also so kind and sweet. I really liked her relationship with her aunt, who is more like a mother to her.
Cole is like the opposite to Lexi, he is famed as being ruthless and he´s a skilled, brooding warrior. The sexual tension the two of them had was really good, the chemistry was there and I loved their interactions. We had some nice classic romantasy scenes: her tending his wounds or helping him through a nightmare for example.
The trope is definitely insta-love and although I normally enjoy a slow-burn more, I liked the romance in this book. It was written really well in my opinion.
Regarding side characters there sadly aren´t that many in this book. Lexi doesn´t really have any friends and lives more or less secluded with her aunt. I really liked Cole´s brother, although there is not that much backstory to him yet, but I am hoping to see more of him in future books of the series. I really loved Lexi´s aunt as well, she seems like such a protective mama to Lexi and it is clear that she loves her niece a lot.
This series has it all: vampires, fae, lycans, witches and even dragons!
I loved every single bit of it and I liked the magic systems and the powers of each creature. I liked the world building, it is kind of like a "Cruel Prince" setting with there being a human world and the "Gloaming", the realm of the dark fae. The plotline was quite interesting and it kept the story entertaining and exciting. It focused more on the romance part but set up the world and the plot for the next book. There weren´t that many unexpected plot twist, although I didn´t see that ending coming.
What irked me a little bit were the mentions of Harry Potter throughout the book; it always is a bit weird to me when a fantasy book mentions a fantasy book in itself. But I admit, it was also a little bit funny to see Lexi turning Cole and Brokk into Harry Potter stans.
Overall it was a really enjoyable read that finally broke my streak of bad books and I am really looking forward to dive into the next book of the series.
trigger warnings: loss of loved ones, sexual harrasment (not caused by the love interest), trauma and war
"You might be the death of me, and the best you can say is ´that was nice´ ?"
"The death of you?" she asked.
"Yeah, but what a fantastic way to go."
This is a two POV book, told by the POVs of Cole and Lexi. It is written in third person perspective.
I loved Lexi as a FMC, she is smart,independent and cunning but also so kind and sweet. I really liked her relationship with her aunt, who is more like a mother to her.
Cole is like the opposite to Lexi, he is famed as being ruthless and he´s a skilled, brooding warrior. The sexual tension the two of them had was really good, the chemistry was there and I loved their interactions. We had some nice classic romantasy scenes: her tending his wounds or helping him through a nightmare for example.
The trope is definitely insta-love and although I normally enjoy a slow-burn more, I liked the romance in this book. It was written really well in my opinion.
Regarding side characters there sadly aren´t that many in this book. Lexi doesn´t really have any friends and lives more or less secluded with her aunt. I really liked Cole´s brother, although there is not that much backstory to him yet, but I am hoping to see more of him in future books of the series. I really loved Lexi´s aunt as well, she seems like such a protective mama to Lexi and it is clear that she loves her niece a lot.
This series has it all: vampires, fae, lycans, witches and even dragons!
I loved every single bit of it and I liked the magic systems and the powers of each creature. I liked the world building, it is kind of like a "Cruel Prince" setting with there being a human world and the "Gloaming", the realm of the dark fae. The plotline was quite interesting and it kept the story entertaining and exciting. It focused more on the romance part but set up the world and the plot for the next book. There weren´t that many unexpected plot twist, although I didn´t see that ending coming.
What irked me a little bit were the mentions of Harry Potter throughout the book; it always is a bit weird to me when a fantasy book mentions a fantasy book in itself. But I admit, it was also a little bit funny to see Lexi turning Cole and Brokk into Harry Potter stans.
Overall it was a really enjoyable read that finally broke my streak of bad books and I am really looking forward to dive into the next book of the series.
trigger warnings: loss of loved ones, sexual harrasment (not caused by the love interest), trauma and war
January 26, 2022
I. Am. Addicted. And I am going to feed my addiction with book 2 IMMEDIATELY!
Cole is EVERYTHING! He is so close to topping Bones (Night Huntress Series). Well, we have a few more books to read, he might just do it. When Cole lays eyes on Lexi *sigh* it is so sexy in an understated way. His inner dialogue is sexy, but what he allows Lexi and others to see is restrained....steamy!
Underestimated....kinda thinking Lexi is being underestimated by everyone around her. Maybe even some readers. But I have a feeling there is a bad ass that is about to make an appearance. The way she interacts with Cole was perfect. She did not deny her draw to him, yet she remained strong knowing the possibility like most dark fae he would leave her.
Now the ending was heart breaking, but necessary. This amped up the led into book 2.
Such an interesting world. Very unique and tons of hybrids which I love. Each person has a little something you did not expect. Could be completely wrong but I believe we are going to see more too Lexi and Sahira. Who knows? Not me! But I am stoked to find out!!
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
Cole is EVERYTHING! He is so close to topping Bones (Night Huntress Series). Well, we have a few more books to read, he might just do it. When Cole lays eyes on Lexi *sigh* it is so sexy in an understated way. His inner dialogue is sexy, but what he allows Lexi and others to see is restrained....steamy!
Underestimated....kinda thinking Lexi is being underestimated by everyone around her. Maybe even some readers. But I have a feeling there is a bad ass that is about to make an appearance. The way she interacts with Cole was perfect. She did not deny her draw to him, yet she remained strong knowing the possibility like most dark fae he would leave her.
Now the ending was heart breaking, but necessary. This amped up the led into book 2.
Such an interesting world. Very unique and tons of hybrids which I love. Each person has a little something you did not expect. Could be completely wrong but I believe we are going to see more too Lexi and Sahira. Who knows? Not me! But I am stoked to find out!!
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
January 31, 2022
Originally posted at:
This book was fantastic but it won't be getting a 5-star rating from me. This may come off as irrational anger but I'm sick of having author's name drop HP in this day and age. Enough time has passed for new books coming out to not make that *choice*. I'm sure that we can name-drop other even better series considering how the author of HP has treated the LGBT+ community and the hatred she has willingly spread. I made a decision last year that any books released post-2020 will get a star deduction from me if they mention HP and I'm sticking to that.
Now on a lighter note...
I really liked the universe this author created! It was unique and interesting in a way that I don't always see in the books I read. The characters were compelling and the uncertainties with where things were going kept me wanting more.
The ending was a BIG shock. I think I've gotten so used to reading in the romance genre where main characters and the people they surround themselves with rarely die (maybe this is just in the books I read?) that I was legitimately caught off guard. If I'm being honest I didn't love that it happened either. I'll definitely be checking out the next book because now I'm hooked.
This book was fantastic but it won't be getting a 5-star rating from me. This may come off as irrational anger but I'm sick of having author's name drop HP in this day and age. Enough time has passed for new books coming out to not make that *choice*. I'm sure that we can name-drop other even better series considering how the author of HP has treated the LGBT+ community and the hatred she has willingly spread. I made a decision last year that any books released post-2020 will get a star deduction from me if they mention HP and I'm sticking to that.
Now on a lighter note...
I really liked the universe this author created! It was unique and interesting in a way that I don't always see in the books I read. The characters were compelling and the uncertainties with where things were going kept me wanting more.
The ending was a BIG shock. I think I've gotten so used to reading in the romance genre where main characters and the people they surround themselves with rarely die (maybe this is just in the books I read?) that I was legitimately caught off guard. If I'm being honest I didn't love that it happened either. I'll definitely be checking out the next book because now I'm hooked.
May 13, 2025
Not For Me
2.75 Stars
This is definitely not for me. Long Winded with excessive repetitive thoughts.
DND at chapter 19, page 103, 30%.
2.75 Stars
This is definitely not for me. Long Winded with excessive repetitive thoughts.
DND at chapter 19, page 103, 30%.
January 13, 2022
$0.99 RN 1/12/22!!!
“I can’t tell you the number of times Cole has been wrong over the years, but he wasn’t wrong about this,” Brokk said.
“He may have been wrong a lot over the years, but I’m always right,” she said.
Brokk laughed. “Over the years, I’ve learned most women are always right.”
Hmm... Not sure I like this anymore. 😤😬😅 Moving on!
This was good. We have a half - dark fae, half - lycan 6'7 foot tallhunk of meat (I mean) hero/PR👑NCE. Cole is gorgeous and drool worthy yada yada yada. And guess what?! He finds his true mate in his best friend's daughter. Oops
NO. No. no. It's not like that... Our hero is 672 years and our heroine is a legal 24 years old. That's pretty much the norm in the paranormal romance world. She's beautiful and it's meant to be because SHE has awakened his lycan half. So much so, the entity has exerted dominance over his dark fae half.
Our heroine, Elexiandra (Lexi) is half vampire, half human.
Pro: She can go out in the day
Con: She can't teleport
Pro: She can eat normal human food
Con: She still needs to drink blood
Pro: She's immortal
Con: She's not as strong as other immortals
She's pretty lackluster in this world full of powerful supernaturals, but I have my suspicions that will change. I mean... Elexiandra and Cole have to save the world, right?
Overall, I like this world. Cole is mysteriously powerful, Lexi is kindhearted, the villain is maniacally evil, and some interesting support characters are along for the ride. This story isn't perfect. Some parts could have been flushed out more, but it has fae, vampires, lycans, dragons, witches, mates, hocus-pocus, and end of the world goodness. Therefore, I'm pretty forgiving.
Overall Rating → 3.5 "she's my mate" STARS
Price is Right? →
Love Triangle? →
Cheating? →
Angst Level: High, Medium, Low →
Heat/Language Level: Rated G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17 →
HEA →
Page Turner? → yes
Would I recommend? → yes
Would I re-read? → probably
Would I read more from this author? → I'll always be a fan of Brenda K. Davies AKA Erica Stevens.
,
, &
are some of my favs.
"She yearned to be at home and in bed with a book."
If you can't relate to the heroine, Lexi, then what are you doing here?!?
“I can’t tell you the number of times Cole has been wrong over the years, but he wasn’t wrong about this,” Brokk said.
“He may have been wrong a lot over the years, but I’m always right,” she said.
Brokk laughed. “Over the years, I’ve learned most women are always right.”
Hmm... Not sure I like this anymore. 😤😬😅 Moving on!
This was good. We have a half - dark fae, half - lycan 6'7 foot tall
NO. No. no. It's not like that... Our hero is 672 years and our heroine is a legal 24 years old. That's pretty much the norm in the paranormal romance world. She's beautiful and it's meant to be because SHE has awakened his lycan half. So much so, the entity has exerted dominance over his dark fae half.
Our heroine, Elexiandra (Lexi) is half vampire, half human.
Pro: She can go out in the day
Con: She can't teleport
Pro: She can eat normal human food
Con: She still needs to drink blood
Pro: She's immortal
Con: She's not as strong as other immortals
She's pretty lackluster in this world full of powerful supernaturals, but I have my suspicions that will change. I mean... Elexiandra and Cole have to save the world, right?
Overall, I like this world. Cole is mysteriously powerful, Lexi is kindhearted, the villain is maniacally evil, and some interesting support characters are along for the ride. This story isn't perfect. Some parts could have been flushed out more, but it has fae, vampires, lycans, dragons, witches, mates, hocus-pocus, and end of the world goodness. Therefore, I'm pretty forgiving.
Overall Rating → 3.5 "she's my mate" STARS
Price is Right? →
Love Triangle? →
Cheating? →
Angst Level: High, Medium, Low →
Heat/Language Level: Rated G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17 →
HEA →
Page Turner? → yes
Would I recommend? → yes
Would I re-read? → probably
Would I read more from this author? → I'll always be a fan of Brenda K. Davies AKA Erica Stevens.
,
, &
are some of my favs."She yearned to be at home and in bed with a book."
If you can't relate to the heroine, Lexi, then what are you doing here?!?
Read
March 26, 2021Grab your copy of Shadows of Fire and enter a realm where vampires feast, lycans love deeply, dark fae seduce, witches cast their spells, dragons rule the skies... and treachery lurks around every corner.
🔥 Amazon: brendakdavies.com/SFam
🔥 Apple Books: brendakdavies.com/SFab
🔥 Barnes & Noble: brendakdavies.com/SFbn
🔥 Kobo: brendakdavies.com/SFko
🔥 Google Play: brendakdavies.com/SFgp
🔥 Smashwords: brendakdavies.com/SFsm
🔥 Paperback: brendakdavies.com/SFpb
🔥 Amazon: brendakdavies.com/SFam
🔥 Apple Books: brendakdavies.com/SFab
🔥 Barnes & Noble: brendakdavies.com/SFbn
🔥 Kobo: brendakdavies.com/SFko
🔥 Google Play: brendakdavies.com/SFgp
🔥 Smashwords: brendakdavies.com/SFsm
🔥 Paperback: brendakdavies.com/SFpb
February 20, 2022
I’m flabbergasted this book has so many high reviews!? Were we reading the same book?!
There was so much potential in this book yet within the first seventy pages, I knew it was time to call it quits as too many red flags kept coming up.
Firstly, the editor of this book is doing a terrible job. There were quite a few grammatical errors which is always disappointing to see in a novel.
The prose was repetitive and basic - count how many times the author refers to the main character wanting to ‘bolt’ in the first quarter of the book.
And how is a sexist male character attractive!? He literally references women as only being good for fucking and feeding… Instant turn off, the building of this alpha male character was repulsive as he obsessively fixates on the ‘sooo original busty, sexy, completely naive and unaware she’s the stunning main character’ protagonist when there’s supposedly hundreds of other women there vying for his attention.
This book was a major disappointment, I may be extra salty as I splurged and bought it on Apple bookstore rather than borrowing from a library. But I feel totally blindsided by a story that promised a rich supernatural world and a modern woman in a post-war scenario, when in reality it delivered a cheap, dirty story with basic writing that was definitely not worth my time reading past the first quarter.
There was so much potential in this book yet within the first seventy pages, I knew it was time to call it quits as too many red flags kept coming up.
Firstly, the editor of this book is doing a terrible job. There were quite a few grammatical errors which is always disappointing to see in a novel.
The prose was repetitive and basic - count how many times the author refers to the main character wanting to ‘bolt’ in the first quarter of the book.
And how is a sexist male character attractive!? He literally references women as only being good for fucking and feeding… Instant turn off, the building of this alpha male character was repulsive as he obsessively fixates on the ‘sooo original busty, sexy, completely naive and unaware she’s the stunning main character’ protagonist when there’s supposedly hundreds of other women there vying for his attention.
This book was a major disappointment, I may be extra salty as I splurged and bought it on Apple bookstore rather than borrowing from a library. But I feel totally blindsided by a story that promised a rich supernatural world and a modern woman in a post-war scenario, when in reality it delivered a cheap, dirty story with basic writing that was definitely not worth my time reading past the first quarter.
June 26, 2025
This book started off with an invitation to the shadow realm, somewhere Lexi had never been before.
After meeting Cole, one of the dark fae princes, her world changed quickly.
She found herself in the middle of 3 brothers, one on the run as a traitor, one who was intrigued by her and one who showed up to her door wounded.
A world divided by war, which side is the right side?
With a jaw dropping ending, this book was very fast-paced and interesting from start to finish.
After meeting Cole, one of the dark fae princes, her world changed quickly.
She found herself in the middle of 3 brothers, one on the run as a traitor, one who was intrigued by her and one who showed up to her door wounded.
A world divided by war, which side is the right side?
With a jaw dropping ending, this book was very fast-paced and interesting from start to finish.
March 23, 2021
If you aren't reading this book then, you aren't reading the right book!! This book should come with its own WARNING SIGNAL!! Shadows of Fire will have you wanting to immerse yourself in the pages that you will forget that you have dinner you need to cook or clothes needing washed. You will find yourself joining in on the adventures of the Shadow Realm, as you get lost in chaos, excitement, and most importantly LOVE!!! I wait on bated breath for the next book in this series!! Run don't walk, make this your next one-click read.
Read
March 26, 2021Grab your copy of Shadows of Fire and enter a realm where vampires feast, lycans love deeply, dark fae seduce, witches cast their spells, dragons rule the skies... and treachery lurks around every corner.
🔥 Amazon: brendakdavies.com/SFam
🔥 Apple Books: brendakdavies.com/SFab
🔥 Barnes & Noble: brendakdavies.com/SFbn
🔥 Kobo: brendakdavies.com/SFko
🔥 Google Play: brendakdavies.com/SFgp
🔥 Smashwords: brendakdavies.com/SFsm
🔥 Paperback: brendakdavies.com/SFpb
***I wrote this series under my other pen name.
🔥 Amazon: brendakdavies.com/SFam
🔥 Apple Books: brendakdavies.com/SFab
🔥 Barnes & Noble: brendakdavies.com/SFbn
🔥 Kobo: brendakdavies.com/SFko
🔥 Google Play: brendakdavies.com/SFgp
🔥 Smashwords: brendakdavies.com/SFsm
🔥 Paperback: brendakdavies.com/SFpb
***I wrote this series under my other pen name.
December 29, 2021
Wow. I had to check the publication date for this twice, because considering how sexist and patriarchal everything within this book was, you'd think it was written in the 1950s, not in 2021 🙃
November 4, 2022
I have mixed feelings ...
I have to say this book did not manage to make me want to continue the series but I decided to give the second book a go.
⇢ What to expect:
∘ New Adult Fantasy — Urban Fantasy
∘ Romance
∘ Vampires, Fae, Dragons & Lycans
∘ Royalty
∘ Rebellion
∘ Insta Love
I have to say this book did not manage to make me want to continue the series but I decided to give the second book a go.
⇢ What to expect:
∘ New Adult Fantasy — Urban Fantasy
∘ Romance
∘ Vampires, Fae, Dragons & Lycans
∘ Royalty
∘ Rebellion
∘ Insta Love
Read
August 24, 2022Dnf at 39%
The writing tried to be pretentious, but it turned out pretty superficial. Reminded me of trying to write essays on things I had no clue about and putting big words on paper that formed no coherent idea😂
It was hard to follow a plot line. I forgot who was who, could not for the life of me remember why Cole the mc was there half of the time😂 i'm in a slump ish mood again and I need to cut out every book that makes me bored so here I go😂
The writing tried to be pretentious, but it turned out pretty superficial. Reminded me of trying to write essays on things I had no clue about and putting big words on paper that formed no coherent idea😂
It was hard to follow a plot line. I forgot who was who, could not for the life of me remember why Cole the mc was there half of the time😂 i'm in a slump ish mood again and I need to cut out every book that makes me bored so here I go😂
July 21, 2022
This was really quite boring UNTIL the end and the major cliffy. This is the only reason why I will likely read the next book to see what Cole will do but if the 2nd book is just as much of a snooze fest as this one I will be out!
May 4, 2024
~3.75✰~
New adult romantasy (long series)
Was this a bit insta lovey? Sure. But was the story addicting? Hell yeah
Also, the word "dark" was thrown around so much I was surprised (pleasantly) of how soft their relationship actually was. The story might not have been AS soft lol but compared to other fantasy stories this felt a lot more cozier which i did not expect but loved.
I'm on book 5 so here's some non-spoiler things I loved that might make some people pick this series up:
Places: Mordor(from LOTR), the English country side(Shire like), kingdom in the clouds(giants' residence) with huge vines leading up to it(Wizard of Oz like)
Characters: light fae, dark fae, dwarves, dragons, shadows, zombies, vampires, fairies, pixies, sirens, giants, wizards, unicorns;
Relationships: found family, healthy/toxic parents, family dynamics, fated mates, sunshine/grumpy, light/dark
Mentions: the harry potter books, the hobbit books, Egypt;
We have war and politics
*no miscommunication
I'm fangirling so hard!!! Like how the hell is this series so underrated? I loved the first book even tho it wasn't my favorite but after that the series goes 📈
Also can we appreciate the freaking covers? OMG!!
Yes the cover of book 1 isn't my favorite but it's just like the story itself. From book 2 even the cover designs
are📈
New adult romantasy (long series)
Was this a bit insta lovey? Sure. But was the story addicting? Hell yeah
Also, the word "dark" was thrown around so much I was surprised (pleasantly) of how soft their relationship actually was. The story might not have been AS soft lol but compared to other fantasy stories this felt a lot more cozier which i did not expect but loved.
I'm on book 5 so here's some non-spoiler things I loved that might make some people pick this series up:
Places: Mordor(from LOTR), the English country side(Shire like), kingdom in the clouds(giants' residence) with huge vines leading up to it(Wizard of Oz like)
Characters: light fae, dark fae, dwarves, dragons, shadows, zombies, vampires, fairies, pixies, sirens, giants, wizards, unicorns;
Relationships: found family, healthy/toxic parents, family dynamics, fated mates, sunshine/grumpy, light/dark
Mentions: the harry potter books, the hobbit books, Egypt;
We have war and politics
*no miscommunication
I'm fangirling so hard!!! Like how the hell is this series so underrated? I loved the first book even tho it wasn't my favorite but after that the series goes 📈
Also can we appreciate the freaking covers? OMG!!
Yes the cover of book 1 isn't my favorite but it's just like the story itself. From book 2 even the cover designs
are📈
April 5, 2025
On the not-so-good side of average. At least it was short for Romantasy, below 400 pages.
February 28, 2021
This book is amazing . It has dark fae , vampires , witches and warlocks , dragons . What more could you ask for . Oh that would definitely be Cole ( half dark fae , half Lycan) . He is the prince of the dark fae realm . After a war breaks out he meets Lexi ( half vampire half human ) . After a while he realises she is his mate but of course things are not that easy !! I read this book in two days . I wanted to know more. It didn’t disappoint and I can’t wait for book 2 to see what happens in this series
March 16, 2021
This book was a new adventure for me. You are going to want to take in all this book has to offer. lycans, vampires, fae, witches and dragons all in this book with a little mix of everything else I am sure I am forgetting. All fighting for a new world. Both sides have good points but are determined to take down everyone that gets in their way. We don't even want to talk about Lord. He is top butt in this whole thing. Causing mayhem and it doesn't seem anyone can stop him. We get to know Lexi. Sheltered and not knowing to much of the world. Father passing and now she is learning that she is going to have to grow up more then she ever has and make some hard choices that will effect the rest of her life. Lexi and her aunt get invited to a ball in the shadow realm and things take another turn. Cole, the prince, can't seem to keep thinking of Lexi. Are the fated to be together? We don't know because there is chaos at the ball and everyone goes back home.
Coming around to everything is going crazy at home for Lexi. She has a lot going on. She finds someone that needs her help. Should she help them? Then Cole is on her home turf looking for his brothers. In the middle of all that he ends of being closer then she is prepared for. The world is in danger and people are dying everywhere. The dragons are blowing everything up and there doesn't seem to be an end to this madness.
I marked as a four star because there was a lot of information. The first half was a lot of explaining to the story. There was some repeating that can get a little annoying. I chalked it all up as setting the foundation for other books. The book as a whole was great and I can't wait to see how the secret new development is going to effect Lexi.
Coming around to everything is going crazy at home for Lexi. She has a lot going on. She finds someone that needs her help. Should she help them? Then Cole is on her home turf looking for his brothers. In the middle of all that he ends of being closer then she is prepared for. The world is in danger and people are dying everywhere. The dragons are blowing everything up and there doesn't seem to be an end to this madness.
I marked as a four star because there was a lot of information. The first half was a lot of explaining to the story. There was some repeating that can get a little annoying. I chalked it all up as setting the foundation for other books. The book as a whole was great and I can't wait to see how the secret new development is going to effect Lexi.
January 10, 2022
OK story, completely forgettable though. Some of my complaints stem from the fact that although this book was not classified as young adult, and the romance was not technically PG, it read like a regency romance. Corny dialogue, and too much description regarding the back and forth feelings. The romance was rather boring, even though Cole is part Lycan and his wolf wanted Lexi as his mate. You have a Prince of the Dark Fae, who literally has nothing to do during the day but read Harry Potter books while he gets to know Lexi. Also, Lexi's naivete grates on my nerves a bit. The setting has electricity, jeans, and current books - which makes the reader believe that she is a modern day woman, but she doesn't understand nuances. Davies is attempting to make her a Mary Sue, and that isn't at all interesting.
March 28, 2021
Man I loved everything Brenda k Davies has ever written so when I found out she has written a new series I was excited ...
she hit this one out of the park like wow what a story and an amazing beginning to a new series ..
She blew my mind with this one, which honestly is nothing new which is why she is in my top favourite authors. So yes for me it ticked all the boxes, there were Lycans, Vampires, Witches, Dragons and so much more. Bring on the next instalment....
she hit this one out of the park like wow what a story and an amazing beginning to a new series ..
She blew my mind with this one, which honestly is nothing new which is why she is in my top favourite authors. So yes for me it ticked all the boxes, there were Lycans, Vampires, Witches, Dragons and so much more. Bring on the next instalment....
March 9, 2021
This new series will have you sucked in from start to finish and leave you wanting more. The only reason it isn't a full 5 for me was the writing was a little repetitive, but the story was still captivating with great character development. You grow invested in them quickly and are eager to jump to the next book.
March 6, 2021
WOW! Brenda has hit this one right out of the park! What a way to introduce a new series!
An amazing first book in a brand new series that has it all.
Lycans, Vampires, Fae and mix that with suspense, finding your mate, rivalling with a Lord and revenge.
We are introduced to Cole and Lexi and their chemistry is Off the charts!
I’m So excited for the next book in this series.
An amazing first book in a brand new series that has it all.
Lycans, Vampires, Fae and mix that with suspense, finding your mate, rivalling with a Lord and revenge.
We are introduced to Cole and Lexi and their chemistry is Off the charts!
I’m So excited for the next book in this series.
September 30, 2024
So.. I liked this book, I liked the characters, I like the growing love between MC’s , and I liked the world ?
but ok.. the first 6 books are focused on them but I believe from other reviews their ending isn’t satisfying and then jump into another coupling’s story and while that’s all fine and dandy I don’t wanna read 12 books without feeling like something comes together happily? I’ll continue this series but probably when I’m bored ? Or just when I care to see how it ends ? But for now I’m gonna slide on over to another series.
Like dragging characters through turmoil just to get more books out of it is not my cup of tea lol but that’s just me !
As stated, I enjoyed the book and will probably finish the series I’m just in no rush to 😀
but ok.. the first 6 books are focused on them but I believe from other reviews their ending isn’t satisfying and then jump into another coupling’s story and while that’s all fine and dandy I don’t wanna read 12 books without feeling like something comes together happily? I’ll continue this series but probably when I’m bored ? Or just when I care to see how it ends ? But for now I’m gonna slide on over to another series.
Like dragging characters through turmoil just to get more books out of it is not my cup of tea lol but that’s just me !
As stated, I enjoyed the book and will probably finish the series I’m just in no rush to 😀
May 29, 2024
Molto bello
December 1, 2023
Holy shit! This was epic! This was absolutely insane! I could not stop turning pages. This book was so intense, packed of action AND epic love story WITH a good smut!
This is the second series of this author I have dived into and damn, she’s exceptional storyteller!
Did it have some plot-holes? Yes, thankfully minor and didn’t annoy me.
In fantasy books I do enjoy good hero who is respectful with h, but also extremely possessive. He does questionable things but has lived long enough to understand nothing is ever black or white. He is ruthless and violent, but not mindlessly. Calculating and volatile. I cannot wait for his character arc.
Lexi is sweet, naive, gentle, but stubborn and strong willed. I could say she was bit jaded due to war and rightfully so. I loved how she slowly with this aftermath of war started to grow and find her backbone.
This is very good fantasy series and I am off to the second book.
🔶 virgin h
🔶 manwhore H
🔶 h is half vampire/half human
🔶 H is half dark fae/ half lycan
🔶 mates
🔶 h feeds from blood bags/ H feeds from sex
🔶 age-gap, h is like over 600 y/ h is 24
🔶 both are immortal
🔶 no ow/ bit om drama( om harassing h)
🔶 no cheating
🔶 no condoms used ( H is on birth control -potion)
🔶 Great storyline, epic love story
🔶 descriptive and hot smut ( I think it will get better in next books)
🔶 tw: death of a parent, descriptive violence
🔶 cliffhanger
🔶 6 books of same couple
This is the second series of this author I have dived into and damn, she’s exceptional storyteller!
Did it have some plot-holes? Yes, thankfully minor and didn’t annoy me.
In fantasy books I do enjoy good hero who is respectful with h, but also extremely possessive. He does questionable things but has lived long enough to understand nothing is ever black or white. He is ruthless and violent, but not mindlessly. Calculating and volatile. I cannot wait for his character arc.
Lexi is sweet, naive, gentle, but stubborn and strong willed. I could say she was bit jaded due to war and rightfully so. I loved how she slowly with this aftermath of war started to grow and find her backbone.
This is very good fantasy series and I am off to the second book.
🔶 virgin h
🔶 manwhore H
🔶 h is half vampire/half human
🔶 H is half dark fae/ half lycan
🔶 mates
🔶 h feeds from blood bags/ H feeds from sex
🔶 age-gap, h is like over 600 y/ h is 24
🔶 both are immortal
🔶 no ow/ bit om drama( om harassing h)
🔶 no cheating
🔶 no condoms used ( H is on birth control -potion)
🔶 Great storyline, epic love story
🔶 descriptive and hot smut ( I think it will get better in next books)
🔶 tw: death of a parent, descriptive violence
🔶 cliffhanger
🔶 6 books of same couple
October 25, 2022
what will free me from this streak of 2 star romances… this started so good…
why do we have a Harry Potter obsessed MC who tells our LI to read the series in 2022… it was so corny
And why did we spend most of this book just… sitting around waiting for someone to get better? Like they did nothing for most of the book but sit around. You couldn’t give us a side plot about them needing to go find an herb or something? And the sex scenes… why? It was like 3-4 of them almost directly back to back. This was written like a YA book so when it got VERY SEXUAL I was ????
The start was so good and intriguing and then we went to the MC’s house and basically nothing exciting happened ever again until the very end lmao
Also these characters are HELLA allergic to just talking to each other
why do we have a Harry Potter obsessed MC who tells our LI to read the series in 2022… it was so corny
And why did we spend most of this book just… sitting around waiting for someone to get better? Like they did nothing for most of the book but sit around. You couldn’t give us a side plot about them needing to go find an herb or something? And the sex scenes… why? It was like 3-4 of them almost directly back to back. This was written like a YA book so when it got VERY SEXUAL I was ????
The start was so good and intriguing and then we went to the MC’s house and basically nothing exciting happened ever again until the very end lmao
Also these characters are HELLA allergic to just talking to each other
December 7, 2023
I haven't read a lot of fantasy books. I'm always nervous to start them because they can be hit or miss. I've never read this author before, but I'm so glad I did. I really loved this book. I couldn't put it down. I did a combination read/audio, mostly audio, while reading along :)
Cole is exactly the type of MMC I love in books. There is attraction almost immediately from both of them. But it wasn't over the top as some books have. These two have a push and pull, but nothing actually happens between them until around the 60% mark or so.
Lexi, I think, has a lot of room to grow, but I still love her. I think she will play more of a role as the books continue. This one felt more like we were setting the stage.
I also love these side characters: Brokk, Sahira, and even Orin (I feel like there will be so much more with him). I was NOT expecting what happened towards the end and found myself with some tears. This ended on a cliffhanger, so I already made sure I bought the rest of the series because I have no doubt I'll be screaming through them.
Cole is exactly the type of MMC I love in books. There is attraction almost immediately from both of them. But it wasn't over the top as some books have. These two have a push and pull, but nothing actually happens between them until around the 60% mark or so.
Lexi, I think, has a lot of room to grow, but I still love her. I think she will play more of a role as the books continue. This one felt more like we were setting the stage.
I also love these side characters: Brokk, Sahira, and even Orin (I feel like there will be so much more with him). I was NOT expecting what happened towards the end and found myself with some tears. This ended on a cliffhanger, so I already made sure I bought the rest of the series because I have no doubt I'll be screaming through them.
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