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Daughter of Shadow #4
Shadow Throne
I am the Ebon Queen's daughter of shadow, but I am not hers.
She has threatened my men and if she harms them, I will unleash dark magic.
Would my shadows defeat the queen—or strengthen my bond to her instead?
The dragon flights have returned but they throw our plans into disarray. Their First-Born will destroy everything that stands between them and their desire to end the Ebon queen—and that could include me. Luin offers to help but I’m unsure he wants to become more than my guardian, and the men now question whether an alliance is possible with such creatures.
We return to our realm to make our next move but not all agree with Leander's decision to return to the stronghold. Devin and Rohan fear for our lives should we walk through the gates, but we may have no choice. Is Leander's position as High Lord enough to keep our group safe if we follow his plans?
The Ebon Queen's forces have destroyed more of the land we travel through, and we face more challenges as we pass through the towns. Ebon elves and her dragon consort Cadenor pursue us as the queen steps up the crusade to bring me to her court. I fear that if she cannot take me, she will take my men.
I'm prepared to face the Ebon Queen and the darkness within myself, but instead she forces an impossible choice on me.
I am a daughter of shadow, and this is who I must become, or I could lose everything.
Shadow Throne is the last book in the Daughter of Shadow why choose romantic fantasy series from USA Today Bestselling author LJ Swallow.
If you enjoy slow burn, action-packed, sword and sorcery romance books, you'll love this series with irresistible elves, a fierce warrior, a sexy Lord, a strong magical heroine, and a dragon with a secret.
She has threatened my men and if she harms them, I will unleash dark magic.
Would my shadows defeat the queen—or strengthen my bond to her instead?
The dragon flights have returned but they throw our plans into disarray. Their First-Born will destroy everything that stands between them and their desire to end the Ebon queen—and that could include me. Luin offers to help but I’m unsure he wants to become more than my guardian, and the men now question whether an alliance is possible with such creatures.
We return to our realm to make our next move but not all agree with Leander's decision to return to the stronghold. Devin and Rohan fear for our lives should we walk through the gates, but we may have no choice. Is Leander's position as High Lord enough to keep our group safe if we follow his plans?
The Ebon Queen's forces have destroyed more of the land we travel through, and we face more challenges as we pass through the towns. Ebon elves and her dragon consort Cadenor pursue us as the queen steps up the crusade to bring me to her court. I fear that if she cannot take me, she will take my men.
I'm prepared to face the Ebon Queen and the darkness within myself, but instead she forces an impossible choice on me.
I am a daughter of shadow, and this is who I must become, or I could lose everything.
Shadow Throne is the last book in the Daughter of Shadow why choose romantic fantasy series from USA Today Bestselling author LJ Swallow.
If you enjoy slow burn, action-packed, sword and sorcery romance books, you'll love this series with irresistible elves, a fierce warrior, a sexy Lord, a strong magical heroine, and a dragon with a secret.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 7, 2021
144 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Swallow
125 books745 followersLJ Swallow is a paranormal romance and urban fantasy author who is the alter-ego of bestselling contemporary romance author Lisa Swallow.
Giving in to her dark side, LJ spends time creating worlds filled with supernatural creatures who don’t fit the norm, and heroines who are more likely to kick ass than sit on theirs.
Giving in to her dark side, LJ spends time creating worlds filled with supernatural creatures who don’t fit the norm, and heroines who are more likely to kick ass than sit on theirs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 2, 2025
I have finally reached the finale of the series. Officially finished the series within a week.
I think I was kind of expecting more, just a teeny bit more from the finale. I liked how the story went and goes but somehow I just needed a little bit more.
But overall a fun series to read and fully enjoyable. A fantasy book that doesn't hurt your head whilst reading.
I think I was kind of expecting more, just a teeny bit more from the finale. I liked how the story went and goes but somehow I just needed a little bit more.
But overall a fun series to read and fully enjoyable. A fantasy book that doesn't hurt your head whilst reading.
August 30, 2023
As a series, it was ok. I have read others like it and this one actually had the best ending. The bad character actually took a bit to defeat and the epilogue was a nice conclusion.
August 20, 2023
missed the mark
I devoured the first three books with glee, but this book has missed the mark. The end was not satisfying and leaves me with a bitter taste.
I devoured the first three books with glee, but this book has missed the mark. The end was not satisfying and leaves me with a bitter taste.
July 19, 2023
The Story has come to an End!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
This was the final book in the 'Daughter of Shadow' series.
The fourth and final book was though to get through...
Shadow Throne had its moments of excitement and intrigue, but I couldn't help but feel that some aspects of the story were a bit repetitive. Calla and her companions seemed to be caught in a never-ending loop of traveling and fighting, often due to jealousy or trust issues, which became somewhat tiresome as the plot progressed.
The constant back-and-forth traveling to different locations became a recurring theme, and after a while, it felt like I was reading the same scenario over and over again. While the world-building was commendable, I wished for more variety in the settings to keep the journey engaging and fresh.
Moreover, Calla's naivety and innocence to betrayal started to stretch my suspension of disbelief. It became increasingly difficult to relate to her character as she repeatedly fell into the same traps and seemed unable to learn from her experiences. Some growth and development would have added depth to her persona and made her journey more compelling.
On the positive side, the action scenes were well-written and gripping, and the author showcased a talent for creating tense moments. The magic system was intriguing, and I appreciated the effort put into crafting a unique and immersive fantasy world.
In conclusion, Shadow Throne had its moments of excitement, but the constant traveling and repeating themes, coupled with Calla's overly trusting nature, left me wanting more from the story. Despite these shortcomings, fans of action-packed fantasy might still find enjoyment in this book.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
This was the final book in the 'Daughter of Shadow' series.
The fourth and final book was though to get through...
Shadow Throne had its moments of excitement and intrigue, but I couldn't help but feel that some aspects of the story were a bit repetitive. Calla and her companions seemed to be caught in a never-ending loop of traveling and fighting, often due to jealousy or trust issues, which became somewhat tiresome as the plot progressed.
The constant back-and-forth traveling to different locations became a recurring theme, and after a while, it felt like I was reading the same scenario over and over again. While the world-building was commendable, I wished for more variety in the settings to keep the journey engaging and fresh.
Moreover, Calla's naivety and innocence to betrayal started to stretch my suspension of disbelief. It became increasingly difficult to relate to her character as she repeatedly fell into the same traps and seemed unable to learn from her experiences. Some growth and development would have added depth to her persona and made her journey more compelling.
On the positive side, the action scenes were well-written and gripping, and the author showcased a talent for creating tense moments. The magic system was intriguing, and I appreciated the effort put into crafting a unique and immersive fantasy world.
In conclusion, Shadow Throne had its moments of excitement, but the constant traveling and repeating themes, coupled with Calla's overly trusting nature, left me wanting more from the story. Despite these shortcomings, fans of action-packed fantasy might still find enjoyment in this book.
November 12, 2023
*2.75⭐️
Honestly, after finally finishing the series idk what to say.
I stand by that the first book was absolutely great and I think that it the rest of the books held the same quality then this would have been a great series but books 2 and 3 just really brought it down. I didn’t mind this last one as much- I honestly don’t know how I feel about the ending, I liked it but at the same time I kinda didn’t so I’m super conflicted but overall I think I’m leaning more towards liking it?
I think this series should have been reworked to be 3 books. There was no need to make this into a 4 book series and I think the pacing of 2 and 3 would have been much better if this had been a 3 book series.
Overall I have to admit I am sad to be leaving them all behind. I feel like there are also so many unanswered questions. Like did Calla just stop caring about her family? Like she didn’t even visit them after everything.
I really wish we got more of Luin-Calla interactions. I feel like the author made some questionable choices in choosing which man to have sex scenes with in the last book. Like we have had Galen, Leander, and Rohan for 4 books now but only Luin and Calla for the last bit of the 3 book and the fourth. Yet we got nothing for Luin in the last book instead we got yet another scene with the OG trio. And Devin got nothing! I feel robbed.
Honestly, after finally finishing the series idk what to say.
I stand by that the first book was absolutely great and I think that it the rest of the books held the same quality then this would have been a great series but books 2 and 3 just really brought it down. I didn’t mind this last one as much- I honestly don’t know how I feel about the ending, I liked it but at the same time I kinda didn’t so I’m super conflicted but overall I think I’m leaning more towards liking it?
I think this series should have been reworked to be 3 books. There was no need to make this into a 4 book series and I think the pacing of 2 and 3 would have been much better if this had been a 3 book series.
Overall I have to admit I am sad to be leaving them all behind. I feel like there are also so many unanswered questions. Like did Calla just stop caring about her family? Like she didn’t even visit them after everything.
I really wish we got more of Luin-Calla interactions. I feel like the author made some questionable choices in choosing which man to have sex scenes with in the last book. Like we have had Galen, Leander, and Rohan for 4 books now but only Luin and Calla for the last bit of the 3 book and the fourth. Yet we got nothing for Luin in the last book instead we got yet another scene with the OG trio. And Devin got nothing! I feel robbed.
November 22, 2023
OK… hear me out. These books were entertaining (series of 4) yet I can’t quite say why.. I feel like a lot of all four books was just traveling. She gradually develops these bonds with the four men but you don’t get any background on how they bonded. It’s just straight to love, no background. It would seem like the time that passes between the four books is quite some time yet you get no concept of how long it has been since you get no real insight to anybody’s story. I love the FMCs that are powerful or tough and Calla was just carried through the whole series with no real power, she doesn’t even learn to protect herself in any of the books. The action scenes weren’t it either honestly. I really don’t know what made me read all four.. but I did so 🤷🏻♀️ It looks like the series continues with her daughter but I don’t know if I’ll read them. I rather go back to fantasy with real substance.
October 17, 2025
Contains Spoilers-
Overall I enjoyed the series but I kept getting increasingly annoyed with the FMC. Look, I get that she is “just a human girl” and that she was sheltered from the true court politics and how the war was actually not going well for the humans, but girl.. She acted so offended when one of the men called her naive but she just cries and panics anytime something frightens her. They kept warning her that if she continues to use the shadows, the Ebon queen’s bond with her will grow stronger and what is her first instinct when scared? Shadows. Now, don’t get me wrong. She dealt with a ton of stuff coming at her in a short amount of time but at some point you either accept your true nature and do whatever it takes to save the realm or you end up dead. Idk, I wanted to love the series but Calla annoyed me.
Overall I enjoyed the series but I kept getting increasingly annoyed with the FMC. Look, I get that she is “just a human girl” and that she was sheltered from the true court politics and how the war was actually not going well for the humans, but girl.. She acted so offended when one of the men called her naive but she just cries and panics anytime something frightens her. They kept warning her that if she continues to use the shadows, the Ebon queen’s bond with her will grow stronger and what is her first instinct when scared? Shadows. Now, don’t get me wrong. She dealt with a ton of stuff coming at her in a short amount of time but at some point you either accept your true nature and do whatever it takes to save the realm or you end up dead. Idk, I wanted to love the series but Calla annoyed me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2021
Much happens in the final book of the series. Calla and her unusual mix of protectors have brought back the dragons, but they are not quite as eager to join forces with the group as they had envisioned. Luin and Calla have bonded to keep the dragons from harming her because of her dragon soul and her ties to the Ebon Queen. The other men have mixed feelings about this bonding, as well as the dragons in general. But the Ebon continue to be a scourge on the lands and their people and a reckoning is inevitable. Can Calla fight off the shadows and defeat the queen with (or without) the help of her men and the dragons?
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
November 22, 2023
This book, actually the whole series was so exciting. This is a series of fantasy books with very adult sex scenes. I love the fantasy genre because the author can create a world never before imagined, and this author did an excellent job of it. The protagonist, Calla, was very interesting, because she starts out as a sweet, caring, loving, accepting-of-others, young woman trying to live her life while trying to hide her magic. And with everything that happens, she clings to who she believes herself to be. And she finds four individuals who love her and would give their lives to protect her. I like how the reader is introduced to each type of people; humans with magic, elves, and dragons. Each book was more intriguing, exciting, and surprising than the last. I had fun reading each one.
December 10, 2021
I loved this book!! It truly wrapped up the series in a fantastic way! Calla and her men will keep her safe and protect her always! It had so many twists and turns that I wasn’t sure a happily ever after was in sight but it was one I didn’t see coming! And a little extra special package too at the end! I am hoping that the end hinted that perhaps we will see these characters again and new characters, too!!! I will miss these characters and this world and I am so hoping to see them again soon!!! A great finale!! I highly recommend this book and series!! It’s unlike anything I’ve ever read with elves and dragons!
February 6, 2022
As a series ending this was rather a letdown. The time jumps were very unwelcome and made the book feel rushed. The jealousy and stupid decisions knew no bounds and the characters again all felt lacking.
When we get to the final showdown it is hideously dragged out and then the conclusion to the Queens reign was meh. I don't feel anything much for how it ended other than i kinda wasted my time.
The final chapter reveal felt just put in there for show and rather unlikely considering who they are trying to hide from.
Started a good series ok for a quick read but shame about the conclusion.
When we get to the final showdown it is hideously dragged out and then the conclusion to the Queens reign was meh. I don't feel anything much for how it ended other than i kinda wasted my time.
The final chapter reveal felt just put in there for show and rather unlikely considering who they are trying to hide from.
Started a good series ok for a quick read but shame about the conclusion.
December 6, 2021
I would say we got a nice ending to the series in this book. We get to see just how the dragons are in this book after only a little taste of them from the previous book. Calla has to face some challenges with both her men and how she will handle the Ebon Queen. Definitely some ups and downs with a few surprises thrown in the mix for Calla and her men. I feel though that everything comes to a nice conclusion overall to wrap up this series.
October 7, 2023
What a lovely ending!
I love these characters and this world, and this final book was an almost perfect ending to the series.
There was plenty of excitement and surprises, and the development of the characters and storyline was well written.
The ending is somewhere close to happily ever after, and there was such a lovely surprise in the last few pages that really made me happy... I'm kind of sad the books are over, but I very much enjoyed the series.
I love these characters and this world, and this final book was an almost perfect ending to the series.
There was plenty of excitement and surprises, and the development of the characters and storyline was well written.
The ending is somewhere close to happily ever after, and there was such a lovely surprise in the last few pages that really made me happy... I'm kind of sad the books are over, but I very much enjoyed the series.
December 30, 2023
Awesome ending!
Woe is Calla! The First Born aren’t all Calla and her men thought they would be. They would just as soon terminate Calla and go off on their merry was to deal with the Ebon Queen themselves.
Everything comes to a head when Devin leaves them just as they are attacked.
You will need to read the tale yourself because I give no more away. The ending is isn’t what you hunk it will be. But you’re going to love it!
Woe is Calla! The First Born aren’t all Calla and her men thought they would be. They would just as soon terminate Calla and go off on their merry was to deal with the Ebon Queen themselves.
Everything comes to a head when Devin leaves them just as they are attacked.
You will need to read the tale yourself because I give no more away. The ending is isn’t what you hunk it will be. But you’re going to love it!
March 26, 2025
This was a great book to close out the series, I really enjoyed. The whole series was better than I expected and I was interested the entire time.
The characters were so well written and I loved her men’s chemistry with each other. I was so happy to see Devin again. The baby did catch me off guard a little bit but I am happy to see she also gets her own story. Thinking about Calla live out her life at Galen’s court, surrounded by her loves makes me happy.
The characters were so well written and I loved her men’s chemistry with each other. I was so happy to see Devin again. The baby did catch me off guard a little bit but I am happy to see she also gets her own story. Thinking about Calla live out her life at Galen’s court, surrounded by her loves makes me happy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2021
I have been waiting patiently for this book and it didn't disappoint. I absolutely love the ending that Calla and her men got. I couldn't stop reading it once I started it and though I am sad that it is over, it ending perfectly. I so hope that eventually we will get see more of these characters at some point.
September 26, 2022
Shadow Throne
This was an excellent finale to this series. I've really enjoyed it. Calla and her men have been through it and come out stronger. Hoping there will be more from them, after this, with the new adventure they are taking on.
Well written and enjoyable to read, you won't regret picking up this book.
This was an excellent finale to this series. I've really enjoyed it. Calla and her men have been through it and come out stronger. Hoping there will be more from them, after this, with the new adventure they are taking on.
Well written and enjoyable to read, you won't regret picking up this book.
December 15, 2021
ALL the ups and down in Shadow Throne! Calla and her men go on quite the journey! They face the Ebon Queen, meet the dragons and so so much happens! This is one epic conclusion and one of my favorite series from L.J. Swallow!
February 12, 2022
Shadow Throne
Book 4 of the Daughter of Shadow series was by far the best one in the series. The ending felt a little rushed at the end but I love that the author left it open for a possible companion series.
Book 4 of the Daughter of Shadow series was by far the best one in the series. The ending felt a little rushed at the end but I love that the author left it open for a possible companion series.
September 27, 2023
This book was completely different than the others and in my opinion COMPLETELY missed the mark. It is so superficial in their connections and relationships and tbh some parts are a little cringey. Didn’t like it at all but DEVOURED the others
March 14, 2024
Spoiler
I absolutely loved this series and how the different power dynamics played out as well as the character growth being outstanding for all involved. It was a fresh story for a dystopian high fantasy series.
I absolutely loved this series and how the different power dynamics played out as well as the character growth being outstanding for all involved. It was a fresh story for a dystopian high fantasy series.
May 16, 2024
Interesting series
The plot was good but I found most of the characters completely unlikeable. There was very limited to no character development and most of the men annoyed me through all four books. The general idea was enjoyable but only a 3 star series for me.
The plot was good but I found most of the characters completely unlikeable. There was very limited to no character development and most of the men annoyed me through all four books. The general idea was enjoyable but only a 3 star series for me.
August 10, 2025
This is a review for books 1-4. This was an interesting take on a why chose romance. I did enjoy it but I was not in love with it. The characters at times were annoying but I was glad I gave it a shot.
December 7, 2021
You will love Calla and her men as they journey through the lands to get allies to help defeat the Ebon queen. This book is packed full of adventure love and mystery.
December 26, 2021
Good series
A lot happens in this one, just like in the others. The ending was perfect and I loved it. This is such a good series. Highly recommend!
A lot happens in this one, just like in the others. The ending was perfect and I loved it. This is such a good series. Highly recommend!
January 5, 2022
Great ending
Great ending to the series and I hope and look forward to potential upcoming books in the future especially if some of the characters from this series remain
Great ending to the series and I hope and look forward to potential upcoming books in the future especially if some of the characters from this series remain
August 12, 2022
So good
This is the final book on the series. Another wonderful story. So exciting and fun to read. I hated to put it down. Highly recommend
This is the final book on the series. Another wonderful story. So exciting and fun to read. I hated to put it down. Highly recommend
July 26, 2023
Ok not great. Felt like 3.5 books of build up for it to just kind of end?
August 4, 2023
better and better
Loved this series and now I can’t wait to read what she has going on next! I absolutely love how she writes and her books! I couldn’t put this one down either!!
Loved this series and now I can’t wait to read what she has going on next! I absolutely love how she writes and her books! I couldn’t put this one down either!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews