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Shadows of Otherside 10 BOOK SERIE #3
Ethereal Secrets
Book 3 in the Shadows of Otherside SeriesArden Finch's conflict with her former guardian reaches the breaking point.
As Arden's power grows, Callista works to twist the alliance away from her once more. To secure her ties with Otherside, Arden must outmaneuver both enemies and allies in a race against time. Between that and complications with the upcoming Reveal, a high-pressure case is exactly what Arden doesn't need.
But the goddess Artemis has a task, one that will push Arden to her limits and force her to question everything. And as the Wild Hunt draws closer, she finds herself on a collision course with her past-and her future.
As Arden's power grows, Callista works to twist the alliance away from her once more. To secure her ties with Otherside, Arden must outmaneuver both enemies and allies in a race against time. Between that and complications with the upcoming Reveal, a high-pressure case is exactly what Arden doesn't need.
But the goddess Artemis has a task, one that will push Arden to her limits and force her to question everything. And as the Wild Hunt draws closer, she finds herself on a collision course with her past-and her future.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2021
12 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Whitney Hill
20 books117 followersWhitney Hill (whitneyhillwrites.com) is the author of the Shadows of Otherside contemporary fantasy series. The bestselling first book in the series, Elemental, was the grand prize winner of the 8th Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published E-Book Awards.
Whitney is also the founder of Benu Media (benumedia.com), an indie publishing imprint and creative consulting business. She leverages over a decade of marketing experience to offer resources that help indie authors rise and shine.
When she’s not writing or consulting, Whitney enjoys hiking in North Carolina’s beautiful state parks and playing video games.
Join Whitney on Twitter and Instagram: @write_wherever.
Whitney is also the founder of Benu Media (benumedia.com), an indie publishing imprint and creative consulting business. She leverages over a decade of marketing experience to offer resources that help indie authors rise and shine.
When she’s not writing or consulting, Whitney enjoys hiking in North Carolina’s beautiful state parks and playing video games.
Join Whitney on Twitter and Instagram: @write_wherever.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 24, 2021
This was by far my favourite book of the series so far! All of the books are extremely action packed, but Ethereal Secrets really brought out more of that angsty-romance vibe that I was eager for! If you are looking for an urban fantasy with a strong, badass female-lead as well as an investigative plot full of mystery, I recommend the Shadows of Otherside series!
Spoilers below if you haven't read books 1 and 2! ***
Arden is not alone or in hiding anymore, she has stablished a strong position of power in the triangle with the alliance she built. She gives hope to the other elementals, that they can join the rest of the community and no longer be hunted. However, power is always shifting, and her old guardian, Callista, has her eyes on Arden now more than ever. The worldbuilding got much more complex ever since the Gods have been appearing for Arden, I feel like we are on a collision course to something tremendous and I am all here for it!
Ethereal Secrets added many new layers to the story in what concerns character development, for example Arden's relationship with Maria, a seductive and powerful vampire of Torsten's Coterie, developed into more than just flirtation, but true friendship. Arden's banter-filled connection to Troy Monteague, an elven prince, was the highlight of the story for me. I have been rooting for these two since book 1 and must say I squealed in glee with the path that Ethereal Secrets took! The enemies to lovers was perfectly delivered in a slow burn throughout the series.
"Don't you see, little bird?" A deep, resonant voice said. "He wants you."
We also get a little bit more insight of Arden's background, but still many questions remain that I hope will be answered in the next book for I am dying to know! Why was she conceived? What is her lineage? What is the pendant she wears? Why does Troy also have it? Why is she a primordial elemental? I am so glad the 4th book is already out because I need answers!!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy!
Spoilers below if you haven't read books 1 and 2! ***
Arden is not alone or in hiding anymore, she has stablished a strong position of power in the triangle with the alliance she built. She gives hope to the other elementals, that they can join the rest of the community and no longer be hunted. However, power is always shifting, and her old guardian, Callista, has her eyes on Arden now more than ever. The worldbuilding got much more complex ever since the Gods have been appearing for Arden, I feel like we are on a collision course to something tremendous and I am all here for it!
Ethereal Secrets added many new layers to the story in what concerns character development, for example Arden's relationship with Maria, a seductive and powerful vampire of Torsten's Coterie, developed into more than just flirtation, but true friendship. Arden's banter-filled connection to Troy Monteague, an elven prince, was the highlight of the story for me. I have been rooting for these two since book 1 and must say I squealed in glee with the path that Ethereal Secrets took! The enemies to lovers was perfectly delivered in a slow burn throughout the series.
"Don't you see, little bird?" A deep, resonant voice said. "He wants you."
We also get a little bit more insight of Arden's background, but still many questions remain that I hope will be answered in the next book for I am dying to know! Why was she conceived? What is her lineage? What is the pendant she wears? Why does Troy also have it? Why is she a primordial elemental? I am so glad the 4th book is already out because I need answers!!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy!
March 3, 2021
This series just keeps getting better and better.
Ethereal Secrets picks up where the last book left off. Arden Finch is trying to keep her newly formed alliance together. Her old mentor, Callista is working to shatter that alliance. The old gods continue to show more interest in Arden’s growing powers and the Wild Hunt looms. On top of all that, the vampire sorcerer that was the accomplice of the necromancer defeated in the last novel, is still out there.
There were a number of pleasant surprises in this book that I really enjoyed. I won’t go into details to avoid spoilers, but they brought a smile to my face when I read them. I love the rich worldbuilding and the politics of the different Otherside factions.
I’m intrigued to see what the fallout will be from the Reveal going forward in the series; there are so many interesting ways the author could go with it.
If you are looking for a well-written, original urban fantasy series with a wide cast of supernatural entities, then you can’t do much better than this one.
Ethereal Secrets picks up where the last book left off. Arden Finch is trying to keep her newly formed alliance together. Her old mentor, Callista is working to shatter that alliance. The old gods continue to show more interest in Arden’s growing powers and the Wild Hunt looms. On top of all that, the vampire sorcerer that was the accomplice of the necromancer defeated in the last novel, is still out there.
There were a number of pleasant surprises in this book that I really enjoyed. I won’t go into details to avoid spoilers, but they brought a smile to my face when I read them. I love the rich worldbuilding and the politics of the different Otherside factions.
I’m intrigued to see what the fallout will be from the Reveal going forward in the series; there are so many interesting ways the author could go with it.
If you are looking for a well-written, original urban fantasy series with a wide cast of supernatural entities, then you can’t do much better than this one.
May 10, 2021
Once again, Whitney Hill blew me out of the water with her amazing series, "Shadows of the Otherside". Book 3 certainly does not disappoint, and I feel as though it makes the series even stronger. The character development was phenomenal, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
SPOILERS BELOW!
--------
Troy and Arden's relationship is so interesting to me. I don't like jumping to conclusions with ships, but the chemistry is real, and I see the buildup. I've predicted it since the end of Book 1, I believe, and it might come to fruition--or, Arden might not be ready yet. Or ever. Which would be just fine, and understandable. The question is, can she set aside the past, and what he's done, to embrace a ship if it develops further? It seems like that's a solid maybe, I would say. Troy himself was developed a TON more. The writing is very rich when it comes to showing his emotion and how he truly does care, but tries very hard to hide it.
Maria is amazing, and that one part when Arden said she was her friend really made me happy. She lit up, and it implies that, well... she might not be treated nicely due to being a vampire. This is doubly so after Torsten's treatment on her, though of course, that is not an issue now.
I made commentary and notes throughout my reading experience because I was so engaged. Key points were that I did NOT expect the twist in the end in favor of our heroes with the succubus. That was a wonderful surprise. I also can't believe Callista is gone! I'm happy for Arden, but sense trouble still from that on the horizon.
I'm left with these questions: Where will Arden & Troy's relationship go? How will the discovery of Arden's family impact the story moving forward? When will humanity learn that the Reveal is reality as opposed to some hoax? Will Arden be manage to prevent an apocalypse the gods want so badly? Will this alliance hold true? Will Duke & Arden ever mend their relationship, especially now that he has his objects from Callista?
As always, I enjoy the shifters. I really liked meeting Vikki. Allegra was another new character introduced that I adore, and she makes the reality of the situation clear. In terms of characters I already knew, I was wary of Noah's behavior, but that resolved in the end, and he seems to be on team 'hero'. I do wonder, in the back of my mind, if he'll pursue Doc Mike. He did sound worried at that one point in the story when Doc was contacted. Curious to see if that blossoms into anything.
------
SPOILERS END
Also, one important thing about this book is that it does bring reality blended into fantasy. It's a testament to the fact that fantasy CAN teach important lessons that we should here. I am a reader with privilege, being a white woman, and it's important for me to pay attention to the messages in this book. The feelings and reality of what non-white people deal with every day aren't shied away from in this story. I think this is important, and I think it's important for people like me to take the messages to heart, pay attention, be aware, and listen. Not only that, but to continue our support. I hope stories like this are taken to heart by readers like me.
All in all, no surprise from me, this was a thoughtful story rich with world building, more lore, STRONG character development, and messages that apply to real life that need to be paid attention to.
I am super excited to see where this goes next, and if my questions will be answered. I didn't touch on every little bit in this review, because there is just so much, but my notes are my raw as-I-read reaction. As you can tell, I really enjoyed myself!
SPOILERS BELOW!
--------
Troy and Arden's relationship is so interesting to me. I don't like jumping to conclusions with ships, but the chemistry is real, and I see the buildup. I've predicted it since the end of Book 1, I believe, and it might come to fruition--or, Arden might not be ready yet. Or ever. Which would be just fine, and understandable. The question is, can she set aside the past, and what he's done, to embrace a ship if it develops further? It seems like that's a solid maybe, I would say. Troy himself was developed a TON more. The writing is very rich when it comes to showing his emotion and how he truly does care, but tries very hard to hide it.
Maria is amazing, and that one part when Arden said she was her friend really made me happy. She lit up, and it implies that, well... she might not be treated nicely due to being a vampire. This is doubly so after Torsten's treatment on her, though of course, that is not an issue now.
I made commentary and notes throughout my reading experience because I was so engaged. Key points were that I did NOT expect the twist in the end in favor of our heroes with the succubus. That was a wonderful surprise. I also can't believe Callista is gone! I'm happy for Arden, but sense trouble still from that on the horizon.
I'm left with these questions: Where will Arden & Troy's relationship go? How will the discovery of Arden's family impact the story moving forward? When will humanity learn that the Reveal is reality as opposed to some hoax? Will Arden be manage to prevent an apocalypse the gods want so badly? Will this alliance hold true? Will Duke & Arden ever mend their relationship, especially now that he has his objects from Callista?
As always, I enjoy the shifters. I really liked meeting Vikki. Allegra was another new character introduced that I adore, and she makes the reality of the situation clear. In terms of characters I already knew, I was wary of Noah's behavior, but that resolved in the end, and he seems to be on team 'hero'. I do wonder, in the back of my mind, if he'll pursue Doc Mike. He did sound worried at that one point in the story when Doc was contacted. Curious to see if that blossoms into anything.
------
SPOILERS END
Also, one important thing about this book is that it does bring reality blended into fantasy. It's a testament to the fact that fantasy CAN teach important lessons that we should here. I am a reader with privilege, being a white woman, and it's important for me to pay attention to the messages in this book. The feelings and reality of what non-white people deal with every day aren't shied away from in this story. I think this is important, and I think it's important for people like me to take the messages to heart, pay attention, be aware, and listen. Not only that, but to continue our support. I hope stories like this are taken to heart by readers like me.
All in all, no surprise from me, this was a thoughtful story rich with world building, more lore, STRONG character development, and messages that apply to real life that need to be paid attention to.
I am super excited to see where this goes next, and if my questions will be answered. I didn't touch on every little bit in this review, because there is just so much, but my notes are my raw as-I-read reaction. As you can tell, I really enjoyed myself!
April 30, 2022
This time around, Arden has become arbiter over the other magical clans in Otherside. Trying to broker unity between everyone, Arden finds she is at odds with her former guardian Callista. Callista not willing to relinquish her control and authority, pushes the other clans who are at odds with joining the alliance to destroy it with any means necessary. Arden must finally realize that she can't do everything on her own and need the alliance in helping to ensure a peace that will finally unite all of them.
What I loved this time around was seeing how far Arden has grown as a character. She started off from the first book, as a naive, unconfident air elemental who just wanted to hide who she was from everyone. Now she has become a powerful elemental that not only welds air but all of the elements! One that knows hiding and just fitting in does nothing but bring more opposition in their society.
Also we finally get a glimpse into a romantic relationship between Arden and Troy "the mysterious elf prince"! I really liked how their relationship has evolved from being basically enemies to allies and now I'm hoping to more in the remaining books!!!
We also get more details on who Arden's parents were but there are still unanswered questions on why they risked everything to conceive her. Also why Callista had her hidden from everyone and basically in the dark on everything. So I'm looking forward to continuing on with the series cause I need answers!
What I loved this time around was seeing how far Arden has grown as a character. She started off from the first book, as a naive, unconfident air elemental who just wanted to hide who she was from everyone. Now she has become a powerful elemental that not only welds air but all of the elements! One that knows hiding and just fitting in does nothing but bring more opposition in their society.
Also we finally get a glimpse into a romantic relationship between Arden and Troy "the mysterious elf prince"! I really liked how their relationship has evolved from being basically enemies to allies and now I'm hoping to more in the remaining books!!!
We also get more details on who Arden's parents were but there are still unanswered questions on why they risked everything to conceive her. Also why Callista had her hidden from everyone and basically in the dark on everything. So I'm looking forward to continuing on with the series cause I need answers!
February 9, 2021
Every book in this series is better than the last and I honestly don't know how Whitney does it. I was on the edge of my seat throughout this book for so many reasons. Twists, turns, heartbreaks, sobs of joy. I just.. I am all over the place, my friends. Arden is one of the most amazing and *human* (yes, I know.) characters I've ever read. I love her and would gladly face down a zombie, crazed red cap, or vengeful god for her.
May 2, 2021
Death to romance!!!!!
Why must all female led books revolve around romance. This women literally has a million and one things better to worry about and yet every other page is swooning over someone. It’s annoying and ruined the entire book. The only reason I gave it two stars is because you at least got progression and she wasn’t weak like in the previous novels. The story (when not revolving around who she wants to date and kiss) was interesting and it has taken a interesting turn with good continuity. Can we please have a story about a confident powerful women who has the ability to concentrate on the world crumbling around her and not the overprotective muscle that she hates but loves. There is absolutely nothing wrong with romance I just don’t get the need to add it in when there is clearly other things to worry about. It’s like authors (male and female) feel the need to inject romance into female characters to portray the full spectrum of a women’s personality, and it’s annoying. I can easily find true male led fantasy but the vast majority of female led novels are borderline romance novels.
Why must all female led books revolve around romance. This women literally has a million and one things better to worry about and yet every other page is swooning over someone. It’s annoying and ruined the entire book. The only reason I gave it two stars is because you at least got progression and she wasn’t weak like in the previous novels. The story (when not revolving around who she wants to date and kiss) was interesting and it has taken a interesting turn with good continuity. Can we please have a story about a confident powerful women who has the ability to concentrate on the world crumbling around her and not the overprotective muscle that she hates but loves. There is absolutely nothing wrong with romance I just don’t get the need to add it in when there is clearly other things to worry about. It’s like authors (male and female) feel the need to inject romance into female characters to portray the full spectrum of a women’s personality, and it’s annoying. I can easily find true male led fantasy but the vast majority of female led novels are borderline romance novels.
June 4, 2022
Arden continues to work with the North Carolina Triangle Vampires, Weres , Witches and certain elves to ease them into the Big Reveal. Though still wary of Troy, they grow steadily closer as Callista continues to work to sabotage her efforts. After the death of her cousin, her other cousin, Duke, refuses to have anything to do with her and has stated -" you are dead to me" but even though she has defeated the Lich she still is pursued by his accomplice, a sorcerer turned Vampire who continues to cause all sorts of problems for her and her team. To top it all off she is visited by Artemis another god from the Crossroads who assigns her a task she can't refuse. The night of the Big Reveal for the vampires is met with little fanfare by the mundanes who view it as a big hoax until a death in the middle of the celebration brings involvement by the local police .
February 26, 2021
This Was Amazing
I have been waiting patiently for this book to be released. I got the first book on day when the book price was decreased and decided to try it out and see. I had no idea how great this story is. The growth that Arden has gone through in these three books have endeared me to this stubborn honest and kind character. I love the vibrant cast of the book and in the supernatural community and how in this book she’s finally excepted her new role in it. New secrets have been revealed and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I adore her and Troy, love Maria and Noah and can’t wait to see where Ms. Hill takes us next!!!!!
I have been waiting patiently for this book to be released. I got the first book on day when the book price was decreased and decided to try it out and see. I had no idea how great this story is. The growth that Arden has gone through in these three books have endeared me to this stubborn honest and kind character. I love the vibrant cast of the book and in the supernatural community and how in this book she’s finally excepted her new role in it. New secrets have been revealed and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I adore her and Troy, love Maria and Noah and can’t wait to see where Ms. Hill takes us next!!!!!
February 25, 2021
Yes
So, this was the best of the series so far. I cannot wait for the next installment. Arden has grown into her powers. She is gaining confidence and is learning to trust herself. I cannot wait for more of her past to be revealed and to see what happens between her and Troy. This was an awesome read and each book in the series just gets better. I hope the wait for the next installment is not too long and yes, I highly recommend this series. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
So, this was the best of the series so far. I cannot wait for the next installment. Arden has grown into her powers. She is gaining confidence and is learning to trust herself. I cannot wait for more of her past to be revealed and to see what happens between her and Troy. This was an awesome read and each book in the series just gets better. I hope the wait for the next installment is not too long and yes, I highly recommend this series. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
May 3, 2021
Enjoying the series
I am really enjoying the series. With this third novel we see the characters begin the alliance however the nascent alliance is tested by powerful foes. Arden and Troy's alliance develops due to the many times they have to allay against enemies and for the good of RTP. Arden loses her support from her "family" but she grows in leadership and powers as the alliance solidifies. It is interesting watching the characters grow as the series advances. Interesting characters - Maria, Grim, Duke, Vi. I have already pre-order the next one.
I am really enjoying the series. With this third novel we see the characters begin the alliance however the nascent alliance is tested by powerful foes. Arden and Troy's alliance develops due to the many times they have to allay against enemies and for the good of RTP. Arden loses her support from her "family" but she grows in leadership and powers as the alliance solidifies. It is interesting watching the characters grow as the series advances. Interesting characters - Maria, Grim, Duke, Vi. I have already pre-order the next one.
February 24, 2021
Why did I read it so fast?!
If I could pre-order the next book in this series, I would. I have fallen in love with this series and hope there are many more to follow. These books do not disappoint. Just passed with myself that I read it so fast. Now, I'll have to stalk the author's page for a release date on the fourth book. SMH Why do I do this to myself?!
If I could pre-order the next book in this series, I would. I have fallen in love with this series and hope there are many more to follow. These books do not disappoint. Just passed with myself that I read it so fast. Now, I'll have to stalk the author's page for a release date on the fourth book. SMH Why do I do this to myself?!
February 25, 2021
Creative fantasy
One of the best series I have read recently, the character of Finch is astutely put together from doubting herself to becoming a Power. The relationships between the elves, weres, vampires and witches are complex and well written.The Old Gods are added for Good measure. Readers of good urban fantasy will love these books.
One of the best series I have read recently, the character of Finch is astutely put together from doubting herself to becoming a Power. The relationships between the elves, weres, vampires and witches are complex and well written.The Old Gods are added for Good measure. Readers of good urban fantasy will love these books.
February 28, 2021
Enjoyable fun and relatable
I really enjoyed Finch and her challenges. I couldn’t wait to read what was going to happen and I couldn’t guess at the resolution. I loved the weaving of reality and fantasy into a story I could escape into but yet could it be real??? Anyways, I have loved this series and I enjoy this author so much.
I really enjoyed Finch and her challenges. I couldn’t wait to read what was going to happen and I couldn’t guess at the resolution. I loved the weaving of reality and fantasy into a story I could escape into but yet could it be real??? Anyways, I have loved this series and I enjoy this author so much.
May 28, 2023
This series is so good and this book was the best yet. Now that Arden is stepping into her power, my constant anger & fear on her behalf has turned into page turning excitement. These books embrace classic urban fantasy storylines while simultaneously being a huge breath of fresh air (no pun intended).
April 13, 2021
This series draws you in
The world building, the characters, the storytelling, and the backstories immerse you into this world. Each book leaving you wanting more!! Finch is awesome to watch grow, stretch, and mature, into her position and powers.
The world building, the characters, the storytelling, and the backstories immerse you into this world. Each book leaving you wanting more!! Finch is awesome to watch grow, stretch, and mature, into her position and powers.
June 14, 2021
Soooo Good
This series just keeps getting better and better.
I'm on pins and needles, waiting for the next book. I hope so many good things for the main characters . Fingers crossed I guess.
This series just keeps getting better and better.
I'm on pins and needles, waiting for the next book. I hope so many good things for the main characters . Fingers crossed I guess.
October 23, 2021
This indie fantasy series becomes ever more assured. Readers may miss something of the old Arden—the private investigator who operated at least partly in the human world—but there’s no denying her character growth or the lure of Otherside’s power struggles.
November 22, 2023
Dnf @ 62%
Might return to this but rn I’m stopping it cause it got annoying. I got tired of Arden’s nonsense & the kind of drawn out story.
Callista needed her head rearranged. Troy annoyed me. Maria annoyed me too. Heck everyone was annoying except Zanna, she was a cool sis
Might return to this but rn I’m stopping it cause it got annoying. I got tired of Arden’s nonsense & the kind of drawn out story.
Callista needed her head rearranged. Troy annoyed me. Maria annoyed me too. Heck everyone was annoying except Zanna, she was a cool sis
March 3, 2021
Excellent
Wow, another unputdowable book from this fabulous series. I love this authors writing style, and the ethnic diversity of the characters. Excellent!I
Wow, another unputdowable book from this fabulous series. I love this authors writing style, and the ethnic diversity of the characters. Excellent!I
September 10, 2021
Favorite book of the series…so far!
November 22, 2021
How is this series not more popular?!! I'm loving it - urban fantasy, well written, characters that grow with BIPOC representation, count me in!!
November 23, 2021
Ethereal Secrets
Amazing book. Arden has grown so much since the first book. Love that Maria is now the Master of the city. Looking forward to the next book.
Amazing book. Arden has grown so much since the first book. Love that Maria is now the Master of the city. Looking forward to the next book.
December 8, 2022
most excellent
This writers ability to weave a realistic world where vampires and other exist within the human world is exciting, well paced and riveting. Highly recommend.
This writers ability to weave a realistic world where vampires and other exist within the human world is exciting, well paced and riveting. Highly recommend.
January 27, 2023
Great 3rd book, better than the last two even and kind of felt like a trilogy climax. All the interesting stuff that needed closure got it
February 25, 2023
More a collection of new and continuing stories on their way to somewhere else.
April 30, 2023
It’s grown on me since book one. This is a solid urban fantasy series. Some romance side plot it it’s not the focus of the story.
January 24, 2024
Fantastic!!!
Loving the intricate development of these characters. Rooting for Arden to continue to step into her own magnificence. Perfect series that encourages me to do better
Loving the intricate development of these characters. Rooting for Arden to continue to step into her own magnificence. Perfect series that encourages me to do better
May 31, 2024
So much action, power, and change in this story. I sigh when it comes to the romantic aspect of book 3 because I want it for Arden so very much. An amazing story that kept me up at night reading.
August 23, 2024
Continuing to enjoy this series❤️ Arden grew a lot in this one and finally got more information about her past. I really love a good slow burn relationship. Can’t wait to start the next book.
October 16, 2024
Such a powerful protagonist. Great everything in this story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews