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Relic Hunters #1
Crown of Shadows
Never mess with the relics of the old gods… or the pixies who once guarded them.
After her mom’s disappearance six months ago, Bethany Aodhán has been running their tavern in old Deva—something her family had been doing ever since a light-fingered pixie lost them the job of guarding the treasures of the old gods eons ago.
Then her brother, Lugh, is attacked, his best friend murdered, and the tavern firebombed. A confrontation with a former lover leads to the discovery of another murder and a missing jewel from a godly relic, and Beth learns that the Éadrom Hoard—one of three godly hoards now guarded by the elves—has been stolen.
But this is no ordinary theft. Darker forces are at work, and they’re not only seeking the means to resurrect a god of destruction but the power to forever banish daylight. That power lay with Agrona’s Claws—three godly artifacts that, when used together, give the user full control over night itself.
With the webs of suspicion drawing ever tighter around them, Beth & Lugh—with the help of two sexy elves and a cantankerous old goddess who knows far more than she admits—race to find the missing artifacts before those intent on unleashing chaos.
It’s a race they must win, because it’s not just their lives on the line, but the fate of modern-day England.
After her mom’s disappearance six months ago, Bethany Aodhán has been running their tavern in old Deva—something her family had been doing ever since a light-fingered pixie lost them the job of guarding the treasures of the old gods eons ago.
Then her brother, Lugh, is attacked, his best friend murdered, and the tavern firebombed. A confrontation with a former lover leads to the discovery of another murder and a missing jewel from a godly relic, and Beth learns that the Éadrom Hoard—one of three godly hoards now guarded by the elves—has been stolen.
But this is no ordinary theft. Darker forces are at work, and they’re not only seeking the means to resurrect a god of destruction but the power to forever banish daylight. That power lay with Agrona’s Claws—three godly artifacts that, when used together, give the user full control over night itself.
With the webs of suspicion drawing ever tighter around them, Beth & Lugh—with the help of two sexy elves and a cantankerous old goddess who knows far more than she admits—race to find the missing artifacts before those intent on unleashing chaos.
It’s a race they must win, because it’s not just their lives on the line, but the fate of modern-day England.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2022
186 people are currently reading
1210 people want to read
About the author
Keri Arthur
102 books6,002 followersKeri Arthur, author of the New York Times bestselling Riley Jenson, Guardian series, has now written more than 25 books. She's received several nominations in the Best Contemporary Paranormal category of the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Awards, and recently won RT's Career Achievement Award for urban fantasy. She lives in Melbourne with her daughter and two crazy dogs
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
March 18, 2022
Another 5 star entry from the fabulous
Keri Arthur!
I've been a die hard fan of Ms Arthur for more years than I care to admit and she has never let me down. Her books have always captured my heart and her easy flow of her writing style makes me forget that I'm actually reading. I've always loved her world building, her characters and her plots, she is truly an amazing writer.
This new series is proving to be another epic adventure but with a different twist of characters, I love Beth and her brother Lugh although my instincts prickle a bit with the latter - as with Cynwig and Mathi, I'm not sure who to trust but I know who I like!!!
Amazing characters, an adventure in it's budding stages and lots of excitement with thought provoking guesses as to what may or may not happen. Absolutely loved this first book and I can't wait to get to the next one!
I've been a die hard fan of Ms Arthur for more years than I care to admit and she has never let me down. Her books have always captured my heart and her easy flow of her writing style makes me forget that I'm actually reading. I've always loved her world building, her characters and her plots, she is truly an amazing writer.
This new series is proving to be another epic adventure but with a different twist of characters, I love Beth and her brother Lugh although my instincts prickle a bit with the latter - as with Cynwig and Mathi, I'm not sure who to trust but I know who I like!!!
Amazing characters, an adventure in it's budding stages and lots of excitement with thought provoking guesses as to what may or may not happen. Absolutely loved this first book and I can't wait to get to the next one!
February 24, 2022
I’ve always liked Keri Arthur and her “so Aussie” sexual freedom has never been a problem before. I always appreciated it as a form of freedom from the so many cultural absurdities that tie women even in this age and in the “first” world.
But at the end I’m not so different from the culture I’m in, because I can’t stop thinking that sex can’t be as ubiquitous or as important as bread. There are stories where sex scenes shouldn’t be in and Crown of Shadows is one such stories. It goes against the grain, it’s like a screeching sound along an orchestra playing.
So, is it any good? Yes, KA is a very talented writer, but keep in mind what I said above and the fact that this is a short book that has no real end. It’s not really a cliffhanger, but it’s clearly part of a series.
I realise it seems I haven’t enjoyed this book. It’s not so, but I have pretty high standard, above all for authors I like and this - for me - fell short from a potentially really good story.
But at the end I’m not so different from the culture I’m in, because I can’t stop thinking that sex can’t be as ubiquitous or as important as bread. There are stories where sex scenes shouldn’t be in and Crown of Shadows is one such stories. It goes against the grain, it’s like a screeching sound along an orchestra playing.
So, is it any good? Yes, KA is a very talented writer, but keep in mind what I said above and the fact that this is a short book that has no real end. It’s not really a cliffhanger, but it’s clearly part of a series.
I realise it seems I haven’t enjoyed this book. It’s not so, but I have pretty high standard, above all for authors I like and this - for me - fell short from a potentially really good story.
February 24, 2022
Still digesting
I'm not sure how I feel about this. It's good, but also there is so much information and action going on that the story feels a bit overwhelming. There are parts that felt like it could be left out, and the story would still be good. It reminds me a lot of Keri's Blackbird book. The badic plot is a bit similar, but I hope this ends a bit more satisfying though. The female main character is a badass and someone you root for. A missing mum, brother in trouble, family name on the line, artifacts gone astray, surrogate papa bear, and a maybe kinda love triangle. This book has it all. I'm interested in seeing where book 2 leads but hated that it ended on a cliffhanger. It's a really bad cliffhanger. But this is better than anything I've read in a couple of weeks, so there is that.
I'm not sure how I feel about this. It's good, but also there is so much information and action going on that the story feels a bit overwhelming. There are parts that felt like it could be left out, and the story would still be good. It reminds me a lot of Keri's Blackbird book. The badic plot is a bit similar, but I hope this ends a bit more satisfying though. The female main character is a badass and someone you root for. A missing mum, brother in trouble, family name on the line, artifacts gone astray, surrogate papa bear, and a maybe kinda love triangle. This book has it all. I'm interested in seeing where book 2 leads but hated that it ended on a cliffhanger. It's a really bad cliffhanger. But this is better than anything I've read in a couple of weeks, so there is that.
March 11, 2022
3.5 stars
It’s hard not to compare this to Arthur’s Riley Jenson series. Both series feature a brother/sister duo who are trying to solve a case, and a heroine who is not shy about her sexuality. I like Bethany better than Riley, but the world building for this series is a lot more confusing. I’m interested though in the plot and will definitely read the next book whenever it comes out.
It’s hard not to compare this to Arthur’s Riley Jenson series. Both series feature a brother/sister duo who are trying to solve a case, and a heroine who is not shy about her sexuality. I like Bethany better than Riley, but the world building for this series is a lot more confusing. I’m interested though in the plot and will definitely read the next book whenever it comes out.
February 9, 2023
I really like Keri Arthur's Lizzie Grace series (aside from the crappy love interest), so I was happy to jump into her new series.
This is fun, though it could use a touch more world building. I just don't entirely understand what the setting is. Is this a modern London in a world where fae/elves/pixies/shifters/magic is known to the human world? I think so, but I can't swear to it.
Beth is a great FMC - she's smart, funny, makes good decisions, and I love the relationship she has with her brother. It's nice to see a strong core sibling relationship, I feel like that's pretty rare in UF.
I don't understand how she stayed with Mathi for 10 years, as he seems to be an utter douchebag. I'm also not sure what I think of Cynwrig, though so far he seems cool. There are just a couple moments that make me a little suspicious. A love triangle is teased here, but I think it's not legit - she's too smart to go back to Mathi and his gross manwhore ways (we are told he cheated on her).
All in all, I enjoyed it and am already like halfway through book 2. Yay!
This is fun, though it could use a touch more world building. I just don't entirely understand what the setting is. Is this a modern London in a world where fae/elves/pixies/shifters/magic is known to the human world? I think so, but I can't swear to it.
Beth is a great FMC - she's smart, funny, makes good decisions, and I love the relationship she has with her brother. It's nice to see a strong core sibling relationship, I feel like that's pretty rare in UF.
I don't understand how she stayed with Mathi for 10 years, as he seems to be an utter douchebag. I'm also not sure what I think of Cynwrig, though so far he seems cool. There are just a couple moments that make me a little suspicious. A love triangle is teased here, but I think it's not legit - she's too smart to go back to Mathi and his gross manwhore ways (we are told he cheated on her).
All in all, I enjoyed it and am already like halfway through book 2. Yay!
April 21, 2025
I just love Keri Arthur's writing style so much. Her books are so action-packed and just so much FUN!
2025 reread: I wasn't sure how well these would hold up on a reread but Arthur's fast-paced writing style is just so addictive
2025 reread: I wasn't sure how well these would hold up on a reread but Arthur's fast-paced writing style is just so addictive
April 27, 2022
Man, I love it when one of my favorite authors starts a new series! Keri Arthur's latest series, Relic Hunters, kicks off here in Crown of Shadows. If you love pixies, fantasy worlds, intrigue, magical politics, and more than a little bit of danger, then you're going to love this book.
Bethany Aodhan lost her mother six months ago. Literally – she doesn't know where her mother went. She's trying to keep things together, including her family's tavern. This would be challenging enough before adding her brother's work threat.
Said brother hunts treasures, professionally, that is. It's this work that gets him attacked and his best friend killed. And all that mess is about to fall directly in Bethany's lap. Her gifts, family history, and connections have put her squarely in the middle of this mess.
“Which was one of the reasons I usually wore my knives when working.”
Eee! I can't believe it's already time for a new Keri Arthur series! I've loved her past couple of series, so you can imagine my excitement at this news. Crown of Shadows is the first in the Relic Hunters series, and I already have SO many questions.
This was a solid start to the series, naturally. There's a lot of foundational work laid down here, which sometimes messed with the pacing. I do not doubt that it will all pay off in the end, though, so I'm not even remotely worried.
There are a lot of characters to get to know right off the bat, starting with Bethany and moving out to her friends, family, dalliances, and, I guess, coworkers? Not to mention enemies and the like, of course. I enjoyed this twist of pixies, their magic, and their history. Actually, so far, I'm enjoying everything I've seen in this world, including the magical system. I can't wait to see more.
The story was fast-paced, with many high stakes keeping Bethany and her allies on their toes at all times. Throw in a romantic subplot (maybe romance is the wrong term to use here – but it's undoubtedly lust at first sight if nothing else), and it's pretty apparent how Bethany will be spending her time in the foreseeable future.
As with all of Keri Arthur's novels, the pacing was fast, the plot tense, and the danger high. All of which have left me looking forward to the next installment in the series (Sword of Darkness). Please let it be soon (I just checked – October 25th! That's not too bad!).
Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
Bethany Aodhan lost her mother six months ago. Literally – she doesn't know where her mother went. She's trying to keep things together, including her family's tavern. This would be challenging enough before adding her brother's work threat.
Said brother hunts treasures, professionally, that is. It's this work that gets him attacked and his best friend killed. And all that mess is about to fall directly in Bethany's lap. Her gifts, family history, and connections have put her squarely in the middle of this mess.
“Which was one of the reasons I usually wore my knives when working.”
Eee! I can't believe it's already time for a new Keri Arthur series! I've loved her past couple of series, so you can imagine my excitement at this news. Crown of Shadows is the first in the Relic Hunters series, and I already have SO many questions.
This was a solid start to the series, naturally. There's a lot of foundational work laid down here, which sometimes messed with the pacing. I do not doubt that it will all pay off in the end, though, so I'm not even remotely worried.
There are a lot of characters to get to know right off the bat, starting with Bethany and moving out to her friends, family, dalliances, and, I guess, coworkers? Not to mention enemies and the like, of course. I enjoyed this twist of pixies, their magic, and their history. Actually, so far, I'm enjoying everything I've seen in this world, including the magical system. I can't wait to see more.
The story was fast-paced, with many high stakes keeping Bethany and her allies on their toes at all times. Throw in a romantic subplot (maybe romance is the wrong term to use here – but it's undoubtedly lust at first sight if nothing else), and it's pretty apparent how Bethany will be spending her time in the foreseeable future.
As with all of Keri Arthur's novels, the pacing was fast, the plot tense, and the danger high. All of which have left me looking forward to the next installment in the series (Sword of Darkness). Please let it be soon (I just checked – October 25th! That's not too bad!).
Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
January 5, 2024
Overall, an entertaining read.
Good
1) Setting were well-described without overwhelming the story
2) Series arc was clearly established
3) Plot was engaging and action-filled
4) Female lead was tough, independent, likable and relatable
5) Female lead's brother was engaging
6) Interactions between the female lead and her brother were quite entertaining
7) Both love interests were intriguing; loved the orange and blue morality
8) Secondary females were positive and enjoyable
9) Sex-positive
Mixed
1) World-building was scant but provided some interesting background
Bad
1) Story flow was all over the map
2) Relationship-building was non-existent
Onto the next!
Good
1) Setting were well-described without overwhelming the story
2) Series arc was clearly established
3) Plot was engaging and action-filled
4) Female lead was tough, independent, likable and relatable
5) Female lead's brother was engaging
6) Interactions between the female lead and her brother were quite entertaining
7) Both love interests were intriguing; loved the orange and blue morality
8) Secondary females were positive and enjoyable
9) Sex-positive
Mixed
1) World-building was scant but provided some interesting background
Bad
1) Story flow was all over the map
2) Relationship-building was non-existent
Onto the next!
February 25, 2022
Lots to digest in the setup to the world in this first book in the series. The not-knowing what’s going on and the character getting so much vague info got a bit frustrating. I usually enjoy reading the sex scenes, but there was so much world building and trying to keep everything straight that they were more of a distraction for me. I skimmed over those couple of sections. The story was just getting good and going somewhere and then… The End. I went ahead and preordered Book 2, Sword of Darkness.
February 28, 2022
I've been a fan of this author for a long time. I also know with her new series often times the first book can get a bit mired down in building the world and introducing the characters. Usually I just power through, but for some reason this one I couldn't. I found my mind wandering as I turned the page, taking forever to get back to it. In the end this one wasn't for me.
April 20, 2024
Interesting
This is an interesting new to me series, set in the British Isles, by Australian author Keri Arthur. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
This is an interesting new to me series, set in the British Isles, by Australian author Keri Arthur. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
August 11, 2023
Loving this book. Lots of characters and twists.
March 4, 2022
Intriguing new series
Bethany is an English pixie running a tavern, which she inherited from her mother, in a community inhabited primarily by supernaturals. Her brother, Lugh, works for a museum, researching and retrieving relics. When he is attacked, things get interesting . Why was he attacked? Is it related to their mother's disappearance 6 months earlier. A great beginning to a new series. A warning, it does end on a cliffhanger .
Bethany is an English pixie running a tavern, which she inherited from her mother, in a community inhabited primarily by supernaturals. Her brother, Lugh, works for a museum, researching and retrieving relics. When he is attacked, things get interesting . Why was he attacked? Is it related to their mother's disappearance 6 months earlier. A great beginning to a new series. A warning, it does end on a cliffhanger .
March 4, 2022
Interesting action packed story with pixies, elves, hags and shifters! It ends abruptly so I need the sequel now!
February 27, 2022
fun read
I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into when I picked this one up, but I’m sure glad I did. The lead is fun and developing as the story moves on. She is strong, but balanced and isn’t afraid to just be herself even when it’s a bad idea. I’m looking forward to this series.
I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into when I picked this one up, but I’m sure glad I did. The lead is fun and developing as the story moves on. She is strong, but balanced and isn’t afraid to just be herself even when it’s a bad idea. I’m looking forward to this series.
February 9, 2022
Done it again Keri, great start to a new series. 📖📖
July 4, 2023
Great start to a new series. I really enjoyed Bethany, a human sized Pixie, in a world where other races are out to the population at large.
Bethany owns a tavern, and her brother is a relic hunter. When he shows up acting drunk, without having anything to drink, she knows something is wrong. Next thing she knows, she's being pulled into a world of relic hunters, seeing visions, and trying to stay alive.
I can't wait for the next book in the series. I really enjoy most everything Keri Arthur writes, especially the Lizzie Grace series, and the Outcast series. This is off to a great start at standing up there with them. Well, except for that damn cliffhanger at the end....
Bethany owns a tavern, and her brother is a relic hunter. When he shows up acting drunk, without having anything to drink, she knows something is wrong. Next thing she knows, she's being pulled into a world of relic hunters, seeing visions, and trying to stay alive.
I can't wait for the next book in the series. I really enjoy most everything Keri Arthur writes, especially the Lizzie Grace series, and the Outcast series. This is off to a great start at standing up there with them. Well, except for that damn cliffhanger at the end....
April 30, 2024
I love Keri's books.
She writes some amazing woman characters. They are mentally strong and can stand on their own to fight battles. They also can have friends with them and rely on them for help. These woman are not scared, well, they are but they face the big bads and fight on. They don't run when things get tough. They may run INTO things a little too fast, but they are determined. And the male cast supports these woman. They don't belittle them at all for being determined and have a mind of their own. This is what I love.
Bethany is a strong person. She may jump in headlong, but she's standing up for herself. And I love this.
We start off right into the thick of things with Bethany and her brother, Lugh. And meeting a few savory characters in Bethany's life. Mmm. Love these relationships. I love that there's a good friendship between Bethany and her brother, and they know each other so well. But the relationships with others. Oh these are fun. These are also what makes the book on the smexy side of things. So if you don't like serious smexy, there are scenes that are serious. (I had to turn the audio book down while listening at work. lol) Again, Bethany is a big girl and knows what she wants. And she goes for it.
I love that we are searching for relics. Bethany's not really one for hunting for things or ancient relics of magic or anything. She runs a tavern that was her mothers. And she is happy with that. But things get going and she learns she has a power that took almost a century to come to life, and with the help of the Eye. Now, Bethany is pulled into the search for the hoard that went missing along with maybe finding her mother that went missing about 6 months ago when the hoard went missing too.
I really liked these characters. The audio was nice and clear. I thought Bethany sounded a little snubby with the voice of the narrator at times, along with a few others. But the others are born of high station, so they do think they are above others. Bethany doesn't hold back what she's thinking. She says it like it is, and I love her for it.
This book does have a conclusion for it's story. There is a larger arc in the story line, and I'm wanting book 2 now. Thankfully it's already out in audio, so I can go listen to it. :)
She writes some amazing woman characters. They are mentally strong and can stand on their own to fight battles. They also can have friends with them and rely on them for help. These woman are not scared, well, they are but they face the big bads and fight on. They don't run when things get tough. They may run INTO things a little too fast, but they are determined. And the male cast supports these woman. They don't belittle them at all for being determined and have a mind of their own. This is what I love.
Bethany is a strong person. She may jump in headlong, but she's standing up for herself. And I love this.
We start off right into the thick of things with Bethany and her brother, Lugh. And meeting a few savory characters in Bethany's life. Mmm. Love these relationships. I love that there's a good friendship between Bethany and her brother, and they know each other so well. But the relationships with others. Oh these are fun. These are also what makes the book on the smexy side of things. So if you don't like serious smexy, there are scenes that are serious. (I had to turn the audio book down while listening at work. lol) Again, Bethany is a big girl and knows what she wants. And she goes for it.
I love that we are searching for relics. Bethany's not really one for hunting for things or ancient relics of magic or anything. She runs a tavern that was her mothers. And she is happy with that. But things get going and she learns she has a power that took almost a century to come to life, and with the help of the Eye. Now, Bethany is pulled into the search for the hoard that went missing along with maybe finding her mother that went missing about 6 months ago when the hoard went missing too.
I really liked these characters. The audio was nice and clear. I thought Bethany sounded a little snubby with the voice of the narrator at times, along with a few others. But the others are born of high station, so they do think they are above others. Bethany doesn't hold back what she's thinking. She says it like it is, and I love her for it.
This book does have a conclusion for it's story. There is a larger arc in the story line, and I'm wanting book 2 now. Thankfully it's already out in audio, so I can go listen to it. :)
July 23, 2022
Crown of Shadows is the first book in a new fantasy series by Keri Arthur. I will read pretty much anything that Keri writes—her books usually have a mix of mystery and fantasy which is my favorite type of book, and her characters are always interesting—so I was excited to try this new series.
Crown of Shadows, book 1 in the Relic Hunters series, features Bethany Aodhán, who has been running the family tavern in old Deva ever since her mom disappeared six months ago. Beth is a pixie, but no ordinary pixie, she comes from a family who once guarded the treasures of the old gods, however, they lost that honor thanks to a light-fingered pixie. Her brother, Lugh, is a relic hunter who shows up at her tavern having been attacked, and his best friend has been murdered. Very quickly Beth is pulled into the action whether she likes it or not as a mysterious stone that her brother has with him seems to awaken powers she didn’t know she possessed. A confrontation with a former lover leads to the discovery of another murder and a missing jewel from a godly relic, and Beth learns that the Éadrom Hoard—one of three godly hoards now guarded by the elves—has been stolen. Very dark forces are at work with this theft, ones seeking the means to resurrect a god of destruction who has the power to forever banish daylight.
Beth and Lugh find themselves being treated as suspects as they work to find out what is going on, who is behind the thefts, and find the missing artifacts before it’s too late. Helping them are her former lover and another sexy elf who Beth isn’t completely sure she can trust. Could this also be linked to their mother’s disappearance? The fate of modern-day England is at stake, both for supernatural beings and humans.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed book. I love the characters and the lore and I can’t wait to find out more. We are left with a cliffhanger that had me wanting the next book now! Sadly, it won’t be out until this fall. Crown of Shadows has a perfect blend of mystery and fantasy and I highly recommend it!
Crown of Shadows, book 1 in the Relic Hunters series, features Bethany Aodhán, who has been running the family tavern in old Deva ever since her mom disappeared six months ago. Beth is a pixie, but no ordinary pixie, she comes from a family who once guarded the treasures of the old gods, however, they lost that honor thanks to a light-fingered pixie. Her brother, Lugh, is a relic hunter who shows up at her tavern having been attacked, and his best friend has been murdered. Very quickly Beth is pulled into the action whether she likes it or not as a mysterious stone that her brother has with him seems to awaken powers she didn’t know she possessed. A confrontation with a former lover leads to the discovery of another murder and a missing jewel from a godly relic, and Beth learns that the Éadrom Hoard—one of three godly hoards now guarded by the elves—has been stolen. Very dark forces are at work with this theft, ones seeking the means to resurrect a god of destruction who has the power to forever banish daylight.
Beth and Lugh find themselves being treated as suspects as they work to find out what is going on, who is behind the thefts, and find the missing artifacts before it’s too late. Helping them are her former lover and another sexy elf who Beth isn’t completely sure she can trust. Could this also be linked to their mother’s disappearance? The fate of modern-day England is at stake, both for supernatural beings and humans.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed book. I love the characters and the lore and I can’t wait to find out more. We are left with a cliffhanger that had me wanting the next book now! Sadly, it won’t be out until this fall. Crown of Shadows has a perfect blend of mystery and fantasy and I highly recommend it!
December 6, 2022
(4.5 stars)
Keri Arthur is a master storyteller who has the ability to weave a tale with such depth and complexity your brain will hurt. That is the case with “Crown of Shadows.” Pixie, Bethany Aodhan’s mother went missing 6 months prior. Now, she runs the family tavern/bar.
Although Bethany is a pixie, she is not what folktales would have you believe. She is not tiny, green with silvery wings. She is a beautiful tall, redhead who is known for her lush body and short shorts. One night her brother, Lugh comes into the bar. His best friend has been killed and he has been poisoned. No sooner than Bethany gets help for him, a fire bomb explodes and a threatening note is attached to the door.
As the days progress Bethany is hauled in front of the council and bombarded with questions and accusations. She tells them to shove it where the sun doesn’t shine and walks out. She is assigned a representative name Cynwrig who is sex on a stick and she has no qualms about having him brush away her cobwebs.
Bethany comes into contact with a moonstone that provides her with enhanced abilities to locate relics of the old gods. Without her mother to teach her to use her newfound abilities she will have to fly by the seat of her pants.
There is plenty of action, humor, a sexy ex and a sexy new love interest. While there is a lot going on I wish the world building had been stronger. At times so much is thrown at the reader without enough frame of reference. Additionally, I wish more time was spent with us getting to know Lugh and his potential girlfriend. Hopefully, book two will provide greater insight.
Keri Arthur is a master storyteller who has the ability to weave a tale with such depth and complexity your brain will hurt. That is the case with “Crown of Shadows.” Pixie, Bethany Aodhan’s mother went missing 6 months prior. Now, she runs the family tavern/bar.
Although Bethany is a pixie, she is not what folktales would have you believe. She is not tiny, green with silvery wings. She is a beautiful tall, redhead who is known for her lush body and short shorts. One night her brother, Lugh comes into the bar. His best friend has been killed and he has been poisoned. No sooner than Bethany gets help for him, a fire bomb explodes and a threatening note is attached to the door.
As the days progress Bethany is hauled in front of the council and bombarded with questions and accusations. She tells them to shove it where the sun doesn’t shine and walks out. She is assigned a representative name Cynwrig who is sex on a stick and she has no qualms about having him brush away her cobwebs.
Bethany comes into contact with a moonstone that provides her with enhanced abilities to locate relics of the old gods. Without her mother to teach her to use her newfound abilities she will have to fly by the seat of her pants.
There is plenty of action, humor, a sexy ex and a sexy new love interest. While there is a lot going on I wish the world building had been stronger. At times so much is thrown at the reader without enough frame of reference. Additionally, I wish more time was spent with us getting to know Lugh and his potential girlfriend. Hopefully, book two will provide greater insight.
March 30, 2022
Great fae series
I have read various fae books, but it is not my favourite genre. However, being a long-lasting fan of Keri Arthur writings and the idea of relic hunting intrigued me to pick up a copy.
It started as a hard read, and I struggled to stay engaged, but eventually, the story story started flowing, and I got lost in the world.
Story takes us to a stormy London town where various fae live alongside humans. A disgraced pixie pub owner with a new budding foresight power is drawn into a hunt for powerful, ancient god artefacts. Usually, her missing mother and her museum employed brother deals with missing items. With an attack on her family's pub, Bethany goes down a rabbit hole of kidnapping, sexual desires, and running from and into danger. A complex storyline with intrigue, twist leave you wanting more.
Characters are gifted, strong, and various different fae. The Irish/Gaelic words made for a difficult read.
The main female character has likeable qualities, and her love interest are titillating. Great family dynamic and closeness. Great interaction and dialogue.
It is definitely recommended read for those who enjoy the adventure of hunting relics and fae.
I have read various fae books, but it is not my favourite genre. However, being a long-lasting fan of Keri Arthur writings and the idea of relic hunting intrigued me to pick up a copy.
It started as a hard read, and I struggled to stay engaged, but eventually, the story story started flowing, and I got lost in the world.
Story takes us to a stormy London town where various fae live alongside humans. A disgraced pixie pub owner with a new budding foresight power is drawn into a hunt for powerful, ancient god artefacts. Usually, her missing mother and her museum employed brother deals with missing items. With an attack on her family's pub, Bethany goes down a rabbit hole of kidnapping, sexual desires, and running from and into danger. A complex storyline with intrigue, twist leave you wanting more.
Characters are gifted, strong, and various different fae. The Irish/Gaelic words made for a difficult read.
The main female character has likeable qualities, and her love interest are titillating. Great family dynamic and closeness. Great interaction and dialogue.
It is definitely recommended read for those who enjoy the adventure of hunting relics and fae.
April 15, 2024
Overall this is just another smut-obsessed romance in an urban fantasy coat.
Yes, there is an actual plot going on in the background which is reasonably well-built, if utterly uninspired. but the main focus is on the MC essentially aiming to two-time two gorgeous guys and getting off on both chasing her. That is where this fell from an unoriginal and very clichéed 2-star book with terrible innuendo and dirty talk to an outright repulsing 1-star.
If you get off on that type of stuff, go ahead as long as it's just living a fantasy in a book I guess.
But I can not enjoy a story in which I find the MC despicable.
I have to be honest and acknowledge that it's not actually as bad as I make it out to be mostly because both of the guys are obviously players themselves and are most likely well aware of what's going on.
But I still can't stand that kind of thing.
I am not some monogamy-preaching missionary or something. I wouldn't even mind an MFM. Do whatever you want! But this deliberately playing two guys against each other for kicks just makes me angry regardless of the circumstances.
And this is not some overly sensitive interpretation. She outright states that this is what she is doing and that she likes it.
Yes, there is an actual plot going on in the background which is reasonably well-built, if utterly uninspired. but the main focus is on the MC essentially aiming to two-time two gorgeous guys and getting off on both chasing her. That is where this fell from an unoriginal and very clichéed 2-star book with terrible innuendo and dirty talk to an outright repulsing 1-star.
If you get off on that type of stuff, go ahead as long as it's just living a fantasy in a book I guess.
But I can not enjoy a story in which I find the MC despicable.
I have to be honest and acknowledge that it's not actually as bad as I make it out to be mostly because both of the guys are obviously players themselves and are most likely well aware of what's going on.
But I still can't stand that kind of thing.
I am not some monogamy-preaching missionary or something. I wouldn't even mind an MFM. Do whatever you want! But this deliberately playing two guys against each other for kicks just makes me angry regardless of the circumstances.
And this is not some overly sensitive interpretation. She outright states that this is what she is doing and that she likes it.
June 12, 2022
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I completely change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring.)
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
October 31, 2022
I’ve got to say, this is one of the most confusing books I’ve read in a while. This takes place in this world where there are fae and pixies and s sort of general urban fantasy/steampunk vibe but there are also mobile phones and other modern-day technology. That kind of world can totally work, but I felt like Keri Arthur was holding something back from us that would’ve made the world feel more complete and fleshed out. I felt nothing for any of the characters, apart from maybe a few of the characters who are already dead before the book begins. To me, they felt very flat and I got a few of the characters mixed up because there really wasn’t anything to differentiate them from one another. This was my first ever Keri Arhur and I wasn’t impressed, but I do want to give some of her other books a chance.
March 14, 2022
I’m always up for a new series by Keri Arthur, and this one starts out strong with pixie Bethany Aodhan having her historical tavern fire-bombed, her brother Lugh poisoned, his best friend killed, her mother missing, then she saves a poisoned elf royal, confronts a former lover and finds another murder and a missing jewel - and it just gets more wild from there. There are treasures to be found, dark evil doers to defeat, newly awakened abilities to explore and learn on the fly, and two sexy elves vying for Beth’s attention, along with a grouchy, demanding old goddess whose helpfulness is questionable at times. With lots of action, family dynamics, and some romance, this was a wonderful start to the Relic Hunters series and I look forward to reading more.
July 4, 2022
This is an interesting new series. There are Fae living alongside humans in the world. Bethany is a Pixie, of a larger variety of the family tree, and runs a bar. Her brother is a relic hunter and finds himself in trouble way over his head. Beth steps in to help her brother and finds gifts she never had awakening. This brings her to the attention of both friend and foe.
I enjoyed this new world and learning about the characters in it. I do have to say that there is a lot of explicit smexy bits but that does not overshadow the storyline here. I hope Ms. Arthur can keep that balance. There is a bit of what feels like extra to-ing and fro-ing but the story still hung together for me. I am interested to see where this series goes from here.
I enjoyed this new world and learning about the characters in it. I do have to say that there is a lot of explicit smexy bits but that does not overshadow the storyline here. I hope Ms. Arthur can keep that balance. There is a bit of what feels like extra to-ing and fro-ing but the story still hung together for me. I am interested to see where this series goes from here.
January 24, 2023
A fine captivating tale.
It is far that as a avid Fantasy reader I come across a tale that holds my attention. In the past Keri Arthur has been an author I read but lost interest in, however with The Crown of Shadows she has once again created a world around the area I grew up - Chester City in the North West of England. In this wonderful tale Keri has captured the draw of the ancient city and the old gods. There are times in the story that cheap porn is described with too much detail hence only four stars. Why do authors feel they need to even write stuff that does not appeal to sensible readers?
It is far that as a avid Fantasy reader I come across a tale that holds my attention. In the past Keri Arthur has been an author I read but lost interest in, however with The Crown of Shadows she has once again created a world around the area I grew up - Chester City in the North West of England. In this wonderful tale Keri has captured the draw of the ancient city and the old gods. There are times in the story that cheap porn is described with too much detail hence only four stars. Why do authors feel they need to even write stuff that does not appeal to sensible readers?
February 2, 2024
.As always a worthwhile experience reading Keri's books. The Crown of Shadows draws you a into a new reading adventure with tales of old gods and their artifacts and strangely tall pixies.
Beth and her brother Lugh are great siblings, and if you have read the Riley Jensen Series you might subconsciously start to compare them.... well don't Riley and Rhoan were great there and Beth and Lugh are a different duo. I love them both.
Crown of Shadows is fast paced and kinda flips you upside down a bit, I love the book for what it is and I hope it's a start of another multiple book series since the lizzie grace series is coming to an end.
Beth and her brother Lugh are great siblings, and if you have read the Riley Jensen Series you might subconsciously start to compare them.... well don't Riley and Rhoan were great there and Beth and Lugh are a different duo. I love them both.
Crown of Shadows is fast paced and kinda flips you upside down a bit, I love the book for what it is and I hope it's a start of another multiple book series since the lizzie grace series is coming to an end.
February 22, 2025
Starting a new to me Ms. Arthur series is always a thrill. As with all her books, the lead is a female and an underdog. I love Beth in this story. Of course she has a questionable brother...a twin in this one.
I enjoy the suspense in this tale. Mixed with sorrow and lust, this tale invokes emotions left and right. What happened to their mom? What are these new abilities she is finally developing? And why are pixies so tall? So many questions and not all of them answered in this 1st book in the series. The book ends with a hook and I am looking forward to reading the next.
This paranormal romance is recommended for readers who enjoy strong unapologetic female leads.
I enjoy the suspense in this tale. Mixed with sorrow and lust, this tale invokes emotions left and right. What happened to their mom? What are these new abilities she is finally developing? And why are pixies so tall? So many questions and not all of them answered in this 1st book in the series. The book ends with a hook and I am looking forward to reading the next.
This paranormal romance is recommended for readers who enjoy strong unapologetic female leads.
May 1, 2025
Bethany is cleaning up one night when her brother Lugh staggers in poisoned, his best friend is murdered and her tavern is firebombed. Once they clean him up they wind up on the hunt for the Eadrom Hoard one of 3 godly hoards guarded by the elves that has been stolen.
There is a romance in here that's kind of a triangle but it's more background noise to the treasure hunt than front and center of the story. Bethany is sassy, strong and fun, her family relationships are sweet, but her 2 possible mates are basically just sex on legs, hopefully their personalities grow more in the next books.
There is a romance in here that's kind of a triangle but it's more background noise to the treasure hunt than front and center of the story. Bethany is sassy, strong and fun, her family relationships are sweet, but her 2 possible mates are basically just sex on legs, hopefully their personalities grow more in the next books.
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