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Seven Swords #2
Blade of Shadow
Every surface of the land creeps with monsters.
I escaped from the first wave of monsters with a magic sword, a kidnapped duke, and a big chip on my shoulder.
It's not enough for me to run. Not when this tide threatens to sweep over the entire world.
I'm the only one who can warn people of what's coming. I'm the only one who knows the truth. And I'm the only one who holds a sword able to fight against the tide of plague and monsters ... or am I?
Author's Note: This is dark, intense, romantic (not steamy), unrelenting and contains cliffhangers because all the best stories do. Read at your own risk.
I escaped from the first wave of monsters with a magic sword, a kidnapped duke, and a big chip on my shoulder.
It's not enough for me to run. Not when this tide threatens to sweep over the entire world.
I'm the only one who can warn people of what's coming. I'm the only one who knows the truth. And I'm the only one who holds a sword able to fight against the tide of plague and monsters ... or am I?
Author's Note: This is dark, intense, romantic (not steamy), unrelenting and contains cliffhangers because all the best stories do. Read at your own risk.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2022
106 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Sarah K.L. Wilson
159 books1,086 followersSarah K. L. Wilson is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes fantasy stories featuring practical heroes & heroines in the most impractical circumstances. She loves writing because it is the only way to make a living and give back to the world when your primary skill is an overactive imagination and a tendency toward violent daydreams.
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 4, 2022
I started this book as soon as the audiobook released (the audiobooks are amazing, btw).
Each book in this series just gets more amazing, more twisty, more suspenseful. I ADORE this story about a person stuck in a shadow and spirit swords and impossible battles. I can't wait for the next book!
Each book in this series just gets more amazing, more twisty, more suspenseful. I ADORE this story about a person stuck in a shadow and spirit swords and impossible battles. I can't wait for the next book!
June 20, 2022
short review for now because this author have ALWAYSSSS BLOWN MY MIND (or it is my heart? ;) AWAY and it's currently in pieces.... will be back for a proper, long review:
1. Ilsaletta + Vargaard is Still My Ship of the year. Period.
2. Duke Stekkan REALLY surprised me in this one! He goes through A LOT of growth and deeper in character depth and I really like him a lot for this. Although there might be what some may call a love triangle, it only lasted for a short time, and there really was never any competition in Ilsaletta's mind imo. xD So it never FEEL like a love triangle, while STILL keeping all the complexity and dynamics of the trio of characters' respective relationships and developments. >>> Thus, I totally LOVE this because I can't even recall when was the last time I've seen something like this done so well! Quite original on the part of the author and double thumbs up for this!
3. Perhaps some may consider the story to be a bit repetitive (in terms of how the plot goes, and perhaps Vargaard the Shadow Guard Himself), but I'M HERE FOR IT BECAUSE WHO DOESN'T LIKE A REPEAT OF SOMETHING SO PRECIOUS AND ACHINGLY BEAUTIFUL?! ^_^
4. Still very fast paced and action-focused. The romance is more of a subplot but still quite important and quite proper. :)
The entire book is entirely too delicious for words.
1. Ilsaletta + Vargaard is Still My Ship of the year. Period.
2. Duke Stekkan REALLY surprised me in this one! He goes through A LOT of growth and deeper in character depth and I really like him a lot for this. Although there might be what some may call a love triangle, it only lasted for a short time, and there really was never any competition in Ilsaletta's mind imo. xD So it never FEEL like a love triangle, while STILL keeping all the complexity and dynamics of the trio of characters' respective relationships and developments. >>> Thus, I totally LOVE this because I can't even recall when was the last time I've seen something like this done so well! Quite original on the part of the author and double thumbs up for this!
3. Perhaps some may consider the story to be a bit repetitive (in terms of how the plot goes, and perhaps Vargaard the Shadow Guard Himself), but I'M HERE FOR IT BECAUSE WHO DOESN'T LIKE A REPEAT OF SOMETHING SO PRECIOUS AND ACHINGLY BEAUTIFUL?! ^_^
4. Still very fast paced and action-focused. The romance is more of a subplot but still quite important and quite proper. :)
The entire book is entirely too delicious for words.
April 30, 2022
I'm torn. I love Sarah's work but this series just doesn't cut it for me.
The beginning in book 1 was super interesting and I loved the apocalyptic vibe.
But now I have a hard time imagining how someone/something can live unseen in someone's shadow and 3-dimensional kill others. A shadow is 2d, so those victims either fall flat on the floor or the nakuraki in the shadow raises... apparently that's what it does but then how is it bound to the shadow??
And then there are parts where ilsaletta should keep to vargaard's shadow and step where he steps...? A shadow of a shadow??
I don't know, I lack the imagination I guess.
At one point, I had to laugh because ilsaletta moving and fighting just by following vargaard's orders reminded me of Mr. Bean accidentally knocking stuff off/killing people by being clumsy...
I also don't enjoy love triangles. There's the Duke who's kind of a wuss but I think he has more potential than this Nakuraki who, for reasons unknown, worships ilsaletta like a goddess and even sacrifices all his former lives/memories because he attaches himself to her completely. His many 'I'm not worthy of thy' laments grated on my nerves. Perhaps I have to be more like the feather ...
The ending though was kind of interesting.... And I loved the Mercy bird.
But I think it's just not my cup of tea. The whole race to find the Princess before she infests the whole world with her evil gem as well as finding the 7 swords which actually could be interesting, is sidelined by the romantic drama.
The beginning in book 1 was super interesting and I loved the apocalyptic vibe.
But now I have a hard time imagining how someone/something can live unseen in someone's shadow and 3-dimensional kill others. A shadow is 2d, so those victims either fall flat on the floor or the nakuraki in the shadow raises... apparently that's what it does but then how is it bound to the shadow??
And then there are parts where ilsaletta should keep to vargaard's shadow and step where he steps...? A shadow of a shadow??
I don't know, I lack the imagination I guess.
At one point, I had to laugh because ilsaletta moving and fighting just by following vargaard's orders reminded me of Mr. Bean accidentally knocking stuff off/killing people by being clumsy...
I also don't enjoy love triangles. There's the Duke who's kind of a wuss but I think he has more potential than this Nakuraki who, for reasons unknown, worships ilsaletta like a goddess and even sacrifices all his former lives/memories because he attaches himself to her completely. His many 'I'm not worthy of thy' laments grated on my nerves. Perhaps I have to be more like the feather ...
The ending though was kind of interesting.... And I loved the Mercy bird.
But I think it's just not my cup of tea. The whole race to find the Princess before she infests the whole world with her evil gem as well as finding the 7 swords which actually could be interesting, is sidelined by the romantic drama.
February 19, 2023
Well, jeepers! This isn't looking too good.😨😬😬😬
"What did you vow the first time?"
"That I would never leave the one who exited the pendant."
I swallow. Oh dear. I seem to be more stuck with him than ever. A very tiny trickle of fondness makes me feel warm while
the practial side of me wants to vomit. 🤣💯
"What did you vow the first time?"
"That I would never leave the one who exited the pendant."
I swallow. Oh dear. I seem to be more stuck with him than ever. A very tiny trickle of fondness makes me feel warm while
the practial side of me wants to vomit. 🤣💯
November 28, 2022
Review to come!
October 20, 2022
ya know, Stekkan's all right (affectionate)
April 23, 2022
Note: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
If you thought the plague of the gem couldn't get any worse than in the first book, you're wrong. The stakes have officially been upped in the sequel, and although the fighting is less horrific compared to the shock of the first book, it's still plenty dark. The deaths are still tragic, the terror is still real, and Ilsaletta is still the merciful mortal we know her to be. (Sorry, Vargaard, not a goddess.)
The plot definitely gets deeper in this book, as we see the true reach of the gem and Jendaya's plan. It got to the point where I didn't know how Ilsaletta was going to survive even with her beloved shadow. And now I REALLY don't know how they're going to survive that ending. It always feels like a miracle they're alive and well, and I'm wondering how much more of this our characters can take.
And speaking of characters, I was heartily surprised by the duke, Stekkan. Ilsaletta and I both were astounded by his stupidity, his concern, and his utility, in turn. Just when you think you've made up your mind about him, you end up changing your view. Even Vargaard changed his stance a few times. I'm thoroughly impressed with Stekkan's character development, and I'm glad we got to see more of him.
But onto the main character, Ilsaletta. Don't worry - she's still the kind girl we know and love. She's definitely a bit more hardened, but she is still rocked by the injustice and horror of this new world as much as she was in the first book. I love her concern for others, her commitment to doing the right thing, and her honesty. She's clever and quick-witted, too, although she does make mistakes that make me wonder how on EARTH she is going to survive. (But I still adore her as a protagonist.)
And that brings me to my beloved Vargaard. I'm still in love with a shadow, folks, although I find his flowery language is less impactful than the first book. I do love how we really get to see his character change to become more like Ilsaletta - kinder, softer, and more gentle. I also love that he respects Ilsaletta and her decisions even when she's wrong (and she is wrong on occasion).
On the romance side, I did feel a bit let-down, perhaps, but only because I LOVE mutual pining which wasn't much of a factor in this book. They've both very much hinted at their regard for one another per the last book, so there was only one path forward here. The romance does get more resolution here, which is enjoyable, but it feels more like a conclusion and less like a continuation. (Still clean, though, thank heavens!)
The writing style doesn't feel as polished or poetic as the first book, which was disappointing, but I'm not surprised, since this book was far more plot-focused. We'll just have to see what the rest of the series brings.
Overall, I loved it, I'm thrilled I get to own it, and I'm still in love with Vargaard.
If you thought the plague of the gem couldn't get any worse than in the first book, you're wrong. The stakes have officially been upped in the sequel, and although the fighting is less horrific compared to the shock of the first book, it's still plenty dark. The deaths are still tragic, the terror is still real, and Ilsaletta is still the merciful mortal we know her to be. (Sorry, Vargaard, not a goddess.)
The plot definitely gets deeper in this book, as we see the true reach of the gem and Jendaya's plan. It got to the point where I didn't know how Ilsaletta was going to survive even with her beloved shadow. And now I REALLY don't know how they're going to survive that ending. It always feels like a miracle they're alive and well, and I'm wondering how much more of this our characters can take.
And speaking of characters, I was heartily surprised by the duke, Stekkan. Ilsaletta and I both were astounded by his stupidity, his concern, and his utility, in turn. Just when you think you've made up your mind about him, you end up changing your view. Even Vargaard changed his stance a few times. I'm thoroughly impressed with Stekkan's character development, and I'm glad we got to see more of him.
But onto the main character, Ilsaletta. Don't worry - she's still the kind girl we know and love. She's definitely a bit more hardened, but she is still rocked by the injustice and horror of this new world as much as she was in the first book. I love her concern for others, her commitment to doing the right thing, and her honesty. She's clever and quick-witted, too, although she does make mistakes that make me wonder how on EARTH she is going to survive. (But I still adore her as a protagonist.)
And that brings me to my beloved Vargaard. I'm still in love with a shadow, folks, although I find his flowery language is less impactful than the first book. I do love how we really get to see his character change to become more like Ilsaletta - kinder, softer, and more gentle. I also love that he respects Ilsaletta and her decisions even when she's wrong (and she is wrong on occasion).
On the romance side, I did feel a bit let-down, perhaps, but only because I LOVE mutual pining which wasn't much of a factor in this book. They've both very much hinted at their regard for one another per the last book, so there was only one path forward here. The romance does get more resolution here, which is enjoyable, but it feels more like a conclusion and less like a continuation. (Still clean, though, thank heavens!)
The writing style doesn't feel as polished or poetic as the first book, which was disappointing, but I'm not surprised, since this book was far more plot-focused. We'll just have to see what the rest of the series brings.
Overall, I loved it, I'm thrilled I get to own it, and I'm still in love with Vargaard.
February 8, 2023
This sequel continued to develop the story and characters from where we were left in the first book.
I like Isaletta because I think she is written more realistically than other female MCs in dystopian/fantasy adventures. A big part of Isaletta's character development is that before the Scourge, she lived a life of comfort. When suddenly thrown into this disaster wrecking the kingdom, she isn't magically prepared mentally and physically to save the kingdom. She struggles to lift the heavy sword and she struggles to find the courage to fight her adversaries. Vargaard encourages her to be strong and brave, but ultimately it is Isaletta choosing to become a stronger character.
The development of Stekkan and Vargaard was good because it helped to round out the characters so we can get to know them better. Stekkan is fascinating to me, I can't decide whether I love or hate him. Vargaard can be a little angsty and moody, but I want to keep uncovering his past with Isaletta. However, I can't tell if we are supposed to be treating the Stekkan/Isaletta/Vargaard dynamic as a love triangle. It all seems pretty circular, in that every character has one other character they are pining for so there's no confusion. I would be more willing to get behind the Stekkan/Isaletta (or even the Stekkan/Jendaya) relationships if there wasn't a 10 year age gap between them (Isaletta and Jendaya just turned 18 while Stekkan is 28). But maybe that is the point of the age gap, to show that Stekkan should not be with either of those girls? But to that point, Isaletta and Vargaard's relationship seemed to come out of no where and seems to persist only on proximity, so maybe neither love interst is a great choice.
It took me a while to read this book because it dragged a little in the middle. It seemed like everyone was stalling because no one knew what to do next (emotionally) so the pacing slowed a little. It did pick up at the end though. Maybe the drag was because the story got repetitive. Isaletta tries to go save someone against Vargaard's wishes, gets caught, and then has to battle for her and Stekkan's freedom. But I'm invested enough to read the next book.
I like Isaletta because I think she is written more realistically than other female MCs in dystopian/fantasy adventures. A big part of Isaletta's character development is that before the Scourge, she lived a life of comfort. When suddenly thrown into this disaster wrecking the kingdom, she isn't magically prepared mentally and physically to save the kingdom. She struggles to lift the heavy sword and she struggles to find the courage to fight her adversaries. Vargaard encourages her to be strong and brave, but ultimately it is Isaletta choosing to become a stronger character.
The development of Stekkan and Vargaard was good because it helped to round out the characters so we can get to know them better. Stekkan is fascinating to me, I can't decide whether I love or hate him. Vargaard can be a little angsty and moody, but I want to keep uncovering his past with Isaletta. However, I can't tell if we are supposed to be treating the Stekkan/Isaletta/Vargaard dynamic as a love triangle. It all seems pretty circular, in that every character has one other character they are pining for so there's no confusion. I would be more willing to get behind the Stekkan/Isaletta (or even the Stekkan/Jendaya) relationships if there wasn't a 10 year age gap between them (Isaletta and Jendaya just turned 18 while Stekkan is 28). But maybe that is the point of the age gap, to show that Stekkan should not be with either of those girls? But to that point, Isaletta and Vargaard's relationship seemed to come out of no where and seems to persist only on proximity, so maybe neither love interst is a great choice.
It took me a while to read this book because it dragged a little in the middle. It seemed like everyone was stalling because no one knew what to do next (emotionally) so the pacing slowed a little. It did pick up at the end though. Maybe the drag was because the story got repetitive. Isaletta tries to go save someone against Vargaard's wishes, gets caught, and then has to battle for her and Stekkan's freedom. But I'm invested enough to read the next book.
September 21, 2024
I liked this book but I think a lot of the momentum stalled from the first one and I struggled to finish it.
December 7, 2022
I don't know why, but I found several things quite irritating. First of all, the writing style but I could survive the flowery speeches since it suited the character making them. What I didn't like was the insta love and not so smart decisions everybody made. Still it's an interesting story.
June 26, 2022
2.5 rounded up. The gore was a bit too much for me to be honest and some parts seemed a tad repetitive, but there were some things I did like, like the duke's character development and the ending.
June 14, 2022
Heartwrenching
This book is full of beautiful prose and heartbreaking moments. Our heroes are in the direst of straits. Bring tissues. You will cry.
This book is full of beautiful prose and heartbreaking moments. Our heroes are in the direst of straits. Bring tissues. You will cry.
December 8, 2023
what an adorable
I think I'm going to mix my review with my native language because in English only still cannot express how much I REALLY LOVE THIS BOOK. they're sooo adorable together, especially their interaction, it's a gemesssss book. memang bolehkah segemessss ituuu???😭 Vargaard maybe just a mere Ilsaletta's shadow, but??? kenapa segemessss ituuuu aaaaa. it felt like I'm back in my teenage years when I found myself giggling and hugging pillows during reading books after school. I mean in the chaos of situation there, in every thrilling condition they were still so gemezzzzzz you know.
I love there is a macaw named Mercy. Mercy and the Duke really bring the unique dynamic in this story. I love how the characters smoothly developed because these ill-circumstances, like the duke, he became less unlikable in this book, when on the first book I really want Ilsaletta to ditched him but in this book, I found myself fond him and maybe it would kind of sad if he goes around only by himself. this sequel still fast paced and action packed, but there's more romantic interaction between our Vargaard and Ilsaletta.
she says with a smile, "I am whole as I have my shadow."
and I am whole for as long as I have my sun.
*sobs beautifully*
please please please let this series have HEA because Ilsaletta and Vargaard really DESERVED IT!!!
there is a song that I keep on repeating during reading this book, because I think this song lyrics is like depict Vargaard's feeling toward Ilsaletta :'''')
It's been three years and six whole months
Since I saw your face that night
It took five seconds to fall in love
And two more to make you mine
Now it's four in the morning, suns set and
Seven minutes with you and it's heaven
Ain't an hour that rolls by
I love you 24-7, 3-6-5
Give you my name, if you wanted to
Key to my heart, if you want it too
And I hope and pray that you'll stay right here
'Til we're old and gray in our last few years
I'm on a knee, I just need a "yes"
A couple kids and a picket fence
Share the memories like an open book
Every page I read it still got me hooked
And I'm fine spending my whole life on everything you like
Is it obvious that all of this is right?
I'll share the last bite of every meal
I'll wipe your tears when you're in your feels
And I'll hold you close through a thunderstorm
When it's cold at night, know i'll keep you warm
'Cause I'm fine spending my whole life on everything you like
Is it obvious that all of this is right?
Now it's four in the morning, suns set and
Seven minutes with you and it's heaven
Ain't an hour that rolls by
I love you 24-7, 3-6-5
I think I'm going to mix my review with my native language because in English only still cannot express how much I REALLY LOVE THIS BOOK. they're sooo adorable together, especially their interaction, it's a gemesssss book. memang bolehkah segemessss ituuu???😭 Vargaard maybe just a mere Ilsaletta's shadow, but??? kenapa segemessss ituuuu aaaaa. it felt like I'm back in my teenage years when I found myself giggling and hugging pillows during reading books after school. I mean in the chaos of situation there, in every thrilling condition they were still so gemezzzzzz you know.
I love there is a macaw named Mercy. Mercy and the Duke really bring the unique dynamic in this story. I love how the characters smoothly developed because these ill-circumstances, like the duke, he became less unlikable in this book, when on the first book I really want Ilsaletta to ditched him but in this book, I found myself fond him and maybe it would kind of sad if he goes around only by himself. this sequel still fast paced and action packed, but there's more romantic interaction between our Vargaard and Ilsaletta.
she says with a smile, "I am whole as I have my shadow."
and I am whole for as long as I have my sun.
*sobs beautifully*
please please please let this series have HEA because Ilsaletta and Vargaard really DESERVED IT!!!
there is a song that I keep on repeating during reading this book, because I think this song lyrics is like depict Vargaard's feeling toward Ilsaletta :'''')
It's been three years and six whole months
Since I saw your face that night
It took five seconds to fall in love
And two more to make you mine
Now it's four in the morning, suns set and
Seven minutes with you and it's heaven
Ain't an hour that rolls by
I love you 24-7, 3-6-5
Give you my name, if you wanted to
Key to my heart, if you want it too
And I hope and pray that you'll stay right here
'Til we're old and gray in our last few years
I'm on a knee, I just need a "yes"
A couple kids and a picket fence
Share the memories like an open book
Every page I read it still got me hooked
And I'm fine spending my whole life on everything you like
Is it obvious that all of this is right?
I'll share the last bite of every meal
I'll wipe your tears when you're in your feels
And I'll hold you close through a thunderstorm
When it's cold at night, know i'll keep you warm
'Cause I'm fine spending my whole life on everything you like
Is it obvious that all of this is right?
Now it's four in the morning, suns set and
Seven minutes with you and it's heaven
Ain't an hour that rolls by
I love you 24-7, 3-6-5
April 24, 2022
Wow this is turning into a dark post-apocalyptic tale and poor Ilsaletta Redtide, the girl who just loved to read and draw maps, is suddenly in the midst of the end of the world which is being devoured by husks and corricles. She has a sword out of which a shadow who now lives within her own shadow dwelt, and he has turned her into a monster hunter and she feels that she is the only one who really knows what is happening and is duty bound to warn others before it is too late for everyone. Stekkan, the Duke of Catterrail, and his macaw, Mercy hide behind her skirts as they travel from one destroyed city to another with Princess Jandaya always that one step ahead of them. She is the cause of the scourge being unleashed on the people through her green gem and she is out to gather an army for herself made up of the undead in order to kill her father the king and claim the throne. Ilsaletta knows that she needs to locate the seven swords in order to defeat her nemesis but these are scattered everywhere or are they? Entering the sea of souls is frightening and only the courage and great loyalty and love of Vargaard and Stekkan's finally finding his own courage save the day, This 2nd book in the series has many heart stopping moments, as well as many tender and romantic moments, and ends on another cliffhanger which makes me want book 3 in my hands right now!
May 1, 2022
As much as I adored the first book, this one lacked the things I loved so much about it. I still enjoyed it, I still think it's a nice YA story but the love triangle and Vargaard's obsession about Ilsaletta were sometimes frustrating. At least for my adult understanding of the things that happen in this book.
I was living for the times Ilsaletta bonded with Vargaard deeper, the way she kept fighting for him, even with him.
The plot felt a little barely there and we didn't really learn much about the other swords, just enough to set up the next book in the series. In a sense it was a filler book. Full of bonding and getting to know the characters a little deeper but a filler nonetheless.
And that ending! I have so many theories now that I would love to see happen. One of them is Vargaard gaining a body by the end. And maybe Stekkan getting tangled up with his own sword and Nakuraki.
I was living for the times Ilsaletta bonded with Vargaard deeper, the way she kept fighting for him, even with him.
The plot felt a little barely there and we didn't really learn much about the other swords, just enough to set up the next book in the series. In a sense it was a filler book. Full of bonding and getting to know the characters a little deeper but a filler nonetheless.
And that ending! I have so many theories now that I would love to see happen. One of them is Vargaard gaining a body by the end. And maybe Stekkan getting tangled up with his own sword and Nakuraki.
August 7, 2022
Better than the first book! Vaagard and Ilsaletta's relationship grows into something truly beautiful. I love how they work together and speak to each other. I also came to greatly admire Stekkan in this novel, especially towards the end. His and Ilsaletta's friendship is amazing! The main issue that I had in the first book was resolved in this one, in that Ilsaletta never tried to grow stronger so that she could stand better on her own. Now it feels like she and Vaargard both need each other equally. The stakes and violence in this are even higher, and so the story is fast paced and tense. I am excited to see the outcome in the final book when it is released in November (way too long to wait but wait I will).
Read
October 26, 2023An enjoyable book, although it irritated me that the shadow guard is like “let me teach you to defend yourself. We will do these exercises every day from now on.” And proceeds to never mention them again. Like, seriously? Do you really care more about being helpful and heroic than making sure Ilsaletta can take care of herself? On that note, why didn’t Ilsaletta fight harder to learn how to fight? You’d think that with all the near death experiences that would be a priority, but nooo. I guess that’s just me. Other than that, it was good. I kind of went off on a tangent about that, but it truly wasn’t terrible. Probably not even that noticeable, unless you’re me. I notice weird things. Also it was clean, so yay!!
November 22, 2022
Blade of Shadow (Seven Swords Book 2), my thirty-fourth read from prolific author Sarah K.L. Wilson and the next book in her Seven Swords series. Since it's seven months to the day since I read Heart of Shadow (Seven Swords Book 1) it took me a bit to get back in to the story. Well written & enjoyable, I've run out of superlatives to describe her writing. I look forward to the next book in this entertaining series (Sea of Shadow (Seven Swords Book 3) when it comes out later this month.. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
August 11, 2023
Wow! That was bloody!
I enjoyed this second book in the Seven Swords trilogy (although it’s significantly more gory than what I usually read). I like the characters, the flashes of humor, and I really enjoy Sarah’s writing.
In this volume Ilsaletta, Vargaard, Stekkan, and the macaw Mercy are continuing to try and fight the Princess who is committing mass murder by unleashing a magical disease which both kills and turns people into evil zombie-like monsters.
I especially enjoyed the relationship between Ilsaletta and Vaargard - her extremely devoted and poetic shadow warrior. And Stekkan has some great moments in the book, too. But seriously, lots of gore!
I enjoyed this second book in the Seven Swords trilogy (although it’s significantly more gory than what I usually read). I like the characters, the flashes of humor, and I really enjoy Sarah’s writing.
In this volume Ilsaletta, Vargaard, Stekkan, and the macaw Mercy are continuing to try and fight the Princess who is committing mass murder by unleashing a magical disease which both kills and turns people into evil zombie-like monsters.
I especially enjoyed the relationship between Ilsaletta and Vaargard - her extremely devoted and poetic shadow warrior. And Stekkan has some great moments in the book, too. But seriously, lots of gore!
October 27, 2025
5.0 stars - book two in three book series Seven Swords - audiobook version.
Wow. Detailed storytelling continues. The author is not afraid to go to some scary places in this fantasy. I confess to being irritated more than once that our girl cannot take sound advice at pivotal moments, and yet I understand that this is a reflection of her character and not necessarily a terrible thing... because she is who she is. Book Two takes us into the heart of the conflict and there is so much to be lost if they cannot find a way to defeat this evil. And by the end of this book I am looking forward to dashing on to Book Three. I am utterly invested in our lead characters.
Wow. Detailed storytelling continues. The author is not afraid to go to some scary places in this fantasy. I confess to being irritated more than once that our girl cannot take sound advice at pivotal moments, and yet I understand that this is a reflection of her character and not necessarily a terrible thing... because she is who she is. Book Two takes us into the heart of the conflict and there is so much to be lost if they cannot find a way to defeat this evil. And by the end of this book I am looking forward to dashing on to Book Three. I am utterly invested in our lead characters.
July 8, 2022
It was good, but getting a little tiring. I suppose I’m not a huge fan of what feels like a long, endless apocalypse as the plot. With how the book ends, especially, I’m just exhausted by how much gets tossed at the heroine. I think there’s a bit of an imbalance of how much action and monster-hunting is happening versus progression in the plot, and while I’m interested in continuing on to book 3, I’m hoping that things pick up.
That being said, I loved Stekkan’s development throughout the story and I am lowkey rooting for an ot3 ending because the trio dynamic is so solid.
That being said, I loved Stekkan’s development throughout the story and I am lowkey rooting for an ot3 ending because the trio dynamic is so solid.
October 13, 2023
Book 2 in Seven Swords series
One battle at a time.
This series has me in its clutches. It's packed full of sheer emotion, humor, action, intrigue, suspense, danger, love, and heartbreak. I'm continually on the edge of my seat with heart-pounding anticipation. Sometimes there is no right choice, only the better choice for the moment. With a desire to turn the impossible into truth, our main characters face one trial after another.
Well-developed characters who show strength and growth. Detailed world building. Gripping storyline.
One battle at a time.
This series has me in its clutches. It's packed full of sheer emotion, humor, action, intrigue, suspense, danger, love, and heartbreak. I'm continually on the edge of my seat with heart-pounding anticipation. Sometimes there is no right choice, only the better choice for the moment. With a desire to turn the impossible into truth, our main characters face one trial after another.
Well-developed characters who show strength and growth. Detailed world building. Gripping storyline.
March 19, 2024
Isaletta must warn the other nations of the deadly plague sweeping her lands, killing people or turning them into monsters. Vargaard, her shadow bodyguard, is her only hope to stay alive. Stekkan, the duke, is both a help and a hindrance as she strives to find the other magical swords that can defeat the princess spreading this evil…
This is a fast-paced read with fun action sequences, good world-building, and a sweet slow-burn romance. I adore Vargaard’s heartfelt insights when we switch to his POV.
Jumping into book three immediately!
This is a fast-paced read with fun action sequences, good world-building, and a sweet slow-burn romance. I adore Vargaard’s heartfelt insights when we switch to his POV.
Jumping into book three immediately!
July 14, 2024
Ilsaletta, Vargaard, and Stekkan make their way across the country, desperately trying to get to the Capital in time to warn them, while searching for clues about the Seven Swords.
The evil princess, however, always seems to be one step ahead of them, and just as all hell literally breaks loose, we are left dangling for book #3. Which I will dutifully pick up right away as I must know what will happen next!
I love how the character of Stekkan develops in this book, so flawed and yet with much more depth than he first displayed.
The evil princess, however, always seems to be one step ahead of them, and just as all hell literally breaks loose, we are left dangling for book #3. Which I will dutifully pick up right away as I must know what will happen next!
I love how the character of Stekkan develops in this book, so flawed and yet with much more depth than he first displayed.
October 24, 2025
I think this is a fabulous continuation of everything that happened in book 1. Tons of suspense, and a desperate race against time as Ilsaletta and Stekkan try to warn of and stop an apocalypse. I love how resilient Ilsaletta is, and how she tries to have hope, even in a hopeless situation.
I like how the romance has built up, even though Ilsaletta and her shadow guard can't really touch, and it's just yearning and wishing things were different. Definitely a really slow slow burn!
Overall, I think the whole concept of this series, and this book, is really unique and fun.
I like how the romance has built up, even though Ilsaletta and her shadow guard can't really touch, and it's just yearning and wishing things were different. Definitely a really slow slow burn!
Overall, I think the whole concept of this series, and this book, is really unique and fun.
April 26, 2022
I am so enjoying this series. Ilsaletta is in pursuit of the princess who is spreading the deadly plague from town to town. Together with the Duke and her shadow warrior - Vargaard - she tries hard to get in front of the princess to warn people of what is coming. Unfortunately that proves to be nigh on impossible. Ilsaletta discovers the princess's intentions, including the gathering of the very special seven swords all containing warriors with special powers.
April 27, 2022
The team is back and so is all the fun, adventure, danger, monsters and running for their lives as they head out to warn the king about what is going on. Or that is the plan at least. But of course things do not go quite right and got an amazingly fun story with a great plot, great characters and lots of monsters to destroy. Loved it and found it hard to put down to see what must be overcome this time around.
June 30, 2022
While I absolutely loved the romance and suspenseful adventure of the first book, and also enjoyed many aspects of book two (the Duke’s growth; the sea of souls; digging into the lore), I overall found this book to be fun but unfulfilling. Various plot points are introduced but seem to go nowhere. The focus changes as quick as the wind.
I will continue to read, however, purely to for Vargaard’s deep rumble about the sun and the moon and his shadowy kisses.
I will continue to read, however, purely to for Vargaard’s deep rumble about the sun and the moon and his shadowy kisses.
Read
September 29, 2022Bleak, but excellent
Ilsaletta, Vargaard, and Stekkan (and Stekkan's macaw) must work together to escape the traps laid by Princess Jendaya and her confederacy of darkness, with limited success. This installment is even more bleak than the first as they are harried into the heart of the kingdom. Other swords bearing spirits have been found and subborned by the princess, leaving only two free to act against her. Waiting anxiously for book 3. Yes, it's a cliffie.
Ilsaletta, Vargaard, and Stekkan (and Stekkan's macaw) must work together to escape the traps laid by Princess Jendaya and her confederacy of darkness, with limited success. This installment is even more bleak than the first as they are harried into the heart of the kingdom. Other swords bearing spirits have been found and subborned by the princess, leaving only two free to act against her. Waiting anxiously for book 3. Yes, it's a cliffie.
April 23, 2022
What an incredible piece of writing this was. I’m still reeling from the dramatic ending. The entire journey itself is filled with action, passion and intensity that it’s hard for me to put into words.
It’s an inspirational book that simply takes hold of your senses and lifts you to another plain.
Such a thrilling read leaving me hungry for the next installment.
It’s an inspirational book that simply takes hold of your senses and lifts you to another plain.
Such a thrilling read leaving me hungry for the next installment.
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