Queen of Shadows

The Chronicles of Faybl #1

by Britt Cooper, Erin Dulin

Why be a princess when you can rule the shadows? Rejecting the senseless demands of her wicked stepmother, Ella of Locksley shares her family’s abundance with the people of her land. Yet, the desperation of her community has only begun. When the nation of Llundyn is brutally attacked, Princes Ric and Johan begin to fight for their right to rule, leaving the kingdom’s very heart to hang in the balance as subversive forces emerge. Taxation drives the citizenry toward hopelessness, with the absence of leadership taking its toll. Striking out on her own, Ella takes up the nation’s cause, making a name for herself as the infamous Hood, and leads her cunning crew, stealing from the rich to provide for the poor. But the return of the rightful heir, along with a forbidden romance, changes everything—with artifice and betrayal leading to an unlikely alliance that unites prince and thieves. The passion and true love of a king leave Ella torn between duty and loyalty when, at the stroke of midnight, her identity is exposed. She’ll face the ultimate choice—enduring as the Hood or sacrificing it all for the ones she loves.

Genres: Fantasy

357 pages, Paperback

Published March 29, 2022

Reviews

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This epic debut by co-authors Britt Cooper & Erin Dulin will leave readers wanting more!

Queen of Shadows is a steamy Fantasy Romance story that pairs Robin Hood with Cinderella in an unforgettable whirlwind of excitement! The chemistry between these two was immediate and I loved finding the fun easter eggs along the way paying homage to their original tales while enjoying this amazing retelling!

This one definitely sets a dark tone from the start, and I loved it! Ella is the Queen of Shadows, and it shows in this brilliant blending of everything I love about this genre! Strong character types, sizzling chemistry, a reluctant hero, a good balance of action and romance, and a tantalizing slow-burn!

From the start, I was hooked! I loved getting to know this remarkable cast, and absolutely cannot wait to read more! I couldn’t put this one down and eagerly await the next installment of this extraordinary series!

[Jen Woodrum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cinderella x Robin Hood??? YESS. This book was so well-written, fun, and absolutely satisfying. Seeing characters you love from two fairy tale classics get mashed together was amazing.

I initially thought Cinderella would MEET Robin Hood, but the best part was that Ella WAS Hood!! 🤯 She was such a strong, powerful, loveable FMC in her devotion to helping the people and courage to do whatever it takes to make things right.

The side characters were so well developed too - especially Ric, Marion, and Rory who I grew to love. I hear that Rory is the main character of the next book which I'm so excited about - I loved her!

The best part were the MANY little surprises from the classics that showed up in unique ways in this story. The glass slipper, the Major Oak tree, and eventually seeing the connections to Camelot (which I hear is a big part of the second book - Sleeping Beauty x Sword in the Stone??)!!

I am all in for this series and can't wait to keep reading. If you love romantasy, fairytale retellings, and unique mashups, you'll love this!

[Leani Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sooooo excited for the launch of Queen of Shadows. From the moment I pre-ordered the book, I was bouncing in my seat, waiting.

And it did not disappoint.

Queen of Shadows is a fantastic fantasy retelling of the classic fairytales we’ve all grown up with. I never thought to combine Cinderella and Robin Hood, and yet, the way the sisters write the story, it just works! There were also hints and easter eggs pointing to other fairytales that made me point excitedly when I read them.

I instantly fell in love with the Queen of Shadows herself, Ella. She’s headstrong and smart, with wit to match. Even though she comes from privilege, she KNOWS it and does everything in her power to help those less fortunate, even at the cost of her life. There’s no hesitation, no second-guessing. She knows the difference between right and wrong, and knows what needs to be done to help those less fortunate.

Prince Riccard won me over as well. I have a soft spot for “reluctant hero answers the call” and Ric fits into that role perfectly. He is strong, capable, and has all the bearings of a king, even if it’s something he’s been dreading his whole life.

Together, Ella and Ric sizzle. You can feel the chemistry between them from the first time they appear in the same room and it carries through the rest of the book, transforming into a beautiful, deep love.

I cannot sing enough praises about this story. It’s a fantastic first book and I cannot wait to read what the sisters come up with next.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing well-written swashbuckling fable adventure that so cleverly combines Robin Hood and Cinderella (with hints of Camelot). I loved all characters, villains, and heroes. The action is fast-paced and all sentences are carefully written with purpose. Perfect for fantasy readers that love the action of a classic such as The Princess Bride, with a clean love interest. This is the best retelling of both of my fav characters and the way they combine in the same character is exciting. Like Robin Hood, Ella of Locksley (is left alone in the world with a stepmother and two stepsisters who aim to take all from her), will steal from the greedy wealthy lords to give to the poor and her merry companions are all great fun. Ella will give it all for the same of her people who suffer from high taxation. 

We also follow the point of view of Prince Riccard oldest brother of Prince Johan. Riccard must uncover the treachery that rotten his realm and find the right allies. 

Love will bloom too. 

Apart from the main characters, I loved Lord Marion and the humor Alan brings to the merry group. There is also Rory, the amazing mysterious mistress of blades, Rory. (she gets to be the protagonist of book 2 focused on the Camelaute section of this world of Fayble.) I will dive into this one soon.

There are so many cinematographic and exciting scenes. I loved recognizing the characters but with a twist that breathe new life into them. 

[Temmathomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and cannot wait for the next in the Chronicles of Fayble series! This is a YA novel that can appeal to both teens and adults with an unexpected, swoon-worthy romance and a sense of feminism that’s often lacking in fairytale retellings, in particular Cinderella retellings. This story merges Robin Hood with Cinderella, and let’s just say our Ella isn’t going to lock herself into an attic and wait for her prince… she’s taken matters into her own hands, and maybe this time it’s the heroine’s turn to save the kingdom.

While the romance was a great part of the plot, the authors leave plenty of room for friendship. Between Ella and Rory, our prince and his troops, and the entire merry band of misfits that came together to help the people of Llundyn, it was fun seeing all of the characters interact with one another. It was also nice to see such strong female friendship.

My only qualm is that I have to wait to read Rory's story! I highly, highly recommend this one, all. Big thanks to the publisher for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review!

[Shannon Stults · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, so I realize Robin Hood doesn't technically count as a fairytale, but it has always been one of my favorite stories (second only to King Arthur, which based on the way the authors have set up the world of Fayble, I'm going to be heartbroken if I don't get some fun twist on Arthurian legend in book 2!).

I was crazy excited for this Cinderella/Hood mashup long before it came out. I was hooked from the beginning, especially when we got a taste of Prince Riccard and Ella together. Then I remembered that with two stories comes two possible love interests just in time for us to meet Lord Marion who is just...delightful. In all the best ways.😊

Luckily my true ship sailed (not telling which because, spoilers) and I got my happy ending as well as a little taste of what will hopefully be Rory's--aka Aurora's--story next. (Have a mentioned Sleeping Beauty is another personal favorite?) I'm already dreading the wait for book 2, but I know it will be worth it!

[Harriet Hennessy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, let me start by saying that I love fairy tales, always have done, ever since I was little. Queen of Shadows is a perfect example of an amazing fairy tale book experience, but for adults. Empowered FMC’s are my favourite and Ella is one of the best, she’s strong, witty and I loved reading her story. She fights for what she loves and is just a badass. Romance is key, obviously. The romance in this book was swoon worthy, the tension was incredible, and it encompassed everything I look for in a romance plot.

I felt like I really connected with the characters, perhaps it was because I have grown up reading and watching these characters, but Britt and Erin did a lovely job of keeping me, (the reader), engaged and wanting to keep reading. I can’t wait to read book two and discover what these two amazing authors have to offer.

If you haven’t already, you need to read this book and experience this beautiful fairy tale mash up for yourself.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when you cross to fairy tales? You get an unforgettable tale of love sprinkled with adventure and fantasy. Ella is absolutely brilliant and embodies the best parts of Robin Hood and Cinderella in her spirit. Dulin and Cooper do an amazin job of building tension throughout the story, and really keep the reader engaged. This might be a young adult novel but it's definitely enjoyable for older readers too! I'm dying to read book two, I'm sure it'll be just as fun and complex as this one.

[🧸🎀Tiff (honeydukesbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book officially got me back into the whole fantasy genre, I loved it so much! I love Ella, and she’s a total badass on her own - LOVE strong FMC’s. This one really did it for me! 5 stars!

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun read. Not only was it fun, but I couldn’t put it down. It takes two of my favorite tales and mashes them in a new way. Looking forward to seeing if the authors have more to offer in in coming books. I’m betting they do! More please!!

[Karla Kratovil · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fairytale retelling done to perfection. A mash-up of Cinderella and Robin Hood, The Queen of Shadows elevates the fairytale princess and finally makes her the heroine of her own story. Ella of Locksley lives under the thumb of her cruel stepmother until she is old enough to take control of the lands and fortunes left to her by her father. She feeds the people in the village by stealing food from her own stores at the manor. She is a natural leader, and when the kingdom is attacked and times become even more desperate, she gathers a loyal group of friends and uses her kick-ass skills with a bow and arrow to steal from the wealthy nobles to provide for the poor.
I’m always here for the romance and Queen of Shadows delivers. Ric is the reluctant heir to the throne, and his journey to accepting his role as King is facilitated by Ella showing him the truth of what is happening in his kingdom. Their love is so sweet and sincere. Ric truly admires Ella’s strength, and his internal battle between his need to protect her but also to trust in her leadership made me fall for him. This story is an excellent adventure with a cast of well-developed characters. You will enjoy every moment!

[Angela Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will like Queen of Shadows if you like:

Fairytale retellings

Sweet Romances

Double POVs

Princess Bride/Ever After vibes

Bad ass female main characters

Gowns and ballroom tropes

So, I’m a sucker for a Robin Hood retelling. One of my favorite books as a teenager was Robin McKinley’s The Outlaws of Sherwood, and QoS definitely gave me those vibes, except with a genderbent twist. Ella of Locksley, a noblewoman yet to come of age, uses her wealth and archery skills to fight back against the oppression of the people of Nottingham, living this double life while coping with an evil stepmother and sisters. In this tale, you’ll see all the familiar names: Alan a Dale, Much, Friar Tuck, Little John, Will Scarlet, Marion and of course, Sherwood Forest (with an Oak tree lair!). Our heroes steal from the rich, funneling money to the poor, but their good deeds are not without cost (you might shed a few tears). This familiar plot line is entwined with hints of Cinderella, as well as court intrigue between two handsome princes, an impending war, some thrilling action scenes, and a sweet romance with a bit of a twist at the climax. Like The Princess Bride or Ever After, QoS has something for every fantasy and fairytale lover. Pick this one up for a fun romp through all your favorite fairytale tropes!

[Charlotte Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent retelling of classic fairytales in a unique and fresh way! Queen of Shadows left me in love with the characters, had a perfectly likeable protagonist, a believable world filled with enticing detail, and a fantastic ending that left me both mourning and rejoicing. Endings are difficult to write it seems, and this one left me completely satisfied (nothing felt unresolved!). Plus, there are plenty of references to the second book, and the overlap between characters within these books is so exciting to me. I cannot wait for the second book, Mistress of Blades, and will be ordering as soon as it is released!

[Tracy Nemitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blurb: Queen of Shadows takes two beloved fairytales, Robin Hood and Cinderella, breathing new life into the stories you only thought you knew. In this reimagined tale, the heroine is at once Cinderella (Ella) and the infamous Hood.

Favorite Quote: “Tribulation inspires people to become who they were meant to be, does it not?”

Favorite Quote: “You’re your own woman. I confess it’s tempting to interfere, a regrettable product of my upbringing, as you well know…But I would never presume to doubt you again. It’s your independence, your strong will that leaves me in endless awe of you. From here on, I shall endure at your word.”

The premise of this book – combining not just two classics, but melding Cinderella and Robin Hood into a single character was no small undertaking. Queen of Shadows does so flawlessly and Ella’s spirit, struggle, and compassion leaps off the page. Surrounded by a band of equally vivid characters, they fight a deceptively corrupt villain. A villain whose betrayal sinks deeper than anyone could expect. Tension builds throughout the story to a boiling point and readers may find it tempting to peek at the last chapter to learn the fate of these characters (I was certainly tempted). I would highly recommend this book.

[Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew a fairytale retelling of Cinderella and Robin good would result in such amazing story!

I really enjoyed this version with references to both the story of Cinderella and Robin hood, while also being totally original.

Ella is a bad ass female character who takes from the rich and gives to the poor. This book is face-paced and a joy to read from start to finish.

The character development in this book is great. I love when I feel a connection to not only the main character but the secondary characters as well. I loved Ella and her band of misfits!

Overall, I was really impressed by this book. The character and story development were amazing. I am looking forward to reading the next book!

[Kayla Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this down! I was gifted a PDF version from the authors but six chapters in, I added the physical copy to my shopping cart because I KNEW I would be rereading this book many times over in the future. Twelve chapters in, I knew this book was something special. All the amazing elements of Cinderella mixed into the world of Robin Hood make for one INCREDIBLE read. The ending had me fighting tears while swooning with happiness. Truly well done!

[Emily Wallin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book, and I’m so excited it’s a series! The main character was so easy to root for, and I loved the “found family” aspect. Not your typical retelling or mashup, they used the elements of the original stories in such a unique way. I know the rest of the series will be just as good with the world they’ve built. I am really picky with fantasy books and won’t finish if it doesn’t hook me, but this one was well worth my time!

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVE that 'Cinderella' is actually the station she is. That always bothered me in the traditional story. However, I almost put the book down immediately because I felt they used exaggerated vocabulary where it wasn't necessary... especially the first few chapters where you're trying to captivate your audience. Besides that I loved it. Great story line and snippets of the original stories.

[Melody Pendlebury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Especially love the strong female lead!