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Kings of Hell MC #4
Gray's Shadow Lib/E
--- There can be no shadow without the man to cast it. ---
Gray. Lost his twin. Will never be complete. Works alone.
Shadow. Monster? Human? Exists to be Gray’s one true companion.
After losing his twin brother, Gray has devoted his life to the Kings of Hell MC. He will do anything to protect his family and that means anything.
Even sell his own shadow to the devil.
Following a fire that left him without one arm, Gray feels pushed to the sidelines. In order to prove to his club that he is still capable of completing dangerous tasks, he will have to team up with the strange creature from the Other Side. Tall, inhumanly strong, and menacing despite the handsome exterior, Shadow is just the tool Gray needs.
The moment Shadow lays his eyes on Gray, he wants to crawl under Gray’s skin and make the human his.
Gray on the other hand isn’t willing to get attached to a monster destined to do the devil’s bidding and disappear once his time is up. Rejected, Shadow has to do everything in his power to convince his human that they belong together.
But as the clock ticks away precious minutes of Shadow’s existence, Gray will have to choose between his loyalty to the Kings of Hell MC and responsibility for the creature he brought into this world.
*
“Do you feel me running through your veins?”
Gray nodded.
*
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: motorcycle club, alternative lifestyles, demons, monster, tattoos, secrets, crime, gothic, grief, mourning, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fish out of water, opposites attract, demisexuality, gentle giant
Genre: Dark, paranormal M/M romance
Erotic content: Scorching hot, emotional, explicit scenes
Length: ~150,000 words (Book 4 in the series)
WARNING: This story contains scenes of violence, offensive language, and morally ambiguous characters.
Gray. Lost his twin. Will never be complete. Works alone.
Shadow. Monster? Human? Exists to be Gray’s one true companion.
After losing his twin brother, Gray has devoted his life to the Kings of Hell MC. He will do anything to protect his family and that means anything.
Even sell his own shadow to the devil.
Following a fire that left him without one arm, Gray feels pushed to the sidelines. In order to prove to his club that he is still capable of completing dangerous tasks, he will have to team up with the strange creature from the Other Side. Tall, inhumanly strong, and menacing despite the handsome exterior, Shadow is just the tool Gray needs.
The moment Shadow lays his eyes on Gray, he wants to crawl under Gray’s skin and make the human his.
Gray on the other hand isn’t willing to get attached to a monster destined to do the devil’s bidding and disappear once his time is up. Rejected, Shadow has to do everything in his power to convince his human that they belong together.
But as the clock ticks away precious minutes of Shadow’s existence, Gray will have to choose between his loyalty to the Kings of Hell MC and responsibility for the creature he brought into this world.
*
“Do you feel me running through your veins?”
Gray nodded.
*
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: motorcycle club, alternative lifestyles, demons, monster, tattoos, secrets, crime, gothic, grief, mourning, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fish out of water, opposites attract, demisexuality, gentle giant
Genre: Dark, paranormal M/M romance
Erotic content: Scorching hot, emotional, explicit scenes
Length: ~150,000 words (Book 4 in the series)
WARNING: This story contains scenes of violence, offensive language, and morally ambiguous characters.
Audio CD
First published August 11, 2018
115 people are currently reading
899 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Merikan
130 books3,026 followers(Goodreads profile run by Kat)
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
August 9, 2018
4.5
Get ready to have your world rocked in the latest instalment of this highly addictive series.Trust the Merikan duo to deliver something that turned out to be sweet and romantic against a back drop of the chaos that is the Kings of Hell MC
Gray has just been kind of existing since the death of his twin brother a few years ago,he feels as though he's literally lost one half of himself.Dedicated to the club,loyalty is everything to him.He will do whatever it takes to keep those around him safe-even if that means making a deal with the devil...
Shadow is a creature from the other side,a pawn in Baal's game.His human form is deceiving.His long hair(yep I was happy!),and stunning looks belies the man he is inside.He has no idea how to exsist in the human world.He has an almost child like innocence and naivety about him that was just so damn endearing.
However....
One thing he is absolutely certain about is his need for Gray.It's all consuming and he will stop at nothing to make Gray see they belong together.
As usual,the plot is complex with twists and turns and brilliantly executed and characters from previous books play their parts perfectly in the story.....I'll always have a soft spot for Laurent and Elliott!
Gray and Shadow turned out to be just perfect together and I can't wait for the final book in this series which has produced some truly memorable characters and a story line which only these two Authors could deliver so well.
Part of a series,must be read in order.
Highly Recommended.
Review copy.
Get ready to have your world rocked in the latest instalment of this highly addictive series.Trust the Merikan duo to deliver something that turned out to be sweet and romantic against a back drop of the chaos that is the Kings of Hell MC
Gray has just been kind of existing since the death of his twin brother a few years ago,he feels as though he's literally lost one half of himself.Dedicated to the club,loyalty is everything to him.He will do whatever it takes to keep those around him safe-even if that means making a deal with the devil...
Shadow is a creature from the other side,a pawn in Baal's game.His human form is deceiving.His long hair(yep I was happy!),and stunning looks belies the man he is inside.He has no idea how to exsist in the human world.He has an almost child like innocence and naivety about him that was just so damn endearing.
However....
One thing he is absolutely certain about is his need for Gray.It's all consuming and he will stop at nothing to make Gray see they belong together.
As usual,the plot is complex with twists and turns and brilliantly executed and characters from previous books play their parts perfectly in the story.....I'll always have a soft spot for Laurent and Elliott!
Gray and Shadow turned out to be just perfect together and I can't wait for the final book in this series which has produced some truly memorable characters and a story line which only these two Authors could deliver so well.
Part of a series,must be read in order.
Highly Recommended.
Review copy.
Read
August 11, 2018
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G6P64SW
--- There can be no shadow without the man to cast it. ---
Gray. Lost his twin. Will never be complete. Works alone.
Shadow. Monster? Human? Exists to be Gray’s one true companion.
After losing his twin brother, Gray has devoted his life to the Kings of Hell MC. He will do anything to protect his family and that means anything.
Even sell his own shadow to the devil.
Following a fire that left him without one arm, Gray feels pushed to the sidelines. In order to prove to his club that he is still capable of completing dangerous tasks, he will have to team up with the strange creature from the Other Side. Tall, inhumanly strong, and menacing despite the handsome exterior, Shadow is just the tool Gray needs.
The moment Shadow lays his eyes on Gray, he wants to crawl under Gray’s skin and make the human his.
Gray on the other hand isn’t willing to get attached to a monster destined to do the devil’s bidding and disappear once his time is up. Rejected, Shadow has to do everything in his power to convince his human that they belong together.
But as the clock ticks away precious minutes of Shadow’s existence, Gray will have to choose between his loyalty to the Kings of Hell MC and responsibility for the creature he brought into this world.
*
“Do you feel me running through your veins?”
Gray nodded.
*
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: motorcycle club, alternative lifestyles, demons, monster, tattoos, secrets, crime, gothic, grief, mourning, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fish out of water, opposites attract, demisexuality, gentle giant
Genre: Dark, paranormal M/M romance
Erotic content: Scorching hot, emotional, explicit scenes
Length: ~150,000 words (Book 4 in the series)
WARNING: This story contains scenes of violence, offensive language, and morally ambiguous characters.
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.co.uk/KAMerikan...
August 12, 2018
Warning: this is book four in a series. Not a standalone. This demon —Baal— has been tormenting these guys for a while now. Start from the beginning, Laurent and the Beast and immerse yourself in the weirdly funny, creepy and obscure Kings of Hell world.
Bizarre. A perfectly achieved gothic climate. A fantastic dark comedy featuring some of the weirdest and most attractive characters. Probably, my favorite in the series.
This book was brilliant. Surreal and creepy but sweet and lovely somehow. Again that dichotomy so present in KA Merikan’s work that I love so much. But I dare to say this installment was more surrealistic, more exaggerated maybe, reaching an extremely dark but funny atmosphere so great, so easy to read, so I’m laughing aloud but I know this is not funny kinda thing.
I was trapped by the claustrophobic and disturbing beginning and its contrast with the comical next scene in a car. As usual, contrast, contrast and more contrast.
Duality in Shadow: how can a creature from hell be so adorable and naive?
Duality in the darkness vs the love story. And it was romantic. And sweet.
Duality in the seriousness of the plot vs the more than funny conversations taking place in the weirdest, creepiest moments. Hilarious. It reminded me a bit to the histrionism of Twin Peaks. Maybe histrionism is not the word. Maybe it’s a mix of weird, funny and kafkaesque. I don’t know how to describe the impact of the situations here. That good. That rare. That particular.
And what about Gray... my lonely, weary, half broken and poor Gray. He was hard at first with Shadow and I felt sorry for the needy (and strong) supernatural being but I’m Gray’s. I’ve been Gray’s from book one. He’s loyal, he’s good, he’s sexy he’s...this:
So if you like what I’ve highlighted in this little rambling jump in to book one immediately and you won’t regret it. Highly recommended book and highly recommended series.
▶️
Advanced copy for review. Thank you dear and brilliant authors!
Bizarre. A perfectly achieved gothic climate. A fantastic dark comedy featuring some of the weirdest and most attractive characters. Probably, my favorite in the series.
This book was brilliant. Surreal and creepy but sweet and lovely somehow. Again that dichotomy so present in KA Merikan’s work that I love so much. But I dare to say this installment was more surrealistic, more exaggerated maybe, reaching an extremely dark but funny atmosphere so great, so easy to read, so I’m laughing aloud but I know this is not funny kinda thing.
I was trapped by the claustrophobic and disturbing beginning and its contrast with the comical next scene in a car. As usual, contrast, contrast and more contrast.
Duality in Shadow: how can a creature from hell be so adorable and naive?
Duality in the darkness vs the love story. And it was romantic. And sweet.
Duality in the seriousness of the plot vs the more than funny conversations taking place in the weirdest, creepiest moments. Hilarious. It reminded me a bit to the histrionism of Twin Peaks. Maybe histrionism is not the word. Maybe it’s a mix of weird, funny and kafkaesque. I don’t know how to describe the impact of the situations here. That good. That rare. That particular.
And what about Gray... my lonely, weary, half broken and poor Gray. He was hard at first with Shadow and I felt sorry for the needy (and strong) supernatural being but I’m Gray’s. I’ve been Gray’s from book one. He’s loyal, he’s good, he’s sexy he’s...this:
So if you like what I’ve highlighted in this little rambling jump in to book one immediately and you won’t regret it. Highly recommended book and highly recommended series.
▶️
Advanced copy for review. Thank you dear and brilliant authors!
March 1, 2023
“There is no shadow without the man to cast it.”
I thought this would be my favorite of the series. I mean, Gray is pretty awesome and his Shadow?! However, the bully theme is very strong with this one and I was ready to take Gray DOWN for how he was treating the most innocent, please-just-love-me Shadow. This went for for over 50% of the book and it was truly like watching someone kick a puppy, repeatedly.
If you can make it past that point, once Gray and Shadow finally become a couple, it is the SWEETEST love fest ever!
The pnr aspect of this series is amazing, but I wish it would take more of a lead role. It feels as though it comes and goes when needed to move the plot along.
Side thought: This has to be the worse example of a mc club. The dynamics suck, everyone is out for themselves which seems to go against the entire meaning behind the mc family. I need Vars and Jake to leave with Gray and Shadow and start their own club.
What was with that ending???
I thought this would be my favorite of the series. I mean, Gray is pretty awesome and his Shadow?! However, the bully theme is very strong with this one and I was ready to take Gray DOWN for how he was treating the most innocent, please-just-love-me Shadow. This went for for over 50% of the book and it was truly like watching someone kick a puppy, repeatedly.
If you can make it past that point, once Gray and Shadow finally become a couple, it is the SWEETEST love fest ever!
The pnr aspect of this series is amazing, but I wish it would take more of a lead role. It feels as though it comes and goes when needed to move the plot along.
Side thought: This has to be the worse example of a mc club. The dynamics suck, everyone is out for themselves which seems to go against the entire meaning behind the mc family. I need Vars and Jake to leave with Gray and Shadow and start their own club.
What was with that ending???
August 5, 2018
I am staggered at the imagination and creativity that has been the hallmark of the Kings of Hell series but this one is above and beyond.
At the beginning it was so hard to find any sympathy for Gray, he behaved like an absolute arse to Shadow. Shadow himself is just so loveable, like a big Labrador puppy or a teeny kitten, he's out of place in the human world and doesn't know how to express his feelings.
The plot continues on with Magpie's plan to stop Baal's intended world invasion gaining steam. The search is still on to land the Pigeon's Heart ruby only this time it's even more complicated by the knowledge that it could also be used to keep Shadow permanently in the human world.
I won't give anything away but this one is such a rollercoaster of a ride, with emotions all over the place as Gray's attitude begins to soften and change.
Now the story will conclude in the final book in the series and I can honestly say I'm no wiser as to how that's going to happen but i know I can't wait to find out!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
At the beginning it was so hard to find any sympathy for Gray, he behaved like an absolute arse to Shadow. Shadow himself is just so loveable, like a big Labrador puppy or a teeny kitten, he's out of place in the human world and doesn't know how to express his feelings.
The plot continues on with Magpie's plan to stop Baal's intended world invasion gaining steam. The search is still on to land the Pigeon's Heart ruby only this time it's even more complicated by the knowledge that it could also be used to keep Shadow permanently in the human world.
I won't give anything away but this one is such a rollercoaster of a ride, with emotions all over the place as Gray's attitude begins to soften and change.
Now the story will conclude in the final book in the series and I can honestly say I'm no wiser as to how that's going to happen but i know I can't wait to find out!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
March 12, 2019
5 Stars!
Only these two women can make you fall in love with a monster.
I've been looking forward to Gray's story since the first book. I am always more interested in the quiet and introverted characters. The loners. They always seem to have the most interesting stories. And I was proven right again cause Gray's story has been the most romantic, intense, and enthralling story of the series.
Gray's world has been pretty.... well, gray. He lost his other half (his twin brother, Mike) 3 years ago and since then he's just been existing and taking risky jobs on his own. He lives and breathes the club and has made sacrifices for his brothers. But his latest sacrifice will not only alter his body but also his whole future. The deal Gray has made with Baal will set forth many changes in Gray's life. His loyalty to his club will be questioned. His ability to do his job will be tested. His heart will be stolen. And his future will no longer be so gray.
Shadow... He exists because a deal was made. He's finding it hard to live in this human world. He's honest. He bleeds black. His feelings are easily hurt. He's naive. He's gorgeous with long flowing hair. He has a British accent. He craves one man. He will literally rip you apart if you bring any harm towards the man that consumes his every thought. He will do anything to prove to Gray that they are the perfect connection.
Gray struggles in the beginning with Shadow and isn't very kind to the gentle creature. Shadow just wants to be close to Gray in every way possible and struggles with Gray's hostility towards him.
It is absolutely impossible IMO to come away from this book not loving Shadow. He is one of my favorite characters these ladies have imagined and put on paper and brought to life. I adored him.
There is plenty going on in this story and it's really hard to put down. And within all the chaos is this unlikely love story that captures and enraptures you. By far my favorite read in the series.
I can't wait to see how this story wraps up in the last book. So much has happened and so much has yet to be revealed.
If you haven't started this series and I highly recommend you do. But start from the beginning because none of these books should be read out of order.
Happy reading dolls!
**I received and ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.**
Only these two women can make you fall in love with a monster.
I've been looking forward to Gray's story since the first book. I am always more interested in the quiet and introverted characters. The loners. They always seem to have the most interesting stories. And I was proven right again cause Gray's story has been the most romantic, intense, and enthralling story of the series.
Gray's world has been pretty.... well, gray. He lost his other half (his twin brother, Mike) 3 years ago and since then he's just been existing and taking risky jobs on his own. He lives and breathes the club and has made sacrifices for his brothers. But his latest sacrifice will not only alter his body but also his whole future. The deal Gray has made with Baal will set forth many changes in Gray's life. His loyalty to his club will be questioned. His ability to do his job will be tested. His heart will be stolen. And his future will no longer be so gray.
Shadow... He exists because a deal was made. He's finding it hard to live in this human world. He's honest. He bleeds black. His feelings are easily hurt. He's naive. He's gorgeous with long flowing hair. He has a British accent. He craves one man. He will literally rip you apart if you bring any harm towards the man that consumes his every thought. He will do anything to prove to Gray that they are the perfect connection.
Gray struggles in the beginning with Shadow and isn't very kind to the gentle creature. Shadow just wants to be close to Gray in every way possible and struggles with Gray's hostility towards him.
It is absolutely impossible IMO to come away from this book not loving Shadow. He is one of my favorite characters these ladies have imagined and put on paper and brought to life. I adored him.
There is plenty going on in this story and it's really hard to put down. And within all the chaos is this unlikely love story that captures and enraptures you. By far my favorite read in the series.
I can't wait to see how this story wraps up in the last book. So much has happened and so much has yet to be revealed.
If you haven't started this series and I highly recommend you do. But start from the beginning because none of these books should be read out of order.
Happy reading dolls!
**I received and ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.**
November 1, 2021
i had a long ass rant written up and ready to post but gr decided to throw it out the window and i didn’t save it in a separate doc (why do i never learn 😭). WELP there goes an hour of fretfully typing on my phone with my sausage fingers 💀
------ take two ------
those last few chapters were an absolute train wreck WTF WAS THAT????
at this point the only characters i remotely care about are Shadow/Gray and Vars/Jake. the rest of them could be teleported to some demonic dimension and tortured for an eternity for all i care (i might’ve included Elliot and Knight if they didn't go through so many personality transplants throughout the series, especially in Jake's story where they were officially awarded The Most Annoying Couple title by yours truly). ngl approaching the end of the series hating couples i'd adored previously is an incredible feat in itself. if that was the goal, kudos!
a rudimentary explanation of the series's premise: members of the kings of hell mc keep making pacts with the evil demon Baal to achieve the impossible (out of ~lurve~) in exchange for doing an act of his bidding. each act turns out to a step in some ritual that will bring the world as they know it to an end--the joy of digging our own graves at godlike efficiency 👍🏼
the bulk of the story is slow-paced with everyone girding their loins to go up against Baal. while on the hunt for elusive rubies containing the power to stop evil demon guy in his tracks, we get some failed heists, some successful heists, yada yada it’s a jolly good time *insert unenthusiastic hurrah here*
Shadow (Gray's actual shadow) is another cog in the wheel of Baal's plans, but of course feelings get in the way, and Gray becomes desperate to figure out how to keep Shadow by his side.
⚠️ MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD ⚠️
.
.
.
in this universe, rubies also have the power to grant non-humans time on earth, and Gray was banking on using the ruby set in Beast's engagement ring as a last resort to give them a few extra months to find a more powerful ruby for Shadow to seal the deal. but when push came to shove, Beast and Laurent flipped him the middle finger and used it for themselves instead, covering some random ass egg with the ruby dust.
even after they're discovered, they tell Gray to chill out while claiming they had their reasons but never actually make their case. what, cat got your tongue? their blatant evasion of the topic speaks volumes 🤦🏻♀️ i have my own theories regarding el huevo but nothing i come up with justifies their choice in my eyes in the slightest. after all Gray's sacrificed for the group, no wonder he's pissed off that no one seems to care and swipes the world-saving Pigeon's Heart for his Shadow's sake.
“we need to have a group vote for these decisions” ok so where were you, Beast, when you decided to use a ruby of your own (albeit a small one but rubies are sparse and they admit that any tiny bit counts in equal measure) behind closed doors? the epitome of hypocrisy 🙄
on top of using Gray as a punching bag as punishment for taking the ruby, Beast also demands as an additional show of loyalty to the group that Shadow lose a finger (wut) and Gray be the one to chop it off (double wut), otherwise they’re banished. for real? you call these guys your brothers? to laugh or to cry, that is the question 😔 “we are family,” my butt. the fact that Gray didn’t take Shadow and leave had me shell-shocked and drowning in disappointment. and yes, Beast and Laurent got off scot free *cue intense eye rolling*
last but not least, skip to the abrupt ending where none of the betrayal, resentment, egocentricity, etc. gets addressed and my blood pressure is through the roof 😤
.
.
.
⚠️ end of major spoils :) ⚠️
Shadow and Gray's interactions in the latter half of the book (as well as Gray's character challenging the idea that bottoming somehow emasculates a man) were the only saving grace in the book, but ngl even Gray's earlier behavior rubbed me the wrong way. he was excessively mopey and illogically abusive towards Shadow even though he knew that the newly-turned-man creature had little to no idea how the human world functioned, let alone its tacit social code.
up until now, Gray had always been portrayed as the cool, calm, collected voice of reason, but needless to say, that was not the case here. good for Gray for standing up for himself and being selfish for the first time at the end of the book though; his choice felt justified and in-line with his character development. but the lead up, on the other hand, came across as unnecessary and another case of personality replacement gone wrong.
on a side note, would defeating Baal reverse his magic or is it more of a one-time-cast, effects-everlasting sorta deal? not me pushing for a tragic end (*coughsendLaurentbacktohisoriginaltimecough*) just ‘cause Beast is now at the top of my blacklist 💅
key points:
- Shadow is a precious puppy simply trying to learn the ways of the human world to fit in, we must protect!!!
- the kings of hell mc have no genuine care for their members and treat each other like trash 🗑
- Magpie is hella sus, why is no one more wary of his intentions?
listening to the audiobooks back to back is like a never-ending fever dream of exhaustion. i absolutely need a nap before i grudgingly start the final book, please keep me in your prayers 🗿
------ take two ------
those last few chapters were an absolute train wreck WTF WAS THAT????
at this point the only characters i remotely care about are Shadow/Gray and Vars/Jake. the rest of them could be teleported to some demonic dimension and tortured for an eternity for all i care (i might’ve included Elliot and Knight if they didn't go through so many personality transplants throughout the series, especially in Jake's story where they were officially awarded The Most Annoying Couple title by yours truly). ngl approaching the end of the series hating couples i'd adored previously is an incredible feat in itself. if that was the goal, kudos!
a rudimentary explanation of the series's premise: members of the kings of hell mc keep making pacts with the evil demon Baal to achieve the impossible (out of ~lurve~) in exchange for doing an act of his bidding. each act turns out to a step in some ritual that will bring the world as they know it to an end--the joy of digging our own graves at godlike efficiency 👍🏼
the bulk of the story is slow-paced with everyone girding their loins to go up against Baal. while on the hunt for elusive rubies containing the power to stop evil demon guy in his tracks, we get some failed heists, some successful heists, yada yada it’s a jolly good time *insert unenthusiastic hurrah here*
Shadow (Gray's actual shadow) is another cog in the wheel of Baal's plans, but of course feelings get in the way, and Gray becomes desperate to figure out how to keep Shadow by his side.
⚠️ MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD ⚠️
.
.
.
in this universe, rubies also have the power to grant non-humans time on earth, and Gray was banking on using the ruby set in Beast's engagement ring as a last resort to give them a few extra months to find a more powerful ruby for Shadow to seal the deal. but when push came to shove, Beast and Laurent flipped him the middle finger and used it for themselves instead, covering some random ass egg with the ruby dust.
even after they're discovered, they tell Gray to chill out while claiming they had their reasons but never actually make their case. what, cat got your tongue? their blatant evasion of the topic speaks volumes 🤦🏻♀️ i have my own theories regarding el huevo but nothing i come up with justifies their choice in my eyes in the slightest. after all Gray's sacrificed for the group, no wonder he's pissed off that no one seems to care and swipes the world-saving Pigeon's Heart for his Shadow's sake.
“we need to have a group vote for these decisions” ok so where were you, Beast, when you decided to use a ruby of your own (albeit a small one but rubies are sparse and they admit that any tiny bit counts in equal measure) behind closed doors? the epitome of hypocrisy 🙄
on top of using Gray as a punching bag as punishment for taking the ruby, Beast also demands as an additional show of loyalty to the group that Shadow lose a finger (wut) and Gray be the one to chop it off (double wut), otherwise they’re banished. for real? you call these guys your brothers? to laugh or to cry, that is the question 😔 “we are family,” my butt. the fact that Gray didn’t take Shadow and leave had me shell-shocked and drowning in disappointment. and yes, Beast and Laurent got off scot free *cue intense eye rolling*
last but not least, skip to the abrupt ending where none of the betrayal, resentment, egocentricity, etc. gets addressed and my blood pressure is through the roof 😤
.
.
.
⚠️ end of major spoils :) ⚠️
Shadow and Gray's interactions in the latter half of the book (as well as Gray's character challenging the idea that bottoming somehow emasculates a man) were the only saving grace in the book, but ngl even Gray's earlier behavior rubbed me the wrong way. he was excessively mopey and illogically abusive towards Shadow even though he knew that the newly-turned-man creature had little to no idea how the human world functioned, let alone its tacit social code.
up until now, Gray had always been portrayed as the cool, calm, collected voice of reason, but needless to say, that was not the case here. good for Gray for standing up for himself and being selfish for the first time at the end of the book though; his choice felt justified and in-line with his character development. but the lead up, on the other hand, came across as unnecessary and another case of personality replacement gone wrong.
on a side note, would defeating Baal reverse his magic or is it more of a one-time-cast, effects-everlasting sorta deal? not me pushing for a tragic end (*coughsendLaurentbacktohisoriginaltimecough*) just ‘cause Beast is now at the top of my blacklist 💅
key points:
- Shadow is a precious puppy simply trying to learn the ways of the human world to fit in, we must protect!!!
- the kings of hell mc have no genuine care for their members and treat each other like trash 🗑
- Magpie is hella sus, why is no one more wary of his intentions?
listening to the audiobooks back to back is like a never-ending fever dream of exhaustion. i absolutely need a nap before i grudgingly start the final book, please keep me in your prayers 🗿
August 8, 2018
-4.5 stars-
I recommend against reading this as a standalone. Gray and Shadow is a new couple but all books follow the same story arc; a demon, Baal, uses the club members for his plans to expand his domain throughout the human world by taking advantage of their weak moments.
Τhis came too close to being my favorite in the series after the first book. It was also a surprise. I don’t know what I expected but this wasn’t it. Gray’s Shadow is a mix of creepy and funny. It’s quirky and imaginative, sexy and so very romantic. It also involves the most clingy and funny shadow from Hell.
You can’t separate a man from his shadow! Can you? Well, Baal can and he did. And no matter how much Gray wanted to get rid of Shadow in the beginning, he just can’t. If you 've read the previous book, you know that Gray made a pact with the demon. This is his end of the deal.
Shadow might have started as Gray’s shadow in a human body, but in the end he becomes his own person. It’s just impossible for the reader to hate Shadow despite his misgivings. You can’t blame him for anything because he’s just new to this world and everything human is a foreign concept to him. His journey to becoming his own person was very touching but also too funny! It reminded me of Laurent trying to adjust to the modern world, multiplied by ten!
Now Gray is a more difficult character to like, but personally I loved him and I find nothing wrong with the way he behaved. Gray lost his twin, the only person who really understood him, and he’s still grieving. He also lost his arm which means he has to go above and beyond to prove himself all over again in the biker world. Also, he never said it himself but I believe he is demisexual. No wonder he always felt like he didn’t belong in a place where sex is a priority and orgies are a common thing. And on top of all that, he now has to deal with a clingy, four armed shadow sent straight from hell.
When I say that this was a very romantic story I really mean it. It’s the most romantic in the series in my opinion. It’s just impossible for Shadow and Gray to not touch each other or have some kind of connection all the time. You must see Shadow in action when Gray is threatened in any way.
Like always there is a lot of action towards the end, and a few plot twists that I didn’t expect. I can’t believe he did that! The secondary characters play a big role. Knight and Elliot are just so obnoxious in all books except theirs! But they like Shadow, so they get a free pass. My favorite secondary character in this book was Jake.
Overall, I loved this and I can’t wait for the final installment where we ‘ll get a conclusion. What an amazing world building!
Recommended!
I recommend against reading this as a standalone. Gray and Shadow is a new couple but all books follow the same story arc; a demon, Baal, uses the club members for his plans to expand his domain throughout the human world by taking advantage of their weak moments.
Τhis came too close to being my favorite in the series after the first book. It was also a surprise. I don’t know what I expected but this wasn’t it. Gray’s Shadow is a mix of creepy and funny. It’s quirky and imaginative, sexy and so very romantic. It also involves the most clingy and funny shadow from Hell.
“What do you want?”
The shadow charged at Gray.
Gray let out a yelp and braced himself for impact, arm stretched out to take the first blow, but the monster… hugged him. With all four arms.
You can’t separate a man from his shadow! Can you? Well, Baal can and he did. And no matter how much Gray wanted to get rid of Shadow in the beginning, he just can’t. If you 've read the previous book, you know that Gray made a pact with the demon. This is his end of the deal.
Shadow might have started as Gray’s shadow in a human body, but in the end he becomes his own person. It’s just impossible for the reader to hate Shadow despite his misgivings. You can’t blame him for anything because he’s just new to this world and everything human is a foreign concept to him. His journey to becoming his own person was very touching but also too funny! It reminded me of Laurent trying to adjust to the modern world, multiplied by ten!
Now Gray is a more difficult character to like, but personally I loved him and I find nothing wrong with the way he behaved. Gray lost his twin, the only person who really understood him, and he’s still grieving. He also lost his arm which means he has to go above and beyond to prove himself all over again in the biker world. Also, he never said it himself but I believe he is demisexual. No wonder he always felt like he didn’t belong in a place where sex is a priority and orgies are a common thing. And on top of all that, he now has to deal with a clingy, four armed shadow sent straight from hell.
When I say that this was a very romantic story I really mean it. It’s the most romantic in the series in my opinion. It’s just impossible for Shadow and Gray to not touch each other or have some kind of connection all the time. You must see Shadow in action when Gray is threatened in any way.
“I just... need you,” he whispered, glancing at Shadow, increasingly desperate for the comfort and stability of having his counterweight back.
“That’s how I feel. Every day. All the time.”
Like always there is a lot of action towards the end, and a few plot twists that I didn’t expect. I can’t believe he did that! The secondary characters play a big role. Knight and Elliot are just so obnoxious in all books except theirs! But they like Shadow, so they get a free pass. My favorite secondary character in this book was Jake.
Overall, I loved this and I can’t wait for the final installment where we ‘ll get a conclusion. What an amazing world building!
Recommended!
November 13, 2021
First of all, I should say, my four stars are totally for Gray and Shadow. Because in this book am disappointed with my fav Laurent and Beast. But then we can't expect our fav MCs to always behave in the right manner in a KA Merikan's books. So, even though I have a lot of complaints, I love the story which was angsty-slow burn but fluffy too and even though there is nothing unique about it other than the fact that we don't get this kind of story from this author duo.
I feel that lately, I have become weirdly obsessed with adorable aliens/monsters who don't understand the well-established rules of the human world. Shadow is the latest addition to this list. I simply adore how much the gentle giant was so dedicated to Gray.
I feel that lately, I have become weirdly obsessed with adorable aliens/monsters who don't understand the well-established rules of the human world. Shadow is the latest addition to this list. I simply adore how much the gentle giant was so dedicated to Gray.
August 20, 2018
I've waited for this book since the first book came out. See, Gray was always so quiet and enigmatic that I needed to know more about him and how he was going to get involved in this crazy pact with the demon.
This one was so good, I finished it in a few hours and then I was sad.
This book starts right where the previous one ended. Gray lost his arm in the fire and he made a pact to help Jake. Gray gave away his shadow but he doesn't really know what that implies, that is until he returns to the mansion and meets Shadow.
Shadow is baby, he was practically born in this story, the way he sees life is so new, even more naive than Laurent because Laurent is human so he understood human interactions, Shadow doesn't even understand, he was just a thing existing and now he lives among humans and can't get close enough to his other half.
The first half of the book is a bit painful, and by that, I mean that you get so involved in what the characters are going through that you just wanna slap some sense into them.
The romance was so fucking romantic and it's so weird to say because Gray's better half is someone that eats rotten food and bugs.. but you don't know how charming Shadow is! you read these things and think "gross" but no, he is so much more! I swear Kat and Agnes keep stealing my heart with these beautiful characters. They are so complicated and different.
At this point, I really have no idea where the story is going, where they are taking Laurent and Beast on the last book but holy Hades I am freaking out!
btw, I loved Gray's decision, maybe some won't agree but fuck it, boy deserved to have something for him.
Can't wait for the last ride.
This one was so good, I finished it in a few hours and then I was sad.
This book starts right where the previous one ended. Gray lost his arm in the fire and he made a pact to help Jake. Gray gave away his shadow but he doesn't really know what that implies, that is until he returns to the mansion and meets Shadow.
Shadow is baby, he was practically born in this story, the way he sees life is so new, even more naive than Laurent because Laurent is human so he understood human interactions, Shadow doesn't even understand, he was just a thing existing and now he lives among humans and can't get close enough to his other half.
The first half of the book is a bit painful, and by that, I mean that you get so involved in what the characters are going through that you just wanna slap some sense into them.
The romance was so fucking romantic and it's so weird to say because Gray's better half is someone that eats rotten food and bugs.. but you don't know how charming Shadow is! you read these things and think "gross" but no, he is so much more! I swear Kat and Agnes keep stealing my heart with these beautiful characters. They are so complicated and different.
At this point, I really have no idea where the story is going, where they are taking Laurent and Beast on the last book but holy Hades I am freaking out!
btw, I loved Gray's decision, maybe some won't agree but fuck it, boy deserved to have something for him.
Can't wait for the last ride.
June 29, 2019
What a Wild Ride!!!
This one might be my favorite of the series!!!! I adored it ❤️❤️❤️!
I got angst, adoration, punishment, mistrust, love, HEAT🔥🔥🔥, and crazy paranormal shadow antics.
I’ll be honest and say that Gray proved to be quite the jerk at the beginning of this book. And to be fair, so was Shadow even if he didn’t know that forcing himself on someone was something humans didn’t do.
Shadow is a creation of Baal and of Gray’s own shadow. His purpose serves Baal’s scheme to override the earth with his swarms of netherworld beings. No one trusts him. And he only has two months to live.
Shadow broke my heart in the way he only wanted to be near Gray, to connect with him. Gray broke my heart in how he tried to keep his heart safe by not connecting with Shadow. I’ll cut to the quick and say that Gray and Shadow do connect emotionally and physically.
Aside from the love angle, this one deals with Gray living as a one armed man and the club trying to get their hands on the Pigeon Heart ruby to save the world from Baal. We had lots of action, less orgies, and more club politics!
I cannot wait to listen to the last book in this spectacular series! Joel Leslie is simply magnificent!
This one might be my favorite of the series!!!! I adored it ❤️❤️❤️!
I got angst, adoration, punishment, mistrust, love, HEAT🔥🔥🔥, and crazy paranormal shadow antics.
I’ll be honest and say that Gray proved to be quite the jerk at the beginning of this book. And to be fair, so was Shadow even if he didn’t know that forcing himself on someone was something humans didn’t do.
Shadow is a creation of Baal and of Gray’s own shadow. His purpose serves Baal’s scheme to override the earth with his swarms of netherworld beings. No one trusts him. And he only has two months to live.
Shadow broke my heart in the way he only wanted to be near Gray, to connect with him. Gray broke my heart in how he tried to keep his heart safe by not connecting with Shadow. I’ll cut to the quick and say that Gray and Shadow do connect emotionally and physically.
Aside from the love angle, this one deals with Gray living as a one armed man and the club trying to get their hands on the Pigeon Heart ruby to save the world from Baal. We had lots of action, less orgies, and more club politics!
I cannot wait to listen to the last book in this spectacular series! Joel Leslie is simply magnificent!
August 11, 2018
What an absolutely thrilling ride with Gray's Shadow. I love every single book in this series and I can't even decide which is my favourite couple, but since I just finish Gray and Shadow, I shall love them most for now. In Gray's Shadow, I daresay the creepiness and horror factor tune up another notch. Let just brace yourself for some mindfuck and keep the food away as precaution.
Gray had just recently lost his arm from the incident that befall the clubhouse from previous book. Suffice to say, Gray is feeling more depressed than his usual solemn self. Not only he had to deal with his disability, he also have to fulfilled the pact he make with the demon. Gray trade in his shadow for the demon, but surprised to say his shadow got materialise into human form in some bizarre way.
Shadow was bring forth to the human world for a mission and being Gray's shadow, he has a natural connection to Gray, which Gray totally didn't appreciate. Shadow is so naive and innocent in his new human form that despite finding him weird in the beginning, he is just so endearing, you can't help but want to protect him from the evil of the world. I'm so angry with Gray for being so mean and cruel to him in the beginning, like "WTF, man! Stop bullying my poor baby".
From Gray questioning Shadow existence and disliking every form of Shadow's advancement, to them being each other soulmates is a long and challenging journey. I don't remember at which point did Gray had a change of heart because their relationship progressive very naturally. Shadow's totally commitment and dedication to Gray is totally swoon worthy. He is so honest with his feelings and willing to sacrifice himself for Gray without question at all.
There are tons of action with Gray and Shadow being on a mission to hunt for precious stones that can defeat the demon. I'm amaze with the action scene that was being described here, especially when Shadow's is doing his powerful, scary, creepy thing. There is one big story arc in regards to the demon Baal that was set to destroy the humankind if the King of Hells didn't do something to stop it soon. The clock is ticking and emotion are running high. In the end, Gray was force to choose between his club and his soulmate, which is so unfair, but understandable. I'm satisfied with the outcome for now, but honestly I'm pissed with Beast and the club. Like seriously pissed. I hope in the next book, which is the final book, Beast will get back in my good grace.
Gray had just recently lost his arm from the incident that befall the clubhouse from previous book. Suffice to say, Gray is feeling more depressed than his usual solemn self. Not only he had to deal with his disability, he also have to fulfilled the pact he make with the demon. Gray trade in his shadow for the demon, but surprised to say his shadow got materialise into human form in some bizarre way.
Shadow was bring forth to the human world for a mission and being Gray's shadow, he has a natural connection to Gray, which Gray totally didn't appreciate. Shadow is so naive and innocent in his new human form that despite finding him weird in the beginning, he is just so endearing, you can't help but want to protect him from the evil of the world. I'm so angry with Gray for being so mean and cruel to him in the beginning, like "WTF, man! Stop bullying my poor baby".
From Gray questioning Shadow existence and disliking every form of Shadow's advancement, to them being each other soulmates is a long and challenging journey. I don't remember at which point did Gray had a change of heart because their relationship progressive very naturally. Shadow's totally commitment and dedication to Gray is totally swoon worthy. He is so honest with his feelings and willing to sacrifice himself for Gray without question at all.
There are tons of action with Gray and Shadow being on a mission to hunt for precious stones that can defeat the demon. I'm amaze with the action scene that was being described here, especially when Shadow's is doing his powerful, scary, creepy thing. There is one big story arc in regards to the demon Baal that was set to destroy the humankind if the King of Hells didn't do something to stop it soon. The clock is ticking and emotion are running high. In the end, Gray was force to choose between his club and his soulmate, which is so unfair, but understandable. I'm satisfied with the outcome for now, but honestly I'm pissed with Beast and the club. Like seriously pissed. I hope in the next book, which is the final book, Beast will get back in my good grace.
October 17, 2018
4 hearts
I really need to stop doubting these two authors! I open the book up, see how long it is and think....
...but I start to read and suddenly it's like…
Seriously! Everytime I start one of their books!
Gray's Shadow ended up being soooo different to what I expected and Shadow was definitely sooo different to what I had imagined. Shadow ended up being one of the sweetest characters of the series, that's including Laurent, and he looks like this…
So yummy!
Gray was difficult to begin with and he did annoy me because Shadow was such a sweetie, I felt very protective of him. However I felt I understood Gray's struggles and while he did act like a bitch at times, I liked how it all ended.
The sex is off the charts, which you'd expect nothing less from KA Merikan. The magical aspect wasn't as creepy and previous books and everything is slowly coming to a head.
Obviously for those who don't know, this is a series that needs to be read in order. This book is not a standalone, but the rest of the series is just as good as this book, so well worth the read!
I really need to stop doubting these two authors! I open the book up, see how long it is and think....
...but I start to read and suddenly it's like…
Seriously! Everytime I start one of their books!
Gray's Shadow ended up being soooo different to what I expected and Shadow was definitely sooo different to what I had imagined. Shadow ended up being one of the sweetest characters of the series, that's including Laurent, and he looks like this…
So yummy!
Gray was difficult to begin with and he did annoy me because Shadow was such a sweetie, I felt very protective of him. However I felt I understood Gray's struggles and while he did act like a bitch at times, I liked how it all ended.
The sex is off the charts, which you'd expect nothing less from KA Merikan. The magical aspect wasn't as creepy and previous books and everything is slowly coming to a head.
Obviously for those who don't know, this is a series that needs to be read in order. This book is not a standalone, but the rest of the series is just as good as this book, so well worth the read!
March 27, 2019
3.5 Stars
Gray has been alone ever since the death of his twin brother 2 years ago. When he made the pact with Baal he did it to save his friend. Giving up his shadow should not be a big deal right?
This story was entertaining. I liked the relationship build between Gray and Shadow. The beginning was hard to take. The pure hatred Gray had for Shadow was frustrating. I am glad that slowly over time Gray started treating Shadow better. They spent a lot of time together and Gray helped Shadow better understand the human world. The more time together the more they bonded to a point where Gray no longer felt alone. However, there is a time limit on how long Shadow will exist in the human world. With that looming Gray starts to feel frantic and worried about losing Shadow. This causes Gray to do something that can cease all hope against Baal.
Overall, another solid read.
Side note: Sometimes the actions of the club piss me off. What they did to Shadow after Gray's transgression was one of them. I side with Gray. Everyone else seems to put themselves before the club. Especially Beast. So the last 10% of the book really left me with a sour taste in my mouth.
Gray has been alone ever since the death of his twin brother 2 years ago. When he made the pact with Baal he did it to save his friend. Giving up his shadow should not be a big deal right?
This story was entertaining. I liked the relationship build between Gray and Shadow. The beginning was hard to take. The pure hatred Gray had for Shadow was frustrating. I am glad that slowly over time Gray started treating Shadow better. They spent a lot of time together and Gray helped Shadow better understand the human world. The more time together the more they bonded to a point where Gray no longer felt alone. However, there is a time limit on how long Shadow will exist in the human world. With that looming Gray starts to feel frantic and worried about losing Shadow. This causes Gray to do something that can cease all hope against Baal.
Overall, another solid read.
Side note: Sometimes the actions of the club piss me off. What they did to Shadow after Gray's transgression was one of them. I side with Gray. Everyone else seems to put themselves before the club. Especially Beast. So the last 10% of the book really left me with a sour taste in my mouth.
February 23, 2024
Joel Leslie narrated this, I like paranormal romances and it was free on Audible unfortunately so I started it.
It was out of my comfort zone for many reasons but I liked a lot of parts and a few characters, especially Gray and so I stuck around for his book. And it wasn’t that bad. Wasn’t that good either and so I decided to consider it the final of the series…..
With them winning against evil, but not without a magical big fight that took the lives of EVERYONE who died in a horrible different way. EXCEPT this book and #3’s MCs. Who went on with their lives and maybe built their own club, whatever they want, as long as they’re happy. They earned it.
It was out of my comfort zone for many reasons but I liked a lot of parts and a few characters, especially Gray and so I stuck around for his book. And it wasn’t that bad. Wasn’t that good either and so I decided to consider it the final of the series…..
With them winning against evil, but not without a magical big fight that took the lives of EVERYONE who died in a horrible different way. EXCEPT this book and #3’s MCs. Who went on with their lives and maybe built their own club, whatever they want, as long as they’re happy. They earned it.
January 8, 2021
Oh my god Gray's book! Finally!!!!!
What a crazy beginning. Gray is trying to deal with losing his left arm while proving he is still useful to the Kings. He also needs to deal with the consequences of his pact with Baal. And the main consequence is Shadow.
Shadow is a creature from a 'shadow realm' where all the shadows existed together. He got a human body to exist in our reality and he has some comprehension about the human world in general. He just doesn't understand anything that matters at first.
He doesn't understand limits and consent at first. He doesn't get that being forceful is bad and even though he was just following his instincts and what he felt, the way he was with Gray at first wasn't really nice to see. And Gray had all the right to be upset or treat Shadow coldly. Even though Shadow needed to be taught all these things as well.
Gray is my favorite character and seeing him suffering so much in the beginning of this book broke my heart, everything in his life was just falling apart. Losing his brother left him bleeding and that wound was still fresh on top of everything.
It wasn't exactly Shadow's fault for acting the way he did at first, he didn't know better, but I did feel conflicted about him for a while. But was helpless and he was trying very hard to fit in. Also he wasn't totally wrong about human existence being about constantly wanting something and suffering when you couldn't get it.
When everything got better between them you can see that they are oh so sweet! The sweetest couple of all and I was rooting for them so much by the end! Even though shit really went down, god that 'punishment' was very not necessary. Anyway, the story is unfolding and we are close to an end, will the Kings be free from Baal and even save the world? Can't wait to find out!
What a crazy beginning. Gray is trying to deal with losing his left arm while proving he is still useful to the Kings. He also needs to deal with the consequences of his pact with Baal. And the main consequence is Shadow.
Shadow is a creature from a 'shadow realm' where all the shadows existed together. He got a human body to exist in our reality and he has some comprehension about the human world in general. He just doesn't understand anything that matters at first.
He doesn't understand limits and consent at first. He doesn't get that being forceful is bad and even though he was just following his instincts and what he felt, the way he was with Gray at first wasn't really nice to see. And Gray had all the right to be upset or treat Shadow coldly. Even though Shadow needed to be taught all these things as well.
Gray is my favorite character and seeing him suffering so much in the beginning of this book broke my heart, everything in his life was just falling apart. Losing his brother left him bleeding and that wound was still fresh on top of everything.
It wasn't exactly Shadow's fault for acting the way he did at first, he didn't know better, but I did feel conflicted about him for a while. But was helpless and he was trying very hard to fit in. Also he wasn't totally wrong about human existence being about constantly wanting something and suffering when you couldn't get it.
When everything got better between them you can see that they are oh so sweet! The sweetest couple of all and I was rooting for them so much by the end! Even though shit really went down, god that 'punishment' was very not necessary. Anyway, the story is unfolding and we are close to an end, will the Kings be free from Baal and even save the world? Can't wait to find out!
September 3, 2018
i didn't enjoy this as much as the other books in the series, but i can't WAIT to catch up with the light of my life, laurent mercier, in the final book!
July 9, 2021
3.5 what does it say about me that the weirder these get the more I like them?
nevermind, please don't answer that
I really liked Grey and Shadow, and I'm thankful these books seem to be on the longer side (for this genre at least), so there was more time for them to really develop.
I've been thinking about what isn't fully connecting with me when it comes to this series, even when I finally really like the main characters - and I think I've figured it out.
My issue is with the main couple's relationship with others around them once they get together.
Since their book I've gone from not really liking Beast (or Laurent for that matter) all that much to fully HATING him.
Every time we get a new couple, the past couples become points of conflict for the current ones in the worst way possible. The brotherhood aspect of the club is laughable, they all treat each other like shit, not even with what I would consider like 'canon acceptable behavior'. There's no found family aspect at all.
I wanted everyone but Grey and Shadow to basically die in a fire by the end of this :)
(Maybe not Vars and Jake - but everyone else can go fuck themselves)
Given that the last book is about Beast and Laurent again, I'm not entirely sure I'll read it because Beat can just fuck right off.
nevermind, please don't answer that
I really liked Grey and Shadow, and I'm thankful these books seem to be on the longer side (for this genre at least), so there was more time for them to really develop.
I've been thinking about what isn't fully connecting with me when it comes to this series, even when I finally really like the main characters - and I think I've figured it out.
My issue is with the main couple's relationship with others around them once they get together.
Since their book I've gone from not really liking Beast (or Laurent for that matter) all that much to fully HATING him.
Every time we get a new couple, the past couples become points of conflict for the current ones in the worst way possible. The brotherhood aspect of the club is laughable, they all treat each other like shit, not even with what I would consider like 'canon acceptable behavior'. There's no found family aspect at all.
I wanted everyone but Grey and Shadow to basically die in a fire by the end of this :)
(Maybe not Vars and Jake - but everyone else can go fuck themselves)
Given that the last book is about Beast and Laurent again, I'm not entirely sure I'll read it because Beat can just fuck right off.
June 16, 2019
Wow, Gray was so rotten to Shadow at the beginning of the book I really wanted to hate him 🙄, by the end I was surprised by the devotion, love and absolute loyalty Grey felt ❤ for Shadow. Their closeness and love was heart wrenchingly sad and beautiful at the same time knowing they had a time table for their new found love.
I was disappointed in the Kings of Hell because it didn't seem any of the members understood just how much Shadow meant to Gray, and the only members that went out of their way to welcome Shadow and help Grey were Knight and Elliot.
It was really sad how much Gray losing his twin truly effected him and all the guilt he carried around regarding Mikes death. You knew from the previous books he liked to work alone but you really understood why he felt so lonely and apart from his friends after reading about his relationship with his brother who was his rock. Rev, Gray and Mike's dad was a real piece of work!! 😡 I understood him being fearful for his son but he was downright mean and cruel with his words and actions to Shadow.
I was honestly was shocked with the decision that Grey and Shadow made at the end!!
I am looking forward to more and to find out how Mr. Magpie intends to stop Baal with all these rubies he's collecting?!?!!!
I was disappointed in the Kings of Hell because it didn't seem any of the members understood just how much Shadow meant to Gray, and the only members that went out of their way to welcome Shadow and help Grey were Knight and Elliot.
It was really sad how much Gray losing his twin truly effected him and all the guilt he carried around regarding Mikes death. You knew from the previous books he liked to work alone but you really understood why he felt so lonely and apart from his friends after reading about his relationship with his brother who was his rock. Rev, Gray and Mike's dad was a real piece of work!! 😡 I understood him being fearful for his son but he was downright mean and cruel with his words and actions to Shadow.
I was honestly was shocked with the decision that Grey and Shadow made at the end!!
I am looking forward to more and to find out how Mr. Magpie intends to stop Baal with all these rubies he's collecting?!?!!!
August 12, 2018
I love this series ... these guys are unique, damaged yet extremely loyal. Gray had suffered the trauma of losing his twin and went through his life as an isolate. No doubt demisexual, he found no joy in the casual club hook ups and longed for the deepest connection with another. While he had the loyalty of his MC brothers he really was alone until Shadow appeared. Shadow, a creation from the “other side “ was absolutely adorable... his intentions were sweet and his desire / love of Gray was beautiful. He was persistent and determined to show Gray how much he loved him. There was some hilarious moments with Shadow having no filter, and announcing that he “wanted to fill all of Grays holes” to the MC guys was one of those !!! I loved this.. I love that Gray found his other half and I loved that Shadow found love. Highly recommend this series if you enjoy a darker paranormal read.
June 13, 2022
Tutte le pistole di Cechov hanno sparato. E' vero che c'è un altro libro, che chiude la serie più che altro dal punto di vista paranormal, perché Baal ancora non è stato fatto fuori, ma i Kings sono tutti sistemati <3
August 19, 2018
No one does weird/unique like K.A Merikan and as usual, this was oh so good! This writing duo sure do know how to write a story!
I know everyone is saying Gray was unwarrantedly cruel (to the endearingly naive, distinctly otherworldly and "unique" Shadow) for about half of the book and I agree, but I guess in Gray's mind, I think he was paying Shadow back for the incident on the first night they met. I still thought overdid his "punishment" though. There was no need for him to be so cruel.
After Gray got his head out of his butt, we began to see their relationship grow in fits and starts but still grow nevertheless. Shadow was such a pure, sensitive soul(regardless of his origins) and his navigation of the new world he'd been thrust into was hilarious, fascinating and equal parts heartwarming/heart wrenching. Gray also learned how to let go of the past and overcome his grief which had held him down for so long.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and knowing the next book is the final instalment in this series is leaving me a bit sad. :(
I know everyone is saying Gray was unwarrantedly cruel (to the endearingly naive, distinctly otherworldly and "unique" Shadow) for about half of the book and I agree, but I guess in Gray's mind, I think he was paying Shadow back for the incident on the first night they met. I still thought overdid his "punishment" though. There was no need for him to be so cruel.
After Gray got his head out of his butt, we began to see their relationship grow in fits and starts but still grow nevertheless. Shadow was such a pure, sensitive soul(regardless of his origins) and his navigation of the new world he'd been thrust into was hilarious, fascinating and equal parts heartwarming/heart wrenching. Gray also learned how to let go of the past and overcome his grief which had held him down for so long.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and knowing the next book is the final instalment in this series is leaving me a bit sad. :(
June 18, 2022
Shadow ❤️❤️❤️
November 14, 2020
not for me. enjoyed the first chapters but when the characters started to feel like those in nicholas sparks novels, I immediately lost interest.
August 25, 2018
I knew Gray's story wouldn't disappoint!!! And I adored it!
I completely fell in love with Shadow. COMPLETELY!!!
This story was so perfect! I devoured it.
So here we are, Gray saved his brothers in the fire and end up at the hospital with an arm missing and a pact with the Devil... He has to give up his shadow... Whatever that means right...
Well, the day has come and it's time to pay... The shadow separates from Gray and takes up a body.
Who? What it is? Is it at the order of the Devil or just here with the Kings? Gray for his part can't wait for this to be done and over with.... Oh Gray....
From book 1 of this series, I always had some trouble with one of the MCs, even if I ended up liking them both.
But here. Both Gray and Shadow just stole my heart! Perfect. Just perfect for each other.
Gray is so broken. So lost but loyal and loving. Having lost his twin made him incomplete and being Demi sexual in a bikers environment didn't help finding someone who he could connect with.
At first he struggle a lot with Shadow's presence and he's very cruel... But then again he doesn't know anything about him and... well the guy's got 4 arms....CREEEEPY!
But Shadow.... Shadow is perfection!
So sweet, innocent, pure, full of wonders and love. He is completely and utterly devoted to Gray.
He made me laugh and cry. He made me want to hug him and let's not forget... His dirty talk is SO on point!!!! HOT
The back story is still riveting and well done. I can't wait to go back to Beast and Laurent for the grand Finale!!!
I completely fell in love with Shadow. COMPLETELY!!!
This story was so perfect! I devoured it.
So here we are, Gray saved his brothers in the fire and end up at the hospital with an arm missing and a pact with the Devil... He has to give up his shadow... Whatever that means right...
Well, the day has come and it's time to pay... The shadow separates from Gray and takes up a body.
Who? What it is? Is it at the order of the Devil or just here with the Kings? Gray for his part can't wait for this to be done and over with.... Oh Gray....
From book 1 of this series, I always had some trouble with one of the MCs, even if I ended up liking them both.
But here. Both Gray and Shadow just stole my heart! Perfect. Just perfect for each other.
Gray is so broken. So lost but loyal and loving. Having lost his twin made him incomplete and being Demi sexual in a bikers environment didn't help finding someone who he could connect with.
At first he struggle a lot with Shadow's presence and he's very cruel... But then again he doesn't know anything about him and... well the guy's got 4 arms....CREEEEPY!
But Shadow.... Shadow is perfection!
So sweet, innocent, pure, full of wonders and love. He is completely and utterly devoted to Gray.
He made me laugh and cry. He made me want to hug him and let's not forget... His dirty talk is SO on point!!!! HOT
The back story is still riveting and well done. I can't wait to go back to Beast and Laurent for the grand Finale!!!
February 26, 2022
Book 4 of the series brings back the crazy. Praise the Literature Deity!
I loved this book. We get a sweet (?) Shadow Monster MC and Grey who we met in the previous books.
So much to love. The character growth is massive. Tasteful questioning of humanity, questioning and exploration of the concept of masculinity. Great and believable representation of trauma, loss, and asexuality.
Why four stars not five? This book had action scenes I didn’t enjoy as much and there were several of those. It’s a preferance issue, not really a criticism.
I loved this book. We get a sweet (?) Shadow Monster MC and Grey who we met in the previous books.
So much to love. The character growth is massive. Tasteful questioning of humanity, questioning and exploration of the concept of masculinity. Great and believable representation of trauma, loss, and asexuality.
Why four stars not five? This book had action scenes I didn’t enjoy as much and there were several of those. It’s a preferance issue, not really a criticism.
May 19, 2019
5+++++ stars!
This book. This book. This was everything I need in a book. Gray's and Shadow's relationship was everything I crave in a romance. The 'if you die I will die' type of romance. It was pure perfection. So intense and true, it literally brought tears to my eyes on more than one occassion. Gray and Shadow might actually be my new favorite couple by K.A Merikan. Shadow was the sweetest creature to ever exist. Everything he said and did pulled at my heartstrings something fierce! He has it tough but he's always kind and so damn loyal. And once Gray warms up to him and opens his heart to Shadow he transforms. Shadow was exactly what Gray needed after everything that happened to him and vice versa. Those two complented each other so well, I cannot think of a single fictional couple that's better suited for each other. And the way their relationship was written...I could feel their connection in my bones <3
Apart from the epic romance, the story of the Kings of Hell MC continues and it's a race against time! There are twists at every turn and apart from saving the world from Baal, Gray and Shadow are also trying to save Shadow's life, so the stakes are high. It was very suspenseful and I can't wait to see how it will all come together in the last book.
Gray's Shadow is one of my most favorite book Kat and Agnes have ever written and Gray and Shadow my most favorite characters. This book will definitely be reread for many times to come!
February 14, 2019
3.5 stars
Any other authors, any other series, I probably would have DNF this at about 20%.
The start was a real downer. Gray was so miserable that it takes him 25% to even crack a smile. He’s an unbelievably cruel bastard to Shadow until 50%. It was hard to like him, and sometimes hard to read. But these authors have a plan for this series. And I wanted to see it out.
By the end I was cheering for these characters. They were definitely meant to be and complimented each other in the most peculiar of circumstances.
Mr Magpie...watch out.
Any other authors, any other series, I probably would have DNF this at about 20%.
The start was a real downer. Gray was so miserable that it takes him 25% to even crack a smile. He’s an unbelievably cruel bastard to Shadow until 50%. It was hard to like him, and sometimes hard to read. But these authors have a plan for this series. And I wanted to see it out.
By the end I was cheering for these characters. They were definitely meant to be and complimented each other in the most peculiar of circumstances.
Mr Magpie...watch out.
April 19, 2020
4.5 stars!
This and Knight & Elliot's story has to be my favorite of the series so far.
It was a rough start for Gray & Shadow (Gray's literal shadow), who was made into a being by Baal for the deal Gray made to save Jake, in which his shadow has to sacrifice some blood or something three times on each new moon, and then go back to being Gray's shadow.
Only, Shadow becomes his own person, his own entity, and he's sweet and kind and gentle. Gray thinks the worst at first, that because he came from his deal with Baal that Shadow is sent there to being Baal's tool for chaos or something and that he's a monster. But really, Shadow has no ulterior motive and is just Gray's shadow, and he doesn't know the ways of the human world yet.
It takes some time for Gray to realize that, and he is quite cruel to Shadow at times at first, but once things change, the love these two share is immense. I enjoyed their chemistry together so much.
The only thing that frustrated me was the ending, hence taking off .5 stars. It didn't feel complete, like things with Gray and his father, Rev, were still horrible, Rev was still horrible to Shadow by the end, things were tense between Gray & the rest of the gang, they seem no closer to defeating Baal, and it just didn't feel complete. Very open ended.
Gray & Shadow are in a could place and a tentative HFN, which was good, but I just wanted a more solid ending, a more secure ending.
Also what Gray & Shadow do is pretty crazy, but...they really were running out of options. And I don't know what Beast did with his ruby for Laurent, but it had better be a good explanation for it, is all I'm saying.
So overall I loved this, seeing how these two fell in love, and how much care and kindness Shadow brought into Gray's life.
I'm a little apprehensive about the last book, but I will still read it and hopefully Baal will be defeated once and for all.
Onto the next!
This and Knight & Elliot's story has to be my favorite of the series so far.
It was a rough start for Gray & Shadow (Gray's literal shadow), who was made into a being by Baal for the deal Gray made to save Jake, in which his shadow has to sacrifice some blood or something three times on each new moon, and then go back to being Gray's shadow.
Only, Shadow becomes his own person, his own entity, and he's sweet and kind and gentle. Gray thinks the worst at first, that because he came from his deal with Baal that Shadow is sent there to being Baal's tool for chaos or something and that he's a monster. But really, Shadow has no ulterior motive and is just Gray's shadow, and he doesn't know the ways of the human world yet.
It takes some time for Gray to realize that, and he is quite cruel to Shadow at times at first, but once things change, the love these two share is immense. I enjoyed their chemistry together so much.
The only thing that frustrated me was the ending, hence taking off .5 stars. It didn't feel complete, like things with Gray and his father, Rev, were still horrible, Rev was still horrible to Shadow by the end, things were tense between Gray & the rest of the gang, they seem no closer to defeating Baal, and it just didn't feel complete. Very open ended.
Gray & Shadow are in a could place and a tentative HFN, which was good, but I just wanted a more solid ending, a more secure ending.
Also what Gray & Shadow do is pretty crazy, but...they really were running out of options. And I don't know what Beast did with his ruby for Laurent, but it had better be a good explanation for it, is all I'm saying.
So overall I loved this, seeing how these two fell in love, and how much care and kindness Shadow brought into Gray's life.
I'm a little apprehensive about the last book, but I will still read it and hopefully Baal will be defeated once and for all.
Onto the next!
August 13, 2018
4 stars.
I really enjoyed this one, even though Gray was an ass sometimes.
Full review to come.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this one, even though Gray was an ass sometimes.
Full review to come.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
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