Bride of the Shadow King

Product Information

I am a big fan of Fantasy Romance so when I read the synopsis of Bride of the Shadow King, I knew it was exactly my kind of story. I have read books before by Sylvia Mercedes and always enjoyed them, so I really was looking forward to reading this, especially as I know the second book in the series, Vow of the Shadow King is due for release on the 23rd of October this year, I’m an impatient reader so I’m always happy when I know the next book won’t be a long wait, which I’m really glad for because I love this and I need the next book now.

When the handsome and enigmatic Shadow King comes seeking a bride, Faraine is not surprised that her sister is his choice. When disaster strikes and the marriage alliance is compromised, Faraine suddenly finds herself forced to take her sister’s place . . . regardless of her new husband’s desires. Can she find a place at Vor’s side as his queen? Or is his heart forever closed to the woman who deceived him so cruelly? The romance starts quite early in the book, and from that point, it is full of pinning until the end. It might appear to be a bit insta love, but both characters POV help understand the relationship development, and make you root for them. I NEED more Theodore!! Who would’ve thought I would start this series loathing him but by the end want him to have his own book?? Only Mercedes could make me change my mind about a character that drastically. I am a big fan of Fantasy Romance so when I read the synopsis of Bride of the Shadow King, I knew it was exactly my kind of story. I have read books before by Sylvia Mercedes and always enjoyed them, so I really was looking forward to reading this, especially as I know the second book in the series, Vow of the Shadow King is due for release on the 23rd of October this year, I’m an impatiePacing did feel rather slow through the middle of the book...partly , I’m sure, because of my anxiety to see how the plot would unfold. And now I’m left hanging until the sequel is out this summer! I usually like the “forced marriage to save a kingdom” tropes. But this? This fell flat and then just became weird and uncomfortable to listen to. h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Faraine. I liked her. I appreciated her goodness and how she was protective even when it hurt herself. As I said before it is a slow-burn romance, so if you don’t enjoy those (I’m talking Mariana Zapata levels of slow-burn) then you might want to skip this. However, if you’re anything like me (and love them) then you’re gonna adore the deliciously intense build up that we get. Content: This is Mercedes' debut in the New Adult genre. And the story's overall tone reflects this. So I'd recommend this for mature audiences/adults only due to the overall mature tone of the book in regards to the arranged marriage. And specifically a rather intensely intimate wedding night scene in one chapter - there's no sex but there's quite a bit of descriptive buildup, so to speak (i.e. kissing and caressing). There are also some repeated swearing in trolde fashion (meaning we don't know what those words mean). And although the banter between Vor and his rakish brother Sul are quite fun, the latter is quite persistent in his innuendos. There is mention/use of fantasy alcohol-equivalent.

I can not wait for the spin-off...(When I interviewed her for Books & Beer, she hinted about maybe a sister's story?!) I'm sad to put down Vor and Faranie, but I'm so excited for what comes next! The FL was pretty typical cliche drama FL but much worse in my opinion because you would think that pretending to be a General you would at least learn some self-defence or just something but she always put herself in terrible situations without even thinking straight like dressing up to follow a strange man into the woods with heels and a bright red dress??? and thus needing the ML to save her on multiple occasions. Honestly, it was just too much for me. And even in the literal midst of a battle fighting for his kingdom he is thinking about her. Vor and Faraine are not meant to meet, to speak, to touch... but their chance encounter shifts both their worlds in unimaginable ways, dooming them both to love, to misery, to a destiny the gods can't break.Meanwhile, as Faraine explores the new dimensions of her power, she starts to believe the coming cataclysm may be prevented. But in doing so, will she unleash a darkness in herself far more disastrous? Vor's in the wrong here because he was more drawn to Faraine and wanted her, but realized that the alliance would go through with Ilsevel, so he PUT HIS PEOPLE FIRST, and made that choice. If Faraine had a choice at all (which she really wasn't given a choice, honestly) it was also FOR HER PEOPLE. They made the same choices. Vor is being a hypocritical ass for being so angry. Overall:I was looking for something to help with a book funk and this was a fun addition! I liked the author’s overall ideas and appreciated her storytelling. I will continue on to the next book and hopefully I’ll get some closure and steam 😏 There's a huge dive into violence (I quite like that) and you really didn't expect it. I think that should be a trigger warning for some? The story doesn't really "come to life" until about half way, but you expect that with a slow burn so I want disappointed. It is a well structured and thought out plot, so overall a great read. My only downfall was trying to piece together certain parts with the format being a bit "off".