All comments are my own.

I genuinely really enjoyed this book.

I'll be honest, it took some effort on my part to get fully into the story but it's mostly because I struggle to not get annoyed when the FMC is stubborn/childish, howeverrrrr, it's definitely worth it to keep reading and I'm really glad I did.

I adored the worldbuilding in this book. It sometimes will feel like there is too much information being given, but Katherin Quiin is a genius so, trust the process.

There were some unexpected plot twists which is a plus for any book. I looove being caught off guard or proven wrong about the villain, and it's not easy to do, so kudos.

The slow burn between Jude and Kiara was amazing, despite the whiplash...

P.S.: If you like a character - 80% chance they will die, so avoid getting too attached

One of the standout features of the book is its engaging characters, particularly Kiara. She's a strong, sarcastic, and empowering character who challenges the norms of her time. The contrast between her outspoken nature and the medieval setting adds an interesting layer to the story. However, as a reader, I did share some initial skepticism about the character dynamics in this historical context. It can be a bit jarring to see a character like Kiara in a setting where women typically had fewer rights and were expected to be modest. The world-building could have been more robust to better explain this departure from historical norms, especially regarding the role of women in this society.

My other qualm with the book is the lack of extensive world-building. While the story is captivating, it would have been beneficial to have a deeper understanding of the characters' daily struggles and how they lived their lives in the darkness. Additionally, the concept of knights being exclusively male in a world where men and women are otherwise treated as equals felt a bit inconsistent. Clarifying the societal rules and norms in this world would have helped in reconciling these elements.

Despite these concerns, the book does an excellent job of gradually building a complex and believable relationship between Kiara and Jude. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear how their connection fits into the broader narrative, and this ties together exceptionally well.

The book also doesn't shy away from brutal and intense scenes, which are described with a vividness that immerses the reader in the story. The author's descriptive skills are a strong suit and add to the overall appeal of the book.

This book offers a thrilling adventure with intriguing characters and intense moments. While the world-building and historical context could be more developed, the story's overall quality and the skillful writing make it a worthwhile journey for readers who appreciate action-packed and character-driven narratives.

This book was so good!!! I love a good fantasy romance. It’s definitely YA so not really any spice. But the slow burn relationship that grows is oh so worth it. I loved the premise of this book. So creative and excellent plot. And that ending, ughhhh…I need more!!!! I hope there is a second book soon.

Having just finished this book, I'm a bit lost. How could it be done already? Kiara is a great female character. She's loyal, fierce, cunning, smart and extremely stubborn. Jude is mysterious, brooding, violent, and also seriously stubborn. Both of these characters carry secrets from their pasts. As they venture out on a mission, you see how they struggle with these secrets. I liked seeing the different points of views as they were pushed and tested throughout their journey. I couldn't put this book down, I needed more. More answers, more snarky commentary, more stolen moments and more of the characters I was getting to know. At the beginning of this book, I didn't understand the little excerpts under the chapter numbers. After a couple chapters I figured it out though. I have already pre-ordered the hardcover and I can't wait for the next book. I'm totally invested in their story and I'm on pins and needles waiting to see where they go from here.

Okay. So, there's Jude, a scrumptious dude, a Commander of the knights. Ebony hair that's always falling in his eyes, one eye milky white, a mysterious scar. He's very growly, broody, and seems lost in his own pain and darkness. Then enter Kiara, beautiful red hair, honey colored eyes, and a fierceness that she can back up while smiling. She's a new recruit, and the commander can't seem to get her off his mind.

Yeah... it's romantic. Angst, ya'll.

So the whole story, which, by the way, is beautifully written with a great setting, is very slowly revealing the complexity of the plot. The world has been plunged into darkness for the past 50 years, with terrifying creatures growing in the dark mist. However, what slowly is revealed is how this came to be.

I really was just along for the ride on this one. All my guessing led me nowhere. The last 10% of this book had me feeling every single emotion. It was so intense. I absolutely loved this!

Out November 28, 2023!

Thank you, Netgalley and Publisher, for this Arc!

4.25/5 stars

First in a duology, this is the debut YA Romantic Fantasy from this author set in a dark world left bereft by a cursed sun goddess.

Fifty years into the darkness and with a dying blighted kingdom, a power-hungry king has been ordering the seizure of young men from villages to train and venture into a monster-filled mist to free the goddess and bring back the light.

Although not forbidden, Kiara Frey becomes the first young woman to be admitted into the ranks as she takes the place of her beloved, sick brother. She is a fiery and fierce outcast who has been trained, beginning as a youngster, to defend herself and others. Jude Maddox, as the grim commander of the elite Knights of the Eternal Star, has known nothing of the light or of love in his life...only shadows. Known as the Hand of Death and an assassin for the king, he has become hardened and disgusted by his own lethal and merciless demeanor. When he witnesses Kiara’s wild, defiant defense of her brother, he is intrigued despite himself. As Kiara trains, the two find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other and discover hidden facets, both of themselves and of each other, that have made them into who they are. Kiara becomes part of the team sent into the terrifying mist which promises only death and despair. Will any survive the quest, and if so, at what cost?

I enjoyed this adventure, especially the great world-building and the characters’ relationships, both romantic and otherwise. Kiara is a marvelous young heroine…tough, fearless, a leader. She brings comfort and loyalty to Jude’s tortured soul as well as to her ragtag group of friends. She’s a real pleasure to watch.

My only vexation here (and it was not a dealbreaker) was the back and forth of the leads saving/rescuing the other. Yes, I realize that this is an action adventure set in a treacherous world, but I became a little tired of the need for bail out as often as not. But on the plus side, it wasn’t always Jude safeguarding Kiara…she had her time as a warrior and true heroine as well.

And of course, as the start of a duology, there is a cliffhanger that left me anxious to uncover all of the secrets/plots of the kingdom.

Recommended and looking forward to the conclusion.

My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Entangled: Teen for providing the free early arc of To Kill a Shadow for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

I don't know if it is because I'm in a bit of a book slump but this one fell flat for me. The beginning was very promising and then the world building just wasn't there. I didn't find myself drawn to the characters and the romance was just a little meh. The premise was very cool and something I would like so overall I was pretty disappointed this one wasn't five stars for me. However, this book could very well work for others!

Thank you to the author and Entangled Teen for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

To Kill a Shadow by Katherine Quinn is a Young Adult dark romantasy gem. The Pacing for both world building and character development was handled perfectly and the writing style was so evocative that I felt as though I had fallen into the pages. I can not wait to get my hands on a physical copy for my personal collection and to get some copies on our store shelves so others can experience this work.

I received an E-Arc from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review! Shout out to Brittany Zimmerman!!

Oh my gosh! I could not stop reading this. I was hooked. I was immersed into the world of Jude and Kiara. Holy moley! I really really enjoyed the adventure and everything about it. The world that the author weaves is fascinating and magical and dark. Whooo!

Kiara has a fire in her. The moment she meets Jude in his armor there is tension but there is something more. Then she she meets him for the first time face to face in unique situation, she holds her ground in an rather fascinating way. The two play off of each other and yet they're similar and not. Something cool about them. It's just a different take on their relationship. And yet does it blossom into something more?

Just wanted to point out that the story switches from Jude and Kiara's view!

Oh and the book! I loved the book being tied into the story.

Jude ...the broody commander with such an interesting background story. I felt for him and was fascinated by him. I loved how he grew a tiny bit throughout the story. He has his own secrets. The things he says to Kiara..wow! I believe he still has secrets. I need to know them now. The last chapter..come on!!!

Kiara...she's a firecracker. I love her heart for being the caregiver and the strength to not give up. She's a fighter and very strong willed! Maybe a tad run first and think later? Kiara also has a dire background from growing up and that's something she connects with Jude. I love how she cares from her brother. Those she cares for, she will fight for them. Oh oh and Kiara's grandmother..I want to know more on that too!

The story was awesome and the way the words were written in this book was astonishing. I ended up writing a list of words that I had never seen before because it was so fascinating! The words just made the whole story amazing. (Anyone else do this??). Romance, fantasy, mystery, adventure and new lands/creatures...all of this grabbed my attention, my undivided attention.

I want more now..like now..like what's going to happen next? What will Jude do next? What's Kiara's plan? How is Jake going to help? Will other creatures show up?

Oh I will say there are dark, creepy creatures in the book so fighting and death is bound to happen.

I am definitely going to get this physical book for my personal library. I just absolutely loved it. (Yes ...I have done this..read e-arcs and then ended up buying the physical books...that's okay right? Right? Gotta support all those amazing authors!)

So if you like action, fighting, fantasy, secrets, magic, lore, a slow burn romance, ....then you gotta get this book! The book comes out on November 28, 2023!

Kiara is an outcast when she’s chosen to join the Knights by the Hand of Death, Jude. With a kingdom on the brink of collapse, they’re tasked with delving into the mist in search of salvation. However, it’s not that simple. The mist is out to mess with their minds, and there are beasts living in the shadows. Although, when death is the only other option, they have no choice but to fight.

To Kill a Shadow is my first read by Quinn and it certainly will not be the last. This book was phenomenal - equal parts creepy, hopeful, and full of mind blowing twists and heartbreaking betrayals. Seriously, the emotions Quinn brings out during this story will give you whiplash. It’s that good. The world building and magic system are well developed and explored throughout the story. While those certainly add to the overall success, the character development and relationships really perfect the tale. Kiara’s ability to open up after everything she’s been through is remarkable. The found family trope is expertly used as part of her character development. Additionally, her relationship with Jude is mutually beneficial in terms of character development. They’re able to push each other to become better versions of themselves. Not to mention the chemistry between the two is intense. The side characters also add an interesting dynamic to Kiara’s personality. Be warned, the last few chapters will have your head spinning and demanding the next book in the series. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.

Must read, if you love :
🏰 Knights in training
🌙 Unknown evil
⚔️ Fight scenes
📜 Gods and pophecies
💪 Banter and camaraderie
🖤 Forbidden romance
(Please check the TW)

🌙 In the kingdom of Asidia, following the departure of the Sun Goddess, day no longer dawns and a thick fog has settled over much of the land.
Every year, by royal decree, a child from each family is sent as a sacrifice on the Day of the Call. They join the Knights of the Eternal Star, where they are trained as weapons to fight the creatures of the Fog and restore the light.

🌙 We follow Kiara, a lonely young girl with an overly large mouth who knows how to use her fists. When her sick younger brother is called away, she takes his place to save him in Hunger Games mode.
Although she's been through a lot, she doesn't let the obstacles fate throws in her way deter her. I loved her determination, her glibness and the fact that others saw her as an extraordinary fighter.

🌙 She attracts the attention of the dreaded Commander Jude Maddox, the Hand of Death, the man who executes the king's opponents whether they are virulent or not. This seemingly cold, stern and solitary man finds his shell cracked by (I'll give you that) Kiara. Although they both still have traumas to deal with and secrets to hide, they find in each other a fierce fighting spirit.

🌙 Thanks to the two points of view, we get a good idea of the recruits' training and the terrible trials they have to face to keep only the elite. Between sessions of hand-to-hand combat, swordplay and mythical monsters to face in the dark and water (cool), many are ejected (or dead) along the way. Little by little, bonds are formed and personalities emerge!

🌙 Although they're a long way from completing their training, a group of young recruits, including Kiara, are sent into the Mist at the king's request. Accompanied by a few knights and the commander, their chances are nevertheless slim. Their mission? To find the three keys mentioned in a prophecy, which would allow the Fog to disappear. I wouldn't want to be there, I tell you: more than once I've shuddered at the morbid, cruel or frightening scenes 😱

Will the Knights find the keys again? Who will emerge from the Fog unscathed? Do Jude and Kiara stand a chance? The answer in To Kill a Kingdom, on 28 November!

𝗧𝗢 𝗞𝗜𝗟𝗟 𝗔 𝗦𝗛𝗔𝗗𝗢𝗪
𝗣𝘂𝗯. 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: November 28, 2023
𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: Illusory Fantasy Horror

This one definitely takes the cake for just the right amount of backdrop setting. Jude Maddox's grim duty as the Hand of Death takes readers on a journey into a realm of nightmares and impending doom. Amidst the shadows, he encounters Kiara Frey, a fierce and defiant woman who challenges his perception of life and love.

The narrative weaves a treacherous tale where survival and desire intertwine, creating a seductive dance as captivating as the shadow beasts themselves.

The story unfolds with an ominous beauty, betraying senses and surpassing nightmares. In their fight against darkness, the characters must embrace the very shadows they fear, knowing that most of them will meet their demise. A compelling blend of romance and darkness, immerses readers in a world where love and treachery intertwine.

Thank you too NetGalley, Entangled Teen and Katherine Quinn for allowing me to read an ARC of this book.
This book is really really good! I read it every chance I got to see what was going to happen next. I believe the characters are like 18 & 19 years old. So it almost can be classified as New Adult. It has tons of twists and keeps you on your toes with a mixture of romance and suspense/action but I definitely wouldn’t call it a horror. I never found it scary. I would say it’s ranked close to Hunger Games for “horror” lol. Definitely worth it though! I can’t wait to get my personal copy!

When the sequel comes out I will be one of the first to grab it an devour it to see what happens next.

For those who only read clean books there is a few f bombs and like a little spice.

I was lucky enough to receive an eArc copy of this book, and when I tell you it gripped me from the start it really did. I love the relationship between Ki and Liam, and the hunger games vibes at the very beginning really drew me in and kept my interest. There were so many twists and turns, especially towards the end and none of them I saw coming. I had a few guesses but of course I wasn’t correct, and that just made the outcome even more gripping. I cannot wait for book 2!

It took me a little to get into but once I did I couldn’t put it down!! So good!!!! I didn’t want it to end!

I couldn't put this book down and read it in one go. The main characters Kiara and Jude are two outsiders (with a lot of baggage) who are drawn to each other against their will and form a special bond. Add complex worldbuilding, found family, some horror, a deadly mist, and many twists and turns, and you have an intriguing dark fantasy story. I can't wait for the sequel, because that cliffhanger...wow.

I got this arc in exchange for an honest review.

Overall I really enjoyed this book. I'm always a fan of a strong and sassy FMC and a broken and brooding MMC. As genre's go I would say it fits in the forbidden love category and maybe found family. There might be others, but I can't think of them right now. It definitely qualifies as YA in regards to spice. There are hints of things but not anything more than that. The premise is unique in that this is a world where the sun god has disappeared and they all live by the light of the moon alone. Obviously in real life this would be impossible, but in a world with gods, anything is possible! I mean, that's why I read books like this, to escape reality! There are so many twists and turns in this book that I feel like I can't speak too much about what happens without a spoiler warning. This book is very dark, and not just because there's no sun. Violence and gore are prevalent throughout the book, but I find it pretty easy to minimize the gore when I imagine in my mind, the beauty of reading! I thought I had figured out some of the twists but while I was partially right I totally missed several of the major reveals! I love that in a book, I love to be surprised! The book ends in a cliffhanger so I really hope the next book will not be too long in coming!
Thank you so much to Entangled and NetGalley for the EArc of this book!

WOW! this was such an incredible read. That was just everything I was expecting and MORE. I couldn't put it down. I need more, immediately.

I have to say this book was a very pleasant surprise. The very beginning started off with Kiara and while you know that she’s the FMC you aren’t sure exactly where it’s going to go. She’s fierce, strong, and incredibly loyal, but you know there are secrets and it takes a bit before you know the full story.

I really loved being able to see multiple viewpoints and learning more about Jude. I particularly liked the theme of Found Family in this book as Kiara starts to really find her place amongst the others.

At the beginning of the chapters you also get different pieces of the story from various viewpoints and that provides you another mystery to solve. I appreciate that Ms. Quinn makes you really try to think and figure things out and just when you feel like you know something she surprises you.

Really great romantic vibes without being over the top, focusing on the characters and building tension. The pacing kept me engaged and I had a really hard time putting it down at night. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series!

Thanks to Entangled Teen, Netgalley and Katherine Quinn for this book.

The book was a wonderful read. I enjoyed every page. I found myself saying okay I'll stop and go to bed after this chaper until I found I had finished the bookbatb2 am!

I just could not put it down. Very few books are ones I find that stay with me, but this is one. The author created vivid picture in my mind, and a realistic world I got oist in. I connected with the characters and felt what they felt.

Just wonderful. Highly recommend.