This book was a first from Katherine Quinn for me and I can say right now - it will not be my last!! Right from the first page we are introduced to beautiful world building and complex characters, and the addition of legends and what they meant to the characters added so much complexity both to the characters and the world they live in. As a history buff, I felt a little bit of extra appreciation for them as well as its to something you typically see to this extent in books.

The characters themselves were so well fleshed out, with our broody MC and fiery FMC. I loved watching both their character growth, their relationship develop and how it grew them as individuals, and the angst... *chefs kiss*. The plot itself was engaging all the way through, and the last 10% of the book had me feeling every single emotion and then some. I enjoyed the complexity of the plot and how it wasn't predictable - every single guess I had for how things were going to turn out, was not how they turned out at all.

Absolutely LOVED this book, all the stars! Can't wait to read more by this author, her writing style is spot on for me!

I am half way through this book and can say I am really enjoying it! the beginning kinda made me feel lost but the drip of information made it to where I was able to continue reading it with out feeling like I was left with out a paddle. The book is written well and is engaging. we come back to the brother a lot which I like. I will be uploading a review of the book to Youtube, Tiktok, and Instagram aswell as Goodreads and Storygraph once completely finished. I just wanted to updated you half way through the book. my handle on all media is ricekrispiekarter.

To Kill a Shadow by Katherine Quinn is an action packed adventure with a fierce female and a brooding commander that hooks you from the beginning and keeps you turning the pages.

This fantasy with a strong hint of romance was a fun binge read full of instantly likable characters and an intriguing world of mysterious twists.

Although I really enjoyed this book I felt at times that the characters didn’t match up well with the plot - almost like the story was too large/advance for these characters ( although they are great characters ) I think maybe once we get book two and we get to know each of them more they’ll be more rounded out and have a bit more growth making the story even better.

I did still really enjoy reading this book - I love an intriguing fantasy book that I can read quickly and the realm that the author has created is full of mystery and unique magic. The ending was a big surprise and I’m very curious as to how things will turn out in book two.

THIS. This might be one of my top 2023 books. The characters, the plot THE ROMANCE. Like are you kidding me??? Entangled knows what they’re doing, and I trust them (as well as this author) with my life.

Love love this book keeps you entertained,at the end of your seat great twist and turn and the ending I Need more

This one has taken me a while to get through but I do not believe it is the stories fault. The story is good but I bc am struggling personally. I am glad I was able to read it but I think I will need to reread later to give it an accurate review

4.75⭐️ - rounded up to 5 ⭐️
0🌶️ - true YA , did not expect any spice.

This was my introduction to Katherine Quinn’s writing and I am so happy that I was able to try her out. This was such a fun romantic fantasy read with a good balance between a faster burn romance and the fantasy aspects of the world.

There is a mist surrounding the Kingdom of Asidia, a plague following the fall of the Sun Goddess Raina. Only danger lies within the mist.

The king’s Commander of The Knights of the Eternal Star, Jude Maddox, is conscripting new recruits to help find the secrets within the mist and help bring back the Sun Goddess Raina. He happens upon a fierce, strong-willed girl, Kiara Frey in a tiny town and adds her to the ranks.

Both Jude and Kiara are pushed into the dangers of the mist, while also uncovering shared secrets and destinies. This is a true tale with worldbuilding, mythology, survival and romance.

I loved Kiara’s character as a strong, wild woman who dances to her own song. She has many quirks, but when she starts making connections with the other recruits and commanders, people see her beauty. There is definitely an attraction between Jude and Kiara that draws them to each other and though I’m not usually a fan of “insta-love” or indescribable attraction, this was done very well and tastefully.

Every chapter started off with a proverb, short legend or background lore for the reader that somehow connected to the chapter. I loved that touch, it really helped recap some of the things that were mentioned and bring them to the surface for the reader. I wish the Gods were the land were further fleshed out. Other than Raina, most are not brought up other than in passing or in only a chapter or two. I am hoping they take a bigger role in future books within the Mistland series.

Very much looking forward to the sequel, the end leaves on a slight cliffhanger. Definitely excited to see what secrets are unveiled.

Strong female leads
Brooding, but protective Commander
He Falls First
Fantasy mixed with mystery
Mix of Mulan & Game of Thrones “Night’s Watch” vibes
Unknown Evil
Gods & Prophecies

If you love a YA romantic fantasy, alternating POVs from the strong leads and intriguing world building, this is made for you! Katherine Quinn is now on my auto-buy author list! I loved every second of it.

To Kill a Shadow releases November 28, 2023!

Thank you to Entangled: Teen and NetGalley for this digital galley in return for my honest review.

4/5
Few people knew that the night spoke. Even fewer knew how to answer when it did.
I had enjoyed this book when it was getting towards the end. In the beginning the pacing was kind of slow but as it hit that fifty percent mark it really got into the story. I really enjoyed Keira and Jude and their relationship. As well as the rest of the characters I could definitely see the found family trope shining through. The climax was great as well. It had a lot of action and I was surprised more than once. Overall, if you are looking for a romance a little like Reylo, I would say this book would be good.

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.