This book has a lot of potential - the writing was engaging and the plot was intriguing (totally ok to read as a stand alone, though you got more of the world building if you read the first book in the series first).

However, I think the weight and focus on the relationship and romance was too high, with their physical attraction being the focus of the story and the underlying plot being only a second priority. I think the story would have benefited from a greater focus on the both characters and what motivated them (aside from lust).

Though not the focus of this story specifically, I also would love more detail on the siblings and their powers since that’s a more unique element to the book so captures my interest.

Thank you to NetGalley, Hillary Raymer, and BohoSoul Press for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

I’m honestly not sure how we went from ATCOC to ATSOS because this book took things up a few notches. This book is really sexy compared to Book 1 and it’s definitely a little darker. The dynamic between Drake and Creslyn is interesting but it did give off insta-lust and insta-love which isn’t really my favourite thing in a book so it was difficult to understand how they developed any real feelings for each other when every interaction they’ve had was sexual with no real conversation.

At the heart of the story is Creslyn, a resilient protagonist whose journey is anything but predictable. As she resigns herself to a marriage with the cold and calculating Drake—a character who embodies both menace and allure—readers are drawn into her internal conflict. Creslyn's attraction to Drake is both ecstasy and agony, a reflection of her own hidden darkness that adds layers to her character. Raymer does an excellent job of crafting Creslyn's emotional landscape, showcasing her strength as she grapples with the complexities of her feelings and the reality of her situation.
Drake, the enigmatic Shadowblade Assassin, is a contradiction personified. His cursed existence and mastery of shadows make him a figure of intrigue—certainly monstrous, yet undeniably magnetic. Raymer deftly navigates the fine line between villain and anti-hero, allowing readers to witness Drake's internal turmoil as his obsession with Creslyn deepens. The duality of his character serves not only to heighten the stakes of their relationship but also to explore the question of redemption amid violence and darkness.
The narrative is beautifully woven, with rich imagery and poetic prose that transports readers to the world of Aeramere. Raymer's descriptions evoke a sense of vividness and urgency, particularly as the threat of war looms ever closer. The supporting characters are well-developed, each contributing to the depth of the story and the evolution of Creslyn and Drake's relationship.
Overall, this story is a spellbinding journey of love and sacrifice. This book is a thrilling read that will leave you pondering the complexities of human emotions and the nature of good and evil long after they've finished. Highly recommended for those who appreciate a richly developed fantasy with biting romance and a touch of darkness.

Okay but if there’s two words to summon me it’s “shadow” and “daddy” 🤭

This, like the first book was a fun ride. I really loved Drake and Creslyn. I thought Creslyn was really strong and fierce and she always tries to do the right thing. The way she always wanted to look out for Drake and her siblings? Love her.

As for Drake, he was in fact top tier shadow daddy and a real villain. The way he was obsessed with her from the beginning had me swooning. Both of their powers were super cool.

The only thing that let me down was that I wished this was more enemies to lovers. It felt very insta love/ lust and I wished there was more tension and buildup because their banter in the beginning made me giggle 🤭

Nevertheless the spice was spicing 🥵🔥 All I will say is there’s a one dragon scene and I will leave you with that information 👀

Although this series is interconnected standalones and technically you could read this alone, I would recommend reading the books in order, as the overarching plot line and world building will make more sense this way.

Thank you to NetGalley and BohoSoul press for providing an eArc in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you netgalley for allowing me to be an ARC READER IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW


Drake is a shadow daddy that we all love to hate and then love again .. this fantasy has it all...the grumpy/ sunshine ,Morally Gray, shadow, daddy, dragons. touch her and die, Arranged marriage, and so much more!!! there's spice WHILE ALSO HAVING A GOOD STORY LINE !!! The characters relation is filled with trials and tribulations, tension, but also sweetness. It was so well written . I love books that are part of a series that can also be standalones ... the way the author described things made me feel like I was standing in that particular time and place. So good .

Thank you NetGalley and BohoSoul Press for this e-arc!

5⭐️
4🌶️

This is book 2 of the Starstorm series, an interconnected collection of books by Hillary Raymer.

While not required to read book 1, All the Chaos of Constellations, after receiving this e-arc, I wanted to go and read book 1 first. I strongly encourage the same because it helps in giving background information of the world and characters.

In a Bridgerton meets Fae style world, each book so far has focused a new couple surrounding the Starstorm siblings (there’s 8 of them). Fast-paced from page 1, it’s a quick, easy, and fun read for those who like their romantasy stories with spice and plot!

I was blown away at how much I liked book 1, and that continued here with book 2, All the Sacrafic of Shadows! Following Cresyln Starstorm and the Prince of Shadows, Drake, as he swoops Creslyn away from her home and family upon an agreement with Cresyln’s brother. But Creslyn isn’t some damsel in distress, weak and fragile. She embraces her new world head on, while also not denying her feral attraction to her betrothed, Drake. While seen as a girl of sunshine and happiness, Creslyn has a darkness of her own she’s never revealed to anyone. Drake, on the other hand, has a reputation for his darkness and believes he needs Creslyn, or her blood, to break his curse. Tests along the way bring out the question of which will win out, power or love?

Again, I have thoroughly enjoyed this series so far. The inspiration of a Bridgerton type family, but make it fantasy has been done really well here. As a fan of Bridgerton, I have enjoyed this WAY more.

Each novel may center around one couple, but I love how there is not only a sub-plot that the couple is dealing with, but then on a underlying level beneath is this overall plot that links them all together. It goes beyond JUST the romance, even if that is front and center.

The spice in All the Sacrifice of Shadows was definitely kicked up a notch and I loved it! I think it was called for with Creslyn and Drake too with their character personalities.

I also love the family love and closeness of this book as well. And how even as the family expands, they absorb their new members with open arms to come together against a common goal.

Hillary has set it up very nicely for the next 3 books at least I think in book 2 and I can’t wait to keep reading this series!

Thank you again for the e-arc! I have had a fun and wonderful time reading these!

Well it’s fair to say, much like the first book, I absolutely loved Hillary’s writing 😍

This book gives absolute shadow daddy vibes… I love that Cresyln has always thought the best in Drake & that despite his better judgement he’s always wanted her.

The way he loves her without even saying it is 😮‍💨 and my goodness was this one a spicy meatball! 🌶️
There was no warm up into this story! It was straight in for the dropping the robe to the floor & baring all before him!

We find out more about Cres’s powers and we find out just exactly ‘what’ Drake is. The whole storyline here was just brilliantly put together. Loved it!

I loved the dragon riding element, that they visited witches and bargains were made. And there’s something going on from within there kingdom… we just don’t know who’s the cause of it yet. But there is war coming & the next book is going to take us through that I’m sure! Or at least bring us closer to it!

The next book is going to be about Sol & Rissa… they used to want each other but something happened between them, something about her going with someone else instead of him which means they can’t even stand to breathe the same air as each other! I’m looking forward to the third in the series for another spicy enemies to lovers. And finding out more about her untrustworthy mother & the Queen and her son… whatever they’re actually up to!

Fantastic book! I'm loving this series! There's a great balance of romance and plot throughout the story. Both MC's had a ton of character development which flowed very naturally. I honestly can't wait for the next book to come out.

I really enjoyed both of these characters. I loved that Creslyn could take and do anything, but she wasn’t unwilling to accept help or show fear. I thought it was cute that the only thing she was really bad at was dancing. I also loved Drake - his obsession with her, his attraction to her. I did get a little bit tired of his whole I am an awful being with a black soul deal, but that’s his character and it makes sense he feels guilt for everything that he’s done. I love Drake wanting to protect her and always be with her.

When Drake says this - "What need do I have for air? You steal away my every breath." I was about to die.

I think the story is well done, and there was really sweet romance development alongside their instalust. The writing was great, everything flowed and the dialogue all felt really natural.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am so grateful that I did! I saw a reel about this book and signed up for NetGalley just in the hopes that I would get an ARC. I posted my review on Goodreads.

I did not read the book that came before this one, but I would say that you should - I am definitely going to go back and read the first book.

This is the second book in the Starstorm series and it builds on the first perfectly!
We pick up where we left off with Drake now being matched with Creslyn, who thinks she’s second choice but little does she know, Drake has had the eyes on her this whole time, and we all know what that means - did I hear someone say mates?! Yes, you’ve got it!

But, it’s not all smooth sailing in the house of fated mates, Drakes “father” is a monster, and Cresyln bears the brunt of his cruel and twisted hate of faeries.

The adventure theme within this book is perfect, and we explore more of their worlds and learn about the crumbling patriarchy and the unrest and rebellion theme continues from the first book.

I absolutely loved the magnetism between Creslyn and Drake, and Hillary has set up the next few books in the series, I’m so invested in Solarius and Narissa, Sarelle and Prince Aspen, and Caelian and Kjeld - so much tension and angst to come!

I looooved this! Such a cool new fantasy series. Action packed with characters you will definitely get attached to.

Review to amazon to be posted when released.

Book Review: All the Sacrifice of Shadows (Starstorm Series, Book 2) by Hillary Raymer

All the Sacrifice of Shadows is a dazzling and darkly romantic sequel in Hillary Raymer's Starstorm series, which continues the tumultuous journey of Creslyn and Drake, two characters entwined by fate, magic, and an unbreakable bond. This fantasy romance thrives on its blend of rich world-building, complex character dynamics, and a gripping storyline that pulls readers into a realm where light and shadow clash.

At its core, the novel revolves around the volatile and captivating relationship between Creslyn and Drake. Creslyn, with her internal conflict of embracing her darker side, is a protagonist who feels relatable in her vulnerability yet empowering in her determination. She’s drawn to Drake despite knowing his brutal past and the curse that shadows his existence. Her decision to claim him as her mate, despite the absence of a traditional love story, feels daring and is an anchor point for the emotional tension of the novel.

Drake, on the other hand, is a deeply flawed antihero, cursed from birth and locked in a life of violence and death as the Shadowblade Assassin. His magnetic darkness and the slow-burn obsession he develops for Creslyn add a thrilling intensity to the novel. Raymer masterfully crafts his character with layers of complexity, making him both a monster and a man capable of love, albeit a dangerous and all-consuming one.

The world of Aeramere, with its brewing unrest and prophetic dangers, heightens the stakes. As Creslyn and Drake are thrust into political conflict and the threat of war, the story’s pacing picks up with action, intrigue, and danger around every corner. The attack on House Celestine and the looming prophecy provide a perfect backdrop for the book's darker themes—sacrifice, fate, and the blurred lines between hero and villain.

Raymer’s prose is vivid and poetic, painting a world of both violent sunbeams and catastrophic rainbows, where love and loyalty are tested in extreme circumstances. The author has a gift for mixing lyrical descriptions with intense, fast-paced action. Whether it’s a tender moment between the two leads or a battle scene infused with magic and shadow, the writing keeps you engaged.

What truly sets All the Sacrifice of Shadows apart is its refusal to offer easy answers. Love isn’t a cure-all in this story. Creslyn and Drake’s bond is passionate and raw, but it’s far from perfect or traditional. The novel poses thought-provoking questions about power, control, and the price of loyalty, especially in a relationship built on such dangerous foundations. Can Creslyn save Drake from his curse, or will their union inevitably lead to destruction? This tension keeps readers on edge until the final pages.

For fans of dark fantasy romance, this book will be a satisfying continuation of the series. It delves deeper into the shadows of its world, exploring the cost of love when it’s entangled with curses and political strife. The dynamic between the fierce yet conflicted Creslyn and the brooding, cursed Drake is magnetic, pulling readers deeper into their twisted but enthralling love story.

In conclusion, All the Sacrifice of Shadows is an atmospheric and emotionally charged sequel that will appeal to fans of dark, character-driven fantasy. Hillary Raymer’s ability to weave together romance, magic, and epic conflict makes this a must-read for lovers of the genre. As the story closes with even more secrets and sacrifices on the horizon, readers will be eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Starstorm series.

This was a strong sequel in the Starstorm series, it had that concept that I wanted from this type of book and as a sequel. The world felt like it was supposed to and enjoyed the plot of this book. It had that feel that I wanted and was glad that the characters felt like they were the same. Hillary Raymer has a strong writing style and can’t wait for more.

All the Sacrifice of Shadows was a great addition to the first book of this series. This book starts off right after the first one and follows Creslyn, Novalise’s sister, and Drake, the prince of Backroth.

I really enjoyed the interactions between Creslyn and Drake, and the romance felt more real. Creslyn was so brave throughout the whole story even through the situations she was put in

I would really recommend reading both All the Chaos of Constellations and All the Sacrifice of Shadows. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me a chance to read this book!

Often second books in a series can suffer and be huge let downs rarely do they surpass book one.

All the Sacrifice in the Shadows manages to surpass its predecessor in terms of story, spice, intrigue and romance.

We Follow the arranged marriage between shadow daddy Drake and and the youngest Starstorm Daughter Creslyn. Through their tumultuous relationship we learn more about the realms, bigger threats and who they really are.

This book felt wilder and sexier than book one and I genuinely love the time and attention given to really draw out the characters personalities and motivations. The world building has really cemented what "big bad" could come in future books which I feel is very unique to have a larger storyline outwith the romance, considering this is essentially a regency drama but with fae. The element of danger elevates this out of the period/fantasy genre and makes it something rather different.

I cannot wait for book three and to see what Starstrom sibling we will follow next.

I want to start off by saying that I read All the Chaos of Constellations before this book, so my thoughts might be a little different than someone who has only read this book. That being said, you don’t necessarily need to read AtCoC before you read this one.

I adored this book. Whereas AtCoC felt like a rivals to lovers story with heartbreak and conflicting feelings and whatnot, this one is very enemies to lovers coded. The conflicting attitudes and thoughts of Creslyn and Drake bring about some really fun drama and conflict that adds to the story.

I absolutely loved seeing more of our characters, especially Drake. I always love having the opportunity to have a character as a side character in one book become a main character in another with their own POV.

The alternating POV in this book really gave us some amazing insights into the characters minds, which helped the story’s pacing.

The plot was not necessarily the most original, but I absolutely adored every second of it.

Thank you very much to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for an ARC of this book.

Note: This review was also posted on Goodreads and Instagram

Reviewed the book on Goodreads. Once the book publishes and I am more than happy to review on Amazon as well. I did shelf on the NetGalley shelf as well as mentioned it in the review to help others discover the title.
Review:
I loved the first installment of this series and was thrilled to get this one (the second) an eARC on NetGalley. I do want to point out that I closed out that review with the quote “Do not compare her to sunshine and rainbows when she is so clearly moonlight and stardust”, which is actually a perfect lead in to this book with Creslyn and Drake.
Creslyn does have sunshine and rainbow magic but that isn't all she is - I loved her character development and the banter! I'm completely sucked into the Starstorm world. Highlights: Romantasy-Bridgeton vibes and I’m honestly obsessed. Dragons, shadows, evil kings, witches, elemental magic, and so many other small details that just make this book amazing - oh and Drake un-alives people for her.
I’m so happy I got an ARC! Thank you! As always Hillary's writing sucks you in from the beginning of the book and leaves you anticipating the next.

Thanks go to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC copy of “All the Sacrifice of Shadows (Starstorm #2)” by Hillary Raymer, in exchange for review.

Creslyn, destined for anything but love as the oft-overlooked youngest sister in her family, marries the cold and ruthless Drake, a mysterious and powerful ShadowAssassin cursed from birth. Despite his terrifying facade, Creslyn is drawn to the darkness within him, and she defies fate by claiming him as her mate. As Drake's obsession with her grows, the violent world he inhabits endangers her life, and war looms over their realm. With a deadly prophecy threatening their bond, Creslyn seeks to break his curse, while embracing her own inner darkness, but love may not be enough to save them both from the sacrifices to come.

By far better than the first book in the series (perhaps because I adore a morally gray bad boy), this book was fantastic. Spicy, well-written romance, a feisty leading lady that can hold her own, a tortured leading male that comes to understand that love can be a strength. It has everything that makes romance novels intriguing for me.

Honestly, this book is what "_Shadow and Bone_" by Leigh Bardugo *should* have unfolded into, where "like calls to like" and the Light Summoner and the Shadow Summoner *should* have gotten together, to stun the world as they explored each other and their bonded magical capabilities.

Raymer's choice of switching points of view work wonderfully here, and I've always enjoyed the secret thoughts of men supposedly too stoic to show emotion, privately unraveled by the object of their desire (and then not-so-privately unraveled as the story progresses). Drake's thoughts made me squeal with naughty delight.

Creslyn's knowledge of who she is, unwilling to change that for anyone, but open enough to grow, makes her endearing and strong enough to stand up to Drake's demands.

Their clash of wills is hot, lusty, and everything a love story should be.

Although this could be read as a stand-alone, I definitely suggest starting with the book that comes before it, as there's back story that enriches the events written here.