This book would normally be right up my alley but I really struggled to get into this book and then continued to struggle right to the end - not the greatest.

Enveloping Shadows by Lauren D. M. Smith

Enveloping Shadows by Lauren D. M. Smith pairs a princess’s body guard with a handsome, magical stranger. Terrwyn had paid little attention to the rumors that circulated through their land regarding the dark arts and dangerous beasts that were the hallmarks of the forests that bordered their country. As a warrior, she deals in hard realities, like how to keep Her Highness Aricia safe. But when a dark shadow snatches the princess from the supper table right under her nose, she realizes she is going to have to alter her thinking a bit. Zelek, shrouded in mystery and with magic of his own, becomes her strongest ally in braving the deadly woods where the princess is being held hostage. But what awaits them in that dark and dangerous place?

Love, of course. A fantasy tale full of surprises and perils, this book is perfect for fans of Jeffe Kennedy, Grace Draven or Amanda Bouchet.

Memorable moment: That swoon-worthy scene where Zelek reassures Terrwyn that she is perfect just the way she is.

She grabbed the hem of her shirt and held it down. That had him popping his head up, heavy-lidded eyes meeting hers, face creased with confusion. Terrwyn flushed, but she had to explain if she wanted things to progress. And she very much did want them to progress. “I – I’m not . . .dainty,” she said, voice cracking slightly. “I have scars and trained for years, so I’m not exactly like most other girls and –“

He cut her off with a quick kiss. “I don’t care. Besides,” he said, smiling, “scars are a sign of courage.”

Received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Wow so glad I requested this novel. It was exactly what I needed. The story actually starts off a bit slow. At first, I was wondering why it was relevant, but it came together nicely.

There are many aspects to this novel I found enjoyable. There was enough fantasy to make the world interesting without being over the top. All the characters were enjoyable as well, being both dynamic and tangible. They added to the story without taking away from main story or characters. I particularly liked the female lead who I felt was strong but not without flaws and uncertainties. I felt her moral code aligned with my own and appreciated her selflessness. Not to mention I felt that her and Zelek (the male lead) just clicked. They had an easy camaraderie that grew to more. While there is a sex scene, I felt that is was tasteful and consistent with the feel of the novel.

All in all, I loved this novel. It was well rounded with good characters, and interesting story line, a romance I could get behind, and enough mythology/fantasy to win my heart.