Fallen Shadows

This book was very enjoyable. The romance was amazing and I enjoyed the setting and the world building so much!

I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.

This was absolutely a wonderful read. This book had it all. You have a society that is ruled by a group that is not merciful. The worst crime here…love…you will be unalived for such atrocity (forbidden love). You have a city that is threatened by monsters and our FMC & MC must find that which will save their city/together.

I absolutely loved these two characters and watching their relationship develop and grow through this entire story. Elara and Varek are a new favorite couple for me. This romantasy is a top on my 2024 list. I cannot wait for what else our author will come out with. I will be recommending this book to all of my book loving friends.

Thank you @netgalley and Flyaway Publishing for the chance to review Fallen Shadows by Raven More. Elara and Varek are two warriors in a secluded castle who are often pitted against each other. Both desire the other, but the warrior way does not permit marriage. Their isolated village battles against Ravenous - beasts who turn people into beats themselves. There are also Elders and creepy Enforcers who keep everyone in line. Great world building and descriptions. I loved the twists. There was spice and an epic quest … so good!

hank you Netgalley and Raven More for the eArc!

The wonderful thing about this book was that it’s very poetic. The way certain words were used over plain English may turn away some readers, however, I really enjoyed it as it’s a different type of style.

While the storyline was about two warriors, a seemingly impossible mission, monsters, duty, loyalty, and magic, I would say that this was heavily rooted in romance. You are essentially faced with the forbidden romance aspect immediately within a few chapters.

I’m that type of reader, where I like my romance to simmer, and build up. I enjoy world building, banter between the characters, and action (in this case fighting monsters), before the romance. The romance part is like a reward.

The romance in this book contains an agonizing want from both main characters, there is some spice, but it’s the tension and drawn out misunderstanding between the characters that takes the spotlight.

But if you stick with the book, you will be rewarded with a twist that I didn’t even expect!!

I would recommend this book for those that love romance first, and fantasy elements second. There’s not a lot of world-building in this book, but the duel POV really helps drive the story along. It’s packed with dialogue, and I would venture far enough to say that this reads almost like a play/ movie script.

Set in a dystopian world where love is forbidden and survival is a warrior's game, this book follows the journey of Elara and Varek as they embark on a dangerous quest.
The world-building in this book is phenomenal. The author has created a vivid and detailed world that is both intriguing and terrifying. The outer realm, where the majority of the story takes place, is a dangerous and unforgiving place, filled with deadly creatures and treacherous terrain. The inner realm, on the other hand, is a stark contrast, with its strict rules and regulations that govern every aspect of people's lives. It is a world that is both fascinating and terrifying, and the author does an excellent job of bringing it to life.
The characters in this book are well-developed and complex. Elara and Varek are both strong and independent individuals who are forced to work together on their quest. Their relationship starts off as one of necessity, but as they face danger and overcome obstacles together, their feelings for each other start to grow. However, their love is forbidden, and they must constantly fight against their emotions, knowing that their love could lead to their downfall. Their internal struggles and the chemistry between them make for a compelling and emotional read.
As Elara and Varek journey through the outer realm, they face numerous challenges and obstacles that test their strength and determination. The quest for the mythical serum adds an extra layer of intrigue and danger to the story.
This was a great read that combines elements of romance, adventure, and dystopia to create a unique and compelling story.

Poetic, epic and filled with secrets and monsters.

It felt like you were dropped into a world of knights and forbidden desires from the first page. The premise was gripping and I was drawn into the forbidden love and desire between the two main characters. In a world full of monsters, secrets, and yearning for more than seems possible, this story could've have really benefited from being extended over more than one book! There was so much to learn and to say, and it almost felt like there was a missing prologue/several chapters to the book.

Overall though, a really good read, and well worth adding to any fantasy/romantasy addict's collection!

In a world dominated by fierce warriors and forbidden love, the novel "Fallen Shadows" by Raven More takes readers on a gripping journey filled with peril, romance, and soul-wrenching choices. Elara and Varek, two souls destined to meet, find themselves bound together on a treacherous quest to uncover a mythical serum in the deadly outer realm. As they navigate a treacherous landscape and face formidable challenges, their hearts ignite with forbidden emotions that threaten to consume them. However, as secrets unravel and their pasts come to light, they face a devastating choice: embrace their fated bond or succumb to the deceit that threatens to tear them apart. More weaves a tale of intrigue, betrayal, and unwavering love in "Fallen Shadows." The world-building is intricate, transporting readers to a realm where danger lurks around every corner and where love is a forbidden fruit that beckons with tantalizing temptation. Elara and Varek are beautifully crafted characters, their personalities and motivations intricately woven into the tapestry of the story. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the tension between them crackles with intensity. As their quest unfolds, readers will be captivated by their journey, rooting for them to overcome the obstacles that threaten to keep them apart. The plot of "Fallen Shadows" is a masterclass in storytelling. More keeps readers on the edge of their seats with twists and turns that unfold seamlessly. The pacing is perfect, allowing the story to breathe while maintaining a relentless forward momentum that propels readers towards the thrilling conclusion. The action sequences are heart-pounding, and the emotional moments are poignant and impactful. More's writing is lyrical and evocative, immersing readers in the world of "Fallen Shadows" and making them feel as though they are alongside Elara and Varek on their perilous journey. Overall, "Fallen Shadows" is a captivating and emotionally charged read that will leave readers breathless. Raven More's masterful storytelling and vivid world-building create a tale of forbidden love, epic quests, and soul-stirring choices that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page. This novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy, romance, and stories that explore the boundaries of love and destiny. Immerse yourself in the world of "Fallen Shadows" and let Elara and Varek's journey take you on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you spellbound.

This tale drew me in immediately, it has an archaic and very traditional setting. The world in this book is plagued by darkness outside the castle that shelters those remaining. The elders are strict and require a lot from the warriors, this leads us to a new warrior Elara, the first woman to step up to this title.

Elara is driven and fierce holding herself to high morals and vows wanting to protect those in the castle and her remaining family member. She is looked down upon due to being a woman wanting to be a warrior, but another warrior Valek assists her with her training and becomes someone who she longs for. Its funny that in the beginning it seems they desire each other but think it will not be reciprocated.

Due to the rules by the elders marriage and children are not allowed and it is also forbidden for warriors to wed. This leads both Valek & Elara on a journey for freedom, honour and love.

I thoroughly enjoyed this!