Sunday 9 July 2023

Book Review: Bride of the Shadow King (#1) by Sylvia Mercedes (Fantasy Romance)

Title: Bride of the Shadow King (#1)
Author: Sylvia Mercedes
Publisher: Daphne Press
Publication Date: 29 August 2023 (2022)
Pages: 464
Format: eBook - PDF
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Source: ARC via NetGalley

A shunned princess. A reluctant king.
A marriage that could save both their kingdoms . . . but destroy their hearts.

Though she is the oldest daughter, Princess Faraine lives in the background, shunned from court and kept out of sight. Her chronic illness makes her a liability to the crown, and she has learned to give place to her beautiful, favored younger sister in all things.

When the handsome and enigmatic Shadow King comes seeking a bride, Faraine is not surprised that her sister is his choice.

Though not eager to take a human bride, King Vor is willing to do what is necessary for the sake of his people. When he meets the lively Princess Ilsevel, he quickly agrees to a marriage arrangement.

So why can’t he get the haunting eyes of her older sister out of his head?

When disaster strikes and the marriage alliance is compromised, Faraine suddenly finds herself forced to take her sister’s place . . . regardless of her new husband’s desires. Can she find a place at Vor’s side as his queen? Or is his heart forever closed to the woman who deceived him so cruelly?


Bride of the Shadow King was a pleasing fantasy romance read. Vor and Faraine were both intriguing characters with some depth to them, and I enjoyed seeing the arc of their relationship throughout this first book in the trilogy. The plot was interesting, becoming more so as it progressed, and the world building was well handled. The end of this volume definitely left me interested to read on and find out what will happen next both in terms of the romantic storyline and regarding what is happening in Vor's kingdom. I am giving this book 4.5 stars.

I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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