Level: YA
Recommended Age: 16+
Genres: Fantasy, Romance
Tags: crime, diversity, fake relationship, magic, royalty, sisters, war
Mature Content:

  - Moderate sexuality: Detailed kissing scenes, brief descriptions of sexual relationships and nudity

  - Moderate violence: Physical fights with intent to kill, descriptions of murder

  - Mild language: minimal swearing, threats.

Alessandra is tired of her family holding her back, and when an opportunity to catch the Shadow King’s eye comes her way she uses all of her cunning to get what she wants. As the two power hungry nobles get to know each other, they start to appreciate their bond over ruthless ambition. But falling in love is not part of Alessandra’s plan to become queen, and though she allows herself some friends and fun along the way, ultimately her high stakes plan involves just enough manipulation to keep things interesting. But power is a cold consolation prize, and the shadows that forbid anyone from touching the king start to feel more and more like a curse.

As Alessandra makes her plans for becoming queen, she rules her new courtly social life with a calculated charm and unforgettable flair. But as she gets to know Kallias, she begins to suspect that they are more equally matched than she expected. Perhaps this Shadow Queen can have a Shadow King after all.

Review:

This is very aptly described as a Slytherin romance, and the two main characters are definitely ruled by ambition. The cunning and biting humor of both Lady Alessandra and the Shadow King (Kallias) are what make them a perfect match in this unconventional royal setting.

Alessandra is very self aware and unapologetically ruthless, something which Kallias cherishes as he gets to know her. They are both intent on power, forgoing any forced displays of empathy as they bond over their need to always be in control of every situation. Their relationship is a slow burn romance, full of just as much meticulous plotting as the rest of their life. Although some of their choices and reactions made in the heat of temper can seem extreme, the progression of their relationship never feels rushed.

Alessandra isn’t close with her family, but she does manage to make friends and allies. Hestia and Rhoda humanize Alessandra, and her antics with Leandros and Ruben help her take a break from her problems. There’s a nice balance between romance and friendship in this story, which keeps it from becoming too dramatic, though the constant plotting and scheming seems exhausting after a while.

Tricia Levenseller always writes great characters, especially the women. She writes women who aren’t afraid of themselves, who shake things up and don’t hesitate to destroy things in order to rebuild something better. Her characters learn from their mistakes and have notable emotional progression. Her writing style is fun and adventurous, with plenty of her trademark snarky humor.