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A Bargain With The Shadow Prince

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It takes a monster to stop a monster.

Light the candle.
Stand naked before the symbol.
Offer your blood.

The advocate will come.


I left my abusive crime boss husband expecting to start over from nothing. After all, the prenup I signed when I married him is ironclad. But when Tony uses a loophole in the law to go after my ancestral family home—the one I’m currently living in and my grandmother is dying in—I’m desperate to stop him.

My witch best friend Maeve offers a solution. She lends me a family spell to call a supernatural advocate to deal with Tony. After all, it takes a monster to stop a monster.

But when I follow her instructions, I’m not expecting the darkly handsome Damien to form from the shadows, or to learn that he’s been a prisoner of Maeve’s family for centuries. From the moment he accepts my bargain and drinks my blood, he awakens a passion in me, one charged with latent magic. Magic formidable enough to restore my true self. Magic that holds the promise of Damien’s freedom.

382 pages, Paperback

Published June 17, 2024

324 people are currently reading
812 people want to read

About the author

Genevieve Jack

43 books860 followers
USA Today bestselling and multi-award winning author Genevieve Jack writes wild, witty, and wicked-hot paranormal romance and fantasy. She believes there’s magic in every breath we take and probably something supernatural living in most dark basements. You can summon her with coffee, wine, and books, but she sticks around for dogs and chocolate. Her novels feature badass heroines, fiercely loyal heroes, and fantasy elements that will fill you with wonder. Learn more at www.genevievejack.com

Join Genevieve's VIP reader group and download a FREE novel: https://www.genevievejack.com/newslet...

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5 stars
266 (44%)
4 stars
214 (35%)
3 stars
86 (14%)
2 stars
21 (3%)
1 star
9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
Profile Image for ☕️Kimberly  (Caffeinated Reviewer).
3,586 reviews784 followers
September 18, 2025
I loved Genevieve Jack’s the Treasure of Paragon series and was delighted to begin the Bargain for a Shadow Prince series on audio. Once again, Jack did not disappoint. If you love paranormal romance with strong fantasy elements, you’ll want to dive in.

Eloise Harcourt has escaped an abusive marriage and returned to her ancestral home, Harcourt Manor, to care for her grandmother, who is in the final stages of cancer. When her soon to be ex stakes a claim on her childhood home, her best-friend, lawyer and Gowdie witch Maeve lends her a magic candle to summon the advocate to fix the issue.

Light the candle. Stand naked before the symbol. Offer your blood.

The advocate will come.

Damien, a Shade prince, was captured and cursed to serve the Gowdie witch bloodline forever. He desperately wants to return to his realm. Shades are a hybrid of vampire and demon. When he is summoned, he is shocked to see a strange, naked woman before him. The tale that unfolds was addictive, and I loved watching them struggle with the powerful chemistry and feelings between them.

The world-building was woven into the tale as she laid the groundwork for this series without slowing the pace with information dumps. We learn that when not summoned, Damien lives in the vampire world ruled by a power-thirsty queen and that two other warriors from his realm are trapped here. We learn about the Gowdie witches, but also discover things about the Harcourts, things Eloise discovers as her feelings towards Damien grow.

While the overall series arc is established, we also have the ex to deal with and Harcourt Manor. This was a suspenseful thread and pushed the couple together as they investigated. While we see a satisfying wrap-up of the manor thread, this story is far from over, and Jack left us with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that has me reaching for the next audiobook, Battle for the Shadow Prince. There are currently four books in this series, and all are being released on audio.

John William Maddux & Lexi Evans did a wonderful job of delivering the POVs of Damien and Eloise, as well as capturing the tone and characters in this engaging tale. I loved that both perspectives were in Jack’s work, and each had its own narrator. I highly recommend listening. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Profile Image for Tammy Moldovan.
1,972 reviews27 followers
May 28, 2024
Fantastic start to this series

I loved, loved this unputdownable romantic suspense tale. The storyline was imaginative, the characters brilliant, and the writing was addictive. I was completely immersed in this rich and vibrant world. Far warning, this book is part of a quartet and ends on a cliffhanger. As long as you are aware of that, you’ll love this captivating part of the Eloise and Damien’s story. It packs quite an emotional punch as the plot unfolds and the connection and love deepens between them while the tension and danger slowly ratchets up. The amount of creativity and imagination the author weaves into this story made it feel like I part of the story with the characters experiencing everything along with them. Eloise recently left her abusive, cheating spouse and moved in with her dying grandmother in the family home. To prevent her ex from getting the house in the divorce she performs a magical spell to summon a supernatural advocate who is tied to her best friend’s secretly magical family. Damien is a shade who appears when summoned by Eloise but there is instantly something between them beyond the summoned and the summoner. And there is something about Eloise beyond her simple humanity. The book has a little bit of everything - sweet moments, spice, action, danger, messy relationships, painful pasts, mystery, evil actors, plot twists, imperfect characters, and even chuckles. I cannot wait to read the second book to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Enelyae Is Reading.
466 reviews11 followers
June 14, 2024
OMG! Genevieve does it again! I loved the story of Eloise and Damien. I could not put it down!

Eloise has such a subtle strength of character and I loved watching her rediscover herself and be proud of who she is again. And Damien is the definition of a Shadow Daddy 🥵. He’s dark, broody, morally grey and controls shadows. What more could you want?! I loved learning about his history and watching his feelings develop for Eloise. I feel like they fixed each other's broken pieces.

Genevieve is great at keeping you interested and giving you just little tidbits you keep reading and reading. There are some surprises along the way and I can't wait to dive into book 2 when it comes out!

🌶️🌶️.5
Profile Image for Marion Over.
388 reviews9 followers
September 30, 2024
Absolutely loved this book!!! I would have read it straight through if I didn't have to sleep! Amazing characters, perfect story and just enough suspense to keep you reading.
One of my favorite things about this author's stories; her characters are beaten up by life and pull themselves, kicking and clawing out of their hell. It's always relatable and inspiring.
1,330 reviews10 followers
June 24, 2024
Omg

What a wonderful book. This new series is amazing, But I have not read anything.I haven't liked from genevieve jack. I love eloise in demon's relationship. I just wish I didn't have to wait for book two. And I really don't like cliff angers.So I simply said wait for the whole series to come out before I read them. I really need book to now.
2 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2024
intriguing beginning

Loved the book, and the new paranormal theme, along with the new characters. Can not wait until the next book comes out.
Profile Image for Nadene  (Totally Addicted to Reading).
1,514 reviews219 followers
June 25, 2024
"A Bargain with a Shadow Prince" marks the first book in a brand-new series by Genevieve Jack. In this installment Jack weaves an enthralling story rich with magical components, shrouded in darkness and passion. The tale of forbidden love between a mortal woman and a supernatural man will captivate fans of paranormal romance. It offers a mix of romance, danger, and intrigue.

The Shadow Bargain series kicks off impressively with "A Bargain with the Shadow Prince." I was not merely hooked; I found myself completely captivated. The story's engaging plot and intriguing characters completely drew me in, making it an adventure that kept me turning the pages.

The story centers on Eloise Harcourt and her struggle to break free from her abusive husband. Despite a pending divorce and her departure from the matrimonial home, he is relentless in tormenting her. Following her lawyer and best friend's advice, she enlists Damien's help to tackle the threat her husband represents.

Damien is a Shade, a hybrid of a demon and a vampire. He originates from another realm but confined to Earth due to a witch's curse. This curse binds him to obey whoever summons him with a particular candle imbued with his blood. Eloise now possesses thus candle, provided by her friend.

The chemistry between Damien and Eloise was palpable from the moment she called upon him. Although labeled a monster, Damien's actions towards Eloise told a different story. Despite the danger that surrounds him and the unspeakable acts committed—mostly due to the curse—Eloise saw his true nature; therefore, her friend's warnings fell on deaf ears.

After suffering greatly from her abusive partner, it was uplifting to see Eloise take back control of her life, showcasing her resilience and courage.

This story reveals a world brimming with witches, monsters, vampires, and magic. Coupled with a family legacy shrouded in secrecy, mystery, romance, and an abundance of supernatural occurrences, it provides a thrilling reading experience. Just as the pieces start to fall into place, the story concludes with a major cliffhanger, leaving a yearning for more of this universe. I eagerly anticipate the second book, "Battle for the Shadow Prince."

In summary, "A Bargain for a Shadow Prince" presents a remarkable story that will resonate with fans of paranormal stories.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Profile Image for Cait.
13 reviews
July 10, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ I loved every twist and turn this book took. I’m a sucker for a “monster to all but a cinnamon roll for *her*” trope 🥰 It’s a quick paced story that I devoured in 24 hours. Definitely excited for the next book!!
Profile Image for Kelly Marie.
596 reviews8 followers
July 1, 2024
6 stars!!!! Grief, turmoil, secrets, vampires, witches, magic, love, and a million other things are within these pages!
Eloise has been left in quite the position. She left her abusive husband and her grams is dying. Everything she thought she knew about her soon-to-be ex-husband is false, everything she thought she knew about her best friend is false, and the world as she knows it is about to turn completely upside down.
Eloise is a pure spirit and soul. She just wants things to be made right. Unfortunately, she has been looking at things through rose colored glasses. When she calls on the advocate for help, she doesn’t realize exactly what she bargained for. Everything within her being tells her the situation is wrong, but it feels all so right.
The story took just a tad bit to really get going but I think that is necessary for the beginning of a series to ensure that the character and world building are solid. Then when I got to the point of no return, I could not put this book down! This is a unique spin on the supernatural and I am excitedly looking forward to the next!
Profile Image for SapphireRose26.
183 reviews
July 8, 2024
I really enjoyed the mystery and all the different kinds of magical elements. I also very much appreciated the dual POV. I loved seeing things through Damien's eyes as well as El's. Such a cool story!
Profile Image for Georgia Leigh.
Author 10 books88 followers
July 3, 2024
Really well written dark(ish) fantasy. Loved the characters, and liked seeing a realistic FMC who was both strong and vulnerable at the right times. And excuse me, Maeve, Damian is NOT a monster! (Okay, he is but he's still hot :) ) It got a hair repetitive at the end and I found I was skimming pages to get to the action, but I will definitely be reading the next in the series. I read it on KU and bought the paperback for my trophy shelf.
Profile Image for April Mollenkopf.
527 reviews7 followers
July 3, 2024
Loved this

Loved the beginning of this new series. The ending left me wanting the next book now. Can't wait to see Eloise come into her power and track down her mate.
Profile Image for Payton Box.
1,457 reviews22 followers
June 15, 2024
I throughly enjoyed this book, didn’t want to put it down, so I didn’t and now I’m writing this review at 2am cause I hate waiting to write reviews after starting a new book. This paranormal romance is so good, Eloise and Damien have such good chemistry that flies off the page the moment they first meet, and then adding in the magical bonds that prevent them from separating and I was hooked! There is a lot going on in this book but none of it felt unnecessary. It’s easy for the reader to see how this will become a complex and deeply well written series from the first book as it intertwines many different families, magic, and characters to bring a world fully created and built! The relationships between Eloise and Maude and Damien are so complex and interwoven, resulting in all different kinds of feelings towards each other, that makes me wonder the future ways these three will stay connected as Eloise grows and learns about the magical world. I can’t wait to see where this series goes, I’ll be anxiously awaiting the rest of the series!
Profile Image for H..
Author 5 books51 followers
June 25, 2024
Dark and twisted in the best ways possible. I couldn't put it down. I love the mystery elements and, as always from Genevieve's book, fantastic worldbuilding. Grams and her humor are the best.

Looking forward to the next book. I couldn't put this down.
Profile Image for Onieka.
47 reviews
July 8, 2024
I struggle so much when reading anything fantasy/supernatural related, but this book was a such a breath of fresh air. I can’t wait for the next book!!!!
Profile Image for Kim.
228 reviews3 followers
June 24, 2024
I read this over a few days, great start to a series! I found myself racing through it to see what would happen next. I loved it and am impatiently waiting for the next one!
Profile Image for Ayisha.
56 reviews9 followers
October 16, 2024
DNF

Got up to chapter 19 - Bad Witches club.

Not interested in completing as can't stand the heroine. Her abusive ex is set on making her life hell but she won't retaliate in kind because she's not the same. She's "good". Which would work if her character was consistent, instead she hypocritically ignores how she's partaking in slavery and is the opposite of good. The male hero is forced to obey her (help her with her ex problem) and she happily orders him around. He's trapped by a witches curse (the witch is her best friend) and forced to do their bidding. Also, he should realistically hate her as she's ok to use him and doesn't even consider the humane thing to do which would be setting him free. Instead he likes her. Puke.
Profile Image for Meka 🌸.
228 reviews38 followers
June 18, 2024
I want more, I could not get enough of Eloise and Damien.

The plot kept me drawn in the entire time and I loved all of the characters.

The development of the FMC made me happy and had me cheering for her.

This ends on a cliffhanger and is part of a new series, and I cannot wait for the next book.

If Fantasy/Paranormal romance is your thing this needs to be on your TBR!

(Ps this was my first “monster” romance and I am hooked)
Overall


⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
196 reviews2 followers
June 20, 2024
Can we say shadow daddy. I think we did. This was an awesome read. I loved the fact that I was able to relate Mr. Said shadow day to a book I recently read so I was able to know exactly what he was. I loved the undeniable romantic piece like soul mates or something better. This is a must read.
Profile Image for Heather Huth.
195 reviews2 followers
June 20, 2024
Steamy, Passionate and Deadly

What a freaking fantastic read! I thought I had the plot figured it out and wham - plot twist. The intense steam and passion are swoon worthy. I can't wait for book 2!
157 reviews
April 1, 2025
Holy cow

I was not expecting that ending and now I need to read the next one in the series because holy cow!
Profile Image for Joy  Avery.
1,309 reviews159 followers
August 8, 2024
Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5 Spice: 🌶🌶🌶

Angst: 💔💔💔

Cliffhanger? ✔️

Do I recommend it? ✔️

Tropes: Fantasy romance, monster protector, paranormal romance, supernatural powers, romantic suspense, touch her and ☠️, trauma healing, soulmates, heroine in danger, heroine coming into her power, who did this to you, mafia villain

It takes a monster to stop a monster. Light the candle. Stand naked before the symbol. Offer your blood. The advocate will come. Eloise Harcourt left her abusive crime boss husband, expecting to start over from nothing. After all, the prenup she signed when she married him is ironclad. But when Tony uses a loophole in the law to go after Eloise's ancestral family home--the one she's currently living in and her grandmother is dying in--she's desperate to stop him. Her witch best friend Maeve offers a solution. She lends her a family spell to call a supernatural advocate to deal with Tony. After all, it takes a monster to stop a monster. But when Eloise follows Maeve's instructions, she's not expecting the darkly handsome Damien to form from the shadows or to learn that he's been a prisoner of Maeve's family for centuries. From the moment he accepts her bargain and drinks her blood, he awakens a passion in her, one charged with latent magic. Magic formidable enough to restore her true self. Magic that holds the promise of Damien's freedom.

Genevieve Jack is a new author to me, and I'm happy to have found her. This world is unique with many different characters in many forms and many different worlds. From the beginning blurb to the cliffhanger, I was completely engrossed and repeatedly excited for what would come next. There was little that I didn't like even though I was able to predict parts of the plot. Despite that, I enjoyed the read and still recommend it. There was emotion, spice, action, humor, and a plot that refused to let go. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
30 reviews
August 28, 2024
I loved this book. The story was fantastic, the pacing was good. The world building was just enough for me to understand what was going on but not so much that it weighed the book down. Spice level and tension were perfect and didn't feel forced or rushed. I can't wait until the next one!
495 reviews5 followers
March 2, 2025
Wow! Great Read!

I am glad I got this ebook. I loved the characters and the storyline. It's well written and full of suspense. I'm looking forward to the next book. Can't wait! 💖💖🔥
Profile Image for Veronica.
238 reviews
October 19, 2025
3.5 I think, cuz despite its flaws, I did enjoy it and will be continuing
Profile Image for Kendra Brantley.
3 reviews
August 19, 2025
Ya know what. Looking back - i adored this book. All of it. I am so happy i found it through a random stuff your kindle day and i’m so glad that two more books have come out since i downloaded it. I bought the other two before i was even finished with this one. But yeah. I loved this book.
13 reviews
August 25, 2024
Absolutely amazing

I have always loved Genevieve Jack's books. So raw and open and not afraid to speak what we all think. I'm in love with El and Damien.
Profile Image for Barb.
1,034 reviews3 followers
October 22, 2024
Beware the Shadows

They don't always hold what you expect. Love the build up of a new (ancient) magical being. Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Can't wait for the next in series!
Profile Image for Romance & Rhapsody .
38 reviews
September 27, 2025
Very good story

I rely enjoyed all.aspects of this story. Eloise finds herself again, learns more about her family and a new companion. The ending... Without giving any spoilers ..I'm running to the next book glad it's already oit!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews

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