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Prince of Shadows
Old enemies cast long shadows.
Meri’s a necromancer hunter possessed by a necromancer’s soul—and it’s killing her.
Born with the ability to slow time around her, Meri left the fame and fortune of the gladiator arena behind to become a monster hunter for hire. Along with Gallmau, an exiled prince as strong as she is fast, she’s traveled the world getting paid to fight animals and humans cursed with death magic. But the first necromancer whose head she took lurks as a parasite in her spine, and she’s at the end of the three year’s grace before he ends her life.
When the royal sorcerer summons Gallmau home, they travel there to offer their help—and see if he can lift her curse. Instead, they barely survive a fight with Sinan—an infamous death witch known as the Prince of Shadows—and arrive to find the royal sorcerer dead. Worse yet, Gallmau’s sister, the heir to the throne, has been abducted, and they have no chance of rescuing her without Sinan’s help.
The only thing more unsettling than working with a necromancer is Meri and Gallmau’s growing attraction to him. Meri tries to hide her secret, fearing Sinan will help the undead necromancer inside her, and ends up putting all three of their lives in danger. When everything Meri knows about necromancers is upended, she’ll have to face ghosts from her past and enemies from her present to save not only the princess but everyone she loves—both the living and the dead.
Meri’s a necromancer hunter possessed by a necromancer’s soul—and it’s killing her.
Born with the ability to slow time around her, Meri left the fame and fortune of the gladiator arena behind to become a monster hunter for hire. Along with Gallmau, an exiled prince as strong as she is fast, she’s traveled the world getting paid to fight animals and humans cursed with death magic. But the first necromancer whose head she took lurks as a parasite in her spine, and she’s at the end of the three year’s grace before he ends her life.
When the royal sorcerer summons Gallmau home, they travel there to offer their help—and see if he can lift her curse. Instead, they barely survive a fight with Sinan—an infamous death witch known as the Prince of Shadows—and arrive to find the royal sorcerer dead. Worse yet, Gallmau’s sister, the heir to the throne, has been abducted, and they have no chance of rescuing her without Sinan’s help.
The only thing more unsettling than working with a necromancer is Meri and Gallmau’s growing attraction to him. Meri tries to hide her secret, fearing Sinan will help the undead necromancer inside her, and ends up putting all three of their lives in danger. When everything Meri knows about necromancers is upended, she’ll have to face ghosts from her past and enemies from her present to save not only the princess but everyone she loves—both the living and the dead.
ebook
First published October 2, 2025
4 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Guglielmo
7 books93 followershttps://www.facebook.com/maguglielmoa...
M.A. Guglielmo is a neurosurgeon, mother of two awesome daughters, and a life-long fan of speculative fiction. Her Italian grandmother may or may not have been able to cast the evil eye on difficult neighbors, and Maria loves telling a good story, especially if magical curses and witty villains are involved.
After having the wits scared out of her by ghost tales told to her over a campfire in the Moroccan Sahara, she’s come up with a plan to travel to all the potential settings for her novels. Since those include the mountain-ringed home of the Jinn and a future dystopia complete with monster portals, some items on her bucket list might be harder to achieve than others.
Maria was born and raised in Rhode Island and lives there with her two daughters and assorted pets, and is always dreaming of the stories that can come out of her next travel destination.
M.A. Guglielmo is a neurosurgeon, mother of two awesome daughters, and a life-long fan of speculative fiction. Her Italian grandmother may or may not have been able to cast the evil eye on difficult neighbors, and Maria loves telling a good story, especially if magical curses and witty villains are involved.
After having the wits scared out of her by ghost tales told to her over a campfire in the Moroccan Sahara, she’s come up with a plan to travel to all the potential settings for her novels. Since those include the mountain-ringed home of the Jinn and a future dystopia complete with monster portals, some items on her bucket list might be harder to achieve than others.
Maria was born and raised in Rhode Island and lives there with her two daughters and assorted pets, and is always dreaming of the stories that can come out of her next travel destination.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 1, 2025
Thank you, BookSirens, for the ARC.
The blurb sounded so intriguing, and the cover was so stunning. So, I had high hopes for this book. But sadly, I am a bit bummed. It wasn't a great start, to be honest. There were just too many details, too much information about the characters and the surroundings. I was really confused after a while. I couldn't follow the story. But I thought, just keep going, the pacing and storyline might pick up.
I really liked the magic wielding, especially what the shadows could do. I thought Sinan was an interesting, mysterious character. Gallmau was such a huge teddybear. I adored him. And the rat stole the show, ha! I did not expect this.
But sadly, this story wasn't for me. It was such an uneven pacing, and I did not get pulled in the story. I expected more suspense, more thrilling moments.
The blurb sounded so intriguing, and the cover was so stunning. So, I had high hopes for this book. But sadly, I am a bit bummed. It wasn't a great start, to be honest. There were just too many details, too much information about the characters and the surroundings. I was really confused after a while. I couldn't follow the story. But I thought, just keep going, the pacing and storyline might pick up.
I really liked the magic wielding, especially what the shadows could do. I thought Sinan was an interesting, mysterious character. Gallmau was such a huge teddybear. I adored him. And the rat stole the show, ha! I did not expect this.
But sadly, this story wasn't for me. It was such an uneven pacing, and I did not get pulled in the story. I expected more suspense, more thrilling moments.
May 6, 2025
Arc from BookSirens!
3.5
I read this ARC on a whim (okay, the blurb got me). Prince of Shadows offers action, magic, unlikely allies on a quest, and a sprinkle of romance. We are introduced to Meri, a necromancer hunter with the ability to stop time, and I was quickly drawn into the action. The writing is descriptive and executes the atmosphere flawlessly with the details set in the midst of fast paced adventure and world building. While we are thrown into the politics of the Soissons kingdom and learn about the magic system and characters, readers are rewarded with details and tidbits of characters backstories and inner thoughts as we explore the narrative through the eyes of our main trio as we switch POVs. Meri, fellow necromancer hunter and friend Gallmau, and the handsome necromancer Sinan join forces on a quest to find and return Gallmau's sister, heir to the Soissons throne.
This features MMF themes, although it isn't a central point to the story and it doesn't nullify the narrative and pacing of the plot. The writing and the pacing is what drew me in and allowed me to fly through the story. Despite this, I felt the characters needed a little more time focused on expanding their quick, but impactful connections made during the journey. There were also a few things that did seem to wrap up and end fairly quickly the last few chapters and made me unsure what to expect or who to expect in any potential continuations in the series. Still interested in seeing where this goes!
3.5
I read this ARC on a whim (okay, the blurb got me). Prince of Shadows offers action, magic, unlikely allies on a quest, and a sprinkle of romance. We are introduced to Meri, a necromancer hunter with the ability to stop time, and I was quickly drawn into the action. The writing is descriptive and executes the atmosphere flawlessly with the details set in the midst of fast paced adventure and world building. While we are thrown into the politics of the Soissons kingdom and learn about the magic system and characters, readers are rewarded with details and tidbits of characters backstories and inner thoughts as we explore the narrative through the eyes of our main trio as we switch POVs. Meri, fellow necromancer hunter and friend Gallmau, and the handsome necromancer Sinan join forces on a quest to find and return Gallmau's sister, heir to the Soissons throne.
This features MMF themes, although it isn't a central point to the story and it doesn't nullify the narrative and pacing of the plot. The writing and the pacing is what drew me in and allowed me to fly through the story. Despite this, I felt the characters needed a little more time focused on expanding their quick, but impactful connections made during the journey. There were also a few things that did seem to wrap up and end fairly quickly the last few chapters and made me unsure what to expect or who to expect in any potential continuations in the series. Still interested in seeing where this goes!
September 18, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Prince of Shadows by M. A. Guglielmo is a darkly enthralling opening to The Blessed series, combining action, romance, and necromantic suspense with a magical fantasy. From the first page, the tension is high: Meri, a tough gladiator-turned-hunter, holds a secret death in her past; a parasitic soul of a necromancer embedded in her spine, slowly poisoning her. This internal curse compels her to be a richly complex heroine, both strong and vulnerable.
Together with Gallmau, a exiled prince of similar power and hidden secrets, Meri battles cursed animals and fatal duels. But the story goes even more sharply with the arrival of Sinan, the mysterious Prince of Shadows. As once-sworn enemies become hesitant friends on a mission to save Gallmau's sister, the tension brews not only from the threat closing in around them but also from the conflicted, powerful attraction between Meri, Gallmau, and Sinan.
What sets this book apart is the way the author seamlessly weaves together breakneck combat, creepy necromancy, and simmering romance. Trust, sacrifice, and desire meet political maneuvering and moral complexity, rendering the reader ensnared. Even the rebellious undead rat contributes to the charm and dark humor.
Vigorous, creative, and emotionally intense, Prince of Shadows is a must-read for fans of romantasy who are hungry for danger and illicit desire.
Prince of Shadows by M. A. Guglielmo is a darkly enthralling opening to The Blessed series, combining action, romance, and necromantic suspense with a magical fantasy. From the first page, the tension is high: Meri, a tough gladiator-turned-hunter, holds a secret death in her past; a parasitic soul of a necromancer embedded in her spine, slowly poisoning her. This internal curse compels her to be a richly complex heroine, both strong and vulnerable.
Together with Gallmau, a exiled prince of similar power and hidden secrets, Meri battles cursed animals and fatal duels. But the story goes even more sharply with the arrival of Sinan, the mysterious Prince of Shadows. As once-sworn enemies become hesitant friends on a mission to save Gallmau's sister, the tension brews not only from the threat closing in around them but also from the conflicted, powerful attraction between Meri, Gallmau, and Sinan.
What sets this book apart is the way the author seamlessly weaves together breakneck combat, creepy necromancy, and simmering romance. Trust, sacrifice, and desire meet political maneuvering and moral complexity, rendering the reader ensnared. Even the rebellious undead rat contributes to the charm and dark humor.
Vigorous, creative, and emotionally intense, Prince of Shadows is a must-read for fans of romantasy who are hungry for danger and illicit desire.
August 26, 2025
Prince of Shadows swept me into an epic adventure with a twist ending that left me reeling.
Meri is a necromancer hunter, Gallmau is an exiled prince, and when Gallmau is called home after his sister’s kidnapping, their path unexpectedly intertwines with Sinan, a powerful necromancer.
What unfolds is a rich journey of learning to trust, collaborate, and embrace connection. The slow build of attraction between the three was beautifully written, and the MMF dynamic blossomed in such a heartfelt way. While not as spicy as some other stories, the writing was vivid enough to spark the imagination and make every moment feel alive.
The final twists took me completely by surprise, and for the last hundred pages I was glued to the story. I couldn’t put it down until I reached the bittersweet yet satisfying ending.
I received an ARC of this book, but all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own, and this review is shared voluntarily.
Meri is a necromancer hunter, Gallmau is an exiled prince, and when Gallmau is called home after his sister’s kidnapping, their path unexpectedly intertwines with Sinan, a powerful necromancer.
What unfolds is a rich journey of learning to trust, collaborate, and embrace connection. The slow build of attraction between the three was beautifully written, and the MMF dynamic blossomed in such a heartfelt way. While not as spicy as some other stories, the writing was vivid enough to spark the imagination and make every moment feel alive.
The final twists took me completely by surprise, and for the last hundred pages I was glued to the story. I couldn’t put it down until I reached the bittersweet yet satisfying ending.
I received an ARC of this book, but all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own, and this review is shared voluntarily.
May 26, 2025
3.5 stars: Quite interesting premise here as the FMC is on a quest alongside her close friend G. to seek assistance for the curse she has been struggling with that slowly eats her alive. This world of magic, court politics and dangerous alliances takes you on quite the journey and despite my slight hesitation with the writing style, I did enjoy the story. The writing is very descriptive and to an extent it does fit the story as one could vividly imagine the setting that takes place. However, I did find myself drifting a bit off from time to time, but frankly that probably has more to do with my mind being preoccupied with home renovations rather than the writing itself.
In terms of romance, there is definitely something between the two leading gentlemen and our main heroine though the love element here is not the central focus. I am interested to see how this evolves as the story progresses. Overall, this has been an engaging story to follow.
In terms of romance, there is definitely something between the two leading gentlemen and our main heroine though the love element here is not the central focus. I am interested to see how this evolves as the story progresses. Overall, this has been an engaging story to follow.
August 17, 2025
“Prince of Shadows” is a captivating fantasy novel that blends elements of magic, necromancy, and rich character development. The story revolves around Meri, a fierce speed fighter cursed with a parasitic necromancer, who is on a quest to rid herself of this undead spirit while navigating the treacherous political landscape of Soissons. Each character, from the determined Meri to the enigmatic Sinan, is well-crafted with distinct motivations and backstories that enrich the narrative.. The intertwining of personal struggles with larger political conflicts keeps the reader engaged. The stakes are high, and the tension builds effectively throughout the story. Guglielmo creates a detailed world filled with unique magical systems and cultural nuances, making it easy to immerse oneself in the setting.
Overall, “Prince of Shadows” is an engaging read for fans of fantasy and adventure, offering a blend of action, magic, and emotional depth. If you’re looking for a story that explores themes of power, sacrifice, and redemption, this book is definitely worth picking up!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall, “Prince of Shadows” is an engaging read for fans of fantasy and adventure, offering a blend of action, magic, and emotional depth. If you’re looking for a story that explores themes of power, sacrifice, and redemption, this book is definitely worth picking up!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 11, 2025
I didn’t know what to expect going into this one, but wow—this story totally surprised me in the best way. Prince of Shadows is dark, magical, and packed with action, but what really pulled me in were the characters and the unique magic system.
Meri is such a standout heroine. She’s a former gladiator (yes, literal arena-fighting badass) turned necromancer hunter, and she’s dealing with a terrifying secret: the soul of a necromancer she killed is trapped inside her... and it’s slowly killing her. The stakes don’t get much higher than that, and it added so much urgency and emotion to her journey. I felt for her constantly—she’s tough, smart, and fighting battles both inside and out.
I also really loved Gallmau, her traveling partner and exiled prince. The bond between them was one of my favorite parts of the story. It never felt forced or overly romantic—it just worked. Their loyalty to each other made me care even more about what they were facing.
The worldbuilding here is rich and has so much potential. I loved the way necromancy was handled—it’s not just spooky magic, but a complex system with serious consequences. The whole idea of time manipulation and cursed magic gave this world a unique vibe that stood out from other fantasy reads.
The story does shift between a few different POVs, and while I enjoyed seeing things from different angles, I’ll admit it got a little hard to follow at times. Still, it didn’t take away from how invested I was in Meri’s story—and by the end, I needed to know what happens next.
This book has everything I look for in a fantasy read: danger, magic, morally gray choices, and characters that stick with you long after the last page. I’m really excited to see where this series goes, and I’ll definitely be grabbing the next book when it’s out.
If you like dark fantasy with strong female leads, unique magic systems, and high-stakes adventure, this one’s worth checking out.
Meri is such a standout heroine. She’s a former gladiator (yes, literal arena-fighting badass) turned necromancer hunter, and she’s dealing with a terrifying secret: the soul of a necromancer she killed is trapped inside her... and it’s slowly killing her. The stakes don’t get much higher than that, and it added so much urgency and emotion to her journey. I felt for her constantly—she’s tough, smart, and fighting battles both inside and out.
I also really loved Gallmau, her traveling partner and exiled prince. The bond between them was one of my favorite parts of the story. It never felt forced or overly romantic—it just worked. Their loyalty to each other made me care even more about what they were facing.
The worldbuilding here is rich and has so much potential. I loved the way necromancy was handled—it’s not just spooky magic, but a complex system with serious consequences. The whole idea of time manipulation and cursed magic gave this world a unique vibe that stood out from other fantasy reads.
The story does shift between a few different POVs, and while I enjoyed seeing things from different angles, I’ll admit it got a little hard to follow at times. Still, it didn’t take away from how invested I was in Meri’s story—and by the end, I needed to know what happens next.
This book has everything I look for in a fantasy read: danger, magic, morally gray choices, and characters that stick with you long after the last page. I’m really excited to see where this series goes, and I’ll definitely be grabbing the next book when it’s out.
If you like dark fantasy with strong female leads, unique magic systems, and high-stakes adventure, this one’s worth checking out.
July 16, 2025
[ Thank you, M.A. Guglielmo and Booksirens, for choosing me to read and review this book early.]
Prince of Shadows is a dark fantasy adventure that immediately pulls you into a world of magic and unexpected alliances. One of the book’s strongest elements is its core trio: an exiled prince, a necromancer hunter, and a death witch. Their partnership is as unlikely as it is compelling, with clashing motives and personalities that somehow blend into a dynamic and entertaining team.
The action scenes are another highlight, especially those involving death magic. 💀The way the author weaves necromantic power into the fights feels both creative and brutal, adding a visceral edge to each confrontation. Also worth noting is the pet companion—chaotic, disobedient, and utterly endearing. 🐀It adds a layer of humor and unpredictability that balances the darker tone of the story.
What truly elevates the ending is not just how it concludes, but what it reveals. A plot twist near the finale shifts everything we thought we knew, and it opens the door to new adventures. It’s the kind of reveal that makes you eager to follow the remaining characters on their paths and see how the world—and the stakes—will evolve from here.
That said, the romance between the three main characters didn’t quite land for me. It felt somewhat forced, with little of the slow-burn tension that makes a triad believable or emotionally gripping. As a fan of slower, more gradual romantic arcs, I found myself wanting more buildup and depth in their emotional connections.
Overall, Prince of Shadows is a thrilling read with standout worldbuilding and character dynamics, even if the romance leaves something to be desired. If you love magic-fueled battles, morally complex characters, and a story that ends with a tantalizing promise of more, this one’s worth your time.
Prince of Shadows is a dark fantasy adventure that immediately pulls you into a world of magic and unexpected alliances. One of the book’s strongest elements is its core trio: an exiled prince, a necromancer hunter, and a death witch. Their partnership is as unlikely as it is compelling, with clashing motives and personalities that somehow blend into a dynamic and entertaining team.
The action scenes are another highlight, especially those involving death magic. 💀The way the author weaves necromantic power into the fights feels both creative and brutal, adding a visceral edge to each confrontation. Also worth noting is the pet companion—chaotic, disobedient, and utterly endearing. 🐀It adds a layer of humor and unpredictability that balances the darker tone of the story.
What truly elevates the ending is not just how it concludes, but what it reveals. A plot twist near the finale shifts everything we thought we knew, and it opens the door to new adventures. It’s the kind of reveal that makes you eager to follow the remaining characters on their paths and see how the world—and the stakes—will evolve from here.
That said, the romance between the three main characters didn’t quite land for me. It felt somewhat forced, with little of the slow-burn tension that makes a triad believable or emotionally gripping. As a fan of slower, more gradual romantic arcs, I found myself wanting more buildup and depth in their emotional connections.
Overall, Prince of Shadows is a thrilling read with standout worldbuilding and character dynamics, even if the romance leaves something to be desired. If you love magic-fueled battles, morally complex characters, and a story that ends with a tantalizing promise of more, this one’s worth your time.
August 4, 2025
3.75 stars. This is a really solid start to what I hope is a great series. This book needed some more work in content editing, but it has really solid bones (pun intended). There was too much going on with side plots, but the main storyline was really engaging. My biggest surprise from this book was that I honestly think it would've been better if there wasn't a romance. At this point, I almost exclusively read romance, but this book would've been stronger without it.
Meri and Gallmau are tomb fighters who fight monsters, both human and not. When the princess is kidnapped, they find themselves pairing up with a necromancer, the same kind of monster that they are paid to kill. The overall plot outline is original. I enjoyed all of the events that happened, but it felt like I got dropped into a story that had already started, and I needed to play catch up. I think it needed a prologue with some background information before dropping immediately into a fight scene
The world building was phenomenal. It's been a while since I was sucked into a book based on the world instead of specific characters. There was a lot of background information that wasn't explained, and that easily could've been done through a prologue or mythology story. What are the witch stones and where did they come from? Why does everyone hate necromancer so much? What was the point of Meri's possession, considering it didn't really affect the outcome of the plot. Most of my hangups have to do with the romance storyline, not the story itself.
Thank you to BookSirens and M.A. Guglielmo for the free eARC.
Meri and Gallmau are tomb fighters who fight monsters, both human and not. When the princess is kidnapped, they find themselves pairing up with a necromancer, the same kind of monster that they are paid to kill. The overall plot outline is original. I enjoyed all of the events that happened, but it felt like I got dropped into a story that had already started, and I needed to play catch up. I think it needed a prologue with some background information before dropping immediately into a fight scene
The world building was phenomenal. It's been a while since I was sucked into a book based on the world instead of specific characters. There was a lot of background information that wasn't explained, and that easily could've been done through a prologue or mythology story. What are the witch stones and where did they come from? Why does everyone hate necromancer so much? What was the point of Meri's possession, considering it didn't really affect the outcome of the plot. Most of my hangups have to do with the romance storyline, not the story itself.
Thank you to BookSirens and M.A. Guglielmo for the free eARC.
June 5, 2025
First off, huge thanks to the author and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this early.
Prince of Shadows has such a compelling premise necromancy, time manipulation, royal secrets, and a cursed heroine fighting to survive? There’s so much to love in that setup, and the world itself is full of creative magic and intriguing lore. I especially enjoyed the darker tone and the subtle tension between the main trio it added a nice emotional undercurrent to all the action.
That said, there were a few things that held me back from fully connecting. The multiple POVs were interesting, but at times I found myself a bit disoriented when switching perspectives. Some of the character dynamics felt like they needed just a little more time to fully develop, especially toward the end where things moved a bit quickly for my taste.
Still, this story has a ton of heart and ambition. With a little more breathing room for the characters and emotional arcs, I think this could really shine. I’m definitely curious to see what happens in the next installment.
* I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review*
Prince of Shadows has such a compelling premise necromancy, time manipulation, royal secrets, and a cursed heroine fighting to survive? There’s so much to love in that setup, and the world itself is full of creative magic and intriguing lore. I especially enjoyed the darker tone and the subtle tension between the main trio it added a nice emotional undercurrent to all the action.
That said, there were a few things that held me back from fully connecting. The multiple POVs were interesting, but at times I found myself a bit disoriented when switching perspectives. Some of the character dynamics felt like they needed just a little more time to fully develop, especially toward the end where things moved a bit quickly for my taste.
Still, this story has a ton of heart and ambition. With a little more breathing room for the characters and emotional arcs, I think this could really shine. I’m definitely curious to see what happens in the next installment.
* I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review*
September 5, 2025
Book one of The Blessed, Prince of Shadows follows Meri aka Meritamun, Lioness of Abdju, who has a little curse residing in her spine. It’s residence, the soul of a necromancer she killed, is in turn slowly killing her. If unleashed, it would prove devastating. Her friend and exiled prince, Gallmau, are traveling to his former home for help with her situation. Along the way they meet Sinan, who is full of secrets. All of the characters worked together so well, and the world description gives you a clear picture of where they are. The magic system is complex, Meri’s ability to slow the world around her to her advantage is next level, when the curse doesn’t try to interfere with the process. The multiple POV’s I usually find interesting seemed to jump so quickly that it interferes with the story a bit. But that’s my only complaint. I am looking forward to the rest of the series to see what it has in store.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 3, 2025
** ARC review **
Thiss book was really enjoyable. I personally liked the different POV's although it did get a bit confusing at times. I think the world that the author built has a lot of potential and the whole idea behind the magic in that world is really cool. The Blessed have a pretty complex story behind him that I cannot wait to read more about and the story really had some twists that I did not expect at all.
The characters all had their interesting points but I felt that there could be a bit of a slower pace to their stories and developments to get a bit more depth to why they are a certain way or why they made certain choices. Sometimes the events in this book did feel a bit rushed.
Still, the book was well written and fun to read and made me hope book 2 will be out soon.
Thiss book was really enjoyable. I personally liked the different POV's although it did get a bit confusing at times. I think the world that the author built has a lot of potential and the whole idea behind the magic in that world is really cool. The Blessed have a pretty complex story behind him that I cannot wait to read more about and the story really had some twists that I did not expect at all.
The characters all had their interesting points but I felt that there could be a bit of a slower pace to their stories and developments to get a bit more depth to why they are a certain way or why they made certain choices. Sometimes the events in this book did feel a bit rushed.
Still, the book was well written and fun to read and made me hope book 2 will be out soon.
September 16, 2025
“Prince of Shadows” by Maria Guglielmo is an excellent start for her new “The Blessed” series. The earliest chapters introduced me to a powerful fighter, Meritamun, Lioness of Abdju, but part of the first paragraph is a shocking curse that plagues her for most of the novel. We are also introduced to a good friend of hers, Gallmau, an excellent fighter. The pair also make some surprising new friends, including a necromancer (normally a foe), and discover that some of what they thought were friends were actually enemies. The text is filled with surprises, which the author handles very well. Between the two main characters, they battle their way through many challenges during the 34 riveting chapters. Totally thrilling, and I have read lots of SF and fantasy during my lifetime (and a dozen world conferences).
May 24, 2025
I would like to start my review by thanking the author for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Overall, the book was okay for me. When I read the summary and saw the cover, it did hook my interest. However, as I was reading the book, it started to become a struggle to get through the chapters. When switching between the different points of view, I felt that I was losing information, and I had to go back and try to figure out how I got to that point. Throughout the story, I could feel the connection that the three main characters were making and the feeling that they had towards each other.
There were a lot of ideas and journeys that were going on in this book for me, and at times, I got lost in what the main journey of the story was. Or the side journey was rushed to completion and didn't make sense.
Overall, the book was okay for me. When I read the summary and saw the cover, it did hook my interest. However, as I was reading the book, it started to become a struggle to get through the chapters. When switching between the different points of view, I felt that I was losing information, and I had to go back and try to figure out how I got to that point. Throughout the story, I could feel the connection that the three main characters were making and the feeling that they had towards each other.
There were a lot of ideas and journeys that were going on in this book for me, and at times, I got lost in what the main journey of the story was. Or the side journey was rushed to completion and didn't make sense.
July 9, 2025
ARC review! huge thanks to the author for the arc
this story was chaotic but in a good way. the functionality and magic of the world was different but pretty unique in that it melts like royal hierarchy, affinity magic, and has religious gods/goddesses. I've not read anything like it. the twists actually had me laughing because you think you see it coming but its not quite what you expect. I love the main characters and how they go from hating each other to having to work together. the ending was so good and I can't wait for more of the story. there is very little spice and the bit of spice it has actually adds to the story line which I personally like. I couldn't put this story down. highly recommend reading this story
this story was chaotic but in a good way. the functionality and magic of the world was different but pretty unique in that it melts like royal hierarchy, affinity magic, and has religious gods/goddesses. I've not read anything like it. the twists actually had me laughing because you think you see it coming but its not quite what you expect. I love the main characters and how they go from hating each other to having to work together. the ending was so good and I can't wait for more of the story. there is very little spice and the bit of spice it has actually adds to the story line which I personally like. I couldn't put this story down. highly recommend reading this story
August 31, 2025
I had the chance to read Prince of Shadows as an ARC and overall I really enjoyed it. The story is engaging with rich worldbuilding and characters that pulled me in quickly. At times, the pacing and flow made the plot a little hard to follow, but it was never enough to take me completely out of the experience.
The romance and spice were definitely highlights for me. While the intimate scenes felt a bit rushed, they were still very well written and gave me exactly what I wanted from them. The chemistry between the characters was clear and added an extra spark to the adventure.
This is a solid, imaginative read with just enough heat and intrigue to keep me turning the pages. I’ll definitely be looking forward to more from this author!
The romance and spice were definitely highlights for me. While the intimate scenes felt a bit rushed, they were still very well written and gave me exactly what I wanted from them. The chemistry between the characters was clear and added an extra spark to the adventure.
This is a solid, imaginative read with just enough heat and intrigue to keep me turning the pages. I’ll definitely be looking forward to more from this author!
October 1, 2025
This book is an amazing 5 star read. I absolutely loved the world building, politics, and character development. It's pretty fast paced with lots of action, humor, and snark. I really enjoyed the push and pull between the characters that just added to chaos they found themselves in.
This is a book I wish was part of a completed 5 plus series because I would gladly spend a week or more binging this world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a book I wish was part of a completed 5 plus series because I would gladly spend a week or more binging this world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 29, 2025
Thank you to M.A. Gugliemo and BookSirens for this ARC,
Prince of Shadows delivers a dark and gripping fantasy full of death magic, political intrigue, and unexpected emotional depth. Meritamun, our fierce FMC, is racing against time to survive a parasitic necromancer’s curse. Alongside the enigmatic shadow-wielder Sinan and steadfast Gallmau, she navigates a world of magical attacks, lost siblings, and ancient artefacts.
Prince of Shadows delivers a dark and gripping fantasy full of death magic, political intrigue, and unexpected emotional depth. Meritamun, our fierce FMC, is racing against time to survive a parasitic necromancer’s curse. Alongside the enigmatic shadow-wielder Sinan and steadfast Gallmau, she navigates a world of magical attacks, lost siblings, and ancient artefacts.
August 20, 2025
Meri and Gallmau are slayers of the shadow walkers. Until they meet Sinan. The three of them are set on a journey full of twists, turns, death and betrayal that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The characters are done well and the world building is wonderful. The plot flow is a tiny bit slow but needed. All in all this was a good read. But please tell me there will be a book two!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are done well and the world building is wonderful. The plot flow is a tiny bit slow but needed. All in all this was a good read. But please tell me there will be a book two!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 10, 2025
Thank you to Booksirens for allowing me to read & review this ARC
There was a lot going on in the first part of this book ,with names & descriptions of places that I found it hard to stay in the book , too much going on that I feel it didn’t flow too well.
I did like the magic in here, time slowing/stopping, necromancy & the shadows!
From what I read in the blurb I thought id really enjoy it but it just didn’t hit for me.
There was a lot going on in the first part of this book ,with names & descriptions of places that I found it hard to stay in the book , too much going on that I feel it didn’t flow too well.
I did like the magic in here, time slowing/stopping, necromancy & the shadows!
From what I read in the blurb I thought id really enjoy it but it just didn’t hit for me.
September 18, 2025
I've never read a necromancer novel before so I didn't know what to expect. The book wasn't fast paced but was filled with action. The chatacters are all different and you either love then or hate them. For a first book in a series it's intriguingand a collection i could get into. It was good to read the story from different characters perspective.
August 1, 2025
I had the hardest time figuring out what was going in the beginning of the book and I got to a place where I was starting to understand but It couldn't keep my attention enough to continue reading. I tried. I couldn't finish it.
September 14, 2025
I loved this book. I loved the action scenes and the world building. The magic system was intriguing. The descriptions of the bone lords I found interesting. The plot was interesting. I loved the main characters. Their interactions at the start to the finish. I wish we had more scenes with just them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 11, 2025
Another amazingly unique and creative tale by this author. I love the characters and their connections to each other. This was an acton packed, twisted story and I loved every minute of it. Just did not want it to end! I really hope there is a second book as I want to see what Gallmau, Meri and their strange assortment of friend get up to next.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
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