City of Shadow and Bone: Mates of Gods and Fae Book 2

by M.B. Atkins

Bound by a bargain. Haunted by secrets. Destined for death.

Sybil Hart’s unknown bloodline may hold the key to everything she desires, and she’ll do anything—even if it means dying—to claim it.

Drawn into the rebels' rising war, Sybil is caught between Samian, her brooding protector, and Kieran, the fierce warrior bound to her in ways neither can deny. By night she trains with the rebels, by day she moves unseen, shrouded in shadows beyond her enemy’s reach—every defiance a dangerous gamble. But hope is fragile, and each stolen victory demands a sacrifice that cuts deeper than the last.

As war with the Seelie Court looms, Sybil faces a choice that will shatter kingdoms: obey and destroy the ones she loves... or embrace her power within and rise.

But death is only the beginning…

462 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2026

Reviews

[Junisa Santos · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was not ready for how this book ended let alone everything that happened. I lost track of how many times I said what the heck cause what Ambrose did to the Queen and reading what Ezra did 😩 I’m so happy to see Sybil have some growth! And I cannot wait to read book 3

I really hope we get more of Soren and that he accepts Sybil (iykyk)

And really wanna know if Sybil gets revenge on Arianna or curios to see what happens with her and Ambrose

[Cherin W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Mates of Gods and Fae series improves upon book 1 in every way. I read the first book right before diving into this one, and I was so happy to find that the majority of the challenges I had from book 1 are completely gone. This sequel improves on everything—world-building, character depth, and definitely the tension.

Slight Spoilers Ahead:
What I loved:
• Sybil’s Growth: Watching her navigate her new realm and powers felt earned and engaging. Her stubbornness is still a bit vexing but the girl has been through a lot and continues to fight against the villain.
• Salem: The introduction of her "shadow cat" was a major highlight. I have a feeling there is a lot more to him than we know and I am here for it.
• The Stakes: The villain continues to be terrifyingly ruthless. His chapters are dark and gritty, which makes the high-stakes action feel real.
The Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The spice level is taken up several notches. This book leans into a "why choose" dynamic that was hinted at in book one. While I don’t typically seek out this trope, the author handled it beautifully, and the connection between the characters feels real.

Final Thoughts:
There was one plot point near the ending that felt a little abrupt to me, so I’m very interested to see if and how that gets addressed in the next installment. Overall, it’s a fun, fast-paced read full of intrigue, action and questions yet to be answered.

I was given an advance review copy of the book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is my honest opinion.

[Kaila Elam · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

This book was much improved from the last one ☝️ I'm loving the spice in this one. The unexpected loyalty and betrayals took me by surprise. I still don't understand the stronghold Ambrose has on everyone when other beings are more powerful though. Relationships I found lacking connection.
The plot moved more steadily and I found it much more exciting. There are a lot of loose ends to be tied so it makes me excited for book 3.

[Cristina M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received the ARC and I’m SOOO glad I did!
It meant I could binge book one in a few days and jump straight into book two, which honestly made the whole experience better.

I’ll be real: Sybil got on my nerves at the beginning of book one..very naive, but book two completely turned that around. Her growth was so satisfying to read. She starts standing up for herself, owning her power, and refuses to be a damsel in distress, even with more than one fated mate around.

I also loved the choice to include multiple POVs and we are talking not just the FMC/MMCs. Getting inside other characters’ heads really sold me on this series. And yes, I get the Ambrose hate (he’s an a*s), but Arianna?? Certified b*tch. I need book 3 ASAP, and side note to author, emmmh please consider this as a formal application for ARC book 3, thank youuuuu!

[Fantasy Fables · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ - Book 2 of the Mates of Gods and Fae series picked up right where we left off at the end of Book 1, and this was a fantastic sequel!

There were a lot of the same things to love in this dark fantasy - a slow burn romance, hidden truths, betrayal, he falls first, multiple POVs, a modern day fantasy world, gods & fae, found family, lovable side characters, and fated mates. Plus, we also got to see the why choose romance, all the spice, dragon shifters, a shadow daddy, and an animal companion in this one!

Sybil has agreed to join the rebellion, and our girl had some major growth in this book. She becoming stronger in her powers, and she's still learning to navigate this new world she's been thrust into. She does through a lot in this book, and I'm excited to see her continued arc in the next book.

We get to lean into the why choose aspect of this series, and I was ecstatic to learn Sybil will have mates than I was anticipating! I'm currently loving the dynamic between her and her first 2 mates, but I can't wait for her to realize who the third one is in the next book and see how that new dynamic will affect the group. The spice we got in this book was 🥵, and I loved it! 🌶️

The stakes are rising as Ambrose seems to be succumbing to madness. Be prepared for his chapters to feel dark and ruthless because that's exactly what we get from him in this book.

Were introduced to a bunch of new characters in this one, and it really increased the found family aspect of the story. One of my favorite new characters, though, was Salem. I really loved the addition of this vicious shadow companion. 🐈‍⬛

There's definitely some heartbreak and tension in this one, and the ending was fantastic. I can't wait to see what happens next in Book 3! ✨

[DeyaReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
City of Shadow and Bone by M.B Atkins completely consumed me from beginning to end. I all the emotions while reading this book, heartbreak, rage, hope, shock… all of it. Watching Sybil’s growth throughout this book was honestly one of my favorite parts. She’s becoming stronger, more powerful and more sure of herself and I loved seeing her evolve through every challenge thrown her way.

And the twists?!?! M.B. Atkins had me sitting there staring at the pages because I did NOT see some of those moments coming. Every time I thought I knew where the story was headed another twist hit me.

But let’s talk about Ezra for a second because EXCUSE ME?!?! 😩 I’m so heartbroken and so angry . I’m still not over it.

And now I desperately need more Soren and can’t wait to learn more about him. How am I supposed to wait for the next book? I NEED it!! Thanks to Rattle The Stars PR for the ARC🫶

[Sara-Jane Keenan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Mates of Gods and Fae series, and it is essential that you read book 1 first.

In this book we return to Sybil, who is currently navigating her new life, mates and powers, whilst preparing for what is to come. Her character has really grown on me now and she is a lot stronger and more confident than the first book.

The spice is stepped up a level in this book and we get to embrace the why choose romance, which I loved. There’s even more to come which is very exciting.

The plot kept me entertained throughout, it was filled with secrets, betrayal, tension and spice, and again MB has left me eagerly anticipating the next book, I can’t wait to see what happens.

Overall, this was another 4⭐️ read for me. Bring on book 3!!!

[Shawna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for allowing me to be an ARC reader!

This book didn’t skip a beat, starting off right where the first ended! I was very excited to dive back into this world, and it didn’t disappoint. There were a few plot twists that I didn’t see coming, and the ending has me itching for book three! I really enjoyed the dynamic between Samian, Kieran and Sybil, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the third mate plays into this in the next book. I would really like to see more of Kieran in the next book, as well. He definitely became my favorite in this book. Also, I very much enjoyed the downward spiral of Ambrose. I think it was very well written and you could really get a grip on how unstable he was becoming throughout the book. 10/10 would recommend this series!

[Mrs Kirstie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well… that was good. Very good. So good I really need to know when the next one is out and how I can get it sooner please? I love Sybil… She is feisty and doesn't take any crap, regardless of the situation. I really enjoyed the world and felt fully immersed in it… the descriptions are detailed enough you can picture yourself there, but not so much it's dull to read. I liked the different gods and goddesses and their stories. I can't wait to hear more about Aster and the other character's stories. And of course, find out all about Dubnos and Soren's story. So if I could have book three now please that would be grand? 😁 I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Julie(s bookish life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, so how do you get into a second book without spoiling things? So we really hate the villain in this book, and it’s villainy done right. This guy is an evil PoS, but he still convinces himself he is doing what is right. Thankfully, Sybil’s team grows bigger and stronger, and she gains a bonus BF. Girl, let me tell you….I really enjoyed the spice in this book. It was lovely to see consistency in character personalities between both of the books. Our main characters stayed true to who they are (except for the one traitor…asshole) while still experiencing character growth. I hope that the character arcs of the main characters continue to grow in the next book. Pretty much nothing goes as planned in this book, and Sybil spends a lot of time being accidentally unconscious. It never feels like too much, though, and nothing ends up feeling repetitive. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading book number three, whenever it ends up being released!

[Kaylee (Faerietalesafterdark) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to recieve an ARC copy of this book by the author for free.
I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions in this review are my own.

This book was amazing!
From the start, the plot had me hooked and it seemed to just get better and better as the time went on. In the first book, I wasn't too sure of Sybil. I thought she was kind of childish and naieve. However, in the second book, her character growth and change was great and much needed. She finally started to accept what was going on around her and stop being so fearful of herself and her powers.
I loved that there was a little mystery element to her shadow companion, Salem. They just kind of pop in and out and protect Sybil when she needs it and is a constant reassuring presence for her, even if it's unclear who/what it is.
I think how the author portrayed Ambroses descent was excellent. She was really able to show (in words) what was going on with him, and it was deeply uncomfortable, in the best kind of way, to witness. She was able to do it in such a way that I was able to see a progression that all finally culminated into the major conflict towards the end.
I still love Sabien and Kieran, although I wish that I could see a little more depth to Kieran, other than the overprotective brute, and I am so curious about his magic, since we haven't really seen it much yet.
The only thing I wish was that there was a touch more world building. I found myself a little confused at times as to who was in which court and the relationships between all the characters and the politics involved. But for the most part I was able to piece it together for myself.
And excuse me, but the PLOT TWIST (or two) had my jaw on the floor. I did not see that coming for some reason. I think the way the author was able to give very subtle clues without making it obvious was genius. Usualy I'm able to kind of work out the twists.. but not this time!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I could really see the authors writing start to flourish in this one compared to the first.

I would definitely recommend this book if you're into:
- dark romantasy
- fated mates (multiple)
-found family
- hidden bloodlines and secrets
- touch her and d*e

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok

Wow this was such an improvement from book one
—stronger world-building, better pacing, deeper characters, and much higher stakes.

Sybil’s growth from book one was done so well. In the first book, she is naive and fearful of her powers, but here she finally begins to accept her abilities and step into her strength.

I loved the why-choose trope in this, especially with two of her mates, Samian and Kieran. Their constant bickering was so entertaining, but I also loved how they ultimately accepted that she belonged with both of them. That said, I desperately need more from the third mate, Soren — especially after that ending.

The found-family really shines in this with the introduction of several new characters. Salem, Sybil’s vicious shadow companion, was easily one of my favorites. I also desperately need more Soren after that ending.

The stakes are also much higher this time around. The villain remain absolutely terrifying. I love getting their POVs to show just how evil they truly are. And the twists? Absolutely insane. I genuinely did not see some of them coming.

Overall, this was darker, steamier, and far more addictive than the first book, and now I need book 3 immediately.


‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧

➳❥ Book 2 / Dark Romantasy Series
➳❥ Fated Mates
➳❥ Why Choose
➳❥ Found Family
➳❥ Secrets
➳❥ Gods & Fae
➳❥ Rebellion

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼

“This was a worship, a devotion, a burning passion that blazed only for me.”

"Princess, I would destroy this entire realm. I would watch it all burn just to get back to you, and then, as the fire decimates everything around me, I would find whoever hurt you and slowly rip them apart to make sure they felt every pain they ever caused you. And that would just be the start."

“You are the light that brought me out of the darkness of this world."

"Only in death will she rise to become the one she was meant to be.”

[Jenia · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Thank you to the author, M.B Atkins and Rattle the Stars PR, for letting me be part of review team! *

I didn’t think that I could love this story more; I was wrong. I loved City of Light and Promise, but I loved City of Shadow and Bone even more. There was so much more happening in this book, and there wasn’t a single part of the book that didn’t hold my attention. Every page in the story had me on the edge of my seat, wondering what was going to happen with Sybil, Samian, and Kieran next. I’m officially obsessed with this series. Halfway through reading City of Shadows and Bone, I was thinking about the third book. Just finished the second book, and it’s already one of my favorite fantasy series. I can’t get Sybil’s story out of my mind.

Of all the characters, Sybil is my favorite. Sybil’s growth in the second book is phenomenal! One of my favorite parts in the book was watching her become stronger, more powerful, and less scared of her powers. I loved seeing her stand up for herself. However, sometimes the decisions she made had me shake my head. I was rooting for her all the way through. I hoped she would find a way to break from Ambrose's bond. I also loved how, despite everything she was put through, she kept on fighting. Sybil's transformation is probably one of my favorite characters' growths I've read.

My feelings towards Ambrose changed. He needs to be stopped. I don’t remember the last time I disliked a character that much. I loved the mate bond between Samian, Sybil, and Kieran. You could tell how much both cared about her. It was interesting to read a book where a character has more than one mate; it was unique. I’m curious to see what happens between the two of them next. The twists in this book are what kept me turning the pages. I loved the magical world in this series; it’s unlike any other book I have read. A must-read! I can’t wait to see what is in store for us in the next book!

[Stina Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

If a book gives me a villain worth obsessing over, I’m already halfway in love, and City of Shadow and Bone absolutely understood the assignment.
This story doesn’t ease you into its darkness; it drags you under and dares you to breathe. Gods meddle, fae scheme, mortals bleed, and every alliance feels temporary at best. The magic is dangerous, the politics are sharp, and nothing, not love, not loyalty, not fate, comes without a price.
Sybil Hart is the kind of heroine I live for. Sharp-tongued, stubborn, and unflinchingly brave, she refuses to bend even when the world demands it. She moves through shadows with purpose, challenging gods and kings alike, and her unknown bloodline hums beneath the surface like a loaded weapon. Watching her navigate rebellion, power, and impossible choices was intoxicating.
The romance? Deliciously painful. Slow-burn, soul-bound, and heavy with tension that makes every look feel like a threat. Samian broods like it’s an art form, Kieran burns with something fierce and undeniable, and Sybil is caught between them in ways that feel cruelly inevitable. Love here isn’t safe, it’s a liability.
What really sets this book apart is the atmosphere. The world feels alive without drowning you in detail: shadowed cities, clashing courts, layered gods with their own agendas. Every setting, every myth, every whispered secret adds weight without slowing the pace. And the villains? Morally gray, compelling, and impossible to ignore, exactly how I like them.
By the final pages, I was left unhinged in the best way. I need more answers. More chaos. More Dubnos. More Soren. More Aster. Honestly, I need book three immediately and I’m not above begging.
Dark, seductive, and dangerous, City of Shadow and Bone is the kind of sequel that doesn’t just raise the stakes, it sharpens the blade.

[Tiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man, let’s just say I no longer am attracted to this villain. He’s bat sh!t crazy. 🤣 Although, I will honestly say his attractiveness went away pretty quickly in book 1 (sort of) even though some of his scenes were 🤌🏻 🔥
I loved seeing Sybil’s transformation and determination continue to grow as she grasps what her fate truly is and learns what she needs to do even with being bound by the bargain. She refuses to be the one to be cast aside, she refuses to be the weak girl she used to be and is determined to grow into her true self. I seriously love Kieran and his fierce protectiveness over Sybil and I love how Samian tries to be the balance between the 2 (sometimes) using reasoning to see each others side in conflict, I also love how he tries to protect Sybil while supporting her decisions in every way possible (even if he wants to choke her like Homer would Bart when she does something a lil dumb). The plot twist and betrayal hurt so bad in the end because even though I suspected it could be them, IT STILL FREAKING HURT. Cause like WHY why WHYYYY. I wanted to throttle them so bad at the end but it was a necessary evil for Sybil to do what she needed to do. I love how the gods & fae and their political system has built up in book 2 and I genuinely enjoyed how the action began to pick up and you see how even more ruthless and crazy the villain gets. Also the spicy scenes are S.P.I.C.Y.!! Was so hot and so gooodddd!!!
Yes, i called out of work so i could actually sit down and enjoy reading this book. It is so worth it.
Side note: Ivara also sounds really hot on paper. I fear i would be so intimidated by her in real life. I said what I said. 🔥🤌🏻🤣
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed and loved book 2 so much and seriously cannot wait until book 3 comes out!
This book gets 4.5 stars from me! 🫶🏻

[Michelle Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

City of Shadow and Bone deepens the Mates of Gods and Fae series with darker stakes, richer mythology, and emotionally charged intensity. This installment doesn’t just continue the story—it expands the world in ways that feel deliberate, dangerous, and immersive.

Atkins excels at world-building without slowing the narrative. The city itself feels alive—layered with power structures, ancient magic, political tension, and shadowed secrets that shape every interaction. The divine and fae elements are woven seamlessly into the setting, creating a mythology that feels both epic and intimate.

The romance carries weight, not just heat. The bond between the leads is built on tension, destiny, and emotional conflict rather than convenience. Their connection feels earned, complicated, and magnetic—driven by power dynamics, loyalty, and forces much larger than themselves. The “mates” concept is handled with depth, not cliché, blending fate with choice in a way that keeps the relationship grounded and intense.

What truly elevates this book is its tone: darker, more mature, and more emotionally complex than a typical fantasy romance sequel. There’s a constant sense of looming consequence—nothing feels safe, simple, or guaranteed. The pacing is tight, the stakes are real, and the emotional arcs carry real weight.

City of Shadow and Bone is a strong, confident sequel that proves this series is building toward something big—mythic in scope, romantic in intensity, and darkly compelling in execution. A must-read for fans of divine fantasy romance, fated mates, shadow magic, and high-stakes emotional storytelling.

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two far exceeds book one and I was here for every second of it!
Book two picks up where book one left off and if you were waiting on all the drama to finally kick off and this book/series to gain it's footing...the wait is over!
The way that I burned my way through this book! OMG! It's so good! Sybil is showing a lot of growth and I am here for all of it! She's fighting back against Ambrose as he attempts to control her and her magic. Thankfully, he still has no idea who she really is and her full capabilities, but things are getting even more dangerous. Ambrose is becoming erratic and it won't be long before he's attacking his own allies.
The pages start heating up between Sybil and Samian. FINALLY!! LOL! But what we love is that there is more to come. More mates, more drama, more chaos! Give it all to me! The steamy level is moderate overall. The focus moves more towards Sybil than Ambrose, but he gets a scene or two.
What we love most...the darkness. Whatever this curious thing is...we want one. LOL! It's curious, it's hungry...and boy does it bring a fresh round of chaos and drama! Couldn't get enough! Honestly wanted more. LOL!
This book is packed with twists, turns, and an ending that will leave you with your jaw on the floor and you looking around on the verge of screaming...Where's book 3?! LOL!
I loved every element of this book and I can't wait for the next installment!

[okaybookbestie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC through Book Sirens!
Let me just yap for a second because YALL!!!! The first book walked so this one could full on sprint! From start to finish I was locked in. Our girl Sybil has been seriously put through it. I loved seeing her strength in herself start to build in this book, however she is extremely hard headed at times and I wanted to shake her! Excellent next book in the series. It left me ready for more and wondering what it is our little Sybil has gotten herself into now.

Some of my fave things I wanna mention:
- The magic system in this universe is unique. I like that we still don’t even have the full scope of our FMC magic yet. She’s come a long way but the ending of this one tells me she’s about to go a whole lot further in the next.

- The why choose of it all was definitely why choosing in the best way possible.

- There are so many different POVs in this series without it feeling confusing or lack luster. The characters are fleshed out in such a good way that you feel the shift in personality depending on whose chapter it is. It feels distinct and purposeful… and I’m nosy af so it’s so nice to see almost every angle from every character!

Anyway, all that to say I already knew this series was going to hurt me from the first book, and I fear this one sent me spiraling out just the same and in the best way.

[Once Upon A Page✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am obsessed with this series🤩

Book 2 follows Sybil’s story and her discoveries/adventures in the unfamiliar Upper World. It’s giving darkness, shadows, betrayal, alliances and a whole lot of romance🤭 I absolutely love a fantasy book that’s rooted in politics, and this one does it soooo well. Found family is another favourite of mine and the one in this series is 10/10, every character is so impactful and relevant. I’m obsessed with the various relationships growing and changing! The combined elements of gods, fae, shifters, mating bonds, courts and varieties of magic are written so well and give you so much information without being confusing. Sybil is my favourite kind of FMC, she’s fierce, stubborn and wears her heart on her sleeve despite the risks. There are plenty of morally gray MMC’s to go around, Soren was an unexpected but very exciting addition to this character pool🤩 The foundations for the world building in book 1 walked so book 2 could run, the vivid descriptions and unique setting really draws you in without being too much and everything is so memorable. The last 15% had me holding my breath on multiple occasions, some of the twists absolutely blindsided me and bumped this up to a solid 5⭐️’s. I am absolutely desperate for book 3 which is hopefully not too far in the future to warrant a full crash out👀

[Siera Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two really said “you thought your emotions survived book one? adorable.” 😭✨

City of Shadow and Bone takes everything I loved about the first book and cranks it up to dangerous levels. The stakes are higher, the emotions hit harder, and the tension? Absolutely lethal. I spent half this book stressed, obsessed, and clutching my metaphorical taco in fear.

Sybil’s growth in this one was EVERYTHING. Watching her step deeper into her power while carrying the weight of impossible choices made her feel so real. She’s not just surviving anymore… she’s becoming something terrifying and unstoppable.

And the relationships? Whew.
The push and pull between loyalty, love, destiny, and betrayal had me spiraling in the best way possible. Samian still owns a suspicious amount of my sanity, but Kieran? That man entered the chat and casually set the room on fire.

The world-building got even richer here too. Dark magic, rebellion, secrets, sacrifice… every chapter felt layered with tension and looming disaster. And that ending?? MB Atkins really looked me in the eyes, stole my peace, and walked away dramatically into the night.

This series feels like wandering through a beautiful cursed kingdom where everyone is hot, emotionally damaged, and one bad decision away from ruin. Naturally, I’m obsessed 🌮🖤

[Danielle Byron · Rating 5 out of 5]

In City of Shadow and Bone (Mates of Gods and Fae, Book 2), author M.B. Atkins plunges readers back into a world that is as compelling as it is challenging. While the narrative continues to explore darker complexities, I found this installment slightly less dark than Book 1, though it remains a venture into a ruthless world.

The author once again provides clear trigger warnings, ensuring potential readers are well informed about the material.

Our protagonist, Sybil, shows significant growth in both self-confidence and magical ability. The villains—reminiscent of iconic figures like Lord Voldemort, Darth Vader, and the Marquis de Sade—return even meaner and more egotistical than before. I particularly enjoyed the introduction of an additional main character and the reveal of the Unseelie Royal Court.

For fans of spicy romance, the polyamorous relationship development is very well executed. I recommend this novel to those who enjoy high-stakes fantasy, intricate character journeys, and plenty of "spicy" scenes. After the events of this book, I am eagerly looking forward to seeing how Sybil’s journey unfolds in Book 3.

I received an advance readers' copy (ARC) for free and am leaving this review entirely voluntarily.

[Justine · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up from 3.5)

City of Shadow and Bone was definitely better than the first book, largely because Sybil was far more tolerable this time around. Her dynamic with Kieran and Samian was spicy, fun, and easily the highlight of the story.

The worldbuilding still feels confusing, though the foundation is solid. My biggest issue is the continued lack of answers with certain plot threads that keep resurfacing without any explanation, which is frustrating heading into a third book. I also expected more clarity on Sybil’s background by now, but instead we get a lot of characters who clearly know things and refuse to share.

The Seelie Court added much-needed intrigue and was a standout for me, but Soren was unlikable with no clear justification for his attitude. This would be a 3.5 if half stars were allowed, but it leans closer to a 4 so I’m going to round up. Still undecided if I’ll continue the series.

I received this book as an ARC review in exchange for honest feedback.

[Samantha Bender · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think it was possible to love Sybil more than I already did after reading book 1, but I was wrong! Her character just keeps getting better and better and it was so uplifting to see her really start coming into her own in this book. The character development of all other characters became more intricate as well and I found myself beginning to understand each one better than I had before. There were a few new additions to the cast that I couldn't wait to read more about and kept the story feeling fresh. The world building really ramped up in this book which gave the story even more depth than it had before and helped me to foresee the struggles to come. I was on the edge of my seat for most of this book because the burgeoning conflict was already leading to so much action! The romance also turned up a notch in this book and every scene was so well written and felt essential to the story. I cannot wait for book three to come out so I can find out Sybil's fate after that cliffhanger ending!

[Amy Leritz · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Double Book mini-Review ✨

City of Promise and Light
City of Shadow and Bone

By @m.b.atkinsauthor

Loved these two books, a lot! I enjoy a good why-choose series and these did not disappoint!

Sybil, our FMC is thrown into a world she’s unfamiliar with, forced to do things she had no idea she was capable of, all while finding her mate(s), when she didn’t even understand what a mate bond was.

The world building is complex, yet easy to dive right into and follow. The multiple POVs make it super engaging and hard to put down! I loved all the different elements of magic!

Cannot wait for book 3 to be in my hands!! 😍 Thank you @m.b.atkinsauthor and @crownsandchaos_pr for these books and having me on your book review team!!

Slow burn | Long-forgotten secrets | Betrayal | Hidden truths | He falls first | Why choose | Gods & Fae | Fated Mates | Dark Fantasy | Found Family | Open door spicy scenes | Dragon shifters | Shadow Daddy | Animal companion

[Lauren Giles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sybil's growth in this book was phenomenal! She finally stopped being scared of herself and her powers and started accepting it and learned how to grow. I loved getting to see more about her mates and watching their mating bonds grow. I cannot wait to see more of the third mating bond in book 3. Everything started picking up in book 2, the political system, learning more about the fae and gods, the action, and the SPICCCEEEE. Yes.

I love how we are able to see the multiple POVs and not just the MC's. Seeing Ambrose's descent into madness, even in his own POV.. is so good. I still need Ambrose to get his and Arianna. But he Who shall not be named broke my heart with his betrayal. WHY?!

I need more answers. More of Soren and of Dubnos. More of Samian, Kieran, and Sybil. I need book 3. Like yesterday!

Highly recommend this book if you love:
~ multiple fated mates
~ dark romantasy
~ found family
~ touch her and d*e

[Lilith's_Library_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

City of Shadow and Bone plunges readers into a world where gods, fae, and mortals collide, and where love is as dangerous as the magic that binds it. M.B. Atkins continues the saga with intensity, weaving together dark romance, high stakes, and supernatural intrigue.

The story follows soul-bound mates navigating betrayal, secrets, and impossible choices. The tension is palpable — every glance, every touch carries the weight of destiny and danger. The romance is slow-burn, fated, and consuming, with sparks that could ignite or destroy.

Atkins’ world building is immersive and gothic-tinged, with shadowed cities, magical politics, and supernatural threats that keep the reader on edge. The fae and gods are complex, morally gray, and compelling — perfectly complementing the protagonists’ struggle to survive, trust, and love amidst chaos.

[Clair · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ways in which this delivered everything I was hoping for after COPAL…

This series is teeing itself up for greatness. There are just enough little nuggets of foreshadowing to give us a glimpse into a wild, beautiful, complex storyline and I literally cannot wait to see how it plays out.

Sybil is a character I can totally get behind. She’s not a classically beautiful teenage girl, shes one of us — an adult female who doesn’t have her sh** together and isn’t as strong as she wishes she could be but is figuring it out for the sake of herself, for her chosen family, and for sweet revenge.

I haven’t had this many lightbulb “omg what does that mean” moments since the days of Lost. My friend and I unpack every detail and have so many theories about what’s going to happen. Everything feels like a clue, everything is building toward something. I need book 3 like…NOW.

Read it.

[Nessa Velez · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ✨

This second book was so good! I loved the progression of the story so much and the character development. Especially for our main female character , Sybil, who is finally coming into her own. Not only in power but in her voice!

I love strong female characters, especially ones that fight back and make themselves felt ! Sybil is that and much more. Especially when it comes to protecting her peace!

One of the things I enjoy so much about this series is the originality of the world we are put into. It’s not the typical fantasy story and tropes. There’s so many elements and characters, and they all have their own unique story to tell which is not always easy to do but M.B Atkins is a master weaver of story and character connections.

I also loved the extra element of sexiness in this installment! Very spicy ✨

I am so excited for the next book! Can’t wait !

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

City of Shadow & Bone Review...
⭐️ 4 🌶 3

Oh book two in the Mates of Gods & Fae Series… okay! You did that!! I really loved seeing Sybil kind of blossom into who she wants to be and is trying to be. It was great to see her character arc and let me just say, the character development in both books is top notch!

This world that was developed is special in how it works and how the magic forms and is done. Which is great because you don’t get a lot of variety when it comes to magic, Gods and Fae… they are typically all the same. But not here!

Such a great duet and I cannot wait to see what else this author brings our way next!!!

**Read the Trigger Warnings!!**



Slow Burn | Betrayal | Secrets & Hidden Truths | He Falls First | Why Choose | Dark Fantasy | Found Family | Open Door | Gods & Fae | Fated Mates | Dragon Shifters | Shadow Daddy | Animal Companion

[Dario Pacheco · Rating 4 out of 5]

In book 2 we continue on this journey with Sybil as secrets come to light and the war that has been brewing for a long time comes to a head. Throw in a budding who choose spicy romance and a villain you can’t help but want to punch in the face and you got this stunning book.
M.B. for sure elevated this sequel in a spectacular way. Leveling up the romance and diving deep into character development for our main trio that was very addicting.
And speaking of our trio… Samian & Our new addition Kieran were a spicy little treat. for sure Sybil is a lucky girl🔥
I also loved how this story expanded on the world and its wide variety of creatures. Bring dem Gods in honey!
Now I just need book 3 to get here, I just know it’s going to explode 👀👀

100% recommend this series to my lovers of a good why choose romance with beautiful world building. 💕