Realm of Shadows

Heir of Hades #1

by Rektok Ross

In a world where gods and monsters walk hidden among us, falling for the wrong guy might do more than break her heart—it might awaken a war.

College freshman Alysander Smith has never fit in her small beach town of glossy smiles and airbrushed perfection. All she wants is to escape and prove she’s more than just the punchline everyone laughs at. The only bright spot? Hayden Vassilios, her gorgeous childhood best friend turned campus football god—and the guy she’s been secretly in love with for years. But when she uncovers a dark family secret about her long-lost, deadbeat father, everything changes.

Alysander starts to wonder if her mother’s crazed whispers about ancient mythological bloodlines and a secret Underworld might be less delusion and more danger. Something old and powerful is awakening, and Hayden is at the center of it all. When the truth shatters everything she thought she knew, Alysander will have to walk away—or step into the shadows and fight for a love that was never hers to keep.

Realm of Shadows is a romantic fantasy retelling of Hades and Persephone. This is a slow-burn, best-friends-to-lovers romance filled with dark yearning, ancient mythic secrets, and a supernatural reveal that changes everything.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, Friends To Lovers, Dark Fantasy, Suspense, Slow Burn

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 21, 2026

About the author

Liani Kotcher (writing as Rektok Ross) is a trial attorney turned award-winning and bestselling author, screenwriter, and producer. An avid reader since childhood, Liani writes exactly the kind of books she loves to escape into herself: exciting thrillers with strong female leads, swoonworthy love interests, and life-changing moments. She graduated from the University of Florida School of Journalism and obtained her juris doctorate at the University of Miami School of Law. Originally from South Florida, she currently splits her time between San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas with her husband, step kids, and her dogs. She is the recipient of several awards, including the American Fiction Awards, IAN Book of the Year Awards, Readers’ Favorite Book Awards, the Chanticleer Dante Rossetti Book Awards, and Women Writing the West. Her debut young adult thriller Ski Weekend was named a “best book” of the year by Cosmopolitan, Entertainment Weekly, Parade, BookRiot, Yahoo!Life, Brit + Co., BookTrib, J-14, and more and is currently in development for a major motion picture. You can find her online just about anywhere at @RektokRoss, as well as on her website, www.RektokRoss.com, where she blogs about books and writing.

You can find her online just about anywhere at @RektokRoss, as well as on her website, www.RektokRoss.com, where she blogs about books and writing.

Facebook: @RektokRoss
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Twitter: @RektokRoss
Readers Group: www.facebook.com/groups/thebooknookbyrektokross/

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Reviews

[Eve Schroeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love romance + fantasy, RUN—don’t walk—to this one when it drops April 21st!!!
The storyline had me hooked, but it was the characters that really stole the show. Their banter? Chef’s kiss. And Ally? Absolutely hilarious—I was laughing out loud!
But can we talk about that ending?! The cliffhanger had me sitting there like… excuse me, WHAT just happened?!
Counting down the days until @RektokRoss gives us the next book because I NEED answers. Also… manifesting ARC reader status again because I’m not ready to wait like everyone else 😂

[Kelsey Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC REVIEW ✨

🖤 Realm of Shadows 🖤

This is my first 6⭐️ read of the year!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And man I ate this book up so fast!!!! From the first page it will suck you in!!! Alysander story had me needing more and asking so many questions!!! Then you have Hayden the best friend who has secrets of his own!??? To the bratty preppy sister!!! I have never read a book so quickly!!!! It’s got childhood best friends, family drama, to a secret underworld. This gothic romantasy is so dang good!!!!!! Don’t sleep on this book and add it to your TBR NOWWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I need book 2 asap!!! I’m already having withdrawals 🤪😂

[Spreading Pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He looks like trouble. The good kind. The kind you want to run to, even when you know you should be running away."

"It's not just a kiss. It's a goddamn reckoning. The kind of thing that ruins you and makes you forget there was ever a before. Something that rewrites fate itself."

I received an ARC for this romantasy, mythology, touch her and die, friends to lovers (?yes no yes?), yearning, coming of age romance. I was so pleasantly surprised that I stayed up late finishing! As in, can't stop until it's done, download the bonus chapter and read that too late.

This is a re-telling of Hades and Persephone, but it is the first in a series. Often with fantasy reads there is a great deal of time laying out the world and story-line. This book showed the author was very capable of hooking your attention and getting right down to it. It was so enjoyable for me. I am interested to see how the story-line progresses between the FMC and her sister (no spoilers!!).

On a spice level, I would almost consider this closed door or just romance only, no spice. There is a mildly dark/triggering scene towards the end, but overall the actual romance was the highlight. The angst and yearning are next level.

Overall this made me add a lot more RekTok Ross books to my TBR. I don't think I am going to be able to wait until the next in the series is released!

#romance #forbiddenromance #bookstagram #romancereader #slowburn

[Dianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

If you like:

*Slow Burn
*Friends to Lovers
*Touch her & die
*Gothic Character
*Secrets
*Greek Mythology

Then get yourself a copy that publishes on April 21st.

This is the 3rd book I read by this author and I breeze through her books as if there’s no tomorrow. Her books keeps me interested until the last page and this one was not an exception. About 80% of this book is set up to introduce the characters, relationships and struggles. Therefore, you develop an emotional attachment to them before secrets start to come out, which I think she did beautifully.

In this book you meet Alysander, who doesn’t feel seen and feels like she’s not wanted by anyone except by her best friend Hayes. Then you meet her sister Amber who everyone loves including her bff Hayes, the one person she wishes she didn’t have to share.

This book leaves you with a cliffhanger that leaves you craving for more! The ending is just the beginning of what Aly is about to figure out what powers she may have and whether she is or is not the chosen one.

I cannot wait for book 2 and hope it’s close to being done! Maybe I’m asking for too much.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

The first ~70% was just a fun time kind of read, and felt very YA. The last 30% is where the action really happened and when I really got into this story. I do look forward to seeing where this Hades x Persephone inspired Romantasy goes.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Review of advanced reader copy received from author*
I was excited to be an ARC reader for her new fantasy series! I’m already ready for book 2! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a SLOW burn, friends to lovers introduction to a Hades & Persephone retelling. My advice is don’t go into this expecting world building and action starting off right away. Be patient. Understanding the foundation of the friendship between Alysander and Hayes and feeling their connection is important when you see what happens. Oh and get ready to hate Amber.

[Mandy Sickle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received Realm of Shadows in return for an honest review from the author.

I loved Ally she's such a sweet heart you can't help just cheering her on and connecting with her she's totally my kind of character. I have a lot of feelings about her best friend Hayes and her sister Amber that he's been in and on again off relationship. I have hopes for Hayes as the series goes because he needs a little redemption because right the his cousin is looking pretty good.

I devoured this one in just one short reading session I couldn't put it down and I had to know how it would play out. I had some high expectations going into this one as this isn't my first book by the author and she doesn't disappoint she kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time and left me dying for more. I didn't catch the gothic elements per say and it feel more YA or New Adult which is refreshing.

Let's address how stunning is that cover it's gorgeous and totally why I signed up to read this one. Well that and i've read and loved all her books plus I'm a huge Persephone and Hades retelling fan. It's a slow burn story that made me want to throw my kindle across the room a few times and all the feels. The author has created another captivating story that has my obsessed with her storytelling. I love a cliffhanger and don't let that keep you from diving in. Highly recommend and can't wait to see how it's going to play out. I loved it and have huge expectations for the next book.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5 stars)

I went into The Realm of Shadows expecting a moody romantasy with a Hades/Persephone vibe, and it definitely delivered on atmosphere—but what surprised me most was how much the characters carried the story.

Alysander isn’t your typical fantasy heroine. She feels messy in a very real way—uncertain, a little self-conscious, and constantly trying to figure out where she belongs. That made her really easy to connect with. And Hayden? He’s not just the “perfect” love interest. There’s a lot going on under the surface with him, and the book takes its time peeling that back. Their relationship has this quiet emotional weight to it that made the slow-burn actually work for me.

What stood out most was how flawed everyone is. No one feels overly polished or idealized. Characters make questionable choices, hold onto secrets, and exist in that morally gray space that fits the darker tone of the story really well. It made the relationships feel more grounded, even when the plot leaned heavily into mythology and supernatural elements.

That said, the pacing is definitely a weak point. The slow-burn is very slow—so much so that it almost feels like very little actually happens until the final stretch. Then, in the last 10 or so pages, everything ramps up quickly, and the ending feels abrupt rather than satisfying. Even knowing this is the first in a series, it still came across more like a sudden stop than a true narrative payoff.

Some of the twists were also a bit predictable if you’re familiar with the genre, which took away a little of the tension.

Still, if you’re someone who reads romantasy primarily for character dynamics and emotional tension rather than nonstop action, this one is worth picking up. The character depth really is the highlight—it’s the kind of story where you stay because you’re invested in the people, not just the plot.

[Bbecca_marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Realm of Shadows 🖤 Book Review 🐍 thank you so much @rektokrods for the gifted copy!

Realm of Shadows: Heir of Hades Series
by Rektok Ross
out now!

Alysander has always wanted to escape her small town and the feeling that she doesn’t belong.

But when she uncovers a dark secret about her past, she’s pulled into a world of ancient powers, hidden truths, and danger lurking just beneath the surface.

With her childhood best friend and longtime crush at the center of it all, she’ll have to decide: walk away… or risk everything for a love that was never meant to be hers.

💭 My thoughts:

Addictive, angsty, and setting up a slow burn that’s about to explode. There is just something about Rektok Ross’s books that has me binge reading every single time, and this one was no exception. I flew through it and immediately needed book two. The tension between Alysander and Hayden was off the charts. I’m already counting down to when that slow burn finally ignites because it’s going to be everything. I loved the setup for this series… it did exactly what I wanted it to do, it hooked me and left me wanting more. Ambrosia has to be the most infuriating sister. While Argyros deserves to be protected at all costs. It’s dramatic, addictive, and the setup for the series is just so good, I can’t wait to see where this story goes next!

What to expect 👇🏽

❤️‍🔥Slow-burn romance
🖤Best friends to something more
🐍Fantasy + mythology vibes
🤤Bingeable

Happy reading 📖🐍🔥✨

[Melissa Mejia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. She did it again another phenomenal book!! What an ending though!! Leaving us hanging and wanting more like yesterday!! Friends to lovers with each of them having their own little secrets!! This is a gothic romance with a very protective FRIEND!! This book had me hooked from the very beginning and I want more!! Phenomenal story can’t wait to see what happens next!! This is definitely a 6 plus ⭐️ read for me!!

“In a world where gods and monsters walk hidden among us, falling for the wrong guy might do more than break her heart—it might awaken a war.

College freshman Alysander Smith has never fit in her small beach town of glossy smiles and airbrushed perfection. All she wants is to escape and prove she’s more than just the punchline everyone laughs at. The only bright spot? Hayden Vassilios, her gorgeous childhood best friend turned campus football god—and the guy she’s been secretly in love with for years. But when she uncovers a dark family secret about her long-lost, deadbeat father, everything changes.

Alysander starts to wonder if her mother’s crazed whispers about ancient mythological bloodlines and a secret Underworld might be less delusion and more danger. Something old and powerful is awakening, and Hayden is at the center of it all. When the truth shatters everything she thought she knew, Alysander will have to choose: walk away—or step into the shadows and fight for a love that was never hers to keep.”

[Scarlet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this arc via Netgalley & Rektok and this is my voluntary review. In this story you follow Alysander and Hayes in a slow burn from friends to lovers. This is a Persephone and Hades retelling with gothic aspects. If you want a book with family drama, huge secrets, and a cliff hanger that'll leave you begging for more this gothic romantasy is definitely for you . (Ps: Hate Amber with a passion, better yet hate isn't a strong enough word. I loathe her!!!! Fake over the top and just a general bad person!)

[Rechal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op via NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

⭐ 3.5 stars

Realm of Shadows follows Alysander Smith, a college freshman who has always felt out of place in her small town. As she begins uncovering secrets about her father—and her mother’s unsettling whispers about gods, Titans, and an Underworld—her reality starts to unravel. And somehow, everything seems to circle back to her best friend, Hayes.

From the start, this book had me thinking. The blend of mythology, mystery, and slow reveals kept me constantly trying to connect the dots and figure out what was really going on.

Alysander, as a character, was… complicated for me. I really connected with her feelings of not belonging and being overlooked—especially her thoughts about never surviving a house full of “Ambers.” That hit in a very real way. But at the same time, her choices often frustrated me, particularly when it came to her self-worth and how she handled her feelings for Hayes. There were moments where I wanted her to take control and choose herself more.

Hayes, on the other hand, was equally conflicting. Their friendship was one of the strongest aspects of the book—there’s history, comfort, and a clear emotional bond. But his actions often felt inconsistent. One moment he’s protective, the next he’s distant or careless, and that push-and-pull dynamic became frustrating over time.

The family dynamics added another layer of tension. Alysander’s love-hate relationship with her sister Amber, her absent father, and her mother’s cryptic warnings about gods and hidden worlds all contributed to a sense of unease that worked really well for the story.

The mythology was one of the most intriguing parts. The hints about Titans, the Underworld, and hidden identities were woven in gradually, making the story feel like a puzzle slowly coming together. By the time the epilogue hits, several pieces finally fall into place—and it definitely shifts how you see everything that came before.

That said, the pacing and character decisions didn’t always work for me. At times, I wanted more clarity and stronger development, especially in the relationships. Some emotional beats felt repetitive or underdeveloped, which made certain conflicts more frustrating than impactful.

Overall, Realm of Shadows is a slow-burning romantic fantasy with strong mythological elements, messy and emotional relationships, and an underlying mystery that keeps you engaged.

I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes next and am looking forward to finding out what happens in book two.

[madisyn (bookish verison) · Rating 4 out of 5]

REALM OF SHADOWS (ARC) | ★★★★☆ | KINDLE

is she really falling for the wrong guy or falling into an eternity of shadows?

alysander smith never fit into the world. especially not compared to her sister amber who seems to have everything going for her. at least aly has hayden vassilios. hayes. her childhood best friend.

except even hayes has fallen into an entrapment of amber’s charm. feeling completely isolated and her friendship with hayes slipping, aly uncovers hidden secrets that have been plaguing their mother for years. but maybe aly’s life isn’t the only one with secrets…and there may be more beneath the shadows that are lurking around them.

I LOVED THIS BOOK. i literally flew through this, i was so smitten by hayes and alysander and their relationship throughout the book. the YEARNING had me clutching my heart and i wanted to murder amber 90% of the time…still really do. also the ending??? i am in shock and i need MORE. the woven in greek mythology was incredible and i adored the way it was done. also i need an argyros in my life. he was literally my favourite to be for real here. really the star of it all.

a HUGE thank you to @netgalley , @rektokross , and @victoryeditingngc for this amazing arc read.

if you need a closed door, slow burn that will eat at your heart, romantasy dipped in greek mythology then you need to read this.

realm of shadows is out april 21st so be on the watch for this one!

[Shalissa Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rektok Ross has officially earned a spot on my favorite authors list with Realm of Shadows. From the very beginning, I was completely pulled in especially by Alysander. Her struggle to be seen and her desire for something more made her incredibly easy to connect with, and I found myself rooting for her the entire time.

The friends-to-lovers dynamic between Alysander and Hayden was easily a standout. The tension was so well done emotional, frustrating in the best way, and absolutely worth the slow build. Every interaction left me wanting more.

I also loved the Greek mythology elements woven throughout the story. The Hades and Persephone inspired retelling felt fresh and intriguing, adding just the right amount of mystery without overpowering the plot. The fantasy elements are more subtle at first, but they build beautifully toward the end, making everything feel bigger and more impactful.

With solid world building, engaging pacing, and characters you can’t help but get attached to, this book feels like the start of something much larger. By the end, I was fully invested and already eager for what’s next.

If you love emotional tension, slow burn romance, and mythology infused stories, this is definitely one to pick up.

[Debby Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ross’ Realm of Shadows is a gripping dive into a dark, immersive world that balances mystery, tension, and imagination with surprising emotional depth. From the very first pages, RekTok pulls readers into a shadowy realm where danger feels constant and nothing is ever quite what it seems.

One of the book’s strongest elements is its atmosphere. The setting is vividly described without feeling overdone—every scene carries a sense of unease that keeps you turning pages. The “realm of shadows” isn’t just a backdrop; it feels alive, almost like a character itself, shaping the story and influencing the choices of those within it.

The pacing is another highlight. RekTok does a great job balancing action with quieter, more reflective moments. Just when the tension peaks, the story gives you a chance to breathe—before pulling you right back into the suspense. The twists are well-placed and unpredictable, keeping readers hooked without feeling forced.

Overall, Ross’ Realm of Shadows is an engaging and atmospheric read that will appeal to fans of dark fantasy and suspenseful storytelling. RekTok shows a strong command of tone and world-building, making this a memorable journey into the unknown.

[Joey Krupocin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book—it was that good. This isn’t my usual type of read, but I love the way Rektok Ross writes, so I was so excited to get this ARC—and it delivered. It’s a slow burn but still a quick read, and it leaves you needing (not just wanting) more. The world-building was incredible, the characters were so well done, and the plot? Perfect. I need book two…like, immediately.

𝕊𝕪𝕟𝕠𝕡𝕤𝕚𝕤
In a world where gods and monsters walk hidden among us, falling for the wrong guy might awaken a war. College freshman Alysander Smith has never fit in and just wants to prove she’s more than the punchline everyone sees her as. Her only bright spot is Hayden Vassilios—her childhood best friend turned campus football god—and the guy she’s secretly loved for years.

But when she uncovers a dark family secret, everything changes. Her mother’s whispers about ancient bloodlines and a secret Underworld might be more truth than delusion—and Hayden is at the center of it. As the truth unravels, Alysander must decide whether to walk away or fight for a love that was never hers.

𝙂𝙧𝙖𝙗 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙮.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished Realm of Shadows by Rektok Ross and I’m kind of obsessed. If you love a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romantasy, this one really hits.

The tension is so good—nothing feels rushed, but it never drags either. I love the relationship between the main characters, and watching it slowly shift from childhood friendship to lovers is honestly the best part. The banter and reluctant understanding just build in a way that feels natural, not forced.

It’s also a really easy read in the best way. The world building is great and you can just fall into the story. You can definitely tell the author has a horror/thriller background too—there’s this darker, slightly eerie vibe underneath everything that keeps it interesting.

I also liked that the characters aren’t super clean-cut. There’s some morally gray decision-making going on, and it adds a lot more tension because you’re never totally sure how things are going to play out.

And the little hints about the bigger world and what’s coming next?? I’m already invested.

If you like romantasy with tension, darker vibes, and a slow burn that actually pays off, I’d recommend this one for sure.

[Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not usually a fast reader, but I flew through Realms of Shadows in just two to three days. This Hades and Persephone retelling is the perfect blend of gothic romantasy and a hint of mystery with ancient secrets. A childhood friends to lovers slow burn that kept me hooked from page one( the setting starts in Laguna Hills BTW!) . If you love a dark, moody aesthetic with a plot that actually keeps you guessing, pick this up! cant wait for the next book in this series!

​Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

In a world where gods and monsters walk hidden among us, falling for the wrong guy might do more than break her heart—it might awaken a war.

Vibes: "The Summer I Turned Pretty" meets "A Court of Thorns and Roses"

[Heather Knick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Rektok Ross!! This was my second ARC read for her, and honestly…she blew it out of the water! As I’ve been deep in my Greek mythology era this past year, seeing her dive into this world was awesome!!
Definitely a YA, which I enjoy…I fell in love with “Alligator” and “Hay”…especially when they both remind me so much of myself with my love for horror films!! And the mention of “The Nightmare Before Christmas”…although small, was exciting for me. LoL!!
It’s not often a first book in a series makes me anxious the next, but here we are! I can’t WAIT to jump back into this world and find out what happens to these characters!
Definitely recommend!!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something quietly seductive about Realm of Shadows—the kind of story that doesn’t rush you, but instead draws you in slowly, like dusk turning into night.

At its core, this is a best-friends-to-lovers story, and it hurts in the best way. The emotional tension is stretched so perfectly that every small moment—every look, every hesitation—feels loaded. You know something is coming, but you don’t know when or how it will break.

And when it does? It breaks open the entire world.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I have not read a lot of Romantasy books in my reading journey, but let me tell you that this book has made me want to read more. This book is a slow burn and the relationship between Hayes and Alysander will have this book being a page turner for you. The story ends with a cliff hanger, but I believe it will be totally worth the wait for the next book!

[Randysha Villarreal · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I’d like to thank Rektok Ross for the Arc of this book! This book was a 5 star for me. It’s a slow-burn with friends to lovers trope included. The book was a fast read and I enjoyed every bit of it. I loved the world building and the characters were done amazingly. I absolutely loved the dynamic between the FMC & MMC. I’m needing book 2 immediately!

[Fallon Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so thankful to be provided this ARC by NetGalley and Rektok Ross in exchange for an honest review!
This storyline had me hook, line, and sinker! If you are looking for a Hades and Persephone retelling, but with a modern spin to it; then this is for you! Get ready to dive into a world full of gothic romance, Greek mythology, underworld vibes with monsters and shadows, lingering slow burn, friends to lovers, forbidden love, and vibes that scream shadow prince who swoops in and saves the girl! YES, SWOON, for all of the above!!!!
I was hooked from page 1 and sucked in instantly!
I’m not going to give any spoilers away; but this is an intense, lingering slow burn so be prepared to get sucked in like I did! You will be introduced to Hayes and Alysander, two lifelong best friends; that are literally meant to be in every way possible; and yes I’m rooting for them and yes that’s what I want to happen because…match made in Greek God heavens!!! There are so many plots and secrets throughout the book, that even though this is a slow burn, you won’t realize you are at the end so quickly! And jaw drop…you are left at a cliffhanging and yearning for me!!!
This book is just the tip of the iceberg; and I’m telling you Rektok is preparing us for something much bigger coming in Book 2! And I cannot wait for it!! I’m already there for it and NEED it ASAP!!
P.S. There is also a dog in this book and he’s named after wine to all my wine babes!! ❤️🙌🏻🔥
“It’s not just a kiss. It’s a goddamn reckoning. The kind of thing that ruins you and makes you forget there ever was a before. Something that rewrites fate itself.” 🖤

[Redheaded_reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book leaves you wanting more…
This books was consumed in under 24hrs. It kept calling my name to be read. I truly enjoyed it and loved the FMC character growth and the plot build. The sisters gave me 10 Things I hate About You vibes and I’m here for it. Cant wait for book 2!!

[Shannon]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ times infinity
ARC Review

Realm of Shadows by rektok ROSS is beyond amazing. This Gothic retelling of Hades and Peresphone is amazing. I couldn't put it down but didn't want to leave this world. Who doesn't want a hot Greek Quarterback in Hayes and his best friend who been in love with for a long time. Al finds herself not fitting in and as the story goes on you find out more of why that might be. Hayes is living a double life and it take it toll on him when his father is killed. He no longer gets to be an eighteen year old guy he has to take over the family business. You find yourself yelling at the characters in this story and you will definitely yell when the book ends......ready for book two now.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Something about this book really got under my skin. The emotions and angst I felt, right alongside our main character!

Going into it I knew it was a Hades and Persephone retelling, the blurb gives away a lot, and the tropes shared by the author give away more. Except... that's not how this book goes. In this book we are just getting to meet the characters. The majority of the book was YA angst, and so much of it. Aly (Alysander) is 17 and just starting college when the book starts, and her sister is exactly just one year and two days younger. And her sister Amber (she refuses to go by her actual name Ambrosia) is on again off again with Aly's best friend Hayes, who Aly has been secretly in love with for years. 

If you like slow burn, really slow burn, the kind of burn that doesn't resolve in the first book, here you go. Because it's always been perfect little Amber getting everything she wants, and Aly left always feeling less than. From her sister getting the lead in the local town play, the one thing Aly wanted and needed for her transfer application to a better performing arts school, to continually being the one chosen by Hayes, Amber has always been the princess favorite. Well.. iykyk. 

But there are secrets, so many secrets. And until the FINAL FREAKING CHAPTER we don't get to know the truth. And you have to read the bonus POV chapter to really understand Hayes, because I really disliked him for most of the book. Like what are you doing man. Figure it out, stop pushing her away. But, it makes sense now, I suppose. Family rules and legacy and all that. But knowing the story from the blurb and the tagline, I was waiting and waiting and waiting. Like, when are we going to get to the actual supernatural stuff? And why does Hayes keep acting all strange about his family and their expectations? Well, we finally get to know.

I hated Amber though. I still don't know for sure when she knew all the truth, was it just near the end when things were unraveling or has she known much longer? Because there is no reason for her to have treated her sister like that. You're already always winning, why be so antagonizing? Then there's the mother who is a hippy dippy, abandoned by the girls' father when the second was born because "The Underworld" was after him, and Aly growing up thinking her mother is mentally ill for saying things like that. But the truth was kept from her so of course when she found more hints she didn't believe them. 

My favorite character? Yep, the dog. Hell hound? The beautifully frightening sweet monster dog who instantly bonds with Aly. I want more of this dog in the next book. 

Speaking of the next book - I mean, that ending! WOWZA! I think all the gothic romantasy blurb things are going to come to party in the second book. I am here for it. 

But for now? I'll just sit here with my strange angsty feelings that I wasn't prepared for. Because this author writes in such a real life way, that I lived the story right with Aly. Or maybe it's all the nostalgia and late 90s stuff that Aly was so fond of (Buffy, Beetlejuice, Freddy, and even the music), that brought me right back to when I was that age and feeling all those feelings for real. It's a show of a good writer if you get actual emotions out of me.

Thank you to the author for having me part of your Arc team!

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When he looks like trouble... and you STILL run toward him!

He looks like trouble… the kind you KNOW you should avoid…
but you just cant stay away. Yeah...THAT was the vibe of this entire book ...

Okay so imagine you’re just trying to transfer schools and get your life together… and suddenly..
your world flips into a web of family secrets, a missing father, and possible GOD-level chaos starts creeping in.... yeah!

We follow Alysander, who is lowkey struggling and her sister is thriving, getting the roles she wants, fitting in perfectly… Meanwhile she’s just trying to catch ONE win.

And then there’s her best friend....the one she’s definitely in love with…and he might feel the same way? ( Yeah. That situation.) But this isn’t just cute best-friends-to-something-more energy because underneath ALL of that?

There are secrets about their family, their past, and their missing father…and it starts hinting at something way bigger.

It’s very modern, very YA, easy to get into but slowly expands into something deeper and more magical.

The romance is definitely more slow build, low spice, more tension, and more feelings developing over time. And honestly, it worked.

I will say though that the sister dynamic was STRESSFUL. They were giving enemies at times and I was sitting there like that could not be me and my sister!

I went into this thinking it would be a typical mythology retelling… but tell me why I stayed up way too late, finished it in one sitting..... AND immediately went looking for extra content after.... ( I know I need help.)

This is a Hades and Persephone-inspired story but it doesn’t drag you through endless world-building first. It gets RIGHT into it because you’re immediately pulled into the tension, the connection, the mystery .... and it just keeps building from there.

And the ROMANCE... WOW. Listen... this is not heavy on spice. It’s more about the longing. The kind of tension where every look, every almost-touch, and every moment feels loaded.

So that when something finally happens, it feels HUGE. Like it actually means something. That emotional buildup will always be chef’s kiss for me.

There’s also more going on beneath the surface which is explored through the family dynamics (especially between the FMC and her sister. I’m VERY curious to see that play out in the next book.)

I will say that there is a slightly darker moment toward the end... so READ the TRIGGER WARNINGS!

Overall this was one of those reads that just pulls you in and doesn’t let go.

Now I’m sitting here like…how am I supposed to wait for the next book after THAT ending. Things just got so real!

Thank you to the author for the gifted advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

Confession: I did not expect to binge this… but I literally could not put it down.

QOTD: Are mythology retellings a yes or a skip for you?

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captivating, gripping, and hard to put down, Realm of Shadows is a thrilling and mysterious retelling of Hades and Persephone! I love a good retelling and Rektok Ross delivered! This book is full of secrets, charms, yearning, sibling rivalry, and romance. Realm of Shadows grabbed my attention from the very beginning and never let go! This is the fourth book which I have read by Rektok Ross and she always delivers!!!!!!

Alysander Smith is a bit of an outsider in her small beach town. Her younger sister, on the other hand, is popular, social, and fits in. They were raised by their single mother after their father disappeared. Their mother has always whispered about ancient mythological bloodlines in addition to making them carry charms to protect themselves. Alysander always saw her mother as being a bit out there, but what's a girl to do?

The one bright thing in Alysander's life is Hayden Vassilios, her best friend since childhood. He is handsome, athletic, and Alysander has been secretly in love with him for years. But he happens to be dating her younger sister. Talk about messy.

But one thing that is not messy is this book. I enjoyed the characters, even the ones I didn't care for were wonderfully drawn and fleshed out. I also loved the setting, the feeling that something is about to happen, the secret love and attraction, and the supernatural vibe of the book.

I also enjoyed Rektok Ross's writing and well thought out plot. This book does take some time letting readers get to know the characters before more if revealed. This worked very well for me as I could feel the yearning, the questioning, and the weight of secrets flowing throughout the book. When some revelations came into play, I was even more intrigued and wanted more.

The description calls this book a slow-burn romance, but I did not feel any slowness in this book. I enjoyed the pacing and was fully invested in the plot. I thought the author did a great job ending this book as it left me wanting more, and I am highly anticipating the next book in the series.

Wonderfully written, vivid descriptions, well thought out, hard to put down and left me wanting more!

Thank you to Ic13 Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sian Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun, modern twist on an ancient story.

Alysander is a college student who just wants to transfer into her top choice of school, but she's fallen at every hurdle to that so far - the latest issue being her sister getting the part she wanted, and that might have earned her that transfer, in the play Hercules. And it's also her sister who fits in so perfectly in their town, and who is in an on-and-off relationship with her best friend Hayden. But there's more trouble brewing under the surface, with the girls' dad who disappeared when they were young, and the secrets their mother keeps about who he really was and where he's gone - with hints about ancient mythical pasts and gods.

The writing style and modern setting gave me Zodiac Academy vibes, but the world-building is much more on the Hades x Persephone Saga by Scarlett St. Clair, which is the original Greek mythology that the story is based on.

If you know me, you'll know that I can't resist a Persephone story! Her mystery cult was the subject of my dissertation, and Ancient Greece is kind of my specialist subject. I love seeing the different twists that people put on that tale to bring it into the modern world - every one of them is a little bit different.

The relationship between Alysander and her best friend, who just happens to be a boy she is obsessed with (and who seems to like her back?!) is brilliant. As they start to unravel the secrets between them, secrets that are much bigger than the way they feel about one another (and her sister), the world it's set in broadens beautifully. I can't wait to see more of that!

The only thing I struggled with in this story was the relationship between the sisters - I can see that the development of this is clearly a key part of the story, but when they're acting like mortal enemies, it's just so strange to me as someone who has as a close relationship with my sister, so I struggle to see it as "real" - but that's a personal problem, not an issue with the book! I'm really excited to see how that changes going into the next book in the series as there was a huge jump in what was going on towards the end.

The writing was very much YA and felt very true to that genre - it was well done as the way the characters acted and spoke to one another felt very age appropriate. It might bother some, but I enjoy YA! The spice level was low on this one as the romance is only developing, but I wonder if we'll see more in future books.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publishers for an ARC of this book.

[Josephine Salgado · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanna say thank you, as I received this ARC personally from the author as a street team member as well as on NetGalley.

Realm of shadows is a slow burn Greek mythology retelling that completely pulled me in. I felt such a deep connection to the main character Alysandra. She is the ultimate gothy,edgy outcast, with pale skin, dark hair and the strength that her own family fails to see.

Watching her navigate a world where she feels invisible especially next to her “perfect” and popular blonde hair sister, was heartbreaking. The sibling dynamic is brutal & frustrating, it felt like a constant competition where Alysandra just wanted a bond, but was constantly torn down instead. Seeing how her mother constantly looked past aly, made it feel much more personal. It explores the “invisible child” trope that made it feel authentic. This book is definitely relatable to everyday real life struggles, especially because I’ve dealt with similar situations with my own family.

Then there’s hades character. He is everything you want in a dark MMC. Mysterious, fearless, and intensely protective. The history between him and aly’s sister added so much tension, especially knowing Alysandras feelings were always more genuine. Their “You go, i go” connection was beautiful.

Alysandra's father has been missing her whole life, and her mother doesn’t speak on him much, so as far as she knew he was just some dead beat dad who left her mom single and taking care of them alone. But eventually throughout the story aly finds a letter and it will change everything she thought she knew about him and more..

While the plot for me, was slightly predictable at times, the twists kept me engaged. My only wish was to see more of the mythological world building in the middle of the book rather than towards the end. I’m crossing my fingers for a sequel because i need more of this world.

In general, this story was beautifully written, mostly because you feel so many intense emotions throughout the story and characters. It was for sure an emotional read for me. It balances family trama perfectly. It definitely is a slow burn mystery fantasy where “monsters” aren’t just in other worlds, sometimes it’s the people who are suppose to love you the most. If you like stories that relate to real life and where the main FMC has to find her own light through the dark then this book is definitely for you.