Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Magic Bound #3

Shadows and Lies

Rate this book
After publicly declaring war on the Queen, Kenna finds herself in a race against time as she fights to free the shifters from the grip of madness and works to find and train an army equipped to take on the ruthless ruler.

More innocent victims are taken as the atrocities of the war between races continue, and Kenna’s desire to protect her people drives her into reckless behavior, dragging her Chosen with her. And the closer she gets to taking the throne the more she sees the devastating toll that being the Princess has on those she loves, leaving her questioning whether loving her is truly worth the cost.

With each passing day the Queen’s men close in, relentless in their pursuit, and when the unthinkable happens the rebellion is left picking up the shattered pieces of what remains. Will they be able to survive the blow, or will the movement crumble, unable to keep the spark of hope alive?

Find out in this thrilling conclusion of the Magic Bound series.

***Please be advised that this book contains darker themes including abuse, assault, and violence that some readers may find triggering.

482 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 14, 2021

77 people are currently reading
194 people want to read

About the author

Willow Hayes

7 books89 followers
I'm a Washington State native where I live in a tiny house with my kiddo, surrounded by all that is green.

On the rare occasion that I'm not writing...
I can be found working on my green thumb, which, considering I used to kill all the the green things, is an improvement.
Behind my camera capturing memories with my kiddo at the beach, on a trail, or just because.
Or holding my bow, pretending to be Katniss, which clearly I'm not.

Proud Hufflepuff
Self professed nerd (and proud of it)
Fiery Irish lass
And reverse harem author

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
169 (51%)
4 stars
102 (31%)
3 stars
45 (13%)
2 stars
8 (2%)
1 star
5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Brittany Smith.
915 reviews15 followers
April 19, 2021
Shadow and Lies is the third and final book in this incredible series. There has been so much going on in these books and there was never a dull moment to be had. There have been many ups and downs and this book probably provides the most roller coaster moves out of all three.

Kenna has really grown since the first we met her. She was always full of wit and snark but she has grown even more in this installment, not just her fight but her desire to help has shaped her into a great would-be leader. She is determined to overcome her fears and worries, and with her chosen, she slowly does start to do just that. She meets all the obstacles that Isadora throws at her head-on and manages to stay strong and stay fighting.

Her chosen have grown to six and we really do see that she as well as they love each other fiercely and are always prepared to show just how much. They have become a fantastic team and they are able to tap into magic they never knew they could. This will help them in the final moments and keep them strong as well as focused.

This book is filled with so many edge-of-your-seat moments and I found myself willing myself to read faster just so I could see what happened. I will say that it feels longer than the previous 2 boos- to a bad thing, but I found a few scenes were dragging for me and I wanted to hurry along. This is certainly down to me and me alone. The writing is excellent-as usual- and the details are really there and paint the scenes perfectly. There is plenty of steam in this book and the characters do not disappoint.

I really did love reading this book/series and would recommend it in a heartbeat. A thrilling PNR, RH book that will hook you in from the start and leave you satisfied at the end.
Profile Image for Annette.
3,847 reviews177 followers
April 10, 2021
The thing about reading so many books is that it's not always easy to remember what happened in which book, especially if a lot of books have the same themes and characters who are a lot alike. But when the arc for this book landed in my mailbox I remembered almost everything that had happened in the previous two books. And that says something. I was therefore quite excited to read the final book in this trilogy.

The conclusion to this series absolutely didn't disappoint. It was everything I had hoped it to be and it was exciting from start to finish. The build up was done. We met all the players on the board and after the cliffhanger of the previous book the final fight had actually started. In some books that final fight is short and over way too soon. In this case it lasted an entire book, with constant wins and losses on both sides.

Once again, just like in the previous books, I enjoyed the role the media plays, how it's used as a weapon and how it's really doing damage. Just like the book makes quite clear that no one wins a fight alone. Our heroine is amazing. She has strong magic, she has learned how to fight, but she's not doing this on her own. And not once do others pretend she has to. All the rebels, her six mates, her best friends and everyone else, are helping her and do it with love and pleasure and most of all honor.

And it's not that hard to understand why people are willing to fight for our heroine. She does make mistakes, she does mess up, she does have moments of doubt. But she's also kind, she wants the best for others, she is willing to sacrifice herself if it saves lives and although she has a lot to learn about ruling, everyone knows that the right personality is way more important. The rest can be taught. Especially because she's surrounded by so many talented people.

After the epilogue I do hope that maybe there will be a spin-off though, because I'm not done with this world yet!
Profile Image for Jessica Robbins.
2,598 reviews50 followers
April 25, 2021
This is the finale to what has been a riveting trilogy. We have followed Kenna from her thinking she was just a human to her declaring war on the Queen who stole her throne. There is non stop action and danger from page one that really keeps the story moving at a fast pace. At the same time she finally solidifies her relationship with her men in a satisfactory manner. Makes for one fantastic read as it all plays out with plenty of surprise twists. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
4,051 reviews
April 15, 2021
I can’t believe this is the end . This book / series is / was amazing. I’m gonna miss these characters especially the hotties 🤤 . So our Kenna is trying to get to her rightful place she’s Abducted by her crazy cousin and tortured thinking of her loves are dead.


This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for TXBRITGAL.
1,431 reviews33 followers
April 15, 2021
Never a dull moment!!!🔥🔥🔥

What a way to wrap up this magical series!! There are definitely a few shockers within these pages, and its a bit darker as there's more of the imposter Queen ... But buckle up cupcakes because you're in for one epic ride! Kenna and her Chosen are in for the fight of their lives as little by little the imposter chips away at them. Watch how they not only handle these attacks, but unite even more than they knew possible. Filled with so much magic, love...of family, friends and more....and a desire to make things right for the land again. My fingers are crossed there could be a future spinoff, or at least have our faves pop up as guest stars in future books. These characters have come to be like friends through reading all three books of this exciting series. I highly recommend each and every book within the series.
Profile Image for Mrs R.
1,419 reviews19 followers
April 20, 2021
This is book 3 of the trilogy and you need to have read the first two books.
Kenna has certainly come a long way as a character since the first book. Even though she makes some mistakes, her heart is in the right place and she is determined.
The bonds between Kenna and her Chosen only grow stronger despite everything that gets thrown at them. It's almost one step forward two back, but she's determined and with the support of her guys, friends and supporters, she continues to fight.
The way that the imposter used the media really added to the story for me, making their fight and gaining supported even harder. It got a little dark so be warned.
This book is long so buckle up for the ride. It has suspense, fighting and lots of heat-filled moments.
The ending and epilogue were fitting for Kenna's story.
Profile Image for Jennifer Soppe.
2,251 reviews13 followers
April 21, 2021
Brought my heart to a screeching halt at times

Kenna, a recently discovered lost supernatural princess, and her six supernatural mates (Callum, Luka, Nakoa, Teo, Kade, and Akito) feel like they are fighting an uphill battle even with the tide slowly turning after the events in Rebel and Reign. As the story progresses a decision is forced, a discovery is made, and one successful rescue mission does not ensure freedom for the entire kingdom. Willow Hayes brought my heart to a screeching halt at times in Shadows and Lies and provided a thrilling series finish to the reader. I hope that she continues to write in this world and look forward to seeing what happens to Kenna, her mates, and her people. Reader discretion advised due to dark subject matter and/or possible triggers.
Profile Image for Lene Blackthorn .
1,827 reviews7 followers
April 23, 2021
Kenna's story escalated and developed toward a difficult, challenging climax, bringing around the fragile hope and dark crevices of a mad mind. The glimpse into Isadora's youth and suffering increased the understanding of her motives, yet Kenna's reactions and opinions show nicely how much one can influence by their choices - going down a completely different path. It was a very good conclusion to the trilogy, even though I still have some objections to some parts that sounded very repetitive, and sometimes it was literally like almost a copy of a sentence that occurred a bit earlier, nevertheless I enjoyed the story and the messages it carries.
Profile Image for Nance.
1,126 reviews17 followers
April 10, 2021
Shadow and Lies is the epic conclusion to this amazing series.
Kenna has really grown since the first we met her. She is full of wit and has grown into a strong, fierce fighter. She was determined to overcome her fears and any obstacles that Isadora threw at her, and wouldn’t let her enemy break her spirit.
I loved her bond with with each of her Chosen and how they were able to fight and use their magic in different forms.
This book is filled with suspense that had me at the edge of my seat at times and also has plenty on of heat with Kenna and her six Chosen. I absolutely loved it and thought it was a fitting end to this amazing series!
Profile Image for Samantha Silensky.
419 reviews3 followers
April 15, 2021
The life lessons in this book are phenomenal. The author created an amazing, enticing story that draws you in, capturing your attention and never letting it waver. The emotional rollercoaster and adrenaline fueled action scenes keeping you hooked from beginning to end. This story of building trust, accepting change, bringing justice, and selflessness is one that is sure to pull at your heart strings, while also giving you a thrill of adventure. I adored this book, and hope to see a story of the FUTURE queen. 😉
Profile Image for Barb.
1,034 reviews3 followers
April 26, 2021
A fitting ending to a wonderful trilogy...

Wow! There are so many lessons taught and lived in this story. Kenna Beaumont is a force to be reckoned with. Each of her Chosen is unique in their affinity as well as their race. The emotions on display in this story are riveting. The feelings are portrayed by Ms Hayes in a way that had tears come to my eyes many times. Old friendships, old and new family and an epic battle all leave the reader with a felling of justice deserved and served.
Profile Image for Andrea Green.
815 reviews8 followers
May 3, 2021
What a great ending to an amazing debut series by this talented author!
Kenna and her men certainly have the odds stacked against them but they have the shifter community behind them and their rebellion is gaining momemtum but will passion and the determinatton to do right be her people be enough?
No spoilers in this review only to say there are some unexpected twists and turns, lots of heat but then you would expect that with a large harem and some very endearing moments
So sad to see this series end but also excited to see what this new author has in store for us in her next series.
Profile Image for Jasmine Voosen.
548 reviews
April 13, 2021
Shadows and Lies by Willow Hayes the third and final book in this wonderfully, thrilling series. This final book is the cap to this adventure and finally has the fight that has been brewing this entire series, and boy it doesn't disappoint. I have to say that I was expecting, maybe a few chapters at the end and then the final epilogue, but almost the whole book is the thrilling culmination of everything leading up to this point. This is certainly a must read!!!!
Profile Image for Lory.
3,264 reviews33 followers
April 16, 2021
The conclusion to this series was everything it definitely didn't disappoint I'm almost sad that the series is over. But was glad to see that we finally got the epic fight that being brewing throughout entire series. Overall a fantastic read. After reading the epilogue I do hope that maybe there will be a spinoff. As always my reviews are totally voluntarily and no monetary compensation was received and the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Nikki.
Author 2 books11 followers
April 18, 2021
Willow Hayes ends the Magic Bound trilogy with a bang! Kenna and her Chosen know that stopping the imposter queen is the only way to bring peace and begin healing the land. Thinking with her heart and not her head leads to some tragic results. Unexpected discoveries help cement Kenna’s resolve and fuel her race to the throne. This action-packed, heat-filled final book brings satisfying results for readers!
21 reviews
April 23, 2021
Loved the royal battle.

I liked learning more about why the shadow queen hated shifters. The reasoning behind all the deception, cruelty and murder. Did it excuse her actions and the actions of her immediate followers oh no it didn't but I at least had a reason as to why. I loved the contrast of how Kenna didn't allow all the tragedies she suffered to close her heart like her cousin the false queen did. I'm just glad that Kenna and her mates won in the end. I can't wait to read any spinoffs from that this will hopefully bring. Happy reading.
Profile Image for Joy Whiteside.
4,853 reviews112 followers
April 15, 2021
This was a fantastic read that I could not put down until I finished it. It moves along at a wonderful pace, keeping you interested in reading. The characters are amazing and you will fall in love with these characters and you want to know more about them. the story keeps you interested and reading till the end. This is a must read book and it needs to be on your TBR list.
110 reviews2 followers
April 16, 2021
Why does it have to be over?

A thrilling finale to the series!

Willow’s story of Kenna and her men battling with prejudices, doubt and others when they get in the way of sexy times is a story that you all need to read. I have read this one in less than 24 hours it’s that good!

You will throughly enjoy it! Congrats Willow on an amazing book.
2,600 reviews15 followers
April 16, 2021
This whole series was already amazing and what a conclusion we got. This book does what I expected and more. I love the events in this book and the smart use of media as it is a powerfull tool as we all know it to be. Very cunning as you don't see it often used like that in books. I love the willing people who want to help out since they believe in a cause. This is the ending it deserved and couldn't of been better!
Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,895 reviews116 followers
April 16, 2021
Wow what a fantastic conclusion! From the start I have been hooked with it’s exciting storyline and excellent world building. The characters have grown as we have followed them on their exploding and action packed adventure and this final book has so much going on that this is one rollercoaster I’m glad I jumped on to.
Profile Image for Retta.
521 reviews
April 16, 2021
The war is about to come to and end, but who will win?? Queen Isadora or Princess Kenna? Will Kenna free her people from Isadora’s tyranny? Will we finally learn what really happened that made Isadora the way she is?? Only one way to know!! Read the book!! It’s a stellar wrap up to what has been an amazing series. I loved it all and Willow Hayes wrote a beautifully done ending!
Profile Image for Rachel Goelz.
89 reviews
April 17, 2021
Kenna, her Chosen, and the rebels have a lot of work to do in order to reclaim the throne. This book is full of adventure, drama, suspense, love, and some steam as the cherry on top 🍒 ! This book is long but I finished it in a couple of days it was so good! This is an amazing book! Nice work Willow Hayes!
216 reviews
April 18, 2021
What an adventure this book and series has been! It was adventurous, heart wrenching, steamy and just amazing. Watching Kenna’s journey has been hard earned but really wonderful. Every character in this story has been so fleshed out and endearing. Love all of Kenna’s chosen each had a special place in my heart. Just an amazing series that you will love!
Profile Image for Dori Miller.
546 reviews2 followers
April 22, 2021
Kenna and her mates have finally come to face Isadora, and the journey has been gruelling. They have lost so much, and Kenna wonders if the terrible costs will be worth it in the end. But Fire and Light will always triumph over Shadows and lies, although sometimes the road is rocky and longer than you ever imagined.

This book completes the Magic Bound series, and Willow Hayes has certainly created something of which to be proud! This was a most enjoyable read from the beginning, and one I anticipate reading through again now that the series is completed.
Profile Image for Rachel Osborne.
1,093 reviews19 followers
April 23, 2021
This is the third and final book in the series, and boy did it not disappoint. Kenna has really come into her own since the start of the series and I adored watching the growth and development of her and her men. The whole book had lots of action and adventure, lots of drama and scenes that will have you smiling and in awe. It was a satisfying end to the series. I really enjoyed the journey Willow Hayes has taken us on. Such a great book from start to finish.
Profile Image for Rebekah Tomkinson.
464 reviews3 followers
April 24, 2021
What a finale! Such a great ending to a brilliant series. Kenna has really grown as character and there’s so much more to her than when we met her in book one. It was a rollercoaster of a book, full of ups and downs, steamy scenes, sass and snark! Loved this series from start to finish and I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Blue.
546 reviews2 followers
April 25, 2021
Get ready for all those emotions because this books is full of it.

This book was everything. Finally got some answers some were more emotional than others. I will say this book was everything you could have asked for and then some! I cried more than I cared to admit but I’m so happy as well. I actually wish there was more but it came to a good epic ending. But I can always hope or wish for a spin-off series right? Because this was that good!
Profile Image for Noelle Woodruff.
830 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2021
Amazing! What a crazy ride! Kenna and her chosen go through the ringer! The fake Queen dragging Kenna's name in the dirt but the people are too scared to speak out. There's some rough stuff in this book so be warned. But there's also some hot 🔥🔥 stuff as well! Hope we get spin-offs in this world!
319 reviews4 followers
April 18, 2021
Gutted it is over

What an amazing end to a wonderful series, I am gutted for it to have come to an end. Willow really brought these characters to life and now I am sad to say goodbye. Cannot wait to read more from this author.
793 reviews1 follower
April 19, 2021
This was an amazing conclusion to the series. The final battle between the Imposter Queen and Keena was epic. Tragic times were had by Kenna and her Chosen along the way. It could have easily broke them but they came out swinging. The epilogue was sweet and made your heart sing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.