Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Crystal Shard

Rate this book
A week ago I was working at Sav-R-Mart. Now I’m helping five gorgeous shifters track down a stolen pendant. It beats cleaning up on Aisle Nine.

I’m only twenty-one and I’m already tired of being broke, getting harassed by my boss, and life in general. So I asked the universe for a change.

That’s when I got pulled into another world where magic, gods, and shifters are real. Now I have an absent-minded muse, brand-new magical powers that I can’t quite control … and the Buff Lords. Five huge, hot, dangerous paladins who can turn into Big Cats. And I’m supposed to help them recover a stolen royal necklace.

But as I soon find out, all they really want is me…

*Book one in a five book paranormal reverse harem romance series. This is a mature new adult novel and contains situations that some readers might find offensive or triggering.

303 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 29, 2022

69 people are currently reading
267 people want to read

About the author

Nicola M. Cameron

26 books27 followers

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
54 (43%)
4 stars
44 (35%)
3 stars
19 (15%)
2 stars
5 (4%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Merissa (Archaeolibrarian).
4,203 reviews119 followers
July 26, 2023
CRYSTAL SHARD is the first book in the Paladins of Crystal series, a new reverse harem series that promises to be a blast! In a nutshell, Crystal is living with her brother and s-i-l, in a dead-end job. One bad day later and she's hiding in a garden when her muse, whom she didn't know she had, decides to take matters into her own hands. Crystal is transported to a new world and ends up meeting five royal Paladins (Buff Lords). There you go.

Of course, there's more to it than that. I am hoping there will be a book for each of the Paladins but this one was Anton's. Crystal feels attracted to all of them but Anton is the one she spends the most time with. The sparks fly but Anton can't act on his wants and needs, not if he wants his mother to live.

The world-building here is exceptional, just what I've come to expect from this author. The characters are multi-dimensional and, in Crystal's case, snarky and headstrong. This leads to some fantastic situations that you can see clearly.

This book ended way too soon for me. I feel it's going to be a series to read one after the other! Absolutely fantastic. I loved every word and can't wait to read more. Highly recommended by me.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!

Jul 20, 2022
Profile Image for Beth Billings.
102 reviews4 followers
August 16, 2022
Crystal's life pretty much sucks - she was abandoned at birth, she feels a burden to her adoptive brother and his pregnant wife and, on top of that, she has just assaulted her boss! She wishes she could just be whisked away from it all until she is then she just wants to get home to her miserable life... until she goes on an adventure with a few rather handsome, extremely hot men, especially one who she would give anything to be with but he is betrothed to another, on this adventure can she find more than herself?


This is the first book in a new series by the author, a fantastically written story with some twists and turns. Talk about having some saucy dreams honestly I was blushing! Totally understandable though! The style Nicola has written in everything just flows and there's no confusion about what's happening, she makes it so easy to follow. I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline, the camaraderie between the group and the way they fit together is just like a jigsaw puzzle, they were meant to find each other. I've read other books by Nicola and I get so into her writing I get lost in the worlds she has created. She has got a fantastic style and has you captured with every written word it doesn't seem forced or let's put that bit in it fills a gap, I cannot give her enough praise.


I highly recommend this book and give Nicola M. Cameron's other books a read. I can't wait to read the next one.

Profile Image for Sylvie.
471 reviews2 followers
July 31, 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book but it was a fun and enjoyable read. Crystal used expressions that are part of current day vocabulary which let you know this was a current book. The story itself was interesting and you wondered what might happen next. I didn't expect some of the twists which I always appreciate in a read.

I was ready to start book two when I finished this one but unfortunately, it has not been published yet.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Gloria.
Author 39 books85 followers
October 6, 2022
A well thought out and fun reverse harem.
Profile Image for Lauren .
872 reviews
July 2, 2022
Crystal Shard is the first installment in the Paladins of Crystal series by Nicola M. Cameron. This high fantasy romance is a slow-burn reverse harem with an exciting storyline, great mystery elements, a take-charge sarcastic heroine, five deliciously handsome paladins, secret identities, shifters, and sizzling chemistry.

Crystal Laska is a 21-year-old average human girl that has been in survival mode most of her life. She is no stranger to the difficult obstacles and challenges in life. She was orphaned as an infant and raised in foster care before being adopted by the Laska family. Working a minimum wage job at Sav-R-Mart and being harassed by her older creepy boss was not the future Crystal envisioned for herself. She flees the store during a shift after her boss pesters her and she ends up outdoors in a lightning storm. Suddenly, she is thrust through a veil and lands in another realm. She comes face-to-face with her muse, Taina, and must now fight to survive in an unknown world filled with magic and danger.

Crystal meets Hetta Kepper and her three spouses after saving their 11-year-old daughter Minna from an attack in the woods. Hetta senses magic within Crystal and takes her under her wing as repayment for saving her daughter. Hetta teaches Crystal the art of shaping powerful objects using her magic. She learns there are Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Metal shapers in Siderean. All shapers are required by law to attend the Musala Academy for a minimum of five years to hone their power. An untrained shaper can be dangerous to the people surrounding them.

One day, the Royal Paladins approach the Kepper family for assistance on their search for a missing royal regalia called the Shard of Alexandros. Kepper is not in any shape to keep up with these men and Minna is much too young to leave home. Crystal volunteers her services and off she goes, trailing handsome royal guards that make her feel weak in the knees. The problem? She isn’t a skilled shaper and must manage to accomplish several difficult patterns that are beyond her scope of power. Oh and the other problem? All five paladins are betrothed to the Grand Duchess Veronika Garin and will be wed in 3 weeks time.

The Paladins are -

Lord Erik Chiem; the no non-sense leader that is an Earth shaper
Lord Anton Karev; the irresistible grumpy redhead that is a Metal shaper
Lord Basil Diamandis; the charming ladies man that is a Fire shaper
Lord Marco Allesandro; the easy-going one that is an Air shaper
Lord Fallon DeVries; the broody quiet one that is a Water shaper

The journey is long and exhausting. Crystal must push her limits to gain the trust of her paladins. Their chemistry is undeniable and forbidden. What is Crystal going to do once these men are wed and the small stolen moments are simply a memory? Well… Crystal may be more than just a human girl living in a magical realm. The ending is one heck of a cliffhanger with feelings being admitted, puzzle pieces clicking in place, and secret identities revealed.

This book was definitely an exciting journey and I cannot wait for the rest of the series to be released. I NEED to know what happens! If you are a lover of high fantasy books with a great plot, amazing character development, and forbidden love… read this book!

Tropes: Fantasy romance, paranormal, shifters, royalty, witches, magic, secret identifies, forbidden love
Heat: 3/5
1,900 reviews13 followers
July 16, 2022
Surviving another day in her life was already difficult for Crystal Shard and when things seemed to be going for the worse, a radical step changed her life completely. Magic, fantasy, and a handful of gifted and handsome Lords take her through a mysterious world with secrets that slowly begin to unravel in this intriguing first book in the series. Temptations are at every turn, but with dire consequences, and our heroes find themselves struggling with desires, emotions, and duty. I like how the character of Crystal, trying to be as sensible as possible in her situation, not an easy task, she unfolds. The Lords are in a serious predicament and the matter of transmutation has me very curious. Now you must be aware of who is the villain moving behind the scenes. I love these stories with characters that have magic, complicated situations, and unexpected twists. Action, suspense, intrigue, violence, some romance, and danger. Voluntarily reviewed this copy which I received for free from BookSirens.
Profile Image for tre.wandereads.
451 reviews
August 2, 2022
I literally could not put the book down. It was written really well and brought us to an interesting world of magic and mystery.

Crystal is witty, funny, smart, and brazen. I adore her spunk and natural charm. She made the story come alive and gave her paladins the time and space to come out of their shells and open up their hearts. It was adorable how, one by one, they just fell at her feet without her even trying to lure them in.

I enjoy reverse harem stories but some stories all just center on the relationship. I like that there was a greater depth to this story than just their love. There is a mystery to be solved and a future and a destiny to fulfill. It made for a better storyline and it certainly drew me in from start to finish.

The only bad thing about this book.. is that it’s part of a series. Meaning I have to wait for a long long time to get to the ending haha but it’s also good, because we will be seeing much much more of Crystal and her Buff Lords!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
824 reviews29 followers
August 12, 2022
I’m not one to normally gush about a book - but I REALLY loved it! So easy to read, beautifully written and great world building. Crystal was in the foster system since she was born; she’s working a job she hates for very little pay until she hears a voice telling her to run after an incident where she works. And all of a sudden she’s in a strange world confronted by a group of Paladins (hunky soldiers/lords) who need her help. They want her to use the raw talent she has only just discovered to help find a missing jewel.

Crystal is a great character, feisty, mouthy and brave, although she doesn’t always believe in herself. We know enough of her background to make things interesting and although as the book went on I did guess where it was heading it didn’t spoil the enjoyment at all. The Paladins all have different natures and skills, and they certainly add spice to this tale. Can’t wait for the next book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Amanda Crossland.
1,189 reviews12 followers
February 15, 2024
Holy Opal!

Wow! What an ending! I had been watching the read percentage go up and up until they all got back to Jacoba and then I didn’t even realize I got to the end until it freaking Ended! Ugh! I kinda realized and predicted it but how the story is told and how if unfolded so naturally was incredible. The story building is amazing. I’ll be honest the beginning of the book had me unsure about reading, accidentally stealing then running away even if she had been accosted. I was yelling at her in my head, screaming at her to accuse him of attempted sexual assault. Instead she ran, and I felt guilty for her. That feeling almost made me not want to read forward but I’m so glad I did. What an incredible story. So glad the 2nd book is out. Nicola is definetly in my top fav authors, and this is the first book I’ve read of hers, and I typically read close to 350 regular sized books a year. I am a readaholic. It’s what I look forward to in my down time. You won’t regret taking a chance on this book.
Profile Image for Bella.
472 reviews
January 21, 2024
4/5 stars

Uh oh…. I am going to be 100% honest right now. I went into this book not expecting much. I thought that it was just going to be a “meh whatever” kind of book. BOY WAS I WRONG!!

This book absolutely hooked me as soon as I started reading it. I love how Anton (?) slowly warmed up to her and treated her the way that he does at the end.

I can tell I really like a book when I squeal out loud, and I found myself doing that very often with this book. We am definitely going to do my best to move onto the next book and to stick with it. I think that I am just going to not read the blurb and head straight into the book.

I have also realized that I am kind of screwed because this is a FIVE book series and only two books are out right now… so I don’t really know what I am going to do about that.

Anyways the way that the book ended has a chokehold on me, and I want to start it RIGHT. NOW.
Profile Image for Ellie .
735 reviews21 followers
July 22, 2022
Crystal Shard was a fantastic beginning to this new series. Crystal is a 21 year old human, who’s had more of her fair share of challenges to face. She was orphaned as an infant and currently works at a minimum wage job.

After she flees from her creepy boss, she ends up getting stuck in a lightening storm. This is where her life gets a bit crazier. She’s thrown into a new realm, filled with magic, danger & plenty of unknown things. After rescuing her daughter Hetta takes Crystal under her wing and learns of the magic & shapers. One day the Royal Paladins come knocking for the families assistance & Crystal volunteers.

There’s so much up & down, and building of trust between Crystal & the Paladins. I can’t wait to see where book 2 takes us. It’s going to be an interesting ride!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for T.M. Thomas.
148 reviews5 followers
May 29, 2025
Great story but not standalone

I loved this story, the characters and the world in which it is set. I love Crystals attitude and the thought of someone coming from nothing to being a heroine. Just two little things robbed it of the final star. Firstly, I don’t do spoilers, but I don’t believe it’s a secret that some of the characters are shifters. There is a moment when they shift and then return to human form, but no mention of them being naked. One would expect in shifters that once they return from animal form that their clothes must’ve been lost in the transmutation. Secondly, the story ends very abruptly. It’s very clear that more books need to be read to get the whole story. I like book series’, but also like a standalone element to each story in a series, which was missing from this book.
Profile Image for Brad.
706 reviews3 followers
July 17, 2022
Wow! This was a powerful and well-told story. The character development is superb and the world view is exposed and enriched as the narrative progresses.

Crystal is our protagonist. Being almost 21, she is suddenly yanked from her safe somewhat boring existence into a world of magic. She learns that she has a destiny to fulfill and it seems to include five enticing young men and a lot of royal and political intrigue.

From a couple hints early in the story, I was able to correctly guess some of the outcome. However, that didn’t diminish my enjoyment of the story or the plot twists that occurred.

This is the first book in a series. Although there are some satisfying conclusions, the overarching story is not finished. I look forward to reading the next book.
Profile Image for DesN2004.
652 reviews7 followers
July 6, 2022
I really enjoyed this world and characters!!
Crystal and the buff lords are on an adventure that seems to be just getting started. I love Crystal and how she is rolling with everything that is happening, especially as she is in a completely different world. The buff lords are a treat, they all have different looks and personalities, of course Anton is a running favorite at the moment. This story has depth and flow. I did not want to put it down, and that ending.....I will be sitting on the edge of my seat for the next!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sonie.
19 reviews
July 25, 2022
Overall story : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spice: 🌶🌶

This story caught me and I flew through it. The FMC is relatable and strong, though not in an in-your-face kind of way, which made me like her more. The only thing about her that I found aggravating was the almost constant, dare I say, over the top use of modern slang. I fear this could "date" the book and prevent it from aging well. A few editing items noted but very few and far between. Looking forward to the second book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for CanditheBookworm.
390 reviews2 followers
August 11, 2022
Well-written and definitely enthralling. Characters are quite interesting with very distinct personalities. I am pleasantly surprised at Crystal’s go with the flow attitude considering her world has been turned upside down - it’s refreshing to have a no-whine, I’ve got this female character. The read is moderate slow burn - just enough to get you hooked. Slightly naughty but not yucky naughty. The twist at the end I saw a mile off, but am anxiously waiting to see how the author continues to spin it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jena Stevenson.
25 reviews
August 23, 2022
After ending up in another world, Crystal had a steep learning curve. Thankfully her 'Buff Lords' were there to help her. The different personalities of each of the men are fantastic. I can't wait to see more of how Fallon interacts with her. Anton is a man after my own heart.

There is so much about this book to enjoy, the magic system, the mystery of Crystal's past, and even how her little sayings constantly confuse the guys. I will definitely be picking the next book up.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Seashell .
186 reviews1 follower
November 21, 2022
This book was awesome! The world created is a beautiful mix of older Victorian manners and magical wonder. The intrigue is complex and captivating, with danger around every corner. Through it all, you have the growing feelings between Anton and Crystal, and to a lesser degree, with the other paladins, which give just the right amount of spice to the story. I was completely captivated by this book and will definitely be going to look for the next installments. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for WhyChooseReality.
247 reviews24 followers
July 21, 2022
I'm really happy that I picked this one up. I love high fantasy books where the world building is done right.
I was a bit confused at the start about who was who. In my mind the grumpy one was not Anton. Plus I didn't like the dreams, but I know others will love them. There were some difficulty/fancy words that I had to look up, more than I'm used to. But apart from that I really loved this book!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marina.
124 reviews1 follower
July 15, 2022
I loved this book which is the first instalment of a brand new series. I loved all the characters and hearing about the unknown world which seems behind in technology but has magic. So looking forward to the next one.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
65 reviews1 follower
July 23, 2022
Oh My God! I just couldn’t put this book down and had to hide from my family! The main character is quick witted and used 2022 references that I found hilarious in this epic story in a world with Palladins, Royalty and no electricity unless it’s powered by magic. I am anxiously awaiting book 2 in this continuing story!

I received a review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for JackaayReadsallday .
772 reviews17 followers
August 23, 2022
Oh my god! Oh my god! Oh my god! I cannot wait for book 2. You left me on the best kind of cliffhanger! I am in love with a dynamic between all of the characters. You got every kind of MMC I like in this reverse harem. I love how the FMC is relatable & down to Earth (see what I did there?) This book will be living rent free in my head for a long time 💖💖💖
Profile Image for Mary Ann.
655 reviews14 followers
November 4, 2022
First book in the series a good start. If it would've had a few more twists and not been so predictable I would've probably given at five stars. There was just nothing that jumped out and wowed me to give it the fifth star. It is RH and she did have a diverse group in her harem which helped tremendously. Female main character kept the guys on their toes which is always a plus.
Profile Image for Sandra Guzdek.
479 reviews6 followers
September 11, 2023
Not a genre I typically read, but I haven't been disappointed by this author's works so far, so I dove in. I very much enjoyed it. I had a feeling about where this book's plot was going, but that didn't spoil my enjoyment of the journey at all. The Buff Lords certainly did not hurt. Have already jumped into the next book, which just came out.
6,485 reviews22 followers
July 21, 2022
This is an exciting slow burn RH romance. Characters and plot are well written and developed. The story kept me engaged. There is a bit of mystery mixed into the action, danger, suspense, magic and twists. I enjoyed this introduction to this series and I am excited to read more.
Profile Image for Kat M.
5,249 reviews18 followers
July 22, 2022
this was a great start to the series Paladins of Crystal. It had what I was looking for in a shifter novel and a reverse harem novel. The characters were interesting and it left me wanting more in this world.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sherry Vaughan.
842 reviews10 followers
August 1, 2022
This book is a real winner. A young woman is transported to a different world, told she has a powerful gift, and then whisked away by some very handsome men. What's not to love?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Eim | frecklesnfantasy.
99 reviews10 followers
August 1, 2022
I just have a lot of questions and that's mainly because the ending leaves you wondering.

I need to read the sequel when it comes out JUST so I can understand everything.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Whitney.
1,052 reviews6 followers
August 14, 2022
Great read loved it l. Great characters and the men! Yummy. Amazing and so well done. I need the next book now!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carrisa Garcia.
45 reviews
September 25, 2023
Loved it

Loved this book, it had me hooked right from the beginning and I couldn't stop reading until I finished it. I can't wait to read the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.