What do you think?
Rate this book
Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor #1
Embrace of Shadows
She’s a mortal with no memories.
As her fae liege, he knows only that he must protect her.
But is he her hero . . . or her captor?
Salma knows only her own name. She doesn’t even remember why she’s ill. Then a fae lord who claims he knows her snatches her back to his manor, and she learns that some things are more sinister than death. Like the Court of Dusk where everyone seems to know more about her than she does and nightfall is a deadly affair.
Adom’s book of truth tells him that the woman he doesn’t recognize is a vital member of his household. But the Manor keeps its secrets well, even from its own master. And even the Shadows seem to want the beautiful, mortal nuisance he has pledged to protect.
As the threat of an invasion from night itself continues to mount, Adom knows there will be consequences if he can’t protect her. And Salma wonders if she can trust him to protect her from himself. Because sometimes Adom isn't the begrudging, aloof fae he appears to be. Sometimes he's someone— or perhaps something— else.
The beginning of a haunting, slow-burn, closed-door fae romance with elements of Beauty & the Beast, Hades & Persephone, and Egyptian mythology. Perfect for fans of Sylvia Mercedes, Tara Grayce, and Emma Ham.
As her fae liege, he knows only that he must protect her.
But is he her hero . . . or her captor?
Salma knows only her own name. She doesn’t even remember why she’s ill. Then a fae lord who claims he knows her snatches her back to his manor, and she learns that some things are more sinister than death. Like the Court of Dusk where everyone seems to know more about her than she does and nightfall is a deadly affair.
Adom’s book of truth tells him that the woman he doesn’t recognize is a vital member of his household. But the Manor keeps its secrets well, even from its own master. And even the Shadows seem to want the beautiful, mortal nuisance he has pledged to protect.
As the threat of an invasion from night itself continues to mount, Adom knows there will be consequences if he can’t protect her. And Salma wonders if she can trust him to protect her from himself. Because sometimes Adom isn't the begrudging, aloof fae he appears to be. Sometimes he's someone— or perhaps something— else.
The beginning of a haunting, slow-burn, closed-door fae romance with elements of Beauty & the Beast, Hades & Persephone, and Egyptian mythology. Perfect for fans of Sylvia Mercedes, Tara Grayce, and Emma Ham.
405 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2022
41 people are currently reading
1410 people want to read
About the author
Jes Drew
86 books530 followersJes Drew is the author of the Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor Series, the Sunset at Dawn trilogy, The Samurai's Student saga, the Ninja and Hunter trilogy, the Howling Twenty trilogy, the Kristian Clark saga/The Man on the Run series, the Castaways trilogy, The Dystopian Takeover trilogy, Summers of Yesteryear series, The Clockwork Faerie Tale Novellas, the Legends of the Master Spy series, The New ESE Files series, Tales from Parallel Worlds, Genie and Serena, Accidentally on the Run, This Side of Heaven, and The Death of a Hero.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. Also, she has about five million houseplants (and counting— the plants and not the degrees . . . unless she relapses). She is still debating if having a fae husband is worth the hassle.
Sign up to Jes' newsletter to read Entreaty of Shadows for free!
https://mailchi.mp/ddd429767392/untit...
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. Also, she has about five million houseplants (and counting— the plants and not the degrees . . . unless she relapses). She is still debating if having a fae husband is worth the hassle.
Sign up to Jes' newsletter to read Entreaty of Shadows for free!
https://mailchi.mp/ddd429767392/untit...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 6, 2022
My debut into gothic fae romance. After writing this book, I got to know, why did I wait so long to get into romantasy?
September 16, 2022
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC for an honest review.
Embrace of Shadows is the first book of the fantasy series that ended with me having way too many questions unanswered. We are introduced to Salma, a human who doesn’t remember anything other than her name. She wakes up without memories and immediately finds herself in danger. As she tries to escape, she is whisked off by a fae lord to his manor.
Lord Adom is the head of his household and brings Salma to live there. He doesn’t state a reason nor tell Salma anything regarding their situation. The Manor holds secrets of its own in addition to everyone around Salma. In addition to all of this, the Manor and their entire world is under attack. Truths come out and Salma begins to learn who she is and her relationship to the world.
THE PLOT was incredible and detailed. The world created was diverse and intriguing. Learning more about the works within the plot was exciting every step of the way. The fae side of the world is separated from the human side with a common enemy between them. The descriptions were vivid and indulging.
THE CHARACTERS were an added charm. Salma was an endearing character trying to understand her past and unravel the mysteries surrounding her. Adom was an enigma from the start and I still don’t understand him. I need the sequel to figure him out. The people working in the Manor and Adom’s guests were such an interesting addition to the story. I’m looking forward to learning more about them.
There were so many questions from the beginning of the book and only a few were answered by the end. I ended up with even more questions after the read. At the end of the day, this was a fascinating read and I’m excited to read more about this world.
Embrace of Shadows is the first book of the fantasy series that ended with me having way too many questions unanswered. We are introduced to Salma, a human who doesn’t remember anything other than her name. She wakes up without memories and immediately finds herself in danger. As she tries to escape, she is whisked off by a fae lord to his manor.
Lord Adom is the head of his household and brings Salma to live there. He doesn’t state a reason nor tell Salma anything regarding their situation. The Manor holds secrets of its own in addition to everyone around Salma. In addition to all of this, the Manor and their entire world is under attack. Truths come out and Salma begins to learn who she is and her relationship to the world.
THE PLOT was incredible and detailed. The world created was diverse and intriguing. Learning more about the works within the plot was exciting every step of the way. The fae side of the world is separated from the human side with a common enemy between them. The descriptions were vivid and indulging.
THE CHARACTERS were an added charm. Salma was an endearing character trying to understand her past and unravel the mysteries surrounding her. Adom was an enigma from the start and I still don’t understand him. I need the sequel to figure him out. The people working in the Manor and Adom’s guests were such an interesting addition to the story. I’m looking forward to learning more about them.
There were so many questions from the beginning of the book and only a few were answered by the end. I ended up with even more questions after the read. At the end of the day, this was a fascinating read and I’m excited to read more about this world.
September 30, 2022
I received an ARC from the author.
This is a “closed door” Fae romance. I was a little nervous going in, because while I love Fae stories, I also love spicy romances. I truly didn’t miss it with Embrace of Shadows though. The world that Jes created, the mystery and suspense, kept me absolutely enthralled! Instead of waiting for the MCs to spice each other, I was trying to untangle this enigma of Salma’s missing memories and current reality. Jes does a masterful job at sprinkling in details to not leave me completely confused while also maintaining the mystery. I will 100% be reading the next book in the series!
This is a “closed door” Fae romance. I was a little nervous going in, because while I love Fae stories, I also love spicy romances. I truly didn’t miss it with Embrace of Shadows though. The world that Jes created, the mystery and suspense, kept me absolutely enthralled! Instead of waiting for the MCs to spice each other, I was trying to untangle this enigma of Salma’s missing memories and current reality. Jes does a masterful job at sprinkling in details to not leave me completely confused while also maintaining the mystery. I will 100% be reading the next book in the series!
Read
January 5, 2023Any book that starts off with memory loss and confusion is bound to make for some interesting reading, and that’s exactly how EMBRACE OF SHADOWS starts off. Mortal woman Salma only knows her name, she has no memories of who she is, where she comes from, or what her life is like. Immortal fae Adom takes her in, claiming to know her. Mysteries abound as Salma tries to figure out who she is, while also trying to unravel the shadowy secrets that surround Adom.
What a delight this book was! This is like one big mysterious secret package tied up with 100 gorgeous mystery ribbons. With so many secrets to work through, it’s a wonder Salma has any chance at all of remembering who she is. I adored how everything was cloaked in shadow, including Adom’s manor which has literal shadows. It all gave this book such a dark and gothic feel, and I loved the atmospheric world that Drew created.
The romance was also delightful, and I loved the reluctance and the angst on both of their parts. This is a slow burn with plenty of tension and I can’t wait to see how it plays out in the next installment of this series. All told, a delightfully dark and mysterious series starter that will leave readers with more questions than there are answers. Many thanks to @bookofmatchesmedia and @authorjesdrew for having me on the tour and gifting me an arc.
What a delight this book was! This is like one big mysterious secret package tied up with 100 gorgeous mystery ribbons. With so many secrets to work through, it’s a wonder Salma has any chance at all of remembering who she is. I adored how everything was cloaked in shadow, including Adom’s manor which has literal shadows. It all gave this book such a dark and gothic feel, and I loved the atmospheric world that Drew created.
The romance was also delightful, and I loved the reluctance and the angst on both of their parts. This is a slow burn with plenty of tension and I can’t wait to see how it plays out in the next installment of this series. All told, a delightfully dark and mysterious series starter that will leave readers with more questions than there are answers. Many thanks to @bookofmatchesmedia and @authorjesdrew for having me on the tour and gifting me an arc.
November 1, 2023
I liked this book soo much. Of course I'm a bit bias because I'm crazy for a story with a plot that as inspirational elements of Beauty & the Beast, Hades and Persephone, and Ancient History (Egyptian) mythology. Overall, it's was well constructed story-line with a bit of supernatural (haunting), slow-burn, closed-door fae romance with the right amount of gothic mystery.
Both main characters are both charming and even if this book does not have all the usual action packed pace that a fantasy novel has this book gifts its readers a wonderful romance story. I will be looking forward to read this series.
I received a free copy of this book (audiobook) via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both main characters are both charming and even if this book does not have all the usual action packed pace that a fantasy novel has this book gifts its readers a wonderful romance story. I will be looking forward to read this series.
I received a free copy of this book (audiobook) via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I need more of this story right now! There’s just so many mysteries needing to be solved and questions left to be answered. That cliffhanger really left me hanging too! Yet, I still loved every moment of this story. I can’t wait to read what’s next!
September 30, 2022
She is not mine to reclaim. She is simply mine.
The first in the series this book was quite the page turner once it got started. Embrace of Shadows is a slow burn fae romance. The book gives off some major Beauty and the Beast vibes, while also utilizing Egyptian mythology! The book jumps right in with the main female character fleeing from someone, who? She can't remember! Nor can she remember who she is. She only knows her name is Salma because she hears a voice inside her head urging her to run.
Salma is quickly rescued by Lord Adom the fae lord of the Dusk and Master of the House of Orphydice. He has come to gather Salma and bring her back into his household, although he also seems a little confused about her role in his home. From the beginning it is clear that some type of tension exists between the two. Will Adom be able to help Salma recover her memory?
I was all for this book because of the vibes it gave off. I will admit it started off a little slow and I was slightly confused as to what was taking place, but it quickly picked up pace. Once I accepted that the novel was gonna give me more questions than it did answers I was enchanted by the story. Drew does a fabulous job of keeping an element of mystery in this novel answering just enough to carry along the story but still leave you ready to read the second book!
Salma and Adom's tension is intense and Drew has a habit of dangling a carrot in front of you right before she snatches it back where these two are concerned. It does help to drive along the narrative though so I can't complain. The biggest issue I have with this book is the intense cliffhanger that Drew ends on. She leaves so much open that I did crave a little closure which is the only reason I'm not giving this 5 stars. So if you need a fae romance in your life go read this one.
The first in the series this book was quite the page turner once it got started. Embrace of Shadows is a slow burn fae romance. The book gives off some major Beauty and the Beast vibes, while also utilizing Egyptian mythology! The book jumps right in with the main female character fleeing from someone, who? She can't remember! Nor can she remember who she is. She only knows her name is Salma because she hears a voice inside her head urging her to run.
Salma is quickly rescued by Lord Adom the fae lord of the Dusk and Master of the House of Orphydice. He has come to gather Salma and bring her back into his household, although he also seems a little confused about her role in his home. From the beginning it is clear that some type of tension exists between the two. Will Adom be able to help Salma recover her memory?
I was all for this book because of the vibes it gave off. I will admit it started off a little slow and I was slightly confused as to what was taking place, but it quickly picked up pace. Once I accepted that the novel was gonna give me more questions than it did answers I was enchanted by the story. Drew does a fabulous job of keeping an element of mystery in this novel answering just enough to carry along the story but still leave you ready to read the second book!
Salma and Adom's tension is intense and Drew has a habit of dangling a carrot in front of you right before she snatches it back where these two are concerned. It does help to drive along the narrative though so I can't complain. The biggest issue I have with this book is the intense cliffhanger that Drew ends on. She leaves so much open that I did crave a little closure which is the only reason I'm not giving this 5 stars. So if you need a fae romance in your life go read this one.
October 1, 2022
A mysterious story with great intrigue. I was hooked from the start. Salma had no memory and had to figure it out. It's perfect for Halloween. It has a sinister concept and I'm here for it My reviews are usually vague so people can have their own experience. I like the realism thrown into it.
September 4, 2022
I loved this!!! These characters are 😍🥰😍
February 12, 2023
3.75 rounded up.
I love an MC who is figuring out everything as we are! Memory loss adds a wonderful twist to this gothic fae romance and I'm so ready to see where book two takes us and what answers we will get.
I rounded up to 4 stars. Overall I enjoyed this book, it was a little hard to get into and some conversations had that awkward sounding banter to it. But there are high high hopes for me going into book two!
I love an MC who is figuring out everything as we are! Memory loss adds a wonderful twist to this gothic fae romance and I'm so ready to see where book two takes us and what answers we will get.
I rounded up to 4 stars. Overall I enjoyed this book, it was a little hard to get into and some conversations had that awkward sounding banter to it. But there are high high hopes for me going into book two!
January 6, 2023
The author does a masterful job at sprinkling in details to not leave the reader completely confused while also maintaining the mystery.
The world that Jes Drew created is truly intriguing. The thriller and suspense, kept me absolutely on my toes! Instead of waiting for the MCs to spice each other, I was trying to solve this enigma of Salma’s missing memories and current reality. This was a solid four star read for me and I will be reading the next book in the series for sure.
The world that Jes Drew created is truly intriguing. The thriller and suspense, kept me absolutely on my toes! Instead of waiting for the MCs to spice each other, I was trying to solve this enigma of Salma’s missing memories and current reality. This was a solid four star read for me and I will be reading the next book in the series for sure.
December 30, 2022
Well this was an interesting read! I enjoyed the Beauty and the Beast, Hades and Persephone, and Egyptian Mythology elements. I don't believe I've read any other Egyptian mythology inspired books, so that was a nice change. I also love a slow burn!
This was a quick and easy read full of so many interesting characters. I honestly never knew which ones could be trusted and which could not. Even after finishing the book I still do not know who is trustworthy. 😆 I'm looking forward to learning more about them in book two!
There's so much mystery to it. The book is literally drowning in it. The fmc Salma knowing literally nothing aside from her name, the mmc fae lord Adom is also very mysterious and other aspects of the book have a mysterious air to them as well. There were times where I found myself a bit confused about what was going on and I don't quite understand everything. I'm hoping this will all be cleared up in the sequel.
With the way the book ended I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
This was a quick and easy read full of so many interesting characters. I honestly never knew which ones could be trusted and which could not. Even after finishing the book I still do not know who is trustworthy. 😆 I'm looking forward to learning more about them in book two!
There's so much mystery to it. The book is literally drowning in it. The fmc Salma knowing literally nothing aside from her name, the mmc fae lord Adom is also very mysterious and other aspects of the book have a mysterious air to them as well. There were times where I found myself a bit confused about what was going on and I don't quite understand everything. I'm hoping this will all be cleared up in the sequel.
With the way the book ended I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
September 20, 2022
"I think I was born an adult."
Author Jes Drew does a fantastic job drawing me in right from the very first sentence. The story begins following a woman on the run. The only issue? She has no clue what she is running from, towards, or even who she is at all. "Rescued" or "captured" by Adom, a fae lord, she is whisked back to his manor. There she must slowly unravel the secrets and mystery surrounding this strange fae lord and attempt to regain at least some of her lost memories. I had a hard time putting this book down. The mystery of Salma, Adom, and all of the happenings at the House of Orphydice had me eagerly reading page after page hoping for some answers or understanding. The two MC's had some undeniable chemistry that was super swoon worthy but with all the chaos of the manor it's hard to say what's real or just an illusion. Adom's hot and cold energy drove me CRAZY!!! But ultimately added to the overall mysterious and haunting vibes of this book. I look forward to reading the next book in this series and hopefully uncovering the truth of Salma's past and learning what her future holds.
****I was given a free copy in exchange for my honest review****
Author Jes Drew does a fantastic job drawing me in right from the very first sentence. The story begins following a woman on the run. The only issue? She has no clue what she is running from, towards, or even who she is at all. "Rescued" or "captured" by Adom, a fae lord, she is whisked back to his manor. There she must slowly unravel the secrets and mystery surrounding this strange fae lord and attempt to regain at least some of her lost memories. I had a hard time putting this book down. The mystery of Salma, Adom, and all of the happenings at the House of Orphydice had me eagerly reading page after page hoping for some answers or understanding. The two MC's had some undeniable chemistry that was super swoon worthy but with all the chaos of the manor it's hard to say what's real or just an illusion. Adom's hot and cold energy drove me CRAZY!!! But ultimately added to the overall mysterious and haunting vibes of this book. I look forward to reading the next book in this series and hopefully uncovering the truth of Salma's past and learning what her future holds.
****I was given a free copy in exchange for my honest review****
December 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this one! It reminds me of a Beauty and the Beast more than Hades and Persephone.
It starts off really fast! Salma, a human who doesn't remember anything and Adom, a fae lord - it even sounds very interesting!
The world building, main characters and plot were really good and i don't know what else could i add because i simply liked everything!
It is a closeted-door romance but i didn't mind it actually.
This book left me with so many unanswered questions and i need a second book to find my answers!
It starts off really fast! Salma, a human who doesn't remember anything and Adom, a fae lord - it even sounds very interesting!
The world building, main characters and plot were really good and i don't know what else could i add because i simply liked everything!
It is a closeted-door romance but i didn't mind it actually.
This book left me with so many unanswered questions and i need a second book to find my answers!
January 17, 2023
I thank the author for sending me an ARC for an honest review.
Things I liked: the atmosphere and use of amulets and gothic imagery was delightful. It felt like being drawn into the world of a passionate romance. The intrigue is certainly compelling and I am looking forward to read the sequel.
Things I didn't like: the whole plot sounded quite confusing at times. The fact that Aron is sometimes a shade and sometimes himself for me was not clear and by the end there are still so many questions I am not sure I fully understood the story. The memory loss is never fully explained making me long for more.
Overall I suggest the book for lovers of Gothic romance entwined with dark magic.
Things I liked: the atmosphere and use of amulets and gothic imagery was delightful. It felt like being drawn into the world of a passionate romance. The intrigue is certainly compelling and I am looking forward to read the sequel.
Things I didn't like: the whole plot sounded quite confusing at times. The fact that Aron is sometimes a shade and sometimes himself for me was not clear and by the end there are still so many questions I am not sure I fully understood the story. The memory loss is never fully explained making me long for more.
Overall I suggest the book for lovers of Gothic romance entwined with dark magic.
December 24, 2022
I inhaled this book in about 24 hours. It's a quick, light read that's a slow burn with no strong female character. She is constantly tripping, falling down, and needing her love interest to rescue her. I can't read books like this all the time, but from time to time it's genuinly a guilty pleasure.
You have the slowest of the slow burns. Adom is a bit grouchy and stand-offish and Salma is sweet, innocent, and somewhat naive, specially since she has had her entire memory wiped. The world building was gradual, we learn what's happened as Salma does. There's a mention of Hades, but honestly this reminds me a bit more of Beauty and the Beast then Hades and Persephone type story.
If you're looking for a quick easy read, with lots of damsel in distress, be sure to add this one to your TBR. Fair warning...the ending is a bit unresolved, not quite a cliffhanger but definitely with questions unanswered. Looking forward to book two!
You have the slowest of the slow burns. Adom is a bit grouchy and stand-offish and Salma is sweet, innocent, and somewhat naive, specially since she has had her entire memory wiped. The world building was gradual, we learn what's happened as Salma does. There's a mention of Hades, but honestly this reminds me a bit more of Beauty and the Beast then Hades and Persephone type story.
If you're looking for a quick easy read, with lots of damsel in distress, be sure to add this one to your TBR. Fair warning...the ending is a bit unresolved, not quite a cliffhanger but definitely with questions unanswered. Looking forward to book two!
December 21, 2022
This was a rather interesting read 😅
It starts off with Salma not having any memories of herself or her past or who she is or was, and is suddenly whisked away by Adom to the Fae lands because, as he says, she’s cursed and it was the only way to save her. For the rest of the story, Salma is trying to find out who she is, who Adom is and who he is to her, to recover her memories as well as figure out the many secrets that everyone seems to have and are not telling her while also trying to avoid being taken by the Shades and Shadows that attack the Manor at night and their ruler who seems to claim she is his wife.
The world and the story were interesting and I wanted to know more. There were words used I’m unfamiliar with and really wished there was a glossary because that would have helped IMMENSELY. That being said, the world is intriguing. It made me think of Egypt in the past or set in the past. And the Fae in this world are much more tricky and ruthless.
There’s not much to say about the characters since it focuses on Salma the most and I appreciate how easygoing she was despite not knowing anything or having no memories and yet she just kind of accepted whatever Adom said, but I appreciate that she didn’t freak out about everything, she took it in stride and tried her best to learn about the world and also try to gain her memories back.
Aside from the much wished for glossary, the word “mayhap” is used wayyyy too many times! I struggled to take the book seriously with how often that word was used 😅 and by the end of the book I had more questions and less answers and that left me with mixed emotions. I want to know more but I also don’t know if I want to take the time to learn more in the next book…but knowing me I probably will read the next book because my curiosity needs to be sated 😂
I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It starts off with Salma not having any memories of herself or her past or who she is or was, and is suddenly whisked away by Adom to the Fae lands because, as he says, she’s cursed and it was the only way to save her. For the rest of the story, Salma is trying to find out who she is, who Adom is and who he is to her, to recover her memories as well as figure out the many secrets that everyone seems to have and are not telling her while also trying to avoid being taken by the Shades and Shadows that attack the Manor at night and their ruler who seems to claim she is his wife.
The world and the story were interesting and I wanted to know more. There were words used I’m unfamiliar with and really wished there was a glossary because that would have helped IMMENSELY. That being said, the world is intriguing. It made me think of Egypt in the past or set in the past. And the Fae in this world are much more tricky and ruthless.
There’s not much to say about the characters since it focuses on Salma the most and I appreciate how easygoing she was despite not knowing anything or having no memories and yet she just kind of accepted whatever Adom said, but I appreciate that she didn’t freak out about everything, she took it in stride and tried her best to learn about the world and also try to gain her memories back.
Aside from the much wished for glossary, the word “mayhap” is used wayyyy too many times! I struggled to take the book seriously with how often that word was used 😅 and by the end of the book I had more questions and less answers and that left me with mixed emotions. I want to know more but I also don’t know if I want to take the time to learn more in the next book…but knowing me I probably will read the next book because my curiosity needs to be sated 😂
I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 22, 2022
4⭐️
I quite enjoyed this story of Adom and Salma.
There are a lot of secrets that have yet to be revealed but that makes me excited for the next book.
Embrace of Shadows has:
>Fae Lord
> Gothic Manor
> Slow Burn
> Amnesia
> Dark Secrets
> Egyptian Mythology
> Beauty & the Beast Vibes
> Fantasy
I also found the side characters to be both intriguing and hilarious. Lateef and Zahra! Cannot wait to see where their story takes them.
And the manor! I absolutely love a house that knows things. I want one for myself honestly.
I recommend this fantasy if you are looking for a slow burn, mysterious Fae/mortal romance.
I quite enjoyed this story of Adom and Salma.
There are a lot of secrets that have yet to be revealed but that makes me excited for the next book.
Embrace of Shadows has:
>Fae Lord
> Gothic Manor
> Slow Burn
> Amnesia
> Dark Secrets
> Egyptian Mythology
> Beauty & the Beast Vibes
> Fantasy
I also found the side characters to be both intriguing and hilarious. Lateef and Zahra! Cannot wait to see where their story takes them.
And the manor! I absolutely love a house that knows things. I want one for myself honestly.
I recommend this fantasy if you are looking for a slow burn, mysterious Fae/mortal romance.
September 30, 2022
Title: Embrace Of Shadows
Author: Jes Drew
Synopsis: She’s a mortal with no memories.
As her fae liege, he knows only that he must protect her.
But is he her hero . . . or her captor?
Salma knows only her own name. She doesn’t even remember why she’s ill. Then a fae lord who claims he knows her snatches her back to his manor, and she learns that some things are more sinister than death. Like the Court of Dusk where everyone seems to know more about her than she does and nightfall is a deadly affair.
Adom’s book of truth tells him that the woman he doesn’t recognize is a vital member of his household. But the Manor keeps its secrets well, even from its own master. And even the Shadows seem to want the beautiful, mortal nuisance he has pledged to protect.
As the threat of an invasion from night itself continues to mount, Adom knows there will be consequences if he can’t protect her. And Salma wonders if she can trust him to protect her from himself. Because sometimes Adom isn't the begrudging, aloof fae he appears to be. Sometimes he's someone— or perhaps something— else.
Review: I loved the mystery in this whole story Salma doesn’t have many memories of her life! She doesn’t know where she is in the beginning of the book! I loved Salma as a character and I wanted more of Adom I felt like I needed to know more about him before I could form a full opinion of him. I had many questions at the start of the book but by the end only some were answered and news questions appeared! Which makes me curious about book two if you love a book with a mystery in it this is for you!
Thank you emstar bookntours for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
Author: Jes Drew
Synopsis: She’s a mortal with no memories.
As her fae liege, he knows only that he must protect her.
But is he her hero . . . or her captor?
Salma knows only her own name. She doesn’t even remember why she’s ill. Then a fae lord who claims he knows her snatches her back to his manor, and she learns that some things are more sinister than death. Like the Court of Dusk where everyone seems to know more about her than she does and nightfall is a deadly affair.
Adom’s book of truth tells him that the woman he doesn’t recognize is a vital member of his household. But the Manor keeps its secrets well, even from its own master. And even the Shadows seem to want the beautiful, mortal nuisance he has pledged to protect.
As the threat of an invasion from night itself continues to mount, Adom knows there will be consequences if he can’t protect her. And Salma wonders if she can trust him to protect her from himself. Because sometimes Adom isn't the begrudging, aloof fae he appears to be. Sometimes he's someone— or perhaps something— else.
Review: I loved the mystery in this whole story Salma doesn’t have many memories of her life! She doesn’t know where she is in the beginning of the book! I loved Salma as a character and I wanted more of Adom I felt like I needed to know more about him before I could form a full opinion of him. I had many questions at the start of the book but by the end only some were answered and news questions appeared! Which makes me curious about book two if you love a book with a mystery in it this is for you!
Thank you emstar bookntours for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
December 8, 2024
Embrace of Shadows
CURSED FAE OF THE ORPHYDICE MANOR BOOK 1
Rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Highlight:
📌Wh-where are we going?”
“Home, of course. Never fear; your curse will lose its grip on you once we step over the border between realms.”
Review
An amazingly written book that had my heart from the very first chapter, this book is the first one in the series and a page-turner with its incredible penmanship and flawless elements of romance. The mild romance that promises a fire to be explored in the series is subtle yet gives the readers hope for their favorite characters.
The book starts off with Salma who's lost her memories and no matter how hard she tries she can't even remember her last name Or anything, she doesn't know the cause of her illness, only to be whisked off by a fae Lord to his manor. She doesn't remember anything but the people in the manor know more about her than she does! But her life gets more and more weary as she learns of the creatures that prowl freely at night! Salma is now stuck between a rock and a Hardplace with nowhere to run to!
Adom has lost his memories of Salma but his own journal says to safeguard and protect her because she's important to him and the manor. His once beautiful palace is now a place for the shades to prowl freely at night and only his magic keeps them away but he's losing his powers one day at a time! Will he save his manor, his servants and Salma whom he doesn't even have proper memories of?
This book is the first in the series and a killer one at that, a page Turner to be certain! The characters are amazing and it's easy to get into Salman shoes and walk the manor leaving the bad tiles of course, the writing style is elegantly Jes Drew's own, she has a way with words to hook in the reader and trap them within the pages of the book, the plot is twisty and is unpredictable and the end is just EPIC!!! I immediately ran and read book 2 because of this book's awesomeness! So RUN(not walk) and GRAB your own copy today!!!
CURSED FAE OF THE ORPHYDICE MANOR BOOK 1
Rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Highlight:
📌Wh-where are we going?”
“Home, of course. Never fear; your curse will lose its grip on you once we step over the border between realms.”
Review
An amazingly written book that had my heart from the very first chapter, this book is the first one in the series and a page-turner with its incredible penmanship and flawless elements of romance. The mild romance that promises a fire to be explored in the series is subtle yet gives the readers hope for their favorite characters.
The book starts off with Salma who's lost her memories and no matter how hard she tries she can't even remember her last name Or anything, she doesn't know the cause of her illness, only to be whisked off by a fae Lord to his manor. She doesn't remember anything but the people in the manor know more about her than she does! But her life gets more and more weary as she learns of the creatures that prowl freely at night! Salma is now stuck between a rock and a Hardplace with nowhere to run to!
Adom has lost his memories of Salma but his own journal says to safeguard and protect her because she's important to him and the manor. His once beautiful palace is now a place for the shades to prowl freely at night and only his magic keeps them away but he's losing his powers one day at a time! Will he save his manor, his servants and Salma whom he doesn't even have proper memories of?
This book is the first in the series and a killer one at that, a page Turner to be certain! The characters are amazing and it's easy to get into Salman shoes and walk the manor leaving the bad tiles of course, the writing style is elegantly Jes Drew's own, she has a way with words to hook in the reader and trap them within the pages of the book, the plot is twisty and is unpredictable and the end is just EPIC!!! I immediately ran and read book 2 because of this book's awesomeness! So RUN(not walk) and GRAB your own copy today!!!
August 31, 2023
Very nice. I did find a few proofreading errors however the story made up for them.
I was a little confused at the start but I found the winding and wandering very enjoyable I’m truely hoping the curse can be overcome and wow some of the dawn people need to go (Montu). I’m not sure about the brother and wife and others but they can stay. The mirror and the ruins are great and I love the floor. Not sure what the guy with the voice is to Salma but be careful is all I can say and she needs to run faster when the bells start to ring.
ARC copy with voluntary review.
I was a little confused at the start but I found the winding and wandering very enjoyable I’m truely hoping the curse can be overcome and wow some of the dawn people need to go (Montu). I’m not sure about the brother and wife and others but they can stay. The mirror and the ruins are great and I love the floor. Not sure what the guy with the voice is to Salma but be careful is all I can say and she needs to run faster when the bells start to ring.
ARC copy with voluntary review.
August 27, 2023
Slow build and slow burn 🔥
Overlooking some typos and inconsistencies, I was caught up in the mystery. Who is Salma? Who is she to Lord Adom? Will Salma remember who she is, and why she is trapped at Orphydice Manor? Who calls to Salma from the shadows of her dreams? Mayhap Book 2 will shine some light!? I'm about to find out!
Overlooking some typos and inconsistencies, I was caught up in the mystery. Who is Salma? Who is she to Lord Adom? Will Salma remember who she is, and why she is trapped at Orphydice Manor? Who calls to Salma from the shadows of her dreams? Mayhap Book 2 will shine some light!? I'm about to find out!
September 9, 2023
This is an awesome fae romance! I liked it very much.. It is slow burn and sultry, mysterious and magical..
January 2, 2023
◦ I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ◦
⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Salma is a very intriguing character, especially since she has no memory of almost anything related to her life. I found her being a bit in duality when comes to who she really is - she either was braver, or she was cowering into a corner waiting to be rescued. I felt she didn't quite have much personality, perhaps due to the fact she didn't remember much about herself. I do think she has lots of potential in the next few books to be more developed and perhaps finally get to know who Salma is.
I felt the master of the house - Adom was a bit more explained than Salma, we've gotten a bigger picture of him about his cold/warm behavior and why sometimes he's acting like a lunatic. He is definitely very mysterious and there is a lot to be unraveled, especially about his family which kept me more invested than Salma and Adom in general, sadly.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building I felt is a mix between dark fantasy and normal fantasy, there are elements that will raise the hair on your arms but then there are elements that will make you love their world and want to be in it. The details offered about their world actually conquered me and made me love the story more. I'm definitely invested in seeing more and getting to know more about their world, the shadows, and how the whole dynamic goes.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
Definitely, the fae world and the extra characters in the story made the whole story more intriguing and helped bump the star rating. While I did enjoy the memory loss and such about Salma I felt at times it was a bit frustrating being kept in the dark for an entire book, but I also do understand why that has been made. There are a whole lot of things to be discovered in the next books hopefully. One thing that I felt was a bit rushed was the romance between Adom and Salma. I enjoyed it more when the feelings between them were more on the hot/cold and a bit slow burn than once the feelings were out on the table, I felt that kind of took out the mystery from the book. I also do think the book should've had a glossary, especially when came to the clothing names I had a hard time actually visualizing what Salma's wearing based on the clothing names. Overall I did enjoy the story and I feel it has a lot of potential for the next books, I'm definitely curious where this goes because of the way it ended.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW ⮜
The story doesn't have any spice/smut in it, it does have some sort of sexual tension but not over the board. There might be some elements that might upset people such as killing of some shadows - the scene isn't very graphic and there is no blood but the action itself can be perhaps triggering.
Follow me on my social media for more than just reviews:
Instagram
BookBub
Blog
Facebook
⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Salma is a very intriguing character, especially since she has no memory of almost anything related to her life. I found her being a bit in duality when comes to who she really is - she either was braver, or she was cowering into a corner waiting to be rescued. I felt she didn't quite have much personality, perhaps due to the fact she didn't remember much about herself. I do think she has lots of potential in the next few books to be more developed and perhaps finally get to know who Salma is.
I felt the master of the house - Adom was a bit more explained than Salma, we've gotten a bigger picture of him about his cold/warm behavior and why sometimes he's acting like a lunatic. He is definitely very mysterious and there is a lot to be unraveled, especially about his family which kept me more invested than Salma and Adom in general, sadly.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building I felt is a mix between dark fantasy and normal fantasy, there are elements that will raise the hair on your arms but then there are elements that will make you love their world and want to be in it. The details offered about their world actually conquered me and made me love the story more. I'm definitely invested in seeing more and getting to know more about their world, the shadows, and how the whole dynamic goes.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
Definitely, the fae world and the extra characters in the story made the whole story more intriguing and helped bump the star rating. While I did enjoy the memory loss and such about Salma I felt at times it was a bit frustrating being kept in the dark for an entire book, but I also do understand why that has been made. There are a whole lot of things to be discovered in the next books hopefully. One thing that I felt was a bit rushed was the romance between Adom and Salma. I enjoyed it more when the feelings between them were more on the hot/cold and a bit slow burn than once the feelings were out on the table, I felt that kind of took out the mystery from the book. I also do think the book should've had a glossary, especially when came to the clothing names I had a hard time actually visualizing what Salma's wearing based on the clothing names. Overall I did enjoy the story and I feel it has a lot of potential for the next books, I'm definitely curious where this goes because of the way it ended.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW ⮜
The story doesn't have any spice/smut in it, it does have some sort of sexual tension but not over the board. There might be some elements that might upset people such as killing of some shadows - the scene isn't very graphic and there is no blood but the action itself can be perhaps triggering.
Follow me on my social media for more than just reviews:
BookBub
Blog
September 28, 2022
Salma knows only her own name. She doesn’t even remember why she’s ill. Then a fae lord who claims he knows her snatches her back to his manor, and she learns that some things are more sinister than death. Like the Court of Dusk where everyone seems to know more about her than she does, and nightfall is a deadly affair. Adom’s book of truth tells him that the woman he doesn’t recognize is a vital member of his household. But the Manor keeps its secrets well, even from its own master. And even the Shadows seem to want the beautiful, mortal nuisance he has pledged to protect.
This book left me with questions that has me now dying for the next book. This book had a plot that kept me hooked and characters I loved reading about. The chemistry is clear between the main characters. The cover is interesting, which is what made me want to read this one. This is one I will be reading the whole series.
This book left me with questions that has me now dying for the next book. This book had a plot that kept me hooked and characters I loved reading about. The chemistry is clear between the main characters. The cover is interesting, which is what made me want to read this one. This is one I will be reading the whole series.
January 6, 2023
This is a new adult fae fantasy romance, but there is no explicit spice.
The story was well written and interwoven with mystery that kept me on my aggravated toes (in a good way!). This book will absolutely make you want to read more and by the end you might have more questions than answers.
The setting of the story was filled with its own mystery and magical elements and secrets. I loved that aspect of the book. It gave the book an added gothic romance feel.
Overall it’s almost more fantasy mystery than star ugh fantasy romance. The side characters helped make the story even better and honestly were one of my favorite parts. The slow burn and TENSION is my absolute favorite to read and this book was full of it.
And if you love devastating cliffhangers, look no further.
Thank you BOMM and the author for the ARC copy for review!
The story was well written and interwoven with mystery that kept me on my aggravated toes (in a good way!). This book will absolutely make you want to read more and by the end you might have more questions than answers.
The setting of the story was filled with its own mystery and magical elements and secrets. I loved that aspect of the book. It gave the book an added gothic romance feel.
Overall it’s almost more fantasy mystery than star ugh fantasy romance. The side characters helped make the story even better and honestly were one of my favorite parts. The slow burn and TENSION is my absolute favorite to read and this book was full of it.
And if you love devastating cliffhangers, look no further.
Thank you BOMM and the author for the ARC copy for review!
January 7, 2023
While it took me a little bit to get into this book (having the main character continuously fall unconscious is not my favorite way to start a book), once it hooked me, I was really hooked and read the rest of it in one sitting. I really liked the Egyptian themes with the clothing and Duat. Salma was a little bland at first and I get that if you had no memory, you would be a little bland too but it took a little while for me to care about her. I was way more interested in the mystery with her memory than her as a person. The plot was definitely what kept me going. I think I would like to see a little more character development for both Salma and Adom but maybe we will get that in the next book since it ended right when it was getting really good.
January 2, 2023
Seconds tick by as hours, and still I pace. Still the thoughts crawl inside my head with sharp claws.
I really enjoyed Embrace of Shadows. From the first page I had so many questions I NEEDED answers to. Including “Who is Salma and what is her story?” By the end I had a few answers, but a million more questions.
The plot is so mysterious, adventurous, and addicting. There was so much world and character build up I felt like I was there. Salma and Adom were so alike, yet so different written in a way that made you wonder what they were to each other, and why.
I really loved all the different mythologies blended together. I didn’t know if it would work, but the way Jess Drew wrote it, the differences complimented each other and created a great story.
The ending cliffhanger was so hard I felt like I ran into a brickwall. In a good way, but I absolutely feel like I need answers and the second book so I can get some sort of closure.
I really enjoyed Embrace of Shadows. From the first page I had so many questions I NEEDED answers to. Including “Who is Salma and what is her story?” By the end I had a few answers, but a million more questions.
The plot is so mysterious, adventurous, and addicting. There was so much world and character build up I felt like I was there. Salma and Adom were so alike, yet so different written in a way that made you wonder what they were to each other, and why.
I really loved all the different mythologies blended together. I didn’t know if it would work, but the way Jess Drew wrote it, the differences complimented each other and created a great story.
The ending cliffhanger was so hard I felt like I ran into a brickwall. In a good way, but I absolutely feel like I need answers and the second book so I can get some sort of closure.
October 4, 2022
This was such a fun retelling. I felt as in the dark about things as Salma did. I loved the world and the characters but like Salma there was so much I didn’t know though I believe that was intentional. There’s so much more I want to know. Hanging in there for a sequel.
December 17, 2022
Books with Fae are some of my favorites to read, so I went into this with high hopes.
Most of the book took place in Orphydice Manor. It was a magical home with traps and secrets.
The cast was diverse and intriguing. I want to learn more about the staff and the visiting fae.
As the story moved on, the author inundated me with more questions than answers. I figured that some, if not all, would be answered by the end of the book, but they weren't. Leaving me somewhere between disappointed and needing more.
Most of the book took place in Orphydice Manor. It was a magical home with traps and secrets.
The cast was diverse and intriguing. I want to learn more about the staff and the visiting fae.
As the story moved on, the author inundated me with more questions than answers. I figured that some, if not all, would be answered by the end of the book, but they weren't. Leaving me somewhere between disappointed and needing more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews