Shadow Fall

Shadow #2

by Erin Kellison

Dark magic, danger, and romance entwine when a hunter from the fae shadowlands crosses into the mortal world...

Custo Santovari died to save his best friend, but a man with all his sins just isn't cut out to be an angel. There's a war raging in the dark alleys of earth against soul-sucking wraiths, and he’ll do anything to get back to the fight...even if he must deceive Death himself to do so.

When ballerina Annabella Ames dances, magic gathers around her. Like all talent, her gift transcends the mortal world, drawing from the shadowlands of faerie. There she attracts the rapt awe of a rogue angel on the run...and a shadow wolf who wants her for himself.

Custo's fall to Earth lands him naked and disoriented in the middle of a dress rehearsal. His rough crossing allows the shadow wolf to follow him into the world, intent on its graceful prey. Annabella doesn’t know what to make of her angel protector. But she can't deny the crackling desire between them. Yet, the wolf tempts her with the promise of magic—and Shadow has so much to give.

Now reborn on earth, Custo finds that nothing is as it should be. His best friend thinks he's a wraith—to capture and kill. Angels close in on their renegade as the shadow wolf stalks Annabella. And Death doesn't like being played for a fool. Only together can Custo and Annabella fight the threats circling them, and with gathering passion, master magic to beat back the hungry darkness.

Each book in the Shadow Series is a stand-alone urban fantasy romantic thriller. Contains mature themes.

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Angels, Fiction

322 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published July 27, 2010

About the author

Erin Kellison is the bestselling author of the Indulgence series, the Dragons of Bloodfire series, the Reveler series, and the Shadow series. She writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and fantasy. She loves other worlds and visits them as often as possible via movies and books and her kids' imaginations. When not daydreaming or writing, she's goofing off with her family in sunny Arizona.

Reviews

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Erin Kellison's Shadow series continues to impress me. This book focuses on Custo (from the first book) who is determined to protect a dancer while trying to find a traitor in Segue. This book has angels, wraiths, Fae, a Shadow Wolf, and Death. I don't want to say too much and spoil anything for those who haven't read the first book (Shadow Bound).
This book was a bit slower that the first but still held a good pace. The whole story takes place in a few days. Paranormal, romance and action filled. This book will surely earn a permanent home on my bookshelf. I look forward to continuing this series. Well done!

[Shauni · Rating 4 out of 5]

For those of you who have not yet discovered author Erin Kellison, I seriously suggest you do so. Put her name on that list of must read authors.. get to know her because this woman writes a wicked story!!

I first had the privilege of reading Ms. Kellison's Soul Kissed and fell unquestionably in love. And then I found out there was so much more to the series.. Shadow Fall is actually book two in the Shadow Series.. I haven't been able to get my hands on book one yet but I will do so and soon.

In Shadow fall we find two people who are literally willing to die for those they love. But struggle to realize that sometimes it's more important to live for them! Honor, integrity, loyalty, it's all in there!

Custo Santovari died for his beliefs, he was determined to protect his friend and boss. Determined to give humanity it's best chance against the Wraiths (humans who chose immortality only they had to suck other humans dry to feed, and I don't mean blood). Because he felt Adam's life was more important and his beautiful wife Talia's life (more precious) Custo refused to succumb and died at a traitors hands. Only to find out that somehow he had made it to heaven... so not what he expected. But Custo needed to return to earth.. he had information that Adam needed, turning his back on the angels and their true mission (something he wasn't even aware of) Custo managed to find a way back.. Only what was moments, maybe days in heaven were two long years here on earth.

Annabella dreams of the dance. Has spent her entire life working towards becoming a prima ballerina to her dancing is magic.. literally. When Annabella finally gets her chance to become the principal in Giselle, she discovers a strange wolf stalking her. A Wolf only she can see.. that is until a strange man literally appears out of the shadows, bringing the wolf to earth with him. From that moment on Annabella's life will never be the same.

A story fraught with mythos and magic, angels and demons, good and evil, Ms Kellison delights us over and over again with the promise of forever. A tempting tease about just how long love can last. And just when you think it is over.. you discover just how far you can go for those you love!!

An absolutely fabulous story!! I can not wait to get my hands on more of Ms Kellison's work!!

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of Shadow Fall, provided by netgalley

[Angela (Angel's Book Nook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

❈ Read as part of the Bad Boys of the Night: Eight Sizzling Paranormal Romances: Paranormal Romance Boxed Set ❈

~ 4 Shadow Fall Stars ~

Shadow Fall is book two in the Shadow series by Erin Kellison. This series continues to impress me. It's got angels, wraiths, Fae, and Death.  

There is a 2 year time lapse between Shadow Bound and Shadow Fall. With the time lapse I recommend reading book one in the series first. For me it had been sometime since I read Shadow Bound that I was a little lost at the beginning, but the author did a great job with the prologue. She refreshes the readers memories and gives a clear explanation on the things that happened. All of this helped to pull me back into the plot and characters. 

Ms. Kellison brings the dark side of the Fae out in this series. The pace is good, maybe a bit slow at the beginning, but that has to do with the author recapping some of the happenings in Shadow Bound. This story takes place in a few days. It's twisted, complicated, and full of action. The world building is interesting and the characters are fascinating. My favorite part is the ballet. The author does such a great job bringing the dance alive through her character.

Shadow Fall was an enjoyable read and I am very curious to see how it will all play out. I can't wait to read Deaths story. 

[♡ Sassy ~ Amy ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the beginning Custo is murdered & goes to heaven. He is an angel, but is confused as to how that could be, because he has done some bad things in his life.

Annabella is a ballet dancer who spins magic through her dancing. Because she has no real control over the magic, she blends the shadow world with the human world pulling Custo & the "Wolf" through to the human world accidentally.

Custo decides he needs to protect Annabella from the "Wolf", while trying to return the Wolf to his own shadow world.

It was so descriptive, that you can see all of the actions unfold like you're there! The story is twisted & complicated & full of action all the time. I never got confused, but it did take up until 28% through for me to figure out what the point of this story would be. AND it was good...

This is an example of a small problem I had with the writing. It starts good, but then BAM! HUH?? I'm only using one characters description & took out some inner dialogue and other character descriptions that happens in between:

Custo leaped down from the white rubble as the wolf morphed into an almost-man, naked, hairy, potent and vicious. His body was built for power, muscles thick & corded. His expression was feral, but had lost that rabid craze that had cost him the fight at the Segue. He was back to cunning, to searching out and exploiting weakness.

He'd set traps, and one had sprung. He was here it collect his prey.

Skipped some here, then...

"Come. Now," the wolf growled across the war zone that was the street. His disgusting stuff was getting hard as if he anticipated dominating her.

See? It dropped my rating because of the incongruent descriptions peppered throughout the book.

The story is good, although complicated. There is a 2 year time lapse between stories, so I recommend reading the first book in the series first.

[Erin Kellison]

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[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Shadow Bound so was looking forward to picking up Shadow Fall which is the second book in Erin Kellison's Shadow series. Please note that this review will contain slight spoilers for the first book in the series so please don't read further if you've not already read it.

I had expected the story to pick up immediately after the ending of Shadow Bound so it was quite a surprise when I discovered that two years had passed since the events in the first book. Custo was tortured and killed while protecting Adam and Talia from their enemies and doing so earned him a place in Heaven as an angel. He doesn't want to stay in Heaven though, the last thing he discovered before he died was that there was another traitor in the Segue Institute and he is determined to find a way to warn his best friend Adam that he is still in danger.

As Custo journeys through the Shadowlands trying to find his way back to earth he stumbles across Annabella. She is a ballet dancer who is so skilled that her dancing has opened a pathway between the two realms. But Custo isn't the only one who has spotted Annabella - she has also drawn the attention of a dangerous hunter who has now followed her to earth and is determined to claim her as his own. Can Custo protect her from Wolf and at the same time track down the traitor in the institute to make sure Adam and Talia are safe?

As much as I liked Shadow Bound I have to confess I wasn't a massive fan of Adam as the hero so I was pleased to discover that this was Custo's story because I already liked him a lot more. Custo went through hell to protect Adam and even died for his friend so I was already impressed by his bravery and the more I found out about him the better he got. Custo doesn't feel like he should be an angel, he has done things in his past that he isn't proud of and doesn't feel worthy but the more you find out about him the more you realise that he has always had honourable intentions. I liked the way Custo is so protective of his friends and also of Annabella but I really wanted him to put himself first just once, or for someone to stand up and fight for him for a change. He is so protective that it turns into more of a self destructive streak!

Although I like Custo more than Adam I didn't enjoy Shadow Fall as much as I enjoyed Shadow Bound. I think that was mainly because I didn't connect with Annabella in the slightest - I just couldn't believe how stupid she was to go off with Custo so quickly (literally the first time she meets him). When the heroine is so scared of the hero that she leaves a voice mail message telling people who she is with & where she was taken in case they find her body I find it hard to accept that she has the hots for him a few minutes later. I had to laugh when Custo called her sensible for making the phone call - OK so if she is murdered the police might be able to find her killer but that wouldn't make her any less dead would it? That hardly makes her sensible in my eyes! As much as I know Custo is the hero she didn't have a clue who he was and I lost all respect for her at that point and didn't get it back. I also found myself quickly getting bored with the descriptions of her dancing but that is probably because ballet is something that has never interested me in the slightest - I don't know the names of the dance moves so found it hard to picture the dances in my head. If you're a ballet fan then you would probably enjoy that part of the story a lot more than I did. The romance between them was so fast that I didn't find it even slightly believable and I just didn't feel enough of a connection between them to like them as a couple.

Unfortunately I was disappointed with Shadow Fall but I'm still curious enough about this series and the world that Erin Kellison has created to try the next book. I'm hoping that I'll enjoy the next instalment much more and am interested in finding out what happens with Adam, Talia and Custo even if I don't particularly care about Annabella. I'm also desperate to find out more about Shadowman who I fell for in the first book and love even more now.

[Mandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are spoilers related to Shadow Bound, book one in this series. And I mean right at the beginning, so look away if you do not want to be spoiled.









Custo Santovari died in Shadow Bound, book one of this series. But at the end of the book, we learn he still lives on in the after life. Two years pass, and Custo wants to get back to Earth with a fierce passion. Spencer, the man who killed him had mentioned before his death that there is a traitor within Segue, the institution run by his best friend Adam. A place that researches and eliminates wraiths – immortal beings that suck the souls out of humans. Custo needs to warn Adam before it is too late, and makes a deal with Shadowman, or death himself, to get out of heaven.

He returns to Earth as an angel, and the first person he sees is Annabella. A ballet dancer, when she becomes one with the dance, she draws on Shadowland, a magical place between Earth and the hereafter, and it is in this form Custo first sees her. But he also sees a wolf, made of shadows who is hunting Annabella. She also sees the wolf too, although first she waves it off to exhaustion or a trick of the eye. But as she walks down the dark street that night, she sees the wolf again, tracking her.

Later, Custo saves her from this wolf nightmare. Hesitant to trust this sexy stranger, she feels he is the better option than making it on her own against this scary wolf. Plus Custo refuses to take no for an answer. Together they are thrust into the dangers that not only lie in Shadowland, but the paranormals who stalk the Earth as well.

I adored Shadow Bound, book one in Erin Kellison’s Shadow series. So much so, I was a little scared to pick up book two. I wasn’t sure she could pull of another book full of such intensity, passion, and nail biting drama. I still think Shadow Bound holds a little higher place in my heart, but Shadow Fall is an excellent sequel.

Custo, warrior and best friend to Adam (the hero from book one) just wants another chance on Earth. When he finally makes it back and falls for the beautiful Annabella instantly, her safety becomes his primary goal. Erin Kellison knows how to write very alpha men paired with equally stubborn females. Annabella may be a very graceful dancer, but she is also a very determined woman. She knows she can’t best the shadow wolf that stalks her on her own, but it irks her to have to take orders from men. I was a little confused about Annabella’s actual magical ability. We are shown she is able to draw upon Shadowland when she dances – but a good explanation of her gift is never fully given.

Torture, fighting, and very suspenseful action dominate the books. The romance is there, although more suspenseful than actual sex scenes. But Erin Kellison writes that suspense so well. The over-protective male with the hunted female works very well in her books. Like I said earlier, book one has a little bit more of a creepier tone, but Shadow Fall also offers a very bad villain and the continuation of the world and story built up in Shadow Bound is well played out. I definitely say read these books in order to get a full grasp of the world.

I have really enjoyed reading this series so much and with the next book titled, Shadowman, I can’t wait.

[Katie(babs) · Rating 1 out of 5]

Custo Santavari has been murdered. After two years of being in limbo, he wants to return to Earth because he feels he is still needed on the mortal plane. His good friend, Adam Thorne runs The Segue Institute, which is a research facility that focuses on the growing wraith population. Wraiths are a type of paranormal creature that causes havoc on Earth. A select group of mortals are at war with the wraiths who have given up their humanity for immortality. Custo has found a way to return to Earth by making a dangerous deal with a Shadowman.

When Custo returns sans clothes, the first person he sees is Annabella, a ballet dancer, who through dance has opened a portal to the Shadowlands. Because of her untapped power, Custo can cross through, as well as a wolf that begins stalking her. The wolf now wants Annabella as his mate and will kill to make that happen. Custo rescues Annabella, even though she is not sure she can trust him. But she has no choice and things become even more complicated when Adam grabs both Custo and Annabella and places them in his facility. Adam thinks Custo has returned as a wraith and can't trust him. All Annabella wants to do is dance and live a normal life, but with the wolf on the prowl and her gift that is never fully explained, she may have to turn her back on everything she has known. But she is not alone and Custo is there to protect her as well as one she can turn to for comfort and support.

Shadow Fall should please readers that are into the mystical and supernatural. Custo is a borderline alpha hero, who the moment he sees Annabella, wants to keep her for his own. Annabella is forced into a situation that should drive her mad. Not only is she introduced to a world that shouldn't be a real, she has a crazed animal on the loose who won't stop until she is his. Annabella's emotions are very unstable and only Custo can keep her sane and not give into that part of herself that wants to embrace the Shadowland realm.

I wish I could recommend Shadow Fall because it does have an intriguing premise, but Erin Kellison's writing is all over the place. The story suffers a great deal because of this. Things occur that just don't help the story move along and Custo and Annabella aren't fleshed out enough to really get a handle on. Their actions are very questionable and the build up to the final battle of sorts is a big let down. There was just too much dialogue and not enough action to keep me engaged and the plot with the wolf lusting after Annabella was very confusing at times.

Erin Kellison's writing may appeal to a specific audience, but unfortunately I was not one of them. And although Shadow Fall is a Leisure Books Guaranteed Read, I would say it's a pass for me.

[Kitten Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

1. Erin Kellison's writing is The Awesomesauce. 2. This is a sequel that doesn't suck. 3. Custo is The Yum. No, seriously: Custo's The Yum.

The first book in this series, Shadow Bound, blew me away with just how dark it was for a Paranormal Romance. I loved the terrible, beautiful, hopeful world ... I loved the characters ... and I ABSOLUTELY wanted more. Shadow Fall is slightly less bleak, but just as incredible.

It begins with Custo. He was tortured to death in Shadow Bound and is now chilling in Heaven, much to his surprise ... and complete aggravation. Before killing him, Spencer let slip about another traitor at Segue, and Custo CANNOT REST until he warns Adam, meaning that HE WANTS OUT. Luckily for him, Shadowman - who started all of the S#%T on earth when he fell for a mortal woman and temporarily abandoned his post - wants in. Fast forward two years. Enter a ballerina whose dancing opens the way into the Shadowlands, one newly fallen Custo, one stupendously angry Shadowman, one heavily pregnant Talia, one good and cold and highly stressed out pile of Adam, and - well - a very hungry Wolf, of all things, THEN LET THE FUN BEGIN!! o_o

Oh, wait, did I mention that Custo is The Yum?! Since he was literally tortured to death, he's - you know - tortured. He also believes that he's not worth very much of anything and that he OWES IT ALL to Adam, including his life, and that He. Ruins. Everything. Oh heck, he's just Too Real. As for Annabella, well, she's his perfect match. I actually really liked reading about her, too, especially since - although constantly protected by Custo and the other Segue men - she's strong and wilful in her own right. I also enjoyed the Giselle stuff; I don't know shit about ballet, but Erin Kellison makes it interesting. And the ending - OHMYFREAKINGGOODNESS!! Paranormal Romance or not, I'm just a sucker for an ending that's perfect exactly because it isn't. For one, it sure as heck makes me want to read further in the series to find out what happens next to Adam and Talia and Shadowman and Zoe and Annabella and Custo and ... yeah, you get the point.

Anyway, I loved it. Also, I can't wait to read Shadowman. Now, what to read next?! Shadowman or Lothaire?? Shadowman or Lothaire?? Shadowman or Lothaire?? Shadowman or Lothaire?? *brain spasms* *brain dies*

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really REALLY like the crazy world of Shadow. I'm mean, it's messed up and dangerous, but the people who rally to fight against it kinda rock. At this point in the story, it feels like an uphill battle, too. For every wraith they cut down, there are others ready to join their ranks. Which is bad. Very bad.

BUT... there are also allies starting to pop up. Here and there. Which kinda feels like another uphill battle since those allies are initially reluctant.

But we're here to talk about Custo and Annabella's story. Custo doesn't see himself in a very flattering light because of the things he's done in his past, but he's loyal. Very loyal. To the point of dying to save Adam and Talia. His attraction to Annabella in the middle of all the crazy he finds himself in is distracting. Sexy, too. The shadow wolf after Annabella makes acting on that attraction a little difficult. As shadow wolves often do.

(Don't worry, he manages to take care of Annabella. *waggles eyebrows*)

For her part, Annabella is shoved face first into the Shadow war when her talent manifests. She copes with it admirably, all things considered. I'm sure Custo had nothing to do with her coping. SURE OF IT.

There's some awesome setup for book 3 (and, honestly, it's been so long since I read book 1, I almost feel like I should go back in and bone up on the start of the crazy) and I am CURIOUS how all this will play out. *slow thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

[Lynn Spencer · Rating 4 out of 5]

CW: Rape, sexual assault references

Spoiler Note: This review contains spoilers for Shadow Bound, the first book in this series.

This month’s prompt of “freebies” felt wide open. I didn’t have a craving for a particular genre, so I just reached into my box of books picked up at past RWA conferences. I came up with Shadow Fall, a paranormal by Erin Kellison. I remember reviewing (and liking) the first book in this series about 10 years ago when it first came out. As it turns out, book 2 is also an entertaining, if occasionally problematic, read.

Readers of Shadow Bound may recall the death of the hero’s friend, Custo Santovari. This novel takes up 2 years later. Custo is now an angel, but not finding Heaven quite to his liking. He died learning that his best friend (Adam Thorne – hero of Book 1) had a traitor among his ranks, and he wants to get back to warn him. He manages to get back to Earth, where he finds himself once more caught up in the war against the wraiths. The wraiths are soul-stealers who can literally suck people’s souls out of them.

This book deals with wraiths and death, and spends a fair amount of time exploring the boundaries between this world and the next. In that sense, it can often have a dark, eerie feel to it. The world Kellison creates is intriguing and in this installment, she gives readers an action-packed read.

This is a partial review. You can find the complete text here: https://allaboutromance.com/april-202...

[Melindeeloo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ballerina Annabella's dancing is truly magical. While practicing for her debut as Giselle, Annabella transcends the mundane world and touches the shadow world of the fae - and unwittingly allows a creature of the shadow to pass through. But at the same time a creature of light also enters the world. Custo, who somehow ended up as an angel after his death (in [[ASIN:B003TO68CI Shadow Bound]]), returns to bring intel to aid Adam in the battle against the Wraiths but ends up as captivated by Annabella as the shadow hunter who seeks to claim Annabella for his own.

I enjoyed the first book in Kellison's Shadow series, but this one has a slightly different flavor from the first, and in adding the fallen angel Custo to the mix I liked Shadow Fall even better. I loved Custo and Annabella was a wonderful leading lady and her years of training actually served to provide what she needs to help fight in the battle against the Shadow - she is a good combination of grace, strength and determination.

I also enjoyed seeing Talia and Adam from the first book, as well as the powerful, yet sympathy stirring Shadowman - his is the next book.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started out reading this I almost put it aside to try reading later, but I'm glad I didn't. What a well written book, it just grips you. The whole mystery of the shadow and the magic of Annabella's dancing. Custo is what I look for in a hero; the hunky guy who puts others before him. The sacrifices this man makes there is no way you don't fall for him. Poor Annabella her beautiful ballet dancing causes her so much grief, a wolf hunts her and a stranger takes her on a wild adventure. Though it looks bleak for Annabella the one bright spot is the strong sexual attraction between her and Custo. The looming threat of the Wolf, and the war with wraiths over them can they survive for a HEA or will the shadow overtake them?

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two in this series, after Shadow Bound gets the five star rating for one of THE best beginnings to a book I have ever read! The beginning of this book is actually taken from the middle of the first book, but told in horrific detail form the standpoint of the victim, who is also the hero in this book! Adding to demons, Death, Shadows, wraiths are angels! Good vs Evil, Hate vs Love...great story, lots of angst!

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just like the first in the series, I really did not connect with the characters. The storyline was good. I liked the premise of Custo being an angel come back to earth to help Adam and the artist draws their inspiration through the Shawdowland but I still just did not really connect with Annabella and Custo.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the sequel as much as the first book. Very glad the Custo was given his own story, I really like his character.

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was a good sequel. I liked that it carried over most of the charcters. When it came to describing the shadow world the author tended to be long winded, but on the whole a fun read. :)

[Kreela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Characters:
I love well-written characters.
⁃ Annalise: probably has “want to be me” all over her. She’s promoted to lead dancer for a production company when she sees through the veil. I love dancing and imagining I can see fairies...don’t we all? She’s resourceful, bossy in bed, and quite scared of the dark now.
⁃ Custo: probably the most amusing angel ever. He swaps places with Shadowman to return to earth, escaping “utopia” to find everyone thinks he is a wraith.
⁃ Lucas: one of the angels
⁃ Wolf: the shadow stalker

The Romance:
He tried to gently push her away, but he ended up grasping her hips to bring her closer.
⁃ …oh, please, yes…*
It is full of angst:
“And she was a passing…what? Flirtation?
⁃ The thought razored through her hurt.*
⁃ It was all right, though. Screw-ups were important. ”*
I love how Annalise’s strength of will comes through. And Custo professes his love through music. Sigh. Lovely.

Is it a PNR or an urban fantasy with romance? The plot is focused on romance, but for those of us who tire of romance with a bare dribble of plot, this is sooo refreshing.
For Annalise, her dancing makes dreams come true, opening faerie’s doors. But wishes turned into reality are still just 2-dimensional renditions. I cannot help but think of Wolf as a Shakespearean temptation towards her ultimate glory. He’s full of want, full of need, but has no true face and no true history of being. He can only take on the aspect of a person.

But with a world beset by shadow wraiths, this wolf is not the only threat, and Custo returns from his death to try and save her. Custo is not the typical angel, having murdered and tortured in order to support Adam’s crusade, but his whole existence seems to be motivated towards protecting other people, including Annalise. He titles himself her guardian angel.

Outside, the wraiths are still pursuing Talia from the first novel, who is now pregnant.

⁃ It’s a little bit sci-fi
⁃ It’s an expansion of the world from the first novel: with angels as well as wraiths
⁃ I love the seer! And the wolf!
⁃ FMC is a dancer! Yes!!
⁃ Angsty love
⁃ Spicy 🌶️🌶️

The theme is quite deep, too. I realized there is a constant pull between the idealistic dreams and reality. Overcoming temptation (the wolf) is a true test of one’s character.

[Cynthia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had to reread the first book in this series, Shadow Bound, twice before really getting it. I have a feeling it's gonna be the same for this one. This was my first read-through, and my brain is still reeling from the crazy ending. Nevertheless, some thoughts this time around:

- Custo is an interesting anti-hero. Super refreshing foil to Adam Thorne, the ultimate Type A.
- I don't actually like Custo or Annabella as people. (Let's be honest, almost every major character in this world makes some seriously questionable life choices - like not getting enough sleep! And forgetting to eat! And making every single plan more complicated than it has to be!). But I was interested enough in their story to keep reading because the world of Twilight that Shadow Bound introduced us to is getting darker and more morally gray, which makes so many more possibilities for conflict.
- Trigger/language: The Wolf is creepy as fuck. I think EK could have toned it down a little. And near-rape encounters aren't sexy. I really wish they weren't portrayed that way. If I were Annabella, I wouldn't want to be touched by ANYONE romantically after those violative encounters with the Wolf. But of course for her the (anti)hero is the exception...
- Luca is da bomb and has a sensible head on his shoulders. More of him please!

I can't wait to read Shadowman, because over the course of two books, Death has gone from tender to heartbroken to scheming to screw-everyone-else-until-I-get-what-I-want and I'd love to see what EK does with that.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadow Fall by Erin Kellison is the second book in the Shadow trilogy. Often sadly the second book in such a series is not as great as the first but this one totally is as captivating, riveting, and fabulous. I had read the teaser at the end of the first book so I could not believe or wait to read what had happened to Custo Santovari. Annabella Ames should have been the opposite o what he wanted but this woman with a steel backbone was the perfect partner for him. I can’t say that it is a friend to more or opposite attraction story because their meet and greet is just too different. However, it is not an instant love especially for Annabella.

The world building of this series continues to draw me in, amazing me. How ballet fits into this story was just so perfect too. Then I am not one to read fantasy stories with angels but Custo and others made this story not simply work but also so believable in this world of soul-sucking wraiths, and the thinning veil between Shadow Land and the world we know. The evil to be stopped, danger, dark magic and romance makes this an addictive series.

The plot is more twisty wonderful. I found the conclusion to be just as satisfying as the rest of the story. While the ending gives a hint at what or who will be at the heart of that story, I find that each book is pretty much self-contained, Shadow Fall begins two years after the first book, Shadow Bound. Highly recommend to all.

The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

SHADOW FALL is the second book in the Shadow series, continuing two years after Shadow Bound. While it could be read as a standalone, I would recommend you read it as part of a series.

In the last book, Custo died to give his best friend and Talia time to escape. During the torture that preceded his death, he found out that there was a traitor in the midst. It remains on his mind once he gets to heaven, and he finds himself desperate to return to Earth.

Annabella is a ballet dancer who is about to have her first time as a Prima, dancing the role of Giselle. She becomes so focused on her role, she opens a pathway to Earth from the Otherworld. A wolf has her in his sights and wants her for his mate. On his way back to Earth, Custo spots Annabella and the wolf and wants to save her, as well as Adam and Talia.

This was a twisted tale with some amazing descriptions, especially the Giselle parts. There were some parts I found a little confusing though, such as Annabella eating in the Otherworld. Consequences to someone else were mentioned once but never again, and I have no idea what would happen to her because of what she did.

Although I enjoyed the story, it didn't quite hit the same mark as Shadow Bound did, and I can't really tell you why. If I did half-stars, this would be a 3.5-star read. I am still looking forward to continuing with the series though, and finding out where Kathleen has gone to!

** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 4, 2023

[Miki · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a pleasure to discover more about this universe. I really enjoyed book 1 so i was happy to read Custo's story especially after the events of the precedent book. It's a stand alone but i highly recommend to read the series in order it give a deeper insight into the characters and it's a real bonus.

Custo died to protect his friend he saw like a brother but upon dying he learned an important information so even when reahing to his surprise the angels side he is determined to find a way to go back and help his "brother" nomatter the risk or the cost...and a way he finds however coming back is not what he thought and he sure did not expect to save a woman from a wolf on the way. ....Now back on earth time has passed but determined to protect Adam he is also determined to help and protect Annabella and her "magic"..... discovering new powers, new allies and more ennemies Custo has a lot on his plate.

Annabella loves dancing and when she dances magic happens...she thought she was dreaming but the sudden male looking at her and bossing her around is very real and stubborn. Pursued by a wolf, discovering that angels, fae and so much more exist is a lot to absorb but Annabella is stronger than she thought and soon Custo becomes important for her...


I really enjoyed Custo in this story, we see how loyal he is and so determined...really it's a great urban fantasy story but a lot better when read in order.to be recommended

4,5/5

[Melanie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fallimg into place

Custo Santovari never belonged. His father rejected him for his illegitimate birth. His only friend, Adam, made a place for him in Segue, the wraith-fighting super force. And Custo sacrificed his life to save Adam. Being given a place in Heaven doesn't agree with Custo's deep-seated unworthiness, and he deceives his way back to the mortal world just in time to encounter Annabella, the prima ballerina, who is stalked by a Shadow wolf. The fight is on, as the angels, the Shadow Man, Adam, and Annabella contend for Custo's loyalty and his immortal future. Custo's deepening love for Annabella puts him in the crosshairs of the Wolf as well. Internal tug-of-war is matched by external warfare as wraiths continue to menace humanity and are joined by other, more monstrous magical creatures from the Shadows. The fear and threat level in this fantasy romance is off the charts, as the boundaries between earth, the hereafter, and the Shadows blurs and flexes. Erin Kellison's metaphysically imbued world-building is as seductive as ever. Her characters glow with other-worldly qualities, while their deep humanity is both heartbreaking and uplifting. The book's end is a sigh of giddy relief, a break in the ongoing battle of good and evil that must surely resume in the next book. This is a voluntary independent ARC review.

[Myria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annabella was at the point of having the perfect career there’s only one thing that can derail that and it’s not the diva title she’s suddenly picked up from the other dancers after becoming lead principal in the ballet performance no she hasn’t changed but the other dancers perception of her has but that she could deal with what was really disturbing her dance routine, her sleep and basically her life was the wolf that had suddenly appeared to be stalking her yes a big black wolf had appeared at her rehearsal but seems to be staying in shadow scaring Annabella making her doubt reality, yes she’s probably tired that’s what’s causing the hallucination of this wild beast but then suddenly she has more than a wild beast to contend with as a man appears trying to protect her and stating to be her Guardian Angel never once did she think she’d have a protector she’d like to jump the bones of but Custo is more than just any Guardian Angel he’s the man of her dreams her protector and her one true love if only life was that easy cause if the wolf has his way she’ll be all his. In a world where wraiths walk the earth falling for an Angel shouldn’t be the hardest thing to believe in should it, guess only time will tell if love really does conquer all and second chances at life can be granted!!

[Fallon · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and all things that go bump in the night, so I expected this book to be a winner for me. However, I found it more of a chore to read than enjoyable. Although it is part of a series, the description claims it can be read as a stand-alone, which I did not find to be the case. Perhaps the more recent editions have been edited for clarity, but this felt very much like a continuation of the first book, and I believe it’s necessary to read that one beforehand.

There was so much happening that I often felt lost until later in the story. Additionally, the couple didn’t resonate with me; their interactions felt inconsistent. At times, the writing was filled with verbose descriptions, and then a few pages later, it would resort to one-word responses. I just wasn’t in love with it. The premise was intriguing, but the execution fell flat for me. Maybe if it had been a true stand-alone or if I had read the first book, I would have connected with the story more, but as it stands, it was a miss for me.

[Mummy Cat Claire · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wasn't super surprised to find that I didn't like this book because the cover gave that away. It looks just like your typical bodice ripper. But this book has some added paranormal to it...Fae, Shadowman, Death, Wraiths and more.

Annabella Ames is a ballerina and has trained and dreamed of the time when she would finally become the Prima Donna. Her time has come in her latest ballet and she is more than excited. Then comes a creepy creature that seems to be out to get her.

"I'm fine, mom. Don't worry. The...uh...dog is staying on the other side of the street." Even in New York City...the city that never sleeps, where people are always around...Annabella finds herself alone on the street, outside the dance studio, waiting for the bus (which doesn't make sense) only to be attacked by an animal.

But who comes to the rescue? The Angel, Custo, of course. "Annabella, there is a Shadow wolf stalking you. It sounds absurd, I know, but the creatures of Faerie know no reason."

Custo decides to take them to Adam Thorne. He's the guy in charge of the Segue Institute. He also knows that Custo was murdered and doesn't believe his story that he is back from the dead. He thinks Custo is a danger and puts him in a cage. "Predators that look like you and me. But inhumanly strong and immortal. They feed on the souls of their human prey."

In classic style, they let Custo go and he goes to comfort Annabella who then thinks he's the hottest thing ever and they sex it up, right there in prison cells.

Other than the language, which is a huge turn off, I had issues with this book. The beginning is full of info dumping on Custo and Annabella. There is a prologue, because this is the second book in the series but it was just full of information, I assume, from the first book. The prologue was used as a recap for the first book so you don't even need to read it.

The POV changes in this book from Custo, Annabella and the Wolf. It was very strange reading from the Wolf's POV. He was very creepy.

Overall, not my cup of tea. I found the story really lame and I thought this book a huge waste of time. The story didn't make much sense to me and I just thought it was dumb fluffy trash.

Content: extreme language, explicit sex, violence

[April Mollenkopf · Rating 4 out of 5]

After being murdered in book one, Custo is sent to heaven and he has no idea how he got there. He wants to go back to Earth because he feels there in unfinished business in Segue. He gets Shadowman to trade places with him.

Annabella is a dancer and when she is in her dancing zone can open a portal between Earth and the shadow world. While the portal is open she lets in a Hunter who thinks that Annabella belongs to him. Custo arrives in the nick of time and saves her.
They have to track down a mole in Segue and get the Hunter back to the shadowland.

I loved Custo from the very beginning and I loved that this was his story. I couldn’t quite connect to Annabella. Her whole focus was on dancing and nothing else mattered. There were quite a few twists and overall a good book. Definitely looking forward to Shadowman’s story.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

. Erin tells her stories different to most authors, and I love it. We have Custo, who’s a bad boy not quite ready to be the Angel he is. He’s loyal to the point that he will do anything, no matter the consequences to himself , to help those he cares about. Then there is Annabelle….who’s dancing literally takes you to the shadowland.. add to that Adam and Talia….let’s just say we know those babies aren’t going to have a peaceful entry into the world. Brilliant, Erin, keep on doing what you are doing

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG He Came Back!

Loved this book and the fact that the main male character Custo came back to save Adam!! Even though I believe these are supposed to be stand-alone books, I highly recommend you read the first book before this one so you can understand what's going on and who most of the repeat characters are! Oh, gez forgot to mention...when you get to the end and figure out who Custo came back to save Adam from, your jaws will hit the ground!! Loved that twist!! Highly recommend this series and really anything Erin Kellison had written.

[Monikat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this fairy tale, It was exciting, dangerous and pretty out there as far as fantasy was concerned and an epic journey. I'll be exploring more of Erin Kellison's books.