Daughter of Shades

Sylvia Mercedes

Book 1 in the series:The Venatrix Chronicles

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you love immersive world-building, unique magic systems, and strong, determined heroines, Daughter of Shades will pull you right in. The story unfolds with a classic fantasy vibe - think warriors, magical creatures, and a world that feels truly lived in. The slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance (emphasis on slow!) adds extra tension and payoff for patient readers. Ideal for those who enjoy young adult fantasy with clean themes, layered characters, and a dash of mystery.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you're picking this up mainly for the romance, be prepared for a very gradual buildup - some readers found themselves wishing the 'lovers' part of 'enemies to lovers' kicked in much sooner. The pacing, especially early on and in later books, can drag for some, with a few saggy subplots and lingering mysteries that don’t always get resolved. If you crave immediate action, deep character complexities, or lots of romantic payoff right away, this one might test your patience.

A well-crafted fantasy tale with a likable heroine, a captivating world, and a serious slow-burn romance - the perfect cozy adventure for YA fantasy fans who don’t mind waiting for the sparks to fly.

About:

'Daughter of Shades' in 'The Venatrix Chronicles' series by Sylvia Mercedes is a captivating fantasy novel that introduces readers to a rich and original world. The book follows the main character, Ayleth, a fierce, ambitious, and intelligent Venatrix, as she navigates a world filled with shades and mysteries. The writing style of Sylvia Mercedes is described as powerful and immersive, drawing readers in with vivid world-building and well-developed characters like Ayleth and her shade, Laranta. The plot unfolds with a mix of action scenes, intriguing mysteries, and emotionally engaging relationships, keeping readers engrossed from start to finish.

Characters:

The characters include a smart and capable main protagonist, with well-rounded supporting characters and unique relationship dynamics, though some may come across as predictable.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by strong prose and vivid descriptions, with a clear narrative flow, though it occasionally leans toward telling rather than showing.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a slow-burn romance with various hints at magic and character backstories. While it is generally predictable, it remains engaging despite multiple unresolved plot points.

Setting:

The setting features immersive world-building with vividly imagined locations and original terminology, creating a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere.

Pacing:

While the pacing can sometimes feel slow, it includes engaging action scenes and moments that may be perceived as filler, yet maintains a generally good tempo.

The miller had just loaded the final sack of freshly ground flour into his wagon, preparing for a trip into the village, when he saw the Red Hood ride down the main road past his mill. He drew in a sh...

Notes:

The romance in 'Daughter of Shades' develops very slowly, with no kisses until book five.

The world created by the author is immersive and vividly described, making it easy for readers to visualize.

Ayleth is a strong and capable protagonist, known for her intelligence and ambition.

Fight scenes in the series are described as exciting and page-turning.

The book features a unique relationship between Ayleth and her shade, Laranta, which evolves throughout the series.

Readers noted that the pacing can feel uneven, with some books feeling like filler material.

The series contains original terminology that enhances the world-building but can also be challenging for readers to grasp initially.

Many readers enjoyed the storytelling and noted that it flowed seamlessly, making it easy to get lost in the narrative.

The books contain little to no grammar mistakes, which is appreciated by readers who value clarity in writing.

The story raises many unanswered questions, leaving readers eager to continue with the series.

From The Publisher:

Forbidden love, breathtaking action, and terrifying magic, perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo!

A huntress with no past.

A rival with a secret.

A kingdom's fate hangs in the balance . . .

Ayleth and her shade move as one, ever hungry for the hunt. Under her mentor's tight control, she fears her memories are being stolen. Now nineteen, apprenticed for as long as she can remember to the mysterious Holy Order, she longs to rise in the ranks and banish untamed spirits for the prophesied Golden Prince.

When shadowy threats descend on the crown, Ayleth seizes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prove her worth in open competition. Seeking to win the prince's favor and escape her scheming mentor, she resolves to hold her own against Terryn, a handsome, arrogant opponent who may be more than a match for her untested powers.

But as the two rivals follow a trail beyond the Great Barrier and confront legendary evil, the stolen secrets of Ayleth's past may return to haunt her . . .

Can Ayleth win the trial and reclaim her true self? Can she even survive her first day?

Daughter of Shades is the first breathtaking book in The Venatrix Chronicles YA fantasy series. If you like kick-butt heroines, intriguing worlds of magic, and slow-burn romance then you'll love Sylvia Mercedes's action-packed story.

Buy Daughter of Shades today, and journey into a vivid medieval world of honor and deception, rivalry and love, valiant hunters and malevolent spirits from another realm . . .

Praise for Song of Shadows, the prequel to The Venatrix Chronicles:

★★★★★ "I loved the world Sylvia created, especially the magic system, which was unlike anything I'd read before. Can't wait to read on!" - USA Today Bestselling Author Claire Luana

★★★★★"Mark my words, Sylvia Mercedes is an author to watch . . . The Venatrix Chronicles is going to be one seriously addicting series." - L. Danvers, Author of the Fate Abandoned Series

★★★★★ "As a librarian, I would recommend this initial entry to my readers of YA fantasy, particularly fans of Sarah Maas and Cassandra Clare, and on a personal note I'm recommending it to my husband who enjoys Brandon Sanderson and Patrick Rothfuss." - Laura Freer, librarian and Goodreads Reviewer

★★★★★ "I loved this book. The story, the world-building (wow the world-building) and the characters. Ms. Mercedes has launched a truly fabulous first book and I want more." - Emily Ling, Goodreads Reviewer

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