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Meet New Books

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'What Lies Within Masks & Shadows' by Nicolle May is a dark fantasy romance that follows the journey of Alora, a Marked One destined for suffering, as she navigates the treacherous waters between cruelty and the desire for freedom. The story delves into themes of trauma, emotional recovery, and the blurred lines between monster and savior, all woven together with captivating worldbuilding and intricate character development. The writing style immerses readers in a realm filled with morally gray characters, enemies to lovers romance, and a compelling narrative that keeps them on the edge of their seats.

Alora's transformation from a broken girl to a badass warrior, her friendships with the team of Dragons, the emotional depth of her relationship with Garrik, also known as the Savage Prince, and the haunting questions echoing throughout the narrative all contribute to a riveting exploration of freedom, trust, and the complexities of human emotions. is a masterpiece that stands out in the realm of fantasy literature, offering readers a gripping tale of suffering, hope, and determination set in a beautifully crafted and emotionally immersive world.

If you liked What Lies Within Masks & Shadows, here are the top 18 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 18 
  1. #1
    A Deadly Vow
    by: 
    Book 1 in the series:The Fate of Vengeance

    A Deadly Vow - The Fate of Vengeance by J.D. Ronan
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    'A Deadly Vow' in the series 'The Fate of Vengeance' by J.D. Ronan is a dark fantasy novel that follows the story of Sabine and Keahi, two morally grey characters with intense trauma. The book explores a slow burn romance intertwined with vengeance, banter, and morally grey characters. The plot involves a forced marriage of convenience that is magically bound, leading to a complex relationship filled with secrets and magic. The writing style is described as poetic and complicated, with multiple POVs that provide a deep insight into the characters' minds and emotions.


  2. #2

    Kiss of the Necromancer - Memento Mori by Kathryn Ann Kingsley
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    In 'Kiss of the Necromancer', readers follow Marguerite, an amnesiac plagued by visions of her own death and a mysterious necromancer. With the help of her therapist, Dr. Gideon Raithe, Marguerite pieces together her memories while unraveling the dark secrets surrounding her past lives. The plot is mysterious and captivating, with a touch of mysticism, as readers are drawn into the world of Maggie and her journey to uncover the truth about herself and the necromancer.

    The writing style in 'Kiss of the Necromancer' is described as captivating, easy to consume, and engaging, with an air of darkness and humor. The characters, including the strong-willed Maggie, the morally grey but swoon-worthy Gideon, and the lovable Algernon, are portrayed as endearing, humorous, and complex, adding depth to the story as they navigate through a world filled with mystery, romance, and intrigue.


  3. #3

    A Crown of Star & Ash - The Fate of Ashes by Victoria K. Taylor
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    A Crown of Star & Ash is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the journey of Deya, a healer from Praiton who is branded a traitor and imprisoned for her beliefs. The book delves into themes of betrayal, loss, and grief, while also exploring the process of recovery and self-discovery. Through intricate world-building and detailed character development, the story unfolds as Deya escapes prison and navigates a world filled with tension, trauma, and the complexities of her own healing powers. The writing style is immersive, with a perfect balance of action, emotion, and character interactions, creating a bingeworthy and engaging reading experience.

    The plot of A Crown of Star & Ash is filled with suspense, intrigue, and a touch of enemies-to-lovers romance, making it a compelling and unique addition to The Fate of Ashes series. The dual POV narrative, predominantly focused on Deya, provides a deep exploration of her struggles and growth, while also introducing a diverse cast of relatable characters with their own baggage and traumas. The book ends on a satisfying note, offering closure to the current storyline while hinting at the potential for further development in the upcoming sequels.


  4. #4
    Iron and Magic
    Book 9.5 in the series:Kate Daniels

    Iron and Magic - Kate Daniels by Ilona Andrews
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    'Iron and Magic' is a captivating urban fantasy novel that delves into the world of Hugh and Elara, set between books 9 and 10 of the Kate Daniels series. The story follows Hugh and Elara as they enter a marriage of convenience to protect their people, leading to battles against common enemies. The writing style is filled with humor, action, and a touch of romance, creating a dynamic narrative that explores complex feelings and relationships amidst magic and tech in the Kate Daniels world.

    Black Fire Stables spread across twenty acres about a two-hour horse ride east of Charlotte. The large, solid house sat in the middle of the lawn, on a rolling hillside, with stables to one side and a...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kate Daniels )

  5. #5

    Slaying the Vampire Conqueror - Mortal Enemies to Monster Lovers by Carissa Broadbent
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    In "Slaying the Vampire Conqueror," readers are introduced to Sylina, a member of a cult of the Goddess of Fate who is tasked with assassinating the vampire conqueror, Atrius. As Sylina infiltrates Atrius's army under the guise of a seer, the two characters unexpectedly form a connection that leads to a journey filled with action, betrayal, and a slow-burning enemies-to-lovers romance. The plot is action-packed, with perfect plot twists, hints connecting to the main series, and a doubled found family dynamic. The writing style is immersive, with detailed world-building, natural character growth, and a focus on relationships that feel authentic and engaging.


  6. #6

    Rain of Shadows and Endings - Legacy by Melissa K Roehrich
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    "Rain of Shadows and Endings" in the series "Legacy" by Melissa K Roehrich is a dark fantasy romance set in the modern world where Fae serve the Legacy. The story follows Tessa Fae and Theon Legacy, where Theon chooses Tessa as his source, leading to a dangerous and gripping tale of control, power dynamics, and wild storms. The plot is intense and wild, filled with unanswered questions, betrayals, and intricate character arcs. The writing style is described as captivating, with complex characters, strong world-building, and a perfect balance between darkness and romance.

    The book delves deep into themes of mental health, toxic relationships, trauma, and the complexities of power dynamics. Readers praise the emotional depth of the characters, the vulnerability portrayed, and the relatable inner monologues that make the story engaging and thought-provoking. The dynamic between Fae and Legacy characters, along with the intense push and pull relationship between Tessa and Theon, keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover more about the intricate world of Devram.


  7. #7
    A Broken Blade
    Book 1 in the series:Halfling Saga

    A Broken Blade - Halfling Saga by Melissa Blair
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    A Broken Blade by Melissa Blair follows the story of Keera, the King's Blade, a skilled spy and assassin, on a mission to track down a mysterious enemy known as the Shadow. As she delves deeper into her quest, Keera discovers shocking truths that challenge her beliefs and purpose. The book is praised for its strong character development, complex relationships, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers engaged throughout the story. Melissa Blair's writing style is described as addictive, emotional, and authentic, making readers empathize with Keera's struggles and journey of self-discovery.


  8. #8

    The Crown of Oaths and Curses - The Mortal Fates by J. Bree
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    'The Crown of Oaths and Curses' by J. Bree is a fantastical tale centered around Rooke, a powerful witch, and Soren, a high fae heir to a kingdom. The book delves into their intertwined destinies, as a seer has foretold their fates. Rooke, who has been evading her fate for centuries, and Soren, who has been searching for her, find themselves brought together despite being enemies. The story explores whether their attraction can overcome years of war and conflict, even as they struggle to be near each other.

    The plot of 'The Crown of Oaths and Curses' is rich in world-building and intricate storytelling. The writing style of J. Bree is captivating, with unexpected twists and well-developed characters that linger long after the book is finished. The book sets the stage for a legendary romantasy saga, hinting at a complex and engaging storyline that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.


  9. #9

    Daughter of the Drowned Empire - Drowned Empire by Frankie Diane Mallis
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    'Daughter of the Drowned Empire' follows the journey of Lyr Lyriana, who, on her nineteenth birthday, discovers she has no magic in a society where magic is essential. Determined to prove her worth, she chooses to become a soldier despite the societal norms. The book delves into Lyr's struggles, growth, and determination to find her place in a world that defines one's worth by magical abilities. The story is filled with intricate world-building, political intrigues, and slow-burning relationships, all wrapped in a well-written fantasy narrative that keeps readers engaged.


  10. #10

    Spark of the Everflame - The Kindred's Curse Saga by Penn Cole
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    In "Spark of the Everflame," readers are introduced to Diem Bellator, a mortal healer who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after her mother's disappearance and her foray into the world of the Descended. The book intricately weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and fantasy as Diem navigates through a world where mortals are mistreated by the ruling Descended. With engaging world-building and character development, the story follows Diem's evolution from a sheltered healer to a courageous individual facing the complexities of power, love, and loyalty. Penn Cole's writing style effortlessly captures the reader's attention, blending intricate plot twists with emotional depth and captivating storytelling.


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