Anathema

The Eating Woods, Book 1

De: Keri Lake

Narrado por: James Cassidy, Melissa Barr

From the author of Nocticadia comes a spellbinding gothic dark fantasy about a shunned woman who is forced beyond the mortal realm's forbidden boundary into a terrifying world of cursed souls and grotesque creatures.

Only the banished know what lies beyond the woods...

There are whispers about what lurks in Witch Knell—the forest where sinners go to die. The villagers call it The Eating Woods because what's taken is never given back. Only those who've lost their senses would dare to go near it.

Or the banished.

Maevyth Bronwick knows better than to breach the misty labyrinth of trees, but a tragic turn of events compels her beyond the archway of bones to a boundary no mortal has crossed before. One that cloaks a dark and fantastical world that's as dangerous as it is alluring.

It's there that he dwells, the cursed lord of Eidolon. The one tasked to keep her hidden from the magehood that seeks to crucify her in the name of an arcane prophecy. Zevander Rydainn, known to his prey as The Scorpion, is the coldest, most calculated assassin in all of Aethyria, and he'd sooner toss his feisty ward to a pack of vicious fyredrakes than keep her safe.

If only he could.

Maevyth's blood is the key to breaking his despised curse and vanquishing the slumbering evil in Witch Knell. Unfortunately for Lord Rydainn, fate has other plans for the irresistible little enchantress. And his growing obsession with her threatens to destroy everything.

Including himself.

Anathema is a full-length gothic dark fantasy and the first book in The Eating Woods series. Perfect for listeners who enjoy a plot-heavy and atmospheric story with a unique magic system, a slow-burn romance, and a touch of horror.

Contains mature content. A complete list of content warnings can be found on the author's website.

Narrated in duet style.

©2024 Keri Lake (P)2025 Podium Audio

AWESOME NARRATORS!!! 🙌🏼🙌🏼

This is my FIRST TIME listening to TOP-TIER NARRATORS, and I’m telling you—it’s an experience!! The intonations, emotions, accents, and voices for each character were incredible. James Cassidy, though… THIS MAN ATE!!! He literally voiced more than 10 men in this book—AND ONE FREAKIN’ BIRD!!! And every single one had a distinct voice, complete with accents and everything!

I don’t know, man… I’m speechless. This is my first time writing a review for an audiobook, even though I always listen to audiobooks paired with the physical books. Both narrators were sooo good, but James Cassidy… YOU 👏🏼 ARE 👏🏼 AWESOME!!

Did not disappoint!

This is the first book I’ve read (or listened to) by this author and was not disappointed! Overall story was well done and world well built. FMC and MMC were both likable. Narration was spot on! I love when voices are split based on dialogue as well as POV. Avoids the whole “male reads in feminine voice” awkwardness. Stunned at cliffhanger though- NOT what I had expected!!

Nooo!!! Why???

Why this had to be over????? I want more!!! Come on! Can’t wait for the second book damn it!

Slow effing burn

Slow burn 🔥🔥 and why do you have to leave us like this!!!!!! It was left on a cliffhanger with so many unanswered questions! Book 2 hurry!

Enthralling

The narrators are fantastic, this story draws you in and holds you there. It’s been a while since I’ve read a spicy book that had this much good writing and story development.

Freaking amazing!!

I am completely invested!! The only down side is the MFC chapters are in first person, and the MMC chapter are in third..was a little confusing in the beginning, but I couldn’t stop listening. I’m DYING for book 2!!!

Perfect

My absolute favorite read this year. Such a beautiful world building, dark and scary but inviting. So good! The narrators were perfect. I can’t wait for the sequel.

Balance of sugar, spice, and everything black.

Read it.
But for the sake of BT here ya go:
Spice - very little in the way others rate. I rate by “If I took out all the spice would I still read it,” and that’s a 100% yes from me. (Yes it IS descriptive in EVERY way and detailed but please remember SLOW burn doesn’t mean NO burn.
Pacing - for me it was perfectly slow. Too often readers are bombarded with overwhelming detail and no emotions. Keri has very acutely written passages that will make you giggle and squirm.
Theme - There’s a stark difference in locations within this world and it adds into the journey. Keri’s writing uses the locations to match or contrast the mood of the passage just as much as you would any character.

WOW!!!

Spend the credit you won't regret it!!! Pleasantly surprised with the book. Patiently waiting for book two to drop.

Great story line

"Escape into a world of forbidden love, supernatural passion, and sizzling chemistry with this steamy paranormal romance novel! 🔥🌙 If you're looking for a captivating read that will leave you breathless, then this book is for you.