Anathema

The Eating Woods, Book 1

By: Keri Lake

Narrated by: 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

Phenomenal Narration for an Unforgettable Story!

Keri Lake is one of my favorite authors, and Anathana did not disappoint! The duet-style narration was fantastic, truly bringing the story to life. The male narrator, in particular, deserves extra praise—his range for multiple characters was outstanding and added so much depth to the experience. I was completely immersed from start to finish. I can’t wait for the next book and will definitely be purchasing both the print and audio editions again. Highly recommend!

What a ride!

I was absolutely hooked from the first few minutes of this story! Xevander and Maevyth’s story was a high I didn’t want to end. I patiently waited for this audio to come out before reading this one and I was not disappointed. Phenomenal narration and it made me feel like I was right there in the story with the characters. Cannot wait for more of this story!

Totally captures you

Best audio book I’ve listened to, even better reading along with listening… will be listening again

loved this book

So well written, currently re-reading! Great story and character building! I highly recommend listening to this book.

Best audiobook

I love the read while listening and this is by far the best audio book I have ever listened to….beautifully woven story.

Amazing!!

You won’t be disappointed! I loved this book and the ending leaves a great cliffhanger that makes you excited for the sequel. The MMC and FMC are perfect together.

Please read!!!

Very much a slow burn, but the world building was amazing ( slows down later on which I personally prefer)

Dark and delicious!

This was goooooood - dark and beautiful and terrifying and I can’t wait for the next one!

MUST READ

This is such a fun and interesting book! The narrators were INCREDIBLE I can’t wait for the next one

A total chokehold

I don't know where to start, but I can say, this book had me on a total chokehold. I was always anticipating the next page. Narration was amazing from both narrators making the story more vivid with the duet. Can't wait for the second book.