Embrace of Shadows

Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor, Book 1

By: Jes Drew

Narrated by: Cat Hipps

She’s a mortal with no memories.

As her fae liege, he knows only that he must protect her. But is he her hero...or her captor? Salma knows only her own name. She doesn’t even remember why she’s ill. Then a fae lord who claims he knows her snatches her back to his manor, and she learns that some things are more sinister than death. Like the Court of Dusk where everyone seems to know more about her than she does and nightfall is a deadly affair.

Adom’s book of truth tells him that the woman he doesn’t recognize is a vital member of his household. But the Manor keeps its secrets well, even from its own master. And even the Shadows seem to want the beautiful, mortal nuisance he has pledged to protect. As the threat of an invasion from night itself continues to mount, Adom knows there will be consequences if he can’t protect her. And Salma wonders if she can trust him to protect her from himself. Because sometimes Adom isn't the begrudging, aloof fae he appears to be. Sometimes he's someone— or perhaps something—else.

The beginning of a haunting, slow-burn, closed-door fae romance with elements of Beauty & the Beast, Hades & Persephone, and Egyptian mythology. Perfect for fans of Sylvia Mercedes, Tara Grayce, and Emma Ham.

©2022 Jes Drew (P)2023 Jes Drew

What World Has She Entered? Who Can She Trust?

What an intriguing kickoff to a series! The book starts in media res when our mortal heroine is imperiled but rescued and whisked away to a fae realm. Or is she really rescued … or has she been captured? That's part of what is fascinating about this book. The heroine has no memories of her life before the book starts, and she's not quite sure who exactly is friend or foe. By making it so the character herself has amnesia, the book doesn't feel confusing for a reader. Essentially, we learn about her world and her history right along with her. It gives the book a bit of personal suspense that kept me listening as we try to figure it out! I have to say even by the end of the book, none of us have the full answers. But the reader/listener and the heroine learn more and more as the book proceeds, even if it’s still hard to know who to trust. This book doesn't just have fantasy characters like the Fae but also shades and darker sorts; it also has some fun magical objects, like an enchanted mirror that doesn’t show the heroine her reflection! The author has created a fascinating world with several magical fae courts, with twin brothers ruling two of them. Our hero is that cursed fae mentioned in the series' name. I don't want to give away too much more, as approaching this book is best if you just let it unfold for you as a reader or listener. I'm sure you'll be as swept away as I was, and I am looking forward to the next book!

The only thing I wasn't wild about was the narrator. The way she voiced the heroine's questions, her near-constant stuttering when confronted by anything, and her unsureness just jarred my inner ear. Also, the heroine's magical gift flows through her in song; the narrator attempts a sort of reedy sing-songy-ness when the heroine sings that in no way conveys the majesty and beauty her singing is supposed to awe other characters with. The story itself is worth slogging through that, though.

So Hypnotizing

I don’t know how Jes Drew does it, but this is the second book I have read by her that I have gotten addicted to. The world she has created is so beautiful and fascinating. She leaves you questioning everything as she some weaves together mythology, Fae, and more. Honestly, just give it a read or listen. You won’t regret it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Pretty good start

"Embrace of Shadow" by Jes Drew is a nuanced literary experience. While it may not deliver the relentless action one might expect from a fantasy novel, it gracefully intertwines elements of romance and fantasy, thoughtfully crafted to ease readers into its unique blend. Although there were moments that didn't captivate my attention entirely, what truly shines in this tale are the characters. Drew's portrayal of each individual is nothing short of exceptional; even the Twin brothers possess distinctive characteristics that set them apart.

The world-building in "Embrace of Shadow" deserves accolades. It is a meticulously crafted realm that envelops the reader, immersing them in its rich tapestry. Initially, I had reservations about the court and its characters, but as the layers of their motivations and actions were unveiled, my understanding deepened, transforming my perspective.

The story concludes with a breathtaking cliffhanger, leaving readers yearning for the next installment. Without a doubt, I eagerly anticipate delving into the sequel.

The audio is suberb! Two different narrators for the male and female parts. Really good quality. I was really impressed by the quality. I recommend this audio and these narrators.

on the fence

I'm on the fence with this book, it took me a couple times to start it.. I'm going to try listening to the next book to see if I can get into the story.

This was a huge letdown for me…

First of all the cover of the book is stunning, the premise sounds wonderful. It sounds like the book I would love so that’s why I’m very disappointed by what I got from this story.

The first thing I noticed was the narrator, I didn’t liked her narration at all. Other that the audio experience, the story story was a letdown as well. I felt like nothing happened in it at all. And it ended on a cliffhanger!!! It’s just so annoying since I’m definitely not going to read the second book and I feel like this book was just a waste of my time.

Unfortunately there was nothing I enjoyed in this story.

Thank you @booksprout for providing me an AudioARC of this title in exchange for my honest review.