I really loved this one! 

We follow a main character on a mission to kill and take the throne for herself. I don't think I've ever read a YA Fantasy where the character was born and raised in such a scheming state that even her father knows what her end-game is. It had me so intrigued that I couldn't put it down until I knew what was going to happen! 

If you love dark YA stories with villainous characters who are motivated and on the rise, you definitely need to check this one out now! 

A 4 out of 5 stars from me!

This is a great plot driven fantasy that will be good for die hard fantasy fans. Despite the main characters obvious flaws you find yourself rooting for her to get away with her crimes and succeed in her endeavors.

*I received an advanced copy in exchange of an honest review. All opinions are my own*
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
I have enjoyed every book I have read by this author and am so happy I had preordered this book, because if I hadn't, I would have bought it as soon as I finished the e-arc.
I loved that the main character was a strong, independent female. She knew she didn't need a man to make her happy and the laws pertaining to women infuriated her (me too though). She set out to do what she needed to do to see them changed, even if it led murdering to the king.
The romance aspect between the main character and the king was pretty predictable, which I honestly wasn't mad about. I won't spoil anything for those who haven't read it, but I am extremely happy with the ending.
The character development was okay. Kallias definitely developed more than Alessandra I think, but I'm not complaining. I was actually very happy with his developments.
The world building was a little meh. There wasn't much of it. You get a little history of Kallias's parents, but not a ton. And there's a little background on where the shadow power came from, but other than that, there isn't much else. That was a little disappointing.
I also felt that the story went super fast. Especially areas of conflict. Once the conflict is resolved, it's automatically off to another, that one completely forgotten it just a few pages.
Overall, I loved this book. Do I wish there would have been more world building? Absolutely. I also wish it wouldn't have jumped from event to event. A little more detail between things would have been awesome. Other than that, I loved all of the characters, except maybe Leandros. I never really trusted him. And I loved the story. I really wish it wasn't a standalone.

i finished this many hours ago and have been back and forth trying to figure out what to rate it. but the more i thought of it, i just didn't have a reason to not 5 star it?? was it a little predictable enemies to lovers YA? yeah sorta, but i also loved it

i actually really liked alessandra as a main character, and i adore kallias. loved watching their relationship progress throughout the book <spoiler> and their love didn't feel fake or forced to me </spoiler>

i didn't love daughter of the pirate king by this same author, but i really loved this one! a sure redemption for me and i'm looking forward to anything else put out by tricia from now on.

did NOT see the major twist coming at the end btw so props

The Shadows Between Us
by Tricia Levenseller

Alessandra had so many things standing in her way, when her sister was engaged, and promise was when her life began. Yes she lived a life before, being the second daughter meant there was little that she could do until her older sister was wed. With time comes her chance. She uses all her ability to attract the most eligible men her world. The Shadow king, a young man only a year into his rule was the catch of the century. Everyone wanted to tie their family and fortune to him. But it is Alessandra's way to attached men, to make them fall for her. She has more then she can bargain for in this love match. This is a book in intrigue and mystery, with a splash of magic and bravo. Alassandra is the best of vixens and the Shadow king the most lonely of monarchs.

From my Goodreads: "Alright.. who’s not giving this story 5 stars? This was sooooo goooood!"

I could sit here and try to conjure up a review full of amazing adjectives to describe the depth of this tale and how perfectly suited this title is for the older teen. There were no boring lulls in the story; my ADHD mind somehow grabbed a hold and I rarely put this story down. Characters were great, there were surprises thrown in, what more do you need? Five stars... BOOM! done.

I was hooked from the first page! Once I started I really didn't want to stop. It totally sucked me in. Alessandra is my new favorite bad girl! She is ruthless and smart and knows exactly what she wants. I'm usually not big on romance but the slow burn romance that happened in this book was enjoyable.⁣ I loved the friendship that they created and how their relationship progressed.

*Thank you so much Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for providing me with an eARC for this through Netgalley.

The Shadows Between Us follows Alessandra’s quest to mesmerize the mysterious shadow king and win his crown so that she can eliminate him by killing him in order to obtain his power. Alessandra makes it clear that she will do whatever it takes to get what she wants.

I was so ready for all the dark power plays and twists in this book. I was so happy with the first 20 percent of this novel. I loved the introduction to this character. I enjoyed learning more about all of her motivations and depth of character.

However, I feel like the beginning of this novel was the strongest part. I soon found myself puzzled by some of the changes of this character. I feel like her characteristics turn toward the negative as the plot progresses. I feel like the writing began to change and fall less complex while growing more simplistic. I feel like this character made a lot of rash decisions and choices. Alessandra began to feel like a different character from how she was presented in the beginning.

I hate to give this book a low rating. This book was presented with so much potential to be a new favorite for me, but ultimately it feels like the rest was rushed and given less time. I wish the complexness of this character was better supported and carried on.

I was not a fan of the romance and how it changed our characters. I feel like it made the idea of plot and potential more weak. Give me the dark vibes and stick with it please! Overall, I wanted a continuation of that initial shock factor, but it just was not there.

Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher and netgalley! Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: The Shadows Between Us

Author: Tricia Levenseller

Book Series: Standalone

Rating: 5/5

Publication Date: February 25, 2020

Publisher: Feiwel and Friends

Pages: 336

Recommended Age: 16+ (mature content regarding sex, TW rape mentioned, murder, violence, gore)

Synopsis: Alessandra is tired of being overlooked, but she has a plan to gain power:

1) Woo the Shadow King.
2) Marry him.
3) Kill him and take his kingdom for herself.

No one knows the extent of the freshly crowned Shadow King’s power. Some say he can command the shadows that swirl around him to do his bidding. Others say they speak to him, whispering the thoughts of his enemies. Regardless, Alessandra knows what she deserves, and she’s going to do everything within her power to get it.

But Alessandra’s not the only one trying to kill the king. As attempts on his life are made, she finds herself trying to keep him alive long enough for him to make her his queen—all while struggling not to lose her heart. After all, who better for a Shadow King than a cunning, villainous queen?

Review: Holy cow this book was absolutely amazing!!! I loved this book so much and it was the perfect book for my once Slytherin heart. The characters were well developed, the writing was impeccable, and the plot was intriguing! Definitely recommend this one!

The only downside is that there's a lot of characters and in my haste to get more Alessandra, I got lost in the names. They're also all unique name so it gets hard to follow sometimes.

Verdict: Definitely recommend. Read now!

➝ Sum it up in points!

✔ ambitious, deadly noblewoman
✔ young king encased in shadows
✔ fake dating trope
✔ political danger, familial terror
✔ positive sexual activeness
✔ wholesome female friendships

The Shadows Between Us throws the most beautiful light on a formidable young woman who is determined to marry the king, kill him and take the throne for herself. With an exciting storyline filled with a mystery to solve surrounding the death of the young king's parents and this noblewoman's committed fumbles, the plot is bound to keep a reader by the edge of their seat. From political conspiracies to surprising revelations, the main characters are synchronised with the side characters to perfectly execute the scenes. Several societal themes like misogyny, patriarchy, and sexism is brought to the forefront for the female protagonist to flawlessly exercise against the preconceived notions and pave the way for progressive attitudes. Overall, a definitive recommendation for those who wish to witness a commendable romantic association that starts with a fake relationship build-up but soon makes the readers swoon for this ship to sail in the midst of all shadows.

➝ Trigger Warnings

✔ murder, blood
✔ psychotic love
✔ witnessing death of loved one

I will never not love one of Tricia’s books! This one was by far my favorite. It was darker and sexier and I need more!

I loved this book!! Right from the first line and that dedication, it had me sold.
A Slytherin romance - yass please!!

I loved the characters so much. They were intricately written and created and I loved how the author took her time to develop them. I loved how badass Alessandra was and how mysterious the shadow king was.

The scenes that were written were very very good. They kept me hooked throughout and kept me wanting more. I loved how through the book, the author also tried to show that one shouldn't lose one's identity in trying to impress someone else. Loved that about the story.

Apart from that, I did find the ending overly happy but nevertheless enjoyed it. The twists and turns in the book was beautifully done, keeping the reader guessing of the ultimate outcome. Every single aspect was looked super well and loose ends tied together perfectly. One more thing I loved about this book was that it is a standalone and it's great that way!!

As always, a copy of this book was provided by the authors in exchange for my honest review. This does not effect my opinion in any way.

OKAY, OKAY, as far as first experiences with author's goes I think Tricia Levenseller just set the new standard for me. I'm obsessed. The Shadows Between Us exceeded all expectations and I've just been sitting here trying to figure out how to write my feelings out on this one. The best way to explain The Shadows Between Us is by saying that it is the type of novel that you need to literally catch your breath after reading.

Days later and I'm still catching my breath. The Shadows Between Us had a little bit of everything in terms of what I like from my stories: morally gray characters, a lot of tension, fast paced prose, the delectably tense and slow-burn of romance. If you're looking for something that is powerful and dark and pulsing with energy, then The Shadows Between Us is your next obsession.

Everything about it felt breathless and magnetic. I did not put it down unless I absolutely had to.
Pull up a chair. Grab a steaming hot beverage. (Or, if you prefer, icy cold.) Put on Marina's Power and Control. Get comfortable and dive on in.

When it comes to The Shadows Between Us, you'll be in it for the long haul.

There's something so enthralling about the way that Tricia Levenseller sets the stage for this particular book. You know, before diving into it, that you'll be in for a treat. Everything about The Shadows Between Us screams control. Still, nothing quite prepares a reader for the wild ride they will be in for.

Levenseller writes with an undeniably blunt quality. The Shadows Between Us is like the chill of a knife against your consciousness. It grips you from the very first pages. You're left on edge and full of anticipation for something. Levenseller is quick at work when crafting characters that are bleak and full of darkness.

I love every minute of this one and that may be entirely due to the fantastic cast of characters and the way in which Levenseller developed them. Characters like Alessandra who are ambitious, determined and never shy away from doing whatever it takes to meet their goals. (Side note: Interactions between Alessandra and other's was an unexpected bonus to an already wonderful read. Give me all the banter.)

The Shadows Between Us encompasses all that I like when it comes to morally gray characteristics and development. And the connections they form; the goals they set out to reach. There isn't much for me to complain about when it comes to this novel. It was fully entertaining, intriguing, pulsing with its own brand of magic, danger and humor.

Each step we take is set within a world that is atmospheric, vivid and addictive. There's a dangerous glint in the way that Levenseller unravels this story that is deeply satisfying, at times chilling, and every page is utterly all consuming. The Shadows Between Us is impossible to put down and by far one of my favourite books of the year so far.

Alessandra has had enough of being constantly overlooked because of her older, more beautiful sister, so she devises a plan to become the most powerful woman in the kingdom.
Alessandra just needs to make the Shadow King fall in love with her and marry her. Then she will kill him and rule as Queen.
Not much is known about the Shadow King, but Alessandra is determined that she will be the one to claim his heart.
But there are others who want the king dead.
Can Alessandra keep the Shadow King alive long enough for her plan to succeed?
Will she lose her own heart in the process?

Who doesn’t like a story where the protagonist has to keep someone alive (usually their enemy) so that they can use them for their own gain? I certainly do, but, unfortunately, I did only like The Shadows Between Us and not love it.
Alessandra was quite a fun protagonist to read about. She was morally grey and I enjoyed her scheming and how determined she was to gain power and to not be in the shadows any more.
There weren’t any characters that really stood out to me, but I did like the friends that Alessandra made at the palace and the Shadow King’s dog, who wasn’t in the book as much as I expected given that he was supposedly the king’s best friend.
The Shadow King himself was, I felt, quite a stereotypical character. I thought that he could have been fleshed out more as he felt a bit two-dimensional and a bit of a cardboard character.
The story was mainly set at the palace, so we don’t find out much about the kingdoms that the Shadow King ruled.
The romance wasn’t one of my favourites, but I could definitely feel the chemistry between Alessandra and the king.
The plot was good overall and there was a twist at the end that I wasn’t expecting, but I wasn’t gripped.
I thought there might be a bit more of a mystery element to the book as the king was trying to find out who murdered his parents, but it hardly felt like there was a mystery most of the time to me.
I spent most of the book feeling like something was missing and I’m still not sure what that something was.
The writing style was easy to follow.
While I did enjoy The Shadows Between Us, I’m disappointed that I didn’t enjoy it more as it had the ingredients to be something that I could have loved.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read.

I loved this! The dedication calls it a "Slytherin romance" and that description is perfect. In any other book, the main characters would be villains. But here they get to be heroes with a potential love story. The writing in this is terrific - I liked Alessandra more than I've liked some cozy mystery protagonists, and they are usually pretty sweet and likable. She's smart and ruthless while still being needy and vulnerable at times (although she chides herself for those moments). She's written so well.

There's an interesting magic at work in the story - a small piece that doesn't require a ton of world building, but several plot moments hinge on how the magic works. It was clever, and I enjoyed it.

This is a stand alone story - something that can be hard to find in YA fantasy. I would absolutely read this again. And now I have to go check out the author's other books because I enjoyed this so much! (Some language, sexual references)

TRICIA IS AN AUTO BUY AUTHOR FOREVER.

Oh my god. I LOVED this book. The characters were deliciously gray!!! My favorite kind!!
Alessandra was one of my fave female leads in a while. Oh my god. Her self acceptance of just who she was was BEAUTIFUL.
And oh my god. Kallias. My king. He was everything.
This book has twists and turns and omg moments and even till THE VERY END I WAS IN SUSPENSE.

MY GOD. Go pick up this book. Right NOW.

**For more book thoughts visit me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/

At the heart of this story was a romance. And it had the best possible message- find the person who loves you for you, where you never have to hide who you are or sugar coat the truth (and can laugh at your past murders...). I loved that while the main character fully embraced her sexuality and needs, the romance in the book was a slow burn, the two characters got to really know each other before they ever even touched, which totally upped the tension for me!

Alessandra was an interesting character, one I would never want to have as an enemy. She is clever and about two steps ahead of everyone else, looking for leverage (cough cough blackmail) to manipulate the situation to her best advantage. She also loved pretty things and knew exactly how to draw the eye as needed. And the best part, she had no shame about who she was or what she wanted, her drive and confidence were truly things of wonder. I want more girls like this in literature!

And yes, while I said this was a romance, there was also a murder mystery to keep you guessing, with tons of possible suspects and assassination attempts peppering the plot to keep you on your toes.

I have really enjoyed all the books by this author, my favorite thing being how different each world has been, making unique fun reads that I can't wait to get my hands on more of. That being said, I think this is my current favorite, mainly due to the lush world created, with fantastic descriptors of decadent food and gorgeous costuming and scenery that I felt like I could see, taste and touch right along with the characters. I became part of this world with Alessandra, sitting down to read and blowing through the book over a weekend since I didn't want to stop. I highly recommend this story for anyone who like crafty smart heroines (villainess?) and steamy romances.

To Win the Heart of a King

Alessandra killed her first lover because he preferred another girl. Since then she’s had numerous lovers. She uses them, gets expensive gifts, and throws them over, but she has a plan. When her father tells her that her older sister will marry and he’s now free to find a husband for her, she lets him know that her plans are already made.

Girls are sent to the palace regularly. With Alessandra’s sister returning, it’s her turn, and she plans to use it wisely. She will seduce the young shadow king, marry him, kill him, and rule the kingdom herself. She believes she can succeed, but will it be easy when faced with real people?

This is a fun fantasy. One caveat is that the morals of the characters are more than a little shaky, if that bothers you. Alessandra is a strong character. She knows what she wants and plans to get it. She is also talented. She designs her own clothes and has good female friends.

Kallias, the Shadow King, is likable. He has many challenges trying to govern, especially when at least one person besides Alessandra wants to kill him. He makes a good counterpoint to Alessandra being not in her league for viciousness, but needing her help.

I enjoyed the book. Perhaps one of the most fun parts that YA girls will love is the description of Alessandra’s beautiful clothes.

I received this book from Net Galley for this review.

The Shadows Between us, written by Tricia Levenseur, is a thrilling young adult fantasy. Alessandra Stathos always felt underappreciated, so when her sister is married off to a noble, she seizes the opportunity to go to Court. Alessandra wants power. She schemes her entrance and blatantly ignores the King, which creates the exact effect she desires. The king notices her and invites her to stay at the castle.

Thirsty for power, she wants him to fall for her, propose to make her his queen and will stop at nothing to do so. Once crowned, Alessandra intends to kill him so that she can run the world. Though, Alessandra will quickly realize that the task will be harder than she initially thought. Someone else is trying to kill the King, but she can’t allow it before she is made queen. With morally gray and sometimes downright evil characters, this book is full of intrigue, royal plots, and unexpected twists.

When I first started reading this book, I thought right away that this story would be different. I was nervous about the main character as she appears with no morals, but as the story progresses, I realized how good this was. I simply adored how Alessandra who is as cunning as she is selfish got me to root for her in the space of a couple of chapters. I still had my moments where I didn’t like her so much, but overall, I still wanted her to succeed.

This story certainly kept me on my toes with all the obstacles rising throughout the book. The mystery around who wants to kill the king is also very enjoyable. The Shadow King is a very interesting character. His magic is interesting and you want to know what his secrets are. To me, he felt older than nineteen in this book. His personality is a sharp contrast with Alessandra’s and they seem to have the same moral standards. They complement each other perfectly. I particularly enjoyed how his character evolves and how unpredictable he is.

Two things I really enjoyed in this book and how Alessandra and the king break some standards in this world. Alessandra is a feminist and inspires the people around her not to accept a situation they wouldn’t choose for themselves. She helps them be happier. The second is that this book kept surprising me in the plot twists. There are many things I didn’t see coming to the point I couldn’t stop reading. This book is a five star for me.

Do yourself a favor and read it!

The Shadows Between Us is by far one of my favorite standalone fantasy books. There’s always going to be books that make it almost impossible for you to put down. That was the case with The Shadows Between Us. I could not put this book down. And even after days of finishing the story, I can’t keep the characters off my mind and out of my heart.

The characters are strong and ruthless. I loved how this book was pitched as a Slytherin romance because that’s exactly what it is. Both characters are cunning and vengeful and beautifully illustrated. Alessandra has no problem being murderous, especially when she needs to kill someone for something she needs. She’s a dark and morally gray character, but that’s one of the reasons that makes this book so good. She has no issue showing the world who she is and that’s what made her such an enjoyable character for me. Levenseller wrote a book with characters that could be hard to love and difficult for readers to see the logic behind most of their actions. But she wrote a book that’s so unbelievably good!

And the romance is definitely worth all the swooning. It’s raw and fresh and built on deception, but I feel that’s how a good villain romance usually starts. And this villainous romance is one readers will not soon forget. Even though Alessandra wants to kill the king, she never expected to feel a certain way about him, a feeling that could potentially put her whole plan at risk.

I love how this story is dark and unapologetic. It’s a story that’s perfect for readers who are looking for a dark world and deliciously vengeful characters. It’s a book I didn’t realize I needed until I read the first page and literally went “WOW.” The Shadows Between Us is a powerful story that doesn’t just focus on what Allesandra is trying to destroy/build; it also focuses on the blossoming of a new relationship and both characters’ pasts and futures. It focuses on how dark characters can continuously stay dark but find a light inside that darkness, a light that shows that each character is not as corrupted as they may seem.

And once again, Levenseller has created a world that is dark and vicious but overall beautiful. Her world building is exquisite and completely fits the darkness of each character. She’s created a world of deceitfulness but also a world that has the ability to change. It’s unlike any fantasy world I’ve seen and I loved that aspect of the story. I loved how everything was different from most fantasy stories.

Levenseller has created an unforgettable story with characters that will surprise you in the most unsettling ways. It’s a story that is worth all the hype. The Shadows Between Us is easily a book I can read over and over again. This book is perfect for those readers looking for a dark and devious tale.