4.5 stars

Curse of Shadows picks up a few weeks after the end of Crown of Bones. Marcus and his group are back in Baiseen, where they are working on rebuilding the capital city after the attack of Tann. Marcus is still reeling from the discovery that his brother is now the heir to the throne, but he is soon given a new purpose and tasked with the mission to gather all the original Whistle Bones before Tann can do so. The survival of all the realms depends on it.

As in the first book, there are chapters from different characters, namely Marcus, Ash, and Kaylin, but there are also new perspectives added, which allowed us to see the bigger picture at times, and also to get to know some characters more in-depth. One of the new perspectives was particularly intriguing to me, as I considered them as one of the “villains” of the story even though their goal is not to be evil and they actually have good intentions. While I understand that this character will probably have a bigger role to play in the next book, I am still wondering what exactly they are responsible for, and how much they will impact our heroes’ quest.

The world-building also expands in this book, as Marcus and his group have to travel all around Amassia to collect the whistle bones. We can see different people with different cultures and ways, and I like how the author also weaved mythology, prophecies, and history of the realms in this book, without making it too heavy on the details, or having massive info-dumps. The magic system with the savant being able to raise phantoms is still very interesting to me. I love it, and I loved seeing how Marcus and his phantom struggled because Der’al has such a feisty and strong personality.

I liked that there was more than one villain to face in this sequel, and I liked Atikis, but I find it sad that we had no backstory at all and knew nothing about him before he first appeared in this book. Clearly, he is a renowned high savant, known and feared by all, but we never heard his name before he arrived in Baiseen. He is an intriguing character, but the threat would have felt more real I think if we’d known about him and his reputation before.

The rest of the characters are as well developed as in the first book. They have depth and personality, and I liked following them around the realms. Ash is still strong-willed, driven, and very loyal to her friends, but also to her beliefs and her intuitions. She struggles as she has memory issues after the battle happening at the end of Crown of Bones, and she feels like she is missing a vital part of herself. Still, she learns to trust herself more in this book, and we can see how Marcus comes to realize that she deserves more recognition for all her knowledge and her hard work.

Marcus is becoming more likable too in this book since he is a little less self-centered. In the first book, it was all about him controlling his phantom so he could fulfill his destiny. Now, he realizes that there is more to his life than his status and the recognition of his people. He also has no choice but to see that there are much bigger problems coming their way than him losing his status as an heir.

Kaylin remained my favorite character, alongside Ash. He is still this roguish, mysterious, and very attractive sailor, and I love their dynamic and their complicity. They bring a hint of sweet romance to the series, but as in the first book, romance is not the main focus at all. They know their mission, and they know they can’t put their feelings first if it means endangering their quest, but they are also very “grown-up” about their relationship. They don’t hide their feelings for each other, they have mature conversations and can make good choices about their relationship and their mission.

One of my criticisms of the first book was that the bigger picture or main plot didn’t become clear until the last part of the book. The plot was more straightforward and clearer in this book. From the very beginning, we know what Marcus’ mission will be, and who are their main enemies. There is action, fighting scenes, betrayal, and abductions, a hint of sweet romance, and the last part of the book broke my heart a little bit. After the 70% mark, I was desperate to know how things would unfurl for Ash, Kaylin, and Marcus, and I kept reading “just one more chapter” to see how it would end.

I think this is an underrated fantasy series that deserves to be known. I loved both books, and I am already looking forward to the third book, even though I know it’s going to be a long wait.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book; however, I have gotten to the 50% mark and have decided not to continue reading it. I find Marcus extremely annoying and Ash unbelievably naive. And having the very necessary and important conversation between Ash and Kaylin just continuing being put off is beyond frustrating. I tried putting the book aside for a while with the hope I would come back to it, but I know that's not going to happen. Sorry!

An incredible sequel! I loved Crown of Bones so I was both excited and nervous for the second book, Curse of Shadows. It did not disappoint! I loved the adventurous plots of these books and the fast pacing of the story. The characters are well written, their arcs in this book were fun and stressful to read about, and Ash is still my favorite character. Her pov’s were my favorite chapters!

I could not put this down!!! I got this thru NetGalley and did not know it was the second book, bought the first book read it in one day! Then this book being longer took me about a week with work and life but o man can book three come out already !?!! No spoilers from me but ash and kaylin!!! I need book three.. Buy this series it is sooooo goood! I will be buying this one too and rereading this

I thought I was reading a first in a series but it's actually the second book in the series. So my usual style of reviewing won't work for this one. This is a high energy action packed story that just hits all the right fantasy notes. I will happily go back and read the first book to make more sense of the second book. I hope there are more books in this series. Until next time Happy Reading!

Big thank you NetGalley and to the publisher for the chance to review this book pre-release. As one of my most anticipated reads, I was very happy to be thrust back into the world of Crown of Bones. The story is told from multiple POV's but the way that AK Wilder writes them, they don't overlap in a confusing sense. It's easy to keep each perscpective in order, and it was a genuine pleasure to read each page. I can't believe this book isn't talked about more, but I will make it my mission to get this book the love it deserves. A more formal review will be available on my IG/TikTok and Goodreads.

Tremendously action packed, a perfect follow-on to Crown of Bones, and DEFINITELY a fantasy series that needs a lot more love and attention than it's currently getting in our fantasy-obsessed booktok world. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the free advanced copy.

I really enjoyed this book. I hope the author continues to write more books in the future. I can't wait to see what the author releases in the future.

A bone chilling wonder of an epic adventure that spans the world and back again Curse of Shadows is that rare book that pulls you in and keeps you at the edge of your seat as you wait to see which of our characters will make it home, who is truly good and who makes you cry at their betrayal.

While our main characters Ash, Marcus, and Kaylan are the obvious stars of this tale the beautiful world building and lush imagery, and unique cultures are a character in themselves, each new location has a feel and sense all its own, with beauty and horrors all their own that will have our trio watching their backs at every turn.

With multiple points of view that provide seamless storytelling and a flow that's so natural and easy to read it keeps you glued to the pages waiting to see which of the bones will be found and what will happen if they are. After a few chapters I didn't even need the distinction of which character we were following, they each have a voice that's all their own and makes for a truly enjoyable reading experience.

All of that being said this is a big book, but in the best sense of the way, there's so much to take in and enjoy, so many moments of holding your breath to see who makes it out of a fight, and so many tears as we say hello and goodbye in so many different ways the people we meet along the way.

The magic system is described in a mesmerizing way I've never seen before with the phantoms being another star of this epic adventure.

Even with the few little clues that were woven through the book I was surprised at the ending, where and how everyone ended up, it may just be me but it felt right. While this is truly a book of adventure and epic quests it's also the story of found family, love and loss, life and death.

Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book, I have voluntarily read and reviewed it.

AK Wilder does it again with Curse of Shadows. What an intense and amazing journey!

This book was written so well I could visualize the amazing world AK Wilder created as if I were there!

This is book 2 in the Amassia Series. These books should be read in order as there is a continuous story throughout. I definitely recommend reading in order to enjoy the entirety of this series.

I am loving this series so much!!!!! This story takes off right where the events of the first book needed and the surprises that A. K. Wilder had in store were absolutely mind blowing. The worldbuilding that went into this story is absolutely wonderful. I loved the complexity and the originality of it. Our main characters are thrown back into the mix and have quests that need to be fulfilled...NO....... I will not spoil anything because I believe that you will enjoy this more going in blind. The plot twists had me reeling and the surprises had my heart breaking and I definitely did not see them coming. I loved the multiple POV'S that gave me an introspective that I truly enjoyed. I felt like I was able to get to know the characters a bit more in this portion of the story. Trust me when I say you need to read this book! I am loving it so much. Im not sure if this will be a trilogy or more but I am here for it all. This amazing book gets 5 stars but if I could, I would give it more.

Thank you to the publisher, Entangled Publishing and the author for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way.

When I saw the ARC of this book available on Netgalley… I’ve never sent a request so fast. This book is one of my most anticipated releases for this year and, oh man, it was everything I could have hoped for. If I could rate these books higher than five stars, I most definitely would. Pre-ordered because I need this one on my shelf. I’m just so excited about this book and so grateful that it lived up to all my hopes and expectations.

Curse of Shadows picks up right where we left off in the first book, Crown of Bones. Our reluctant heroes are back in Baiseen after their harrowing journey and adventures of Aku. The Bone Throwers have tasked Marcus with a new quest, and the group must embark to find the original whistle bones and save all of Amassia from the Next Great Dying.

We have a few new perspectives added that the story is being told from. I really liked this choice that the author made as it allowed us to get to know other characters better. The relationships are blossoming and give you all the feels. All of the characters have such depth and relatability. One person I wish I could have gotten to know more is the villain, Atikis. I feel like there is more to his back story than we are told and it would have made him, as a threat, feel more real.

The lore and world-building are so rich and intricate. From prophecies, to magic systems, to political kingdoms, this series has it all. I love everything about this story world and I’m very pleased that we get so much detail about it. The scenes are remarkably painted with vivid detail.

All the perilous adventures that we loved in the first book continue in this second installment. And there are so many more surprises that are yet to come and to be revealed along the way. If you love a book that has multiple plots intertwining, then this is a fantasy series for you. The author has put some series work into developing the plot arcs and it really shines through.

The tension that builds throughout this second book is tantalizing and kept me turning the pages. And, amazingly, it’s not over yet, which means I have even more to look forward to with these characters I love and the thrilling adventures they endure. I feel like we’ve hit the precipice in this story and I can’t wait for a legendary conclusion to the saga. I’m not sure if this is going to be a trilogy or more, but either way, I’m permanently along for the ride.

And OH EM GEE the last section of this book is shattering! I was reeling trying to process the emotional intensity of the events and reveals. I can’t wait for the next one. This story just gets better and better as the layers are piled on and unfolded. This is an epic second book and you don’t want to miss it. So many times the second books can be disappointing, but not this one. If you are an avid young adult (or even adult) fantasy reader and you haven’t picked up this series yet, go get it immediately. It’s amazing and you’ll love it as much as I do.

I think this is one of the most underrated fantasy series right now. Seriously, where is the hype for this masterpiece? I, for one, will be sharing my love for it with anyone who will listen. Entangled, my message to you, step it up on the marketing for these books, sheesh. And to my fellow readers who love this also, let’s get the word out there on all the socials. I just really can’t believe it's not more popular because it checks all the boxes for expert narrative crafting and enjoyable reading experience. Also, kudos to the cover designer(s) because wow are they gorgeous and eye-catching.

This book was AMAZING!

The writing is beautiful, the characters feel like real people and the plot defies description. I mean check out this synopsis:

Amassia teeters on the brink of the next Great Dying.

The second sun has returned as our Bone Throwers foresaw--casting the nine realms into war.

My name is Ash, and I fell in the battle for Baiseen. But I’m awake now, slowly putting the pieces back together.

My Heir has lost his throne.

My sailor is gone.

And there is an emptiness inside me I can’t explain.

Amid the chaos, someone must collect the original twelve whistle bones from all corners of the world. Marcus is named to lead the cause, but with his volatile phantom, he’ll need diplomacy as much as his sword. And we are not the only ones to seek the bones.

Yet succeed we must.

Because if we don’t, it will be death to all…
It gives me goosebumps! And, even better, the book lives up to the hype.

Curse of Shadows picks up right where Crown of Bones leaves off. Some pretty big things happened at the end of CoB, so I was a little disappointed to find out there were some secrets that managed to get hidden again (no spoilers in case you haven't read the first book). I'm not sure what I expected, but I struggled with the first part of the book. To me, it felt a little slow (the last part of CoB was so tense and fast moving) and I didn't think I was going to be able to get back in to the story. Luckily, it picks up about a third of the way through, and by the time I was halfway done, I couldn't put it down.

True to form, Wilder writes another crazy rollercoaster of a twisted book. There are so many secrets and plots and sub-plots that I am not kidding when I say it's impossible to know who to trust. I do love that just when I thought I knew where things were heading, everything blows up and it turns out I didn't know half of what I thought I did. The last chapter was mind blowing!

I did not love that so much of the plot(s) revolve around poor communication. I find that trope frustrating, but I will say that Wilder makes it work here. I am also on the fence about all the POVs here. It makes the story richer and you get to see more of the action rather than just getting told what happened, but in some places it slowed the plot down and drug things out. And this was a massive book, not just in length but in information. Even so, I can't wait to reread it. And I am already wishing for the next book.

Seriously, if you haven't read this series yet, you need to!

I received an ARC from Netgalley, but all opinions are freely given.

“The red star twinkling in the sky is not an omen of joy and prosperity. It’s the second sun, herald of the next Great Dying. And according to prophecy, it marks the beginning of the end of the world”

The sequel in the Amassia’s series, this book is an amazing adventure where friends and lovers have to find the path to face an inevitable war, weighing on their shoulders.
I really liked the plot, the magic system (the idea of people having phantoms as part of them just like Peter Pan, is very innovative!!) and the characters !!!
Ash, Marcus and Kaylin and Piper and Samsen are all amazing characters with a huge story to tell !!
Their relationships are complicated but so good to read about !!
I fell in love with some of them more than the others, especially considering the couples who are about to blossom !!
Secrets and twists and turns are gonna define their journey to a power they are not sure they can wield.
I deeply appreciated the glossary at the end of the book !!!! When starting a fantasy series is fundamental to have an idea of the pronunciation of the names as well as a recollection of who they all are !!!!
I’m very sure there are a lot of thing and experiences yet to face and I honestly cannot wait for the story to continue and to meet these characters again !!!

“Natsari, Natsari, where hides the crown?
The forests are burning, the children are drowned.
Natsari, Natsari, bring the dark sun,
Kiss us farewell, the Great Dying’s begun…
Natsari, Natsari, call up the shades,
Lingering shadows of warrior blades.
Natsari, Natsari, unearth the bones,
Gather them all, lest we turn to stone

Curse of Shadows is the second book in the Amassia series and takes place after the events of the first. I will admit that it had been a while since I read the first book and it took me quite some time to get up to speed with who was who and whatnot. The action starts off right away again and we are off with Ash, Marcus, and the crew. This time around they are on a quest to find the whistle bones but there are other dangerous people who are also after them. The action is excellent as is the atmosphere. The characters are fantastic with Kaylin and Ash being my faves. I am a huge fan of switching POV with chapters and it really works well here. The whole last section of the book is such great writing and I loved the ending. All in all, this one is just as good if not better than the first and I cannot wait to see what happens next.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great sequel and continued a great story. This was a very great read.

Thank you. Thank you NetGalley, Entangled Teen, and the publisher for granting me an ARC of this book in return for my honest review!

This book is terrific, spectacular, a fabulous and a must, must read! Pick up right where the previous book left off.

Exciting to say the least. Left me wanting more!!

Can not say enough good about this series! A must read!

Can not get enough of Rhiannon and Paten. So, so ready for the next book in the series!

Didn't realise this was part of a series and haven't read the first yet so will give this a preliminary 5 star and re review once I have read the first.

Curse of Shadows
by A.K. Wilder
Pub Date: 06 Dec 2022


For fans of epic fantasy with adventure and romance, Curse of Shadows reveals a world of unique magic, breathtaking action, and unforgettable love.

Amassia teeters on the brink of the next Great Dying.

The second sun has returned as our Bone Throwers foresaw--casting the nine realms into war.

My name is Ash, and I fell in the battle for Baiseen. But I’m awake now, slowly putting the pieces back together.

My Heir has lost his throne.

My sailor is gone.

And there is an emptiness inside me I can’t explain.

Amid the chaos, someone must collect the original twelve whistle bones from all corners of the world. Marcus is named to lead the cause, but with his volatile phantom, he’ll need diplomacy as much as his sword. And we are not the only ones to seek the bones.

Yet succeed we must.

Because if we don’t, it will be death to all…

The Amassia series is best enjoyed in order.
Reading Order:
Book #1 Crown of Bones
Book #2 Curse of Shadows

I really enjoyed this book and discovering this authors works. The story was full of adventure and twists and turns that I found very engaging. I absolutely loved this story and the journey the characters went through. I will be recommending this book to everyone I know.