Review: Once the Skies Fade by Vanessa Rasanen (Audiobook) – Did Not Finish
I wanted to love this one—the cover, the title, and the setup all had strong potential—but it just didn’t hold my interest. That said, the narration was well-done, and I think readers who enjoy slow-burn, emotionally driven fantasy might find more to love here than I did. Just not quite the right fit for me.

This is second book of the Immortal Reveries series - and it’s giving us more of our favorite sarcastic general from book one! Mathias goes “undercover” in a competition for Calla’s hand, but that’s just a cover to discover the truth behind Brennan’s death. I really enjoyed the trails and watching the characters grow together as they dance around the idea of mates. Plus - hello morally grey shadow momma Calla. Other tropes include fated mates, court intrigue, as well as secrets and betrayal.
Thank you Netgalley, the author, and publisher for an advance copy of the audiobook! All opinions are my own.

I love Vanessa and her books so getting to listen to this on audio for release was just a fantastic experience. This was my first time hearing her words on audio and I loved it so much and now I feel spoiled and need to go back and listen to book one.

I really didn’t think this book could get any better but listening to everything! The narrators did an absolutely amazing job bringing Calla and Mathias to life. Mathias is such a fun, cheeky character and hearing him was even more exquisite than reading his smart mouth. If you haven’t experienced Vanessa’s writing it’s truly magical. There’s so much tension, banter and spice that smolders. This in your earbuds is magnificent. Highly recommend this series in both written and audio form. Honestly might start it over from the beginning right now because it’s that good!
Thank you so much Vanessa for letting me experience this magic in a different form!

This story started off with a heartbreak & kept me on my toes the whole time. Calla is a truly morally grey FMC (with shadows!) who exemplifies what grief can bring out in a perfect. Mattias was the perfect counterbalance as the witty, sarcastic MMC. I never imagined I’d find the nickname “Killer” attractive but he does it!

Zura Johnson & Shane East did a wonderful job with duet narration for the audiobook. Their voices set the regal tone that you would imagine a queen & general to have.

Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book. This review is voluntary, and all opinions expressed are my own.

What an epic book 2 in the Immortal Reveries Series by Vanessa Rasanen!!

Shadow Mama takes names and leaves no prisoners! Okay, she might leave one or two in the dungeon.

And General “Flynn Ryder” is the perfect blend of banter, swagger, strength and boyish charm.

I do not want to give away anything in the plot, but I will say this is a murder mystery with trials, subterfuge, who done it, listening to your heart, banter and so much more!!!

I just loved every aspect of the General and his “Killer”!

Thank you @netgalley for the Audio ARC
Thank you @vanessarasanenauthor for writing this masterpiece adventure. Thank you @dreamscape_media for this marvelous production. Thank you @shaneeastreads and @zurajohnson for an epic performance!

#shadowmama #immortalreveriesseries #vanessarasanenauthor #killerandhergeneral #givemeashersbook

3/5 ⭐ (this is a generous 3 ⭐)

The idea of the story was good. However, I really wanted to DNF this book several times.

First of all the narrators were not doing very good job. I disliked the FMC because of this. Actually I didn't like her because of a lot of things but this was the major one. I mean she was too collected to be the morally grey character and shadow mummy that I am seeing in the reviews. Constantly pitting herself, constantly doubting herself... oh, get a hold of yourself woman!

It was too long... I mean 15 hours for this was too much. There were so unnecessary inner thoughts and description that could have been avoided. And in the same time I can't tell nothing of the world or the characters. I have no clue how they should look like.

The trials were ok. They were written well and were a breath of fresh air.

I couldn't understand what was exactly the magic system - ok she had the shadows but what else? And they were talking more like a curse than a magic... In general, I couldn't see much of the fantasy here. Where are the rest of the abilities, the rest of the magic...?

There are a lot of plot holes. Example of this why all those people were murdered - what was the reason of loosing her family. Why she was killing humans in such a rage? (didn't her friends were half humans?) And she was supposed to know who killed her husband... why didn't she tell Matthias when they were in that dream? And those dreams... and the mate bond... too many things that they were supposed to know or there are only few couples in the whole world who only experienced the mate bond?

And please, oh please stop putting dragons only to write that there are dragons in the books when they make no difference if they are there or not.

What was the need in the end of the book to be presented with totally new characters and species? Why prolonging the end? It didn't make it more interesting or sure.

I don't know, in general there is potential but I can't tell that I am impressed. Maybe people really liked it but this was not for me.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this sequel. Mathias and Calla were good MCs in this story and the narrators who portrayed them were both great! This story was filled with loss, mystery, betrayal, love and more! I look forward to reading more books from this author!

I didn’t realize this was book 2 in a series so I immediately stopped and then listened to the audiobook of book 1. I do think they can be read as standalone books, but I think it enriches the experience to read book 1 first.

I always love a shadow daddy and on this story we have a shadow mommy!

I adore the characters. They are sarcastic, sassy and an all around good time. This book deals with grief, and finding life after loss.

This has many great tropes:

Enemies to lovers
Touch her and die (touch him and die)
Fae/human political issues

If you enjoyed book 1, you will definitely love book 2.

The narrators are fantastic as always. Shane East is one of my favorites! Zura Johnson was new to me, but I enjoyed her portrayal of Calla very much!

Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape media for an ALC in exchange for an honest review!

I enjoy Rasanen’s writing, and the worlds she creates. The narration on this audio was fantastic, and really elevated the story. It was really exciting to listen, and the narrators really kept me on my toes!

This story follows Calla and Matthias as they try to avoid their fated pull through a deadly trial, heartwrenching grief and a kingdom at the edge of collapse. The banter and chemistry between these two is absolute perfection. The ending leaves the door cracked to continue the series of interconnected standalone, so l'm dying to read the next one already!
If you like audio, you'll love the performance that @zurajohnson and @shaneeastreads give in their narration. It completely brings the story to life.

When I saw that the FMC for Once the Skies Fade by Vanessa Rasanen was going to be Calla, my heart broke. I loved that she and Brennan found joy together and legitimately fell in love with one another. He found his place and I was happy for them. We even get to have a glimpse of that in the beginning, him loving and attempting to cheer up his wife who is still mourning the deaths of her parents. So much for happiness!

Before I get deeper into it, I want to say adding Shane East as the MMC narrator really knocked his out of the park. He did an amazing job portraying both side of Matthias, his earnestness alongside his impishness and angst. Zura Johnson is back narrating the FMC and was great as Calla. She really helped me feel the anguish and rage and impotence Calla spent the entire novel going through.

This second book in the Immortal Reveries series was by far better than the first. This gave me everything! It definitely leaned more into the romance instead of trying to toe that line between this is a fantasy story and this is a romance that the first book tried. This also had much stronger personalities and main characters. Calla’s ruthlessness was perfection. I was ready to marry her. Loved my shadow queen who suffers no fools. And Matthias, it took some time for me to warm up to him because I loved Brennan so much and was so upset at having him come into the picture as a possible replacement. But, I grew to care for him – much more than I did for Connor.

The tension between all of the characters was perfect and, despite considering myself particularly discerning, I was absolutely played for a fool at the ending (Isa, my queen, I’m sorry I thought ill of you.) Then that ending was so gruesome but intriguing. I’m honestly excited to see where the next book goes and who we focus on. I’m also so intrigued by the witch and cannot wait to see what all these money moves she’s making are for.

If you were on the fence with the first book, trust me, Once the Skies Fade by Vanessa Rasanen makes up for it. It is spicy, angsty, and practically perfect. Plus, if you’re going to read this, I 100% recommend the audiobook version.

High fantasy romance with dragon shifters, nightwalkers, mages, and a battle for the throne? Say less. I was hooked from the prologue, and let’s be real—Shane East delivering that opening as Matthias? Immediate obsession.

I fell hard and fast for Matthias. How could I not? He’s a sarcastic, sunshiny cinnamon roll of a general, convinced he’ll never find true love and perfectly content with his duty—until Calla storms into his life. And her name? His Killer. That nickname? Absolute chef’s kiss.

This book gave me everything I love—
• Reverse grumpy/sunshine (Calla is the grump, Matthias is the snarky, sarcastic sunshine, and I lived for it).
• Slow-burn tension with undeniable chemistry.
• A heroine fighting against grief, suspicion, and ruthless politics.
• A hero who swore off love but is now in way too deep.
• So much treachery. Who’s on her side? Who’s working against her? Trust no one.

Calla is a queen in mourning, forced into a deadly competition to keep her crown. Matthias enters the trials for his kingdom, but also to uncover the truth behind his best mate’s brother’s death—her late husband. They both try to fight the attraction, insist it’s only physical… but their connection? Unstoppable.

Vanessa Rasanen’s world-building is phenomenal. I was completely swept into the intrigue, the stakes, the twists I did not see coming. And the audiobook? Pure magic.

Zura Johnson was perfect as Calla—this was my first time listening to her, and she absolutely nailed it. And Shane? We all know he’s my favourite narrator, the GOAT, the Romance God. But I’ll say it again—Shane belongs in fantasy romance. His performance as Matthias was everything I could have hoped for. If he could narrate every fantasy romance ever, I’d be first in line.

I need the next book immediately, and in the meantime, I’ll be diving into book one. But honestly, you don’t even need to read the first book to enjoy this one—Vanessa sets it up brilliantly, and that prologue? Genius.

There are not enough stars in the universe for this book.
Your ears will thank me later.
Ten out of ten, run to get this audiobook.

Thank you to Vanessa Rasanen and Dreamscape media for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. I had the opportunity to listen to the audio version and it did not disappoint! The narrators did a wonderful job. There were two- one for each of the two main characters in the book.
I appreciated the little recap at the beginning. It was nice to have a little review of what happened in the previous book, especially as someone who did not read it. That being said, I don't think you have to read book 1 to enjoy this one, but I am certainly interested now.
The book started off a bit slow. At first I thought it was going to be a villain origin story, which I would have totally been here for, but it picked up about 30-ish percent in when the competition began. The chemistry between the characters was definitely there and the action/adventure and mystery aspects of the story were also very compelling.

Oh my stars! This has to be my favorite audio book Ive ever listened to! Both the MMC and FMC voice actors were excellent choices, I especially enjoyed the male! Every part of this book, was perfect! It all made sense, perfect conversations, great main and secondary characters. Some books feel too long, but this one was perfect. Every chapter was needed, every interaction added to the story/plot. I havent enjoyed a book like this in a while! Every chapter I enjoyed and really soaked in. Calla, was made likable despite everything that happened d/t the amazing character building and character growth. You empathized with her and understood where she came from. Matthias, oh my, oh my, Matthias! I love him so much. Our grumpy sunshine! Who did this to you?! I enjoyed every aspect of this story. The loss, the trials, the love, the twists, the friendship - all of it was perfect! I cannot emphasize this enough, if you havent read this and you love fae, romance, trials, dragons, and vampires - this book is for you! I give this a 5/5 and if I could give more I would! I loved this so much so, that after I listened to audiobook, I immediately looked for a special edition hard back of this book! Seriously, one of my top 5 favorite books of all time! Thank you so much Netgalley and Crab Apple Books for blessing me with the opportunity to experience this as an ARC audio listener! I am forever changed! I cannot emphasize this enough, if you can, PLEASE allow yourself to experience the audio book!! I found myself wanting to stay in my car just a bit longer, do my house work just a bit longer, go on my walks just a bit longer JUST so I could know what was happening!! 5! 5! 5! STARS!

*Once the Skies Fade* by Vanessa Rasanen is a poignant and emotionally charged romance that explores themes of love, loss, and healing. Set against the backdrop of a world recovering from tragedy, the novel follows its protagonist as she navigates the grief of losing her partner while slowly learning to open her heart again. Rasanen's writing is raw and relatable, capturing the complexity of human emotions with sensitivity and depth. The romance, though tender, doesn’t shy away from the challenges and scars that come with personal growth. It's a beautiful and heart-wrenching journey of rediscovery, making it a must-read for fans of heartfelt contemporary romance.

Calla, Queen of Arenysen, has just recently lost her parents- forcing the crown upon her head- when her beloved husband tragically dies right before her eyes. Brennan is scarely buried before her scheming assembly of advisors informs her that in order to keep her family's crown she will need to find a new husband.. in a matter of weeks.

When General Matthias Orelian, of the Emeryn Army, hears a rumor that Queen Calla may have killed her husband Brennan, he knows that he needs to find out the truth of what has happened to his friend. The trials that the Queen is holding to find her next husband are the perfect opportunity for him to infiltrate the castle and get close enough to the Queen to learn the truth. And deliver justice at the end of his poisoned blade.

I should start by saying that I haven't read the first book in this series... but it didn't impact my enjoyment of this story one bit. The characters were so beautifully written that I felt connected to them from the first moments. The way that Vanessa handled Calla's grief felt so authentic. And the fact that Matthias saw her hurting so early on and immediately tried to provide comfort was really beautiful.

The trials aspect of this story was really exciting and the action scenes were so fun to listen to! I also loved that this book flipped all my favourite romantasy tropes on their heads
- SHE is the Shadow Queen
- SHE is the ruler who needs a spouse
- SHE is morally grey
- SHE says "who did this to you?"
- touch HIM and die
- SHE pursues him "for release"

I really loved this! It was such a departure from the normal romantasy books! I just ADORE a badass Queen and this book delivers!

2🌶 for those of you dying for a Dorian or Xaden-esque shadow scene... SHE. Uses. Her. Shadows. On. HIM 👏👏👏

🎧 Shane East could never disappoint me. His sarcastic and cocky Matthias is obviously perfect! And I really enjoyed Zura Johnson and how well she played the emotional turmoil that Queen Calla was experiencing.

I fear this review will be all over the place because I still haven’t been able to put my own feelings together after reading Once the Skies Fade.

4/5 stars.
3/5 spice.

I genuinely was hesitant going into this book. It was hard to read about someone who is grieving, a widow specifically. Calla goes through so much. She internalizes her trauma for many reasons. It was a subject I don’t typically approach or read about. However, Vanessa handled the topic beautifully. The execution in which Calla grows and heals was beautiful. I think I’m more impressed with Calla than Matthias just because of her personal growth and healing!

Oh Matthias! We all loved him in book 1 so for him to get his own book was amazing. For him to find love like he didn’t think he would. He’s such an admirable character. Truly will forever be obsessed with him because he’s just that guy that will 10000% back you up no matter what.

I’m still reeling from the last 20-25% of the book. Can’t stop thinking about honestly. It’s so hard putting it into words how amazing Vanessa writes. How the story ebs and flows in ways you wouldn’t think! I love it.

Thank you Vanessa Rasanen, Crab Apple Books & NetGalley for the opportunity to read/listen to this book. All opinions are my own.

Where to start! I need the next book ASAP! This one is going to cause a massive book hangover, I can just feel it!
First thing’s first, the characters are top notch, both protagonists and antagonists. Matthias is swoon worthy, funny, witty, brave, kind, just serious enough that he’s believable, and always with a quick quip to further endear him to the reader (and piss off his enemies). Calla’s journey of grief is a heartbreaking road to traverse with her, but one that is so worth it; Vanessa has crafted the most beautiful tale of loss, suffering, and redemption in this character arc. Grief impacts everyone differently, and V has shown that beautifully in this book.
The narrators are incredible, and bring the characters to life flawlessly. Zura is perfect for the role of Calla, she’s regal and captures the outward coldness and inner warmth and turmoil Calla is going through perfectly. And Shane brings Matthias’ easy charm to life and if anything makes him even swoonier than he already was. Brilliant and flawless execution on both their parts!
There’s an uneasy atmosphere throughout the entire book, even before the tournament begins, and it makes it so difficult to trust anyone. Even as more mysteries are uncovered the air of unease continues right up to the climax, and whenever I had to set the book down I couldn’t stop thinking about it, pondering where the plot might go next, who the mastermind was behind everything, and who was going to meet an untimely end next.
The relationships, both romantic and platonic, were top notch as always with V’s books. The friendships are full of love and understanding for each other, even if the parties involved cannot always completely know what the others are going through.
And finally, the action, the intrigue, it all had me on the edge of my seat. I was messaging V throughout, in varying states of all block caps, and even a few voice notes like ‘YOU DID NOT JUST …’ .
So, overall? I think my rating says it all. Another stellar Rasanen romantasy, and I cannot wait for the next!

I adored this book! Prefacing by saying I had not read or listened to book 1 before picking this up, so the synopsis at the start was much appreciated! Adored Matthias and his sass throughout it all - It did take me about 1/3rd of the book to contextually understand a lot of elements though, so whilst this is set as a standalone in this series, I think I'd have probably enjoyed the story more if I had read book one first. Which I absolutely will do because this had me on the edge of my seat the entire time and the need to consume more content relating to this work is real!

The choice of narrators couldn't have been more perfect as well, they did an amazing job bringing us into the story and the whirlwind of emotions that came with it.