[Skye’s Review]: The Shadows Between Us By Tricia Levenseller

The Shadows Between Us
by Tricia Levenseller
Pages: 336
Published by Feiwel & Friends
Release Date: February 25th 2020
Genres: Fantasy, NA, Romance, YA
Source: Publisher
Format Read: ARC, eBook
Goodreads

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?

I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

All I knew about this book was that it’s described as a Slytherin romance. Oh, boy, is it that. The main character of this book, Alessandra, is the epitome of a Slytherin. She’s ambitious, cunning, ruthless, charming and witty. She’s done horrible things yet you can’t help but like her. She accepts who she is and doesn’t apologize for it. Then, we have the Shadow King who is every bit a Slytherin himself. He’s rumored to be ruthless and heartless. He doesn’t allow anyone close to him. And did I mention that he literally has shadows surrounding him? His nickname is not based on a metaphor; he truly is the Shadow King.

Alessandra’s plan is simple. She’s going to make the king fall madly in love with her–as all her past suitors have–and then she’ll kill him. Once he’s dead, she’ll have what she’s always craved: power. Though, Alessandra has a few added obstacles in her way. There’s someone out there who wants the king dead. That simply won’t do for Alessandra. No one is allowed to kill the king apart from her.

However, what Alessandra couldn’t have planned for is finding her equal match in the king. He’s every bit as cunning as her. For once in her life, Alessandra can truly be herself rather than pretending to be the ideal woman of men’s fantasies. But, Alessandra can’t let that distract her from her endgame. Just as the king can’t allow Alessandra to be truly close to him. Who shall prevail in this deadly game?

If I had to pick three words to describe this book it would be delectable, consuming, and captivating. Quite simply, I couldn’t put this book down. I devoured it all in one sitting. I never knew I needed a Slytherin romance until now. Guys, this book was just so freaking good!! I adored it.

I do want to note that this is more of a character and romance-driven book. Don’t get me wrong, this book has a good plot, action, and lots of political intrigue. It’s just more romance heavy. So, if you aren’t a big fan of romance, then this probably isn’t the book for you–though I encourage you to try it just the same. Also, I would classify this book as New Adult rather than YA. There are more mature themes in here than most YA novels, so this book definitely falls on the more mature spectrum of YA.