The Kingdom of Shadows and Wolves
Author: Martha Sweeney
Series: Stardust & Shadows, #1
Publication date: August 27th 2024
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Being raised by the viper who slaughtered my family, along with being beaten and berated by him for merely existing, takes a toll on my heart and soul. Uncle bears the crown, has changed the name of our kingdom Soare to Krigare, and desires more destruction throughout the Fae lands. While plotting his quest to rule all, I’m bartered to forge a union with Cysgod, a formidable ally and one who could ensure Uncle’s victory. King Caelum of Cysgod has a reputation that precedes him, defining him as a tyrant as well. He killed his father for the crown and is known to be just a ruthless and bloodthirsty as Uncle.
Just when I thought the Gods had forsaken me, as they did the Enkeli and Conroicht, my life turns upside down. While I fear my new king, he and his people see me as their queen. Though he does not punish me, I expect it nonetheless and flinch at his touch.
I may be rid of Uncle, but I doubt his hold on me is truly released. Does he plan to capture Cysgod from the inside, using me as his weapon, giving him the army he needs to take and conquer any kingdom? Is there a way to stop Uncle and seek revenge for the death of my kin?
an excerpt
“There is much to see,” I reply, bending to smell a flower that is at the end of an elongated water fountain.
“Indeed. What would you like to see first?”
“What is there?” My hand darts up, cutting him off before he has a chance to reply. “Do not tell me the bedchamber for I have already seen it.”
He cautiously steps closer. “Is it to your liking?”
My lips purse as I consider my reply. “The bower is nice. I haven’t decided what to do or keep in it. The greeting room is warm and cozy.”
There’s barely a sound to his next step. “And, of the bedchamber?”
“It could do without a few things,” I declare, turning away from him.
“Such as?” he inquires, suddenly at my back, his hand on my hip.
“Such as you.”
He grunts. “That will not change. Any other changes, make them.”
“A bed for my male lover would—”
King Caelum spins me and presses me against the wall below the balcony. “Do not tease me, my Queen. I do not tease you.”
“I wouldn’t dare,” I lie.
There’s a little twitch to his lips. “I do not mind your playfulness, but do not take it too far.”
“Or else what?”
“Another punishment will be added to the list and one administered,” he reminds.
Heat sears my cheeks and I’m certain he can see it. “I will…behave.”
“Don’t behave too much, Queen Aurora.” A smirk slips across his lips. “I know you enjoy riling me, and I will admit, I do enjoy it.” He chuckles and I’m sure it has to do with my expression changing. “You are quite alluring.” King Caelum crowds me more with his body.
“The wolf likes to be toyed with?” I ask.
“When done correctly, by you….” His gaze lifts from my lips. “Yes.”
“How am I to know what is not correct if I don’t push boundaries?”
“Sly like a fox.” His nose tickles my jaw. “I like this exploration you’re embarking on, my Queen.”
“There is much I would like to explore.” His heart beats thunderously against my hand when I place it over his chest to push him back.
“Such as?” His voice is but a whisper against my ear.
“Are you aware that you have a challenge barging into someone’s personal space uninvited?”
“Oh?” King Caelum pulls back to look me in the eye. “I could have sworn there was an invitation each time, my Queen.”
“For having a mother and sister, whom I’m saddened was not present last night, you are a far cry from being able to fathom a woman’s intentions.” I shift to go around him but he blocks me.
“You flinch less when I advance you,” he states. “Perhaps you trust me more than you realize or would like to admit.”
“Or, I’m pushing boundaries to see whether the reprimands occur in private or out in the open.”
“They most certainly will always be in private, Queen Aurora. I can assure you of that.” His head tips, indicating that he’s going to kiss me but I turn away. He growls lowly and there’s a playful spark in his eye when I glance at him. “Playing mouse, now, are you?”
about the author
Martha Sweeney is a BESTSELLING author who writes in a variety of genres: romance (contemporary, romcom, suspense, paranormal and historical), suspense, fantasy, thriller, coloring books, and soon, science fiction. She strives to push herself as a storyteller with each new tale and hopes to push her readers outside of their comfort zone whether it be genre or the stories themselves.
With a B.S. in Psychology, Martha utilizes her knowledge of human and animal behavior successfully in the business world and in her writing to present realistic characters and situations. She’s been creative since she was little, always drawing, coloring or making crafts, so her venture into being an author was a natural transition.
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