A dark romantasy book set around a mysterious magical circus? Of course, I’m going to be interested! Sanctuary of the Shadow is romantic, magical, and full of dangers. Not everything is as it seems, and the characters quickly learn they can’t trust everyone and everything they’ve been told.

Amazon / Goodreads

Synopsis:

Enter the circus at your own risk… and discover the greatest show on earth in this explosive and darkly magical fantasy novel.

For humans, the circus is a place filled with wonder and amazement. For Harrow, it’s a place to hide from those who slaughtered her entire clan. Disguising her abilities as part of her act has kept her true identity safe for years.

Until he arrives.

A strange new attraction with no name, no memory of who – or even what – he is, let alone an explanation for his odd yet deadly powers. But beneath the layers of anger and isolation, one glimpse into his inky eyes reveals a soul that calls out to the loneliness in her own.

And so, she chooses him.

Harrow is drawn to the darkness, to her insatiable need to soothe the beast who threatens their very existence. But with every secret she unlocks from his past, another from hers is revealed – luring enemies who will stop at nothing to get their final revenge on Harrow. And she’s afraid she’s given them the perfect weapon against her because he’s not what he seems.

But maybe it’s time they finally learn neither is she…

Review:

Sanctuary of the Shadow started with a bang. Ascher does a great job building intrigue in the beginning and setting up the world. Harrow’s world feels murky, dangerous, and dark. This isn’t your typical circus world. I loved the friendships in the book and enjoyed that the world-building was separate from any romance at the beginning. 

However, Sanctuary of the Shadow is a romantasy book for romantasy lovers. It’s heavy on the spice! The spicy scenes are well-written, and much of the characters’ romance is developed in these scenes. I did like Raith. He was protective, strong, and had intense “don’t mess with her” vibes. 

My main issue is Harrow’s age. Harrow is supposed to be around 60, but she didn’t act or sound like someone with decades of lived experience. She sounded like she was in her early 20s. I wish the author had leaned into Harrow’s age more. It would have been really cool to see a mature-sounding heroine. 

Final Thoughts:

Sanctuary of the Shadow is perfect for those who love Romantasy stories with a lot of spice! It’s fun, full of intrigue, and has an interesting world.

Huge thanks to Random Things Tours and Anne Cater for inviting me to participate in this blog tour, and to the publisher for providing me with a review copy.