Nightshade (Nightshade, #1)
by Keri Lake
A determined young woman who’s spent her life chasing shadows is drawn into the eerie world of Nightshade, where depravity reigns and a raven-winged harbinger named Jericho Van Croix waits within a crumbling cliffside cathedral. Forbidden desire ignites between them, and as truths unravel and danger closes in, she must decide whether surrendering to the darkness might be the only path to salvation.
About This Book
In the shadowed city of Nightshade, Farryn Ravenshaw has spent her life investigating the inexplicable, uncovering unsettling remnants of a hidden world where depravity lurks in the shadows. Her quest leads her to a decaying cliffside cathedral, the residence of Jericho Van Croix, a cold and enigmatic recluse who embodies everything she's been taught to fear. Jericho, a raven-winged harbinger, exudes an aura of mystery and danger that draws Farryn closer, despite the forbidden nature of their connection.
As their paths intertwine, a forbidden desire ignites between them, challenging Farryn's understanding of the world and herself. The tension escalates as they navigate the complexities of their bond, with the looming threat of the Alatum and the enigmatic Drystan adding layers of suspense and danger. Farryn is faced with a harrowing choice: to surrender to the darkness that beckons or to fight against the forces that threaten to consume her. The story delves into themes of forbidden love, self-discovery, and the blurred lines between light and shadow, set against a backdrop of gothic romance and dark fantasy.
What Readers Say
Readers praise Keri Lake's immersive world-building and atmospheric writing in 'Nightshade'. Many commend the book's dark, gothic ambiance and intense romance. Fans note the complex, morally gray characters and intricate plot twists. Some readers find the pacing slow, especially in the beginning, and feel the story drags in parts. Content warnings include themes of abuse, religious trauma, and explicit scenes; reader discretion is advised.
Reader Reviews
3 curated reviewsRachel
Jul 17, 2016
I love this book
I love this book. I'm trying to find the words to express how entertaining this book was. It's well written, no grammatical issues, smooth writing style, kept me engaged and entertained the whole way through. The love story was a "slow-burn" and I appreciate that because, I like characterization, dynamic, and build up. I'd recommend this book to anyone. The ending was a bit abrupt so I hope the author continues to write about these two.
Jason
Nov 27, 2015
Corruption, Spies, Family, and Love can make finding the Right Path Difficult
I am looking forward to experiencing more adventures of Cassandra and Eleanor. Now that they both know each other. Cassandra's brother is evil and betrayed her much more than Eleanor ever did. This book sets up a good backstory and background of the main characters and their motivations, but some of the secondary characters motivations and actions were a little bland.... Looking forward to witness the growth of the relationship of Cassandra and Eleanor and hopefully they will eventually be powerful and wise enough to take down both Greyson and the king.
Lov2laf
Jul 18, 2018
Mixed read for me...
Overall, "Nightshade" was an okay read. The more I read the less I liked it. Initially, it started off interesting and strong but then it petered out. I'll add that the narrative flows well and there is quality writing. My issue was more on the decisions the author made for her characters. Eleanor does enter into an f/f relationship with Cassandra but they *both* lie to each other for most of the story. I definitely don't want to see that if there's a romance involved. Then, Cassandra is supposed to be this really strong leader but, other than being talented and a Robin Hood-like character,
