A review by headertime1981
Shadow & Storms by Helen Scheuerer

5.0

I struggled to finish.

Mostly because I didn't want it to end.

And I cried. Happy tears. Sad tears. Tears because it was no more.
I also laughed so hard I cried. Kipp. Always the son of the fox.

This is the kind of story I dreamed about existing when I was a little girl—strong women, wonderful men in a world rich with real problems but also fantastical adventures.

I love the romantasy genre, but this was a true epic romance. Nothing was rushed, or overcomplicated, and I loved all of the supporting cast with my whole heart. I'm not always interested in sidequests on my thereafter, but all that got me to the end of this was knowing I would get Talemir's story and Wren's, that it wasn't over.

Thea and Wilder have instantly become one of my favorite fictional couples ever. When they struggled it was real, not just a plot device to create friction. Their growth as individuals and as a twosome was a real journey.

And each book was it's own story, as though it was planned that way all along. Each felt very different and yet connected.

Also, the bloody cover art is gorgeous. I have the kindle versions, but will be asking my hubby for the paperback set for Christmas.

I will read this story again and again over the years. Easily the best fantasy series I've read this year.