Review of 'Shadowhart' by Abbie Eaton
Review of ‘ShadowHart’ by Abbie Eaton
Release date: April 17th, 2026
Publisher: One More Chapter
REVIEW
Oh my! What a genuine, breathtaking and exhilarating second instalment! I loved the first book of the trilogy Dragonhart and adored even more the second. Shadowhart is so intense with its strong emotional, mental and physical elements. We spend a lot of time inside Arla’s head, hearing her thoughts and internal conversations with Thara, her beautiful and powerful dragon. This book covers the growing unique bond in their relationship. I am so glad I got to know Arla and Hark. This couple are fiery and charismatic. And the magic, the dragon, the quest, the battles, the wonder are all expertly designed and executed. The tension particularly builds to a feverish pitch towards the last portion of the novel. My expectations were so dramatically heightened by the end, I was breathless waiting to see what would happen next. I must say, though, when I turned the next page and found it to be the last, I was devastated! I wanted to know more. Yes, Abbie leaves us hanging on a high point. But she has set things up for the final novel of the series.
I admire Abbie Eaton for the emotional depth she built into her characters. They have a sense of unpredictability and although you might guess a bit of their possible actions and reactions, there’s always a portion that comes as a surprise which, to her credit, shows she has created something original within the confines of the fantasy structure. There’s nothing one dimensional about any of the characters, setting or story. For it all is unique and intricate, and offers an immersive experience. Her worldbuilding is ingenious and the landscapes are unforgettable. She has a talent that had me constantly shaking my head wondering how she dreamt up all the magic rules, multi-faceted characters and complex plot lines. I am deeply impressed by all the details of this fantasy world she has dreamed into existence.
Magic, of course, is an important part of this story but access to it is limited. There are rules and limitations, costs and consequences. Then there is the forbidden kind tied up in blood magic as seen in the Katonian king. ‘Power can be a fickle thing, never enough once you’ve tasted it.’ As a result of its negative effects, the gods frown upon and forbid it. But you know, of course, there will always be at least one who will be tempted to use it for personal gain. The one that mirrors the biblical character and story of Lucifer and his fall. His thirst for power to be greater than the one who created him—came to mind frequently reading this novel.
There is a need to maintain balance in this kingdom of Flambriar. Peace is always in jeopardy and the characters’ actions, decisions and choices rock the boat of stability. It seems a storm is constantly brewing up in the background to upset the calm. There are moments of happiness, celebration and dreaming, but always in the shadows lurks danger. And when waves of fear and distrust rise up among the citizens, death and destruction follow. This novel shows the struggles that Arla particularly faces as a chosen one by the gods. Including the prophecy she does not understand, or her part in uniting the kingdoms. What does it all mean? I am sure in the last instalment we will learn all we need to know and I, for one, cannot wait!
This is an exceptional magical, powerful, passionate, tragic tale that swept me off my feet and carried me like Arla on the wings of a dragon. So many scenes are breathtaking and exhilarating. And speaking of Thara: what a magnificent visionary creature. Stunning beauty that is both raw and refined. In fact the whole cast is brilliant. Plus the fantasy kingdoms they live in. This story had my imagination doing acrobatics! And that beautiful cover? Although I have not mentioned certain elements, the images provide some magnificent hints of the story inside. But I won’t give anything away. Readers must get this book when it is out!
In closing, I will say Shadowhart and the previous novel will remain forever fixed in my mind. I am in awe of the talented author who created this exciting fantasy series. And I am dying to read the finale as I am sure it will take us on another epic ride through this original fantasy realm! Without hesitation, I highly recommend Abbie Eaton’s impressively spellbinding books. 5 Flaming Hearts ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for a review copy.
