Anathema by Keri Lake
“No, beautiful was too weak a word. She was intoxicating. Exquisitely divine.”
ATTWB Book Review: Anathema by Keri Lake
ATTWB Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Gothic, Dark Romance, Fantasy
If you're a fan of Keri Lake like I am, you'll know that she masterfully combines gothic backdrops with dark romance, and "Anathema" is no exception. In this latest masterpiece, she weaves an intriguing tale that will keep you hooked from start to finish. If you liked Nightshade you will enjoy this one!
Introduction: From the very beginning, we're drawn into the mysterious world where Maevyth, a shunned mortal with a hidden past, becomes the center of a compelling story. Found as a baby outside The Eating Woods, she is taken in but never truly accepted by her town. Lake's skill in painting gothic scenery is unmatched, making the slow burn worth every page.
Plot Overview: The mortal world depicted in "Anathema" is intense with a cult-like religious vibe. Maevyth’s step grandmother is horrible and has betrothed her and her sister, Aleysia, to older wealthier men. Aleysia has been sneaking around with their step uncle and becomes pregnant. Aleysia is thrown into The Eating Woods and Maevyth’s journey to save her sister leads her to an alternate realm, which leads her to adventure and danger!
Zevander, an assassin for the king, is on a quest for a cure, needing seven stones to heal himself. His mission brings him to Maevyth, the seventh person he must kill. However, he can’t bring himself to go through with it.
Zevander saves Maevyth, bringing her back to his castle, where she discovers her ancient powers and begins training under his guidance. The slow burn romance between them is perfectly executed, with Maevyth being the only one who can control Zevander's inner flames. Their relationship evolves beautifully, with both characters showing growth and vulnerability.
The book ends on a thrilling note, with Maevyth and Zevander returning to the mortal world to find her sister, setting the stage for an exciting sequel. As always, Keri Lake leaves us eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Character Vibes: The dual point of view adds depth to the narrative, allowing us to delve into the minds of both Maevyth and Zevander. The tension and angst between Zevander and Maevyth are chefs kiss, making their eventual connection all the more satisfying.
Final Thoughts: "Anathema" is a must-read for fans of gothic dark romances. With its rich world-building, complex characters, and a romance that sizzles with tension, it's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. I can't wait for the second book to be released later this year!
From epic love tales, spine-tingling mysteries and enchanting realms of magic, may your bookshelf be overflowing and your heart ever curious.
XOXO,
Candace💋
Book Details
Author: Keri Lake
Publisher: Independently published, September 12, 2024
Kindle
ISBN: 979-8338704387
Back Cover Summary:
Only the banished know what lies beyond the woods ...
There are whispers about what lurks in Witch Knell—the forest where sinners go to die. The villagers call it The Eating Woods because what’s taken is never given back. Only those who’ve lost their senses would dare to go near it.
Or the banished.
Maevyth Bronwick knows better than to breach the misty labyrinth of trees, but a tragic turn of events compels her beyond the archway of bones, to a boundary no mortal has crossed before. One that cloaks a dark and fantastical world that’s as dangerous as it is alluring.
It’s there that he dwells, the cursed lord of Eidolon. The one tasked to keep her hidden from the magehood that seeks to crucify her in the name of an arcane prophesy. Zevander Rydainn, known to his prey as The Scorpion, is the coldest, most calculated assassin in all of Aethyria and he’d sooner toss his feisty ward to a pack of vicious fyredrakes than keep her safe.
If only he could.
Maevyth’s blood is the key to breaking his despised curse and vanquishing the slumbering evil in Witch Knell. Unfortunately for Lord Rydainn, fate has other plans for the irresistible little enchantress. And his growing obsession with her threatens to destroy everything.
Including himself.
Anathema is a full-length, gothic dark fantasy, the first book in The Eating Woods duology. Perfect for readers who enjoy a plot-heavy and atmospheric story with a unique magic system, a slow-burn romance and a touch of horror.
