First and foremost, a huge thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op ,for giving me the chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Carved Amidst The Shadows is the debut novel of M.T.Fontaine, and honestly it was great from start to finish. It's an epic fantasy story full with beautiful and complex world-building, three different pov's that show the reader what happens at all fronts with a steadily incresing pace that only puts you deeper into the story and suddenly you're halfway done and have no clue how you got that far. If this is what you look for in a book's pacing, then this one won't disappoint. If you'd enjoy a caste system similar to RED QUEEN or that kind of theme(a world divided and the power struggles between the highs and lows) in general, this book is here to deliver. The political intrigue is ripe from the very beginning as Kaianne's life goes from a Marked royal with a betrothed, to an orphan and a Carved fighting for her life, all because the Order 's word is law and whoever's family births a Flawed (someone born without a Brand Edict) they are all bound for execution. 

This is were I call out some trigger warnings : infanticide, genocide, mutilation . It is an ADULT BOOK so be prepared for things to be dark early on. I honestly had to stop a few chapters in to recover from the sudden gore that accompanies the massacre that drives Kaianne to join the Carved.
Was I surprised ?I was. Did that make me want to read more after taking a moment to collect myself ?YES IT DID. 
I also loved the romance tones this book had, without a doubt Kaianne and Andreiyes have chemistry from the very beginning and you can see things get more tense as the story progresses. 

This review will also be posted on my goodreads and at the amazing blog I upload my reviews ,IkarianCorner as off March 21st (for links check my bio).

In 2019 my health started going down hill and I didn't take into consideration what that would mean for my book reviewing. Sadly, I've been trying to play catch up for years and it's been affecting my ability to keep up with present day tasks. So I greatly apologize for this but I am going to clear out all these older review books and focus on present day. I will come back and update this review if I end up reading the book, which is very possible as a lot of these books are still ones I would like to read, I just don't think the pressure looming over me is helpful. Thank you for giving me a chance to early read these books and I am so sorry I wasn't able to provide what was needed.

This was great! This is a character driven dark political fantasy. The world-building was done very cleverly, sprinkled through out and there is still plenty for us to discover in the sequels. Loved seeing our main characters start out as children and grow and develop into the adults that will shape this story. I thought their character arcs were handled really well.

This book does not pull it's punches so be prepared for some graphic descriptions.

I was captivated by the characters in “Carved Amidst the Shadows.” Lady Kaianne’s transformation from a pampered noble to a ruthless, cunning fighter was compelling. From the moment her world went up in flames, her evolution was both tragic and empowering. She starts as a spoiled noble girl, but her journey through loss and hardship shapes her into a formidable figure, driven by a need for vengeance and justice. Her resilience and determination made her a fascinating protagonist, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.


Prince Andreiyes was another standout character. His dynamic with Kaianne, filled with perfect banter and a deliciously slow-burn romance, added depth to both their characters. Initially, he comes across as haughty and obnoxious, but as the story progresses, he reveals layers of complexity. His decision to become the first noble to train as a warrior shows his willingness to defy societal expectations and carve his own path. Their relationship, evolving from enemies to allies and possibly more, was one of the most engaging aspects of the book. Their interactions were charged with tension and genuine emotion, making their connection feel real and earned.

Master Rau’s perspective provided a fascinating look into the oppressive Order. Despite finding some of his chapters slower, his character was morbidly intriguing. Rau is a grief-stricken, world-weary man, yet he proves time and again that beneath his tender mask lies a ruthless and bigoted individual. His dual nature made him a compelling character to follow, even if his sections felt less captivating compared to the main protagonists. His interactions and eventual clash with Kaianne were well-built and added significant tension to the story.


The story started with an intense, fast-paced beginning that immediately hooked me. Kaianne’s world literally goes up in flames, forcing her into the life of a Carved and setting her on a quest for revenge. The plot unfolds with intricate political schemes and a smooth time jump that transitions the narrative seamlessly. The pacing was well-maintained, keeping my attention from start to finish.

Kaianne’s journey from a noble girl to a fighter seeking vengeance was compelling and well-developed. Her transformation is driven by the tragic assassination of her family, which turns her into an orphan with nothing but revenge on her mind. This quest for vengeance is not just a personal journey but also one that intersects with the broader political intrigue of the realm. The author does an excellent job of balancing Kaianne’s personal growth with the larger plot.

Andreiyes’s path from a pampered prince to a questioning warrior added another layer of depth to the story. His revelations about his father’s ambitions and his own questioning of the established order provided a nuanced look at power and rebellion. The political tension between the Royals and the Order added layers of intrigue and complexity to the plot, making it much more than a simple revenge story.


The writing style was immersive and detailed, making the world-building and magic system feel rich and creative. The author skillfully avoided info-dumping, allowing the intricate details to unfold naturally. The glossary provided was a helpful addition, clarifying unique terms and enhancing the reading experience. The narrative’s character-driven approach ensured that the story remained engaging, with each character’s development intricately woven into the plot.

The pacing was well-balanced, with the story maintaining momentum through its various twists and turns. The middle of the book features a significant time jump, which was handled smoothly and allowed for substantial character development. This transition was crucial in showing the growth and maturity of the characters, particularly Kaianne and Andreiyes, over a span of years.

However, some parts of the book, particularly those focused on Rau, felt slower and less captivating. While his perspective was important for understanding the Order’s politics, it sometimes interrupted the flow of the main narrative. Despite this, the writing style remained consistent and compelling, keeping me invested in the story.


Themes of revenge, transformation, and power struggles were central to the story. Kaianne’s quest for vengeance and her growth from a spoiled noble to a fierce fighter highlighted themes of resilience and adaptability. Her journey is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome adversity. The political machinations and the oppressive control of the Order explored themes of power, rebellion, and the fight against tyranny.

The slow-burn romance between Kaianne and Andreiyes added a layer of emotional depth, illustrating themes of trust, alliance, and the complexity of human relationships. Their evolving relationship, from enemies to reluctant allies, underscores the theme of finding common ground and support in unexpected places. This romantic subplot was intricately woven into the main narrative, enhancing the overall story without overshadowing the primary themes.

The theme of found family was also prevalent, particularly with Kaianne finding companionship and support among the fugitive Carved. This element added emotional richness to the story, showing that family can be found in the most unlikely of places. The characters’ journeys towards self-discovery and their fight against a tyrannical order provided a powerful narrative about personal and societal transformation.


“Carved Amidst the Shadows” fits perfectly within the dark, epic fantasy genre. The character-driven plot, intricate political intrigue, and dangerous magic system all align with the genre’s expectations. The inclusion of slow-burn romance and elements of found family further enriched the story, making it a well-rounded epic fantasy. The dark themes and morally grey characters added to the genre’s appeal, ensuring it was a captivating read for fans of adult fantasy.

The world-building was extensive and detailed, creating an immersive fantasy setting that felt both original and authentic. The magic system, particularly the life-force magic, added a unique and dangerous element to the story, enhancing its dark fantasy credentials. The political tension and the looming prophecy of war added stakes and urgency, typical of the epic fantasy genre.

Overall, the book’s ability to balance character development with a complex and engaging plot made it a standout in its genre. The narrative’s dark tone, combined with the intricate world-building and compelling characters, ensured that it met and exceeded the expectations of epic fantasy fans.


Overall, I am thrilled with “Carved Amidst the Shadows.” It delivered everything I love in adult fantasy – a compelling plot, well-developed characters, and a richly detailed world. The story’s execution was impressive, with the intricate world-building, character growth, and political intrigue making for a powerful debut. Despite a few slower parts, particularly in Rau’s narrative, the overall experience was highly satisfying.

The book’s ability to balance dark themes, emotional depth, and a gripping plot made it a standout read. The romance subplot, while not the central focus, added an additional layer of engagement, making the character dynamics even more compelling. The smooth transition through the time jump and the well-paced narrative ensured that the story remained engaging from start to finish.

I am eagerly anticipating the sequel and excited to see how the story continues. “Carved Amidst the Shadows” is a must-read for fans of dark, immersive fantasy with a dash of slow-burn romance. M.T. Fontaine has crafted a complex and captivating world, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the Brands of Taelgir series.

I read this book a while back and forgot to post my review! I really enjoyed reading this, I love an enemies to lovers and this did not disappoint! I can’t remember too much of the detail now but I struggled to put this down, however now the next one is out I may have to reread!

There were definitely some pros and cons with this book, but overall I'd say that I enjoyed it. The story, overall, was well written and there's a lot of character/world building and development. While I appreciate the vividness, at times it made the plot confusing. I don't mind multiple POV's, but I think the author could work on the execution of this for future books. I think the plot was engaging, premise was intriguing and characters were likable. The ending was surprising and I would be interested in reading the next book!

Carved Amidst The Shadows by M.T Fontaine is such a well written read, it’s immersive, fast paced and addictive, I don’t think I could pinpoint anything I didn’t like at all, I did think it was a little slower for the first third or so, but that’s to be expected with the world building in the first book of any fantasy series, but this was no info dump, it was an intelligent and gradual development, I loved the background of the society set up.

The character development is brilliant, our FMC Kaianne is a wonderful, strong lead, I loved the journey I took with her and how natural it felt. I also really liked Andreiyes our MMC, he is charming, loyal and fiercely protective of those he cares for, but I loved Kaianne the most. There is some romance in this, but it isn’t the main focus of the story and it’s slow burn , which I absolutely adore, it’s my favourite.

The story itself was fast paced after the world building set up, it’s full of action, rebellion, revenge and so much tension, I was on the edge of my seat and didn’t leave it until the end. Speaking of the ending, that made me pay attention, now I need more and I want the next book so badly, because I think it’s going to be just as good, if not better than this, which is a fantastic debut to begin with!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Carved Amidst the Shadows is the first book in an explosive new fantasy series and sets the roots for a fantastic new series to grow from.
We follow Kaianne, whose entire family was murdered all because her infant brother was born 'flawed'. Kaianne then found a group of rebels and has since been training her entire life to get her revenge. I loved the word building in this book and how the author has cleverly written enough to fulfil the story but leave it open to further explanations, plotting, and building. As a debut, this was fantastic, and I can't wait for book two to see where it takes us! This had some of my favourite tropes, too - slow burn romance and enemies to lovers. After that cliffhanger of an ending, I'm hoping book two isn't too far off release!

This was an incredibly well written book. The MC is written amazing - her character development is exceptionally done and I loved how naturally it all progress - from all the past trauma with her family and her spoiled being to her path of revenge, being a fighter.
Worldbuilding was well written to get into quickly and get used to it. It was also quite immersive, which I appreciate. The romance part of this book is a slow burn and I am a sucker for those, so I definitely quite enjoyed that. I enjoyed the plot twists and betrayals in the story, I quite liked some of the characters in it, with, of course, some exceptions. Although, to be fair, I think it's impossible to write a book where every single character you're meant to like, you actually do.
I loved the fast pace and action packed story. I love revenge plots, so this was right up my alley. I'd be interested in reading more!

DNF at 8%

This book is so badly written, oh my lord. The author simply tried to hard to make it sound like an old royalty novel.
Not to talk about the fact that I could barely keep track of what was going on and I've only read 8% of the book... I just couldn't continue reading this disaster.

This is a wild fantasy story with complex characters and world. I found it engaging and I was hooked from the beginning. There were some slow-paced parts, but it did a good job of balancing the story. The writing was good, I found it easy to follow, it had good descriptions and enough detail to really paint a picture of this world without feeling like info dumping. The idea about being born with a certain mark was very interesting and unique. The book cover is beautiful and really drew me in, the story was what was really captivating. The romance aspects of this story and relationship were pretty good, I am hoping for a little more in book two. I would really recommend checking out this series out. It was a great first book and I can't wait for the next book to come out.
I received this advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.

This was a good read i really enjoyed it and loved the writing and all the characters definitely couldn't put it down

An epic fantasy that promises revenge and brings you found family along the way.

+ Slowburn
+ Enemies to Lovers
+ Forced Proximity
+ Betrayal
+ Found Family

I came for the promise of noble turned orphan that gets revenge and stayed for the fantastic world building. Fantasy can come off as info dump heavy, especially in the first book in a series. This managed to be beautiful and build gradually and captured my attention enough to binge it in under a day. There is still enough questions and world to be built and explored that I am excited for the next books in the series.

Andreiyes was a fantastic MMC. I am generally not a fan of the "playboys," but he was charming and loyal to those he cares about. And we all know I love a protective MMC. His love for the people in his life that matter was fierce. Kaianne is very reminiscent of Arya Stark but grows into her own person as the story develops. This is a huge compliment from me as I love Arya as a character.

If you want something romance heavy, this is not it. Romance was a tasteful compliment that was woven into the story and balanced very well.

Thank you to the publisher and author for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.

This one surprised me. The characters were well rounded and the pacing of this story was wonderful. The ending was great for the story and I enjoyed every page. I will say there were parts where I think the characters could have chosen a different path to make things easier but in the long run them taking a different route worked out well for the story as a whole. I will pick up the next one.

I enjoyed this book and how the marked / carved system is explained to give a better understanding of the book. The ending was a big surprise and I’m eager to read the sequel for further understanding.

<b> <I> Thank you so much for providing me with a free copy of “Carved Admist the Shadows” by M.T. Fontaine in exchange for an honest review. All of the following opinions are formulated on my own. Any quotes in this review should be cross-referenced with the final copy for any possible edits.</I> </b>

<b> Overall rating: </b> 3.75 out of 5 painful stars

An interesting and unique fantasy

The birth of a brandless brother marks the end of Kaianne's Marked life. As the rumor spreads, her entire family is killed for the sin they couldn't control and she becomes a Carved orphan with nothing. But when she discovers a rebellion, a new family to take her in, she finds her purpose. As she fights her way up to avenge the wrongs did to her family and her new people, ghosts from her past will stand in her way. But she will stop at nothing to change the world.

What I loved most about this book was the world. The whole idea about Marked, Carved and unbranded people was truly unique and created a very interesting world for the characters to evolve in. Some of the plot reminded me of dystopian novels, with the protagonist rebelling against the systems, fighting for what they believe in. In that way, Kaianne was a very interesting and inspiring character, and I really liked her resillience and evolution throughout the story. If I found the first part of the book rather long and slow, the second part kept me up. I really grew attached to the characters and I was eager to know what they would stumble upon next. The writing was truly beautiful and addictive and once the pace picked up, it was amazing. I really enjoyed the romance subplot too and that the characters had a lot of feelings about one another to unpack given their pasts and positions in the world. It was very interesting to see them come together again. I'm really excited to read the sequel!

I would recommend if you like fantasy with intricate worldbuilding and a romance subplot.

"If you are like me, every kill shall haunt you every spare moment you have."

TW: death, fire, violence, blood, murder, childbirth, assault, war

When I requested an arc of this book I had high expectations - the precis sounded different but intriguing
Well , I was left feeling slightly disappointed - I am not a fan of multiple POVs and timelines as they can be difficult to follow .
That being said I persevered and found myself wanting vengeance for Kaianne's murdered family ,.... her journey would not be smooth but full of twists and turns
To say I was surprised at the ending does not express my feelings fully - the sequel might just prove a better read if the Author can tidy up the POVs a little

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

I went into this book with high expectations and I´m happy to say that it was worth it. This book made me think about it even when I wasn´t reading it and that´s a really good sign for me, as it made me feel things. The characters are also well-built, annoying at times but it happens to everyone, nothing too big, just those moments where you think that somethings could be easily avoidable but they had to take the long path. But I don´t see that as a bad thing, it makes us want to keep going. Also, the ending was something else. Of all the things, I wasn´t expecting that, so I cannot wait until I have my hands on the sequel. My thanks to the publisher, the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

i loved the medieval, fantasy tone of the book. I really enjoyed the dual pov and how we see our male and female protagonist as children and then we have the time jump for when we see to as young adults in their quests for revenge and vengence

I also really enjoyed how the marked/carved system was explained to the reader and how we see the difference in how we are treated in the society of that time. Kaianne has been both in her life and because of this, she wants revenge for her mother and brothers

from the moment the book started i was hooked and shocked, especially when the baby was born a flawed and boom, killed by his father and the whole family is burnt and killed for one simple act that couldn't have been predicted or prevented