Thank you so much NetGalley and Vaughn Woods Publishing for this arc!!

5/5 stars!!

Omg, I loved this SOOOOO MUUUCCHHH!!!! The banter, the adventure, the mayhem - everything was absolutely perfect. Definitely inspired by Rick and Evelyn in The Mummy, AND I LOVE IT WE NEED MORE LOVE LIKE THEIR LOVE!!!! Alex Picard was a PERFECT narrator, nailing each separate person and accent flawlessly! There were so many characters but I never had to wonder who was who, she is just that good 😎 I finished this in just a few days, and I can't wait to start the next one lol. I love that this is the first in a series and where it ends in a way that the storyline is finished, there's more to their story and I honestly want to read the next one as much as I would if it had a cliffhanger ending 😂 I JUST NEED MORE ELLIE AND ADAM PLZ THANK YOOOUUU!!!

This book proves the theory that the venn diagram of people who love fantasy and people love historical is just a circle. I loved the dynamic and the banter between the main characters, and thoroughly enjoyed their adventures. Can't wait to read what's next.

This book reminded me so much of films like Indiana Jones or The Mummy. The sense of adventure was palpable, and the two main characters leapt off the page. The first half especially was a proper armchair adventure, complete with the enticing call of the unknown.

I loved the two main characters, Ellie and Adam. Their paths cross unexpectedly but it soon transpires that they do in fact have connections back home. The chemistry between them was obvious from the get-go, which made them such a compelling duo. They’re the sort of couple where you do a little celebration when they finally got together!

While I mostly enjoyed the adventure itself, it did start to drag as the book went on. I think it just went on for a little too long, and I started to lose interest in the final third of the book. It did pick up again at the very end though, which I was very glad for!

The audiobook narrator tries her hand at a variety of voices and styles, some of which are more successful than others. I will admit that I nearly gave up during the prologue, as she was doing that calm, ASMR-style narration that makes it impossible to pay attention to what’s going on. As soon as the first chapter started she had a much more conversational style, and I was relieved at first – but then I soon realised she really struggled with a British accent! It did mostly improve as the book went on, but an early example is that I was trying to work out what she meant by ‘ported fan’, then realised she meant ‘potted fern’. Towards the end of the book, the word ‘stalagmite’ came up a LOT, and it was mispronounced every single time. Adam’s chapters were read with an American accent, and I do think it would have been better to have two different narrators, one for each character.

Overall this was an enjoyable adventure, but I don’t know if I will be picking up the sequel any time soon.

I received a free copy for an honest review.

Absolutely loved this fantasy adventure!!! The romance, the quests, the action. It was all so much fun

Empire of Shadows is for fans of archaeology, Raiders of the Lost Ark vibes, with a dash of romantic tension. It's a historical fiction story where well bred ladies are not often dashing into the forests and running away from home. And it features a handsome and slightly disheveled guide who can save you from a snake and seduce you in one moment. Empire of Shadows is for fans of archaeologic puzzles and plenty of action. It feels cinematic and listening to the audiobook with Alex Picard's narration felt like you were transported.

4.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Vaughan Woods Publishing for an audio ARC of this book. All thoughts/opinions are my own.

This book felt like Indiana Jones and Jane from Tarzan had a baby and I loved it!
I found the entire concept so intriguing. The story took off from the get go and didn't stop until the end. There were so many smaller conflicts within the main plot that it really kept you interested the whole time. While I LOVED the book, I did think it could have been a tad shorter but overall, still great.
Overall, I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading the sequel one day soon!

Empire of Shadows is advertised as a book thats great for fans of The Mummy. And I really agree with that!
A young smart female protagonist is fighting her way through the world dominated by men. Not allowed to study archeology she is working the archives of the university until she finds a mysterious treasure map in a book she was not meant to touch.
Secretly traveling to Columbia with a fake identity she meets Adam, a knowlaedgeable american archeologist that offers to help her find her treasure. At first Ellie is uncertein and rejects Adam's help but soon enough the two embark on the treausure hunt together.
A story with fantasy elements that makes the readers fond of the genre want more.

In her captivating debut, Jacquelyn Benson immerses readers in a vibrant Central American setting that sets this archaeological adventure apart from others. Drawing comparisons to Isabel Ibañez’s What the River Knows, Benson’s novel shines with its rich historical backdrop and seamless incorporation of the Spanish language, adding authenticity to the narrative.

The story follows Ellie, a smart and rebellious suffragette whose determination and love for archaeology defy the conventions of her time. Her chemistry with Bates, her trouble-prone American guide, is electric; Adam, with his penchant for mischief and aversion to shirts, brings a refreshing dynamic to the pair. His disdain for exploiting indigenous cultures adds depth to his character, showcasing a moral compass that complements Ellie’s ambitions. Their relationship crackles with witty banter and flirtatious tension, epitomizing the enemies-to-lovers trope that keeps readers engaged.

As they navigate both the physical dangers of the jungle and its mystical elements, Ellie’s bookish knowledge and Adam’s adventurous spirit create a perfect balance, making them a formidable team. With a fast-paced plot that weaves together historical adventure and supernatural intrigue, Benson’s first installment in the Raiders of the Arcana series is a delightful romp through ancient mysteries. For fans of The Mummy and anyone seeking a thrilling blend of romance and adventure, this book is a must-read. I can’t wait to see where Ellie and Adam’s journey takes them next!

A nice audio reading! The narrator is pleasant to listen to and plays the different characters, which allows you to follow the dialogues without any problem.

In terms of story, if I found the romance cute but nothing more, I really liked the atmosphere and the mix between the historical and mythical side of the plot. I like a lot of Mayan and Aztec culture so I could only be taken in by the story.

In short, I had a good time listening and I am curious to discover the rest!

Absolutely LOVED this book! If you want the 1999 film The Mummy vibes with all the angst and spice you didn't get in that film, this is it! The BANTER! I cant wait for the second book to come out

I must say the beginning of the book was really good, the story line was intriguing and i wanted to know what will happen to our main character and of course who the male main would be *wink wink* Which comes to this as well, i freaking loved him, he was hilarious and cute.

The narrator was pretty good with the voices of each character.

I sadly did not care for the rest of the book, i was quite often lost of where they were, what was happening and when Ellie (main character) would talk about the research she has read i was very very confused and might have blanked out a few times when she talked faster about it cause she was excited about it.

Thank you Netgalley & Vaughan Woods Publishing for the advanced listener copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest feedback.

Girl power! To hell with your skirts and society. Imagine if Disney’s Jane from Tarzan went back to civilization and became a top notch archaeologist? Or if the Mummy was all about women doing exactly what they want in a time they couldn’t?
Based on cover I thought it might be a little juvenile…don’t get me wrong I love YA novels but I was wrong this book is for everyone and the cover is perfect! And I didn’t know until I finished that this is a series starter. I can’t wait.
The audio version is like a brilliant voice over on a movie. A long movie! This not a short read (over 500 pages) or a quick listen. But so worth it. Ellie is a role model and in my opinion, a superhero, super heroine!

Audiobook was well narrated, and the author is an excellent writer. The book and writing will definitely draw you in. This book, though, was not for me as I didn't like the depiction of men being unintelligent and misogynistic. It really bothered me, personally. This book could 100% be for someone else, worth the read, and right up their alley.

This is a fabulous mix of humor, charm, wit and daring. A fast-paced adventure for fans of Jungle Cruise, The Lost City, and Indiana Jones.
Jacqueline Benson's writing paints such a vivid picture of British Honduras. I could picture the hotel so clearly (and I want to go there). Her characters are so fun.
I loved Adam and Ellie's whirlwind adventure. Some parts were very reminiscent of Jungle Cruise, and there are a few too many "relentless plains" of male torso and "well muscled forearms" for my taste, but overall the book is action-packed, romantic and adventurous.
I will definitely continue the series.

Such a delightful book. I can’t rave about it enough! From the colorful characters and landscape, to delightful banter. I was sucked right in to Ellie and Adam’s adventure.

Empire of Shadows by Jacquelyn Benson is an exhilarating historical adventure that seamlessly blends elements of romance, mystery, and action.

Set in the 19th century, we meet Ellie Mallory, a spirited and determined woman with dreams of becoming an archaeologist and smashing the patriarchy. (Also one of the most intelligent and under estimated females leads written in a long time!).
After losing her job due to her suffragist activities, Ellie stumbles upon a map leading to a lost Mesoamerican city. This discovery sets her on a thrilling journey to British Honduras, where she teams up with the rugged and resourceful Adam Bates, his machete and his bottle of rum.

The vivid descriptions and well-researched historical context included in this story is astounding, immersing you in the lush, perilous landscapes of Central America.
Ellie and Adam’s dynamic is both engaging and endearing, both grumpy rays of sunshine at different points in the story, as they navigate treacherous terrains, face dangerous adversaries, and uncover ancient secrets.
Their evolving relationship balances the high-stakes adventure with moments of heartfelt connection.

Benson’s writing is both captivating and fast-paced, making it a must read. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

If you loved the Mummy, Indiana Jones, Romancing the Stone, this is for you!! Run, don't walk, novel is head and shoulders above most of what I've read this year.
With Tomb of the Sun King out now, pick up these first 2 books in the Raiders of the Arcanca series today!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for my Advanced Reader Copy.

I first want to talk about the book itself. I loved the plot and I loved the tension between the two MCs. The details around the time period and region are delicious. I can’t wait to finish this book and read the sequel that I believe is out now.

However, I made a mistake in starting this book as an audiobook. Now hear me out. The narrator actually does a beautiful job. I loved how she brought each character to life with differing accents and pitches. If audiobooks are your usual method to read, I have no doubt that this would be a great one to listen to. I, however, am usually a kindle reader so I def struggled to pay attention to a book thats 16+ hours long and had the amount of detail and complexity that any fantasy book does. So not being able to finish this audiobook is totally on me. I def plan to continue in a visual format soon.

If you are generally comfortable with long and detailed plots as audiobooks, I’m sure you’ll love this one!

For fans of Branden Fraser in The Mummy, this book is for you! I loved Ellie and Adam's banter. It has history written with adventure and romance..
The narrator did a good job with emotion and drawing you into the story.
I loved it!

I was given both the ebook and the ALC of this book by the wonderful Jacquelyn Benson and NetGalley. I want to thank you for the chance to read and review this story!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5


I want to start this review off by commending Jacquelyn Benson for her amazing and insanely thorough research that she put into this book. It really gave it that extra something that earned that 5th star. I really enjoyed the story and the characters, but it’s the detail I enjoyed the most.

If you love Evie and Rick from the Mummy franchise, then you will love Empire of Shadows’ Ellie Mallory and Adam Bates. Ellie, just like Evie, is a supremely intelligent and strong-willed 19th century woman (with thwarted dreams of becoming an archeologist) who discovers a long lost map to a lost city of the gods deep within the jungles of colonial British Honduras.

At the conclusion to a truly awful day, where Ellie is sacked from her job as an Archivist at the Public Records Office (after being arrested at a suffragist rally the day before), Ellie discovers a small dusty old book containing a map and mysterious medallion leading to an undiscovered lost city on her former boss’s desk. A sinister and dangerous man discovers she is in possession of the map and begins to chase Ellie around London, then all the way across the sea to British Honduras.

When she arrives at the colony, Ellie enlists the help of snake-wrangling rogue and surveyor Adam Bates. With his machete and well loved steamboat, they set off into the jungle to race her pursuers to the lost city - trying desperately to save this potential archeological marvel from the destruction and desecration of would-be treasure hunters.

Along the way, Ellie and Adam fight a growing attraction that blossoms into a very sweet romance. There is lots of banter and flirting, a lovely slow burn throughout the book. I look forward to seeing their relationship grow in future installments in the Raiders of Arcana series.

This was a really fun introduction into this series and I’m really excited to get my hands on book 2, Tomb of the Sun King (which is released TOMORROW - October 1, 2024)- Ellie and Adam head to Egypt to help her brother at an archeological site where he may have inadvertently stumbled upon a sinister plot to unearth a piece of Arcana by the same shadow organization who chased Ellie through the jungle hundreds of miles away.

I adored this audiobook! The romance, the history, the mystery, and adventure ✨ chefs kiss ✨. Right from the start I loved Ellie and Adam’s banter and dynamic, it pulled me in and I couldn’t wait for things to heat up. I just wish they had heated up a BIT more, but fingers crossed for the next book.

Thank you to NetGalley & Victory Editing for the audio arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.