Review
Mayhem and the Mortal by Shanora Williams has everything you’re looking for in a romantasy. In a world full of magic, monsters, assassins, and sorcerers, a young mortal woman embarks on an epic quest to save her sister from a sorcerer’s curse. But she can’t do it alone. So she finds the scariest, meanest looking individual to help ensure she doesn’t die along the way. And of course, he’s gorgeous and has secrets of his own.
The author weaves in worldbuilding, magic, and a slow-burn dislike-to-lovers romance in Mayhem and the Mortal. The stakes are high for Zaira; if she can’t get the item she needs from a dangerous area far away from home, then her sister – the only family she has left – will die. Her hired bodyguard Thane has his own reasons to travel to that same location. Even though his motives aren’t clear until the very end, he keeps his word in protecting Zaira.
Mayhem and the Mortal is a well-paced adventure with relatable character and balanced romantic tension. I became invested in Zaira’s journey and understood her self-doubt when it came to succeeding in her quest. With a found family and potential danger around every corner, this story is a – great addition to any romantasy lover’s list – especially those looking for BIPOC authors and characters.
Mayhem and the Mortal is available on March 17.
Book
One mission. One curse. No escape.
Zaira doesn’t want a hero. She needs a weapon.
To save her sister from a soul-devouring curse, she has to cross The Shallows—a nightmare landscape of ruined magic, shifting paths, and vicious creatures that eat people alive.
Her guide? Thane Valkor: sorcerer, assassin, walking red flag. His name clears rooms. His magic kills quietly. And whatever he’s really after, it’s not salvation.
He promises to help. He might even mean it.
But Zaira knows better than to trust a liar with a blade and ice in his veins.
She just doesn’t have a choice.
