Book review of Shackled

by Z. Geyer (Author)

Updated at: 31/01/2025

Shackled, by Z. Geyer, plunges readers into the dark world of Nova'ivar, a half-fae, half-vampire held captive for centuries as a Seelie prince's toy. Her existence is shattered when two unlikely saviors—a gentle giant and a cunning exile—liberate her from a life of unspeakable abuse. This rescue marks the beginning of Nova's arduous journey toward freedom and self-discovery. Whispers of a lost fae court and burgeoning magical abilities intertwine with her past trauma as she grapples with the complexities of her newfound liberty. However, this path to empowerment is not without peril, forcing Nova to confront her past and forge a future where she controls her own destiny. Content Warning: This book contains graphic depictions of sexual assault and violence. Reader discretion is advised.

3.5 / 3 ratings

Review Shackled

Shackled by Z. Geyer is a rollercoaster of emotions, a whirlwind of a read that left me utterly captivated, albeit with some reservations. Nova's story, a half-moon fae, half-vampire enduring centuries of captivity and abuse, is undeniably powerful. Her journey from broken plaything to burgeoning master of her own destiny is one that resonated deeply, tugging at my heartstrings in a way few books manage. I found myself completely invested in her resilience, cheering her on every step of the way as she discovers her strength and embraces the magic she thought lost forever.

The world-building is rich and compelling, a fantastical landscape brimming with intriguing creatures and a history that unfolds gradually, keeping me guessing. The descriptions are vivid, painting vivid pictures of both the bleakness of Nova's captivity and the breathtaking beauty of the newfound freedom she fights for. I particularly appreciated the detail given to the Seelie court and the subtle hints at the larger conflicts brewing beneath the surface. The supporting characters, the gentle giant and cunning exile who rescue her, are well-developed, providing both a source of strength and a necessary counterpoint to Nova's trauma. Their kindness felt genuine, offering a believable path to healing.

However, the book's explicit content is something that deserves careful consideration. The author doesn't shy away from depicting the brutal reality of Nova's past, which, while essential to understanding her character arc, is also incredibly difficult to read. While the content advisory is helpful, it’s crucial to emphasize the potential triggering nature of the graphic scenes. This isn't a light read; it's a confronting and emotionally intense journey. It's a book that demands empathy and understanding, and requires the reader to engage with uncomfortable subject matter. It's this very intensity, however, that also makes the eventual triumph so deeply satisfying.

My personal enjoyment was significantly impacted by the handling of the trauma. While the graphic depiction served a purpose in highlighting the depth of Nova's suffering, I felt it could have been approached with more nuance. At times, the sheer volume felt overwhelming, potentially overshadowing the character development and world-building. The balance between portraying the trauma realistically and focusing on Nova's healing process could have been more skillfully managed.

Despite this reservation, the overall impact of Shackled is undeniable. Nova's strength and her journey to self-discovery are both inspiring and unforgettable. The strength of the plot, combined with the fascinating world-building, makes it a book worth experiencing, provided the reader is prepared for its emotionally challenging content. I wholeheartedly recommend it, but with the strong caveat of self-care and awareness of the sensitive material contained within. It's a story of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of the human – or in this case, fae and vampire – spirit.