Heir to the Shadows is the 2nd book in the Black Jewels series by Anne Bishop.
This one picks up right where we left off in Daughter of the Blood, when the Realms’ Witch—Jaenelle Angelline—wakes from her deep slumber more powerful than ever. With her dearest friends and guardians by her side, Jaenelle works on strengthening her powers and helping those in need throughout the Realms, including kindred in the form of wolves and unicorns.
But though Jaenelle is awake and very strong, her amnesia prevents her from remembering Daemon and the rest of her childhood.
Meanwhile, Daemon thinks he killed Jaenelle and is going insane. He hides away in “The Twisted Kingdom,” suffering. Years go by, and Jaenelle builds a loyal court comprised of her friends, adopted family, and Lucivar, Daemon’s brother.
Heir to the Shadows is far better than its predecessor, Daughter of the Blood. Daemon is shoved to the wayside in Heir to the Shadows, and we’re treated to more of Lucivar, who was neglected in Daughter of the Blood. Jaenelle has more of a romantic relationship with Daemon in this one, and a friendly and sibling-like relationship with Lucivar.
The first part of the book drags as we get brought up to speed with Realm politics and Jaenelle’s awakening. But the pace soon picks up as we get to Part III. The rest of Heir to the Shadows flies by.
There are 12 books in the Black Jewels series. I’ve also read and reviewed Daughter of the Blood (1998). The books that come after Heir to the Shadows are:
- Queen of the Darkness (2000)
- The Invisible Ring (2000)
- Dreams Made Flesh (2005)
What are your favorite books by Anne Bishop? Did you like Heir to the Shadows?
Last Updated on December 9, 2025 by Sarah Ann
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