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Anathema

The Eating Woods, Book 1

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Anathema

By: Keri Lake
Narrated by: James Cassidy, Melissa Barr
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About this listen

From the author of Nocticadia comes a spellbinding gothic dark fantasy about a shunned woman who is forced beyond the mortal realm's forbidden boundary into a terrifying world of cursed souls and grotesque creatures.

Only the banished know what lies beyond the woods...

There are whispers about what lurks in Witch Knell—the forest where sinners go to die. The villagers call it The Eating Woods because what's taken is never given back. Only those who've lost their senses would dare to go near it.

Or the banished.

Maevyth Bronwick knows better than to breach the misty labyrinth of trees, but a tragic turn of events compels her beyond the archway of bones to a boundary no mortal has crossed before. One that cloaks a dark and fantastical world that's as dangerous as it is alluring.

It's there that he dwells, the cursed lord of Eidolon. The one tasked to keep her hidden from the magehood that seeks to crucify her in the name of an arcane prophecy. Zevander Rydainn, known to his prey as The Scorpion, is the coldest, most calculated assassin in all of Aethyria, and he'd sooner toss his feisty ward to a pack of vicious fyredrakes than keep her safe.

If only he could.

Maevyth's blood is the key to breaking his despised curse and vanquishing the slumbering evil in Witch Knell. Unfortunately for Lord Rydainn, fate has other plans for the irresistible little enchantress. And his growing obsession with her threatens to destroy everything.

Including himself.

Anathema is a full-length gothic dark fantasy and the first book in The Eating Woods series. Perfect for listeners who enjoy a plot-heavy and atmospheric story with a unique magic system, a slow-burn romance, and a touch of horror.

Contains mature content. A complete list of content warnings can be found on the author's website.

Narrated in duet style.

©2024 Keri Lake (P)2025 Podium Audio
Dark Fantasy Fantasy Gothic Horror Magic Magic Users Witchcraft
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One of my favourite books, can’t wait for the next one! Great plot, great characters, very easy to be immersed in their world and story.

Loved this gothic romantacy!

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Brilliantly written and I couldn’t stop listening. I can’t wait for the next book. A wonderful world to escape from hum drum days.

His voice!!

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Everything I want in a romantasy! Won’t be forgetting this one anytime soon - can’t wait for the next book!!

10/10

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The two narrators were amazing. Really made the story come together. It’s very very dark but an excellent read and a good change from the more light hearted fantasies.

Epic.

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Ok, I was already in love with this story - I read the ebook. But this audio was amazing. It was as close to reading the book anew as I could get. James embodied Zevander and Melissa was a beautiful Maevyth. The dual narration was pure delight and the side character voices were perfect. I think I'll be reading and listening to book 2 when it arrives.

Best Audiobook ever!

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this book was everything and more. dark and raw an expansive world and magic system. the narrators do a phenomenal job honestly it completely elevates the book. highly recommend

best gothic romance of the year

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Wow Keri Lake that really was a bit of mind blowing experience and that last sentence - holy gods! The narration was absolutely perfect. The two amazing narrators really brought Zevander and Maevyth story to life.

Deep dark and fascinating

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The dual narration of this novel was perfect. The males POV was my favourite, with both really breathing life into the characters. Thoroughly enjoyed this one

Dark and moody story

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Love these two in a duet, great narration. A little predictable some parts but didn’t guess the ending which was great. Can’t wait for the next book.

Great narration and can’t wait for the second book

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I loved the spooky vibes and slow burn romance. The magic system was interesting and I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The voice actors were fantastic, filling the roles perfectly.

Thoroughly enjoyable

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