"The Rivers Brothers and the Prince of Shadows" by R. Antoine: Review/Giveaway

Review by Kiana Wall

Details at the end of this post on how to enter to win a copy of the book and a link to purchase it.

R. Antoine makes a stunning debut into the world of children’s fantasy with her book, The River Brothers and the Prince of Shadows, which tells of the adventures of two brothers in a world that is trying to tear them apart.

The story begins by introducing readers to two charming characters named Kide and Krys, who share a close bond as brothers. When their parents are killed in an accident, they are sent to stay with their mysterious Uncle Horace who is prone to spontaneous and unpredictable outbursts that leave the boys shaken and scared. On their first day at school, they meet a remarkable boy named Audre who becomes a close friend.

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When the boys are involved in an incident at school, strange and unusual events begin to happen. Their Uncle Horace disappears, and they find their housekeeper is not who she seems. She takes them on a train ride to an enchanted city, explaining that their very identities have been a lie, and that this was the world their parents lived in, a world full of magic and exciting innovations.

They are enrolled in a school to become enchanters, but it isn’t long before they learn that this alluring world is not as bright as it seems. It’s a crumbling city on its knees from the last attack of “shadows,” or “dark enchanters.” The shadows are misfits, outcasts, and though not all of them do evil, they are unwelcome everywhere they go.

When the boys go on a dangerous and thrilling escapade throughout the city, a trusted mentor reveals their true identities, and gives them information that changes everything the boys thought they knew. Kide soon takes off for a destination unknown, and Krys makes it his mission to bring him back. He sets off, enlisting the help of a shadow girl, a dog who has bonded with him, and various other characters who help and hinder him along his journey.

Once he finds his brother, it is clear that things have changed between them, and that what they were told is a twist of the truth. To quote Kide, “All this about the faes and the shadows. I don’t think it’s as black and white as they think it is.”

This book is a rollercoaster to read, and it is hard to pick my favorite part. One of the elements of this book that stood out was how incredibly close the Rivers brothers are. It was heartwarming to see Krys’ dedication to his brother, and to see how important Krys is to Kide. Throughout the twists and turns and new information that is revealed to them, they support each other and keep each other going. It adds a memorable dimension to the story.

This book is exciting, full of triumph, startling new plot twists, mysteries, and dramatic reveals of fate. It is artfully written with charm, wit, and high emotions. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series.

I highly recommend this book to fantasy fans looking for lovable, believable characters, and nonstop action!

To enter to win a copy of The Rivers Brothers and the Prince of Shadows (ebook or print winner's choice), simply email KRL at krlcontests@gmail[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line "rivers brothers,” or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen March 15, 2025. US residents only and you must be 18 or older to enter. If entering via email please include your mailing address in case you win. If entering via comment please include your email address so we can contact you. You can read our privacy statement here if you like. 

You can click here to purchase this book.

Kiana Wall lives in Reedley, CA and is 16. She enjoys reading, writing, and a number of different crafts in her spare time. She also loves anything to do with horses.

Disclosure: This post contains links to an affiliate program, for which we receive a few cents if you make purchases. KRL also receives free copies of most of the books that it reviews, that are provided in exchange for an honest review of the book.