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Discover the captivating world of *Anathema*, the first book in *The Eating Woods* series by New York Times bestselling author Keri Lake. This spellbinding gothic dark fantasy immerses readers in a richly crafted universe filled with secrets, danger, and forofferden love. Perfect for fans who enjoy a plot-heavy, atmospheric story with a unique magic system, a slow-burn romance, and a touch of horror.
The story begins beyond the dreaded Witch Knell, where Maevyth Bronwick finds herself banished into a cursed realm. She stumbles into a mysterious and dangerous world, where whispers speak of what lurks in the woods—referred to as The Eating Woods because \"what\'s taken is never given back.\" The villagers warn that only the banished dare venture near, and only those who have lost their senses would risk crossing into its misty labyrinth of trees.
Maevyth knows better than to breach the boundary marked by an archway of bones, but a tragic turn of events forces her beyond it. There, she encounters a dark and fantastical realm as perilous as it is alluring. It is within this realm that she meets Zevander Rydainn, the cursed lord of Eidolon, tasked with keeping her hidden from the magehood that seeks to crucify her due to an arcane prophecy. Known as The Scorpion, Zevander is the coldest, most calculated assassin in all of Aethyria. He would sooner abandon his ward to vicious fyredrakes than keep her safe—if only he could.
Maevyth\'s blood holds the key to breaking Zevander’s despised curse and vanquishing the sleeping evil that resides in Witch Knell. However, fate has other plans for her, and her irresistible charm and growing obsession threaten to unravel everything—including Zevander himself. Their intertwined destinies are marked by secrets, temptation, and a love that could spell doom for both.
*Anathema* is a richly atmospheric tale that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and dark prophecy. It has received praise for its immersive world-building and compelling characters, making it a must-read for those who enjoy a blend of gothic fantasy, horror, and slow-burn romance.
- Author: Keri Lake*
- Series Title: The Eating Woods, 1*
- Genre: Fiction*
- Format: Paperback*
- Language: English*
- Publication Date: 2026*
- Pages: 624*
- Subject Keywords: Romantasy, Fantasy Romance, Romantic Fantasy, Dark Fantasy, Gothic Fiction, Fae, Cursed, Tortured Hero, Deadly Prophecy, Enemies to Lovers, Banished Heroine, Only One Bed, Slow Burn*
