Mayhem and the Mortal

By: Shanora Williams

Narrated by: Joniece Abbott-Pratt

Brought to you by Penguin.

One mission. One curse. No escape.

Zaira doesn’t want a hero. She needs a weapon.

To save her sister from a soul-devouring curse, she has to cross The Shallows?a nightmare landscape of ruined magic, shifting paths, and vicious creatures that eat people alive.

Her guide? Thane Valkor: sorcerer, assassin, walking red flag. His name clears rooms. His magic kills quietly. And whatever he’s really after, it’s not salvation.

He promises to help. He might even mean it.

But Zaira knows better than to trust a liar with a blade and ice in his veins.

She just doesn’t have a choice.

© Shanora Williams 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026

Critic reviews

I am obsessed with this book! I was hooked on this incredible romantasy from the very first page. From the epic quest to the strong, endearing heroine to the deliciously grumpy, morally grey hero, this book was the perfect escape from reality. A top read of the year and a book that’s going straight to my favourites shelf

Shanora Williams weaves a spell in words and world building to create a story that is pure magic! I have so much love for this novel!

Mayhem and the Mortal is a sexy, big-hearted adventure of a novel! The unrelenting chemistry between Thane and Zaira kept me glued to the page.

Mayhem and the Mortal combines everything I love about a classic fantasy quest with plenty of cute and cozy vibes in an action-packed adventure. Found family, whimsical world-building, and a tension-filled, grumpy/sunshine romance will have you kicking your feet as Shanora Williams transports you into a tale that every reader will want to get lost in.