Ayoh - Shop now
$0.99

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Sold by Amazon.com Services LLC.
Read with our free app
You've subscribed to ! We will preorder your items within 24 hours of when they become available. When new books are released, we'll charge your default payment method for the lowest price available during the pre-order period.
Update your device or payment method, cancel individual pre-orders or your subscription at
Your Memberships & Subscriptions
Kindle app logo image

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

QR code to download the Kindle App

Follow the author

McKinley Aspen
Follow
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.

Praesidium: (Shadows in the Wind - Book One) Kindle Edition

by McKinley Aspen (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.1 out of 5 stars 84 ratings
Kathryn Bek gets the chance of a lifetime: a job offer right out of college, and in New York City, where adventure lies around every corner. Believing she is recruited for her marketing prowess, she is excited by the prospect of her new job in the intelligence sector; but all is not what it seems. Before long, Kathryn and her new team are thrown into a world of mystery, murder, and magic. As the team rushes around the world, untangling the web of lies, she finds that her past may be the key to protecting her, and the world's, future.

Will she be able to confront her fuzzy past to unlock the secrets within herself? Can her team rise to the challenge and stop the Paolucci Crime Family before they unleash havoc upon the globe?

Who will endure, the Kathryn of the past, or that of the future?
Read more
Previous slide of product details
  1. Book 1 of 2
    Shadows in the Wind
  2. Print length
    242 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Accessibility
    Learn more
  5. Publication date
    July 4, 2022
  6. Reading age
    14 - 18 years
  7. File size
    5.0 MB
  8. Page Flip
    Enabled
  9. Word Wise
    Enabled
  10. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
Next slide of product details
Unwell Hydration from Alex Cooper
Hydrate & focus with every sip Shop now

Shop this series

 See full series
There are 2 books in this series.
This option includes 2 books.

Customers also bought or read

Page 1 of 1Start overPage 1 of 1
Previous page
  3. THE INTERCHANGE
    Kindle Edition
    $2.99
  10. Boys
    Kindle Edition
    $2.99
  12. Little Bird: A Novel
    Kindle Edition
    $9.99
  13. Stories My Father Told Me
    Just released
    Kindle Edition
    $0.99
  15. The Rise of the Phoenix
    Just released
    Kindle Edition
    $9.99
  17. The Middleman: A Legal Thriller
    Just released
    Kindle Edition
    $21.99
  23. The Carpenter and the Apprentice
    Kindle Edition
    $0.99
  26. OMNIVIOLENCE
    Just released
    Kindle Edition
    $7.99
  29. The Pahlavi Sword
    Kindle Edition
    $9.99
  30. Touch Time
    Kindle Edition
    $4.99
Next page
Loading...

Editorial Reviews

Review

**BOOK ONE IN THE SHADOWS IN THE WIND TRILOGY**
PRAESIDIUM (pronounced pray-sid-eee-um) it means PROTECTION in Latin
Appropriate for 6-12 Library / Appropriate for Creative Writing Curriculum
Available in Spanish
Action Adventure / Mystery / Urban Fantasy / Speculative / Adult and YA

AWARDS
ILLUMINATION AWARDS - 1st Place (GOLD MEDAL) FICTION 2022
(Special honor highlighted in the "enduring light" category as a book that is timeless.)

The BREW Award - 1st Place URBAN FICTION 2023
(Based in Australia, the BREW Book Excellence Award recognises exemplary literary pieces from all over the world.)

FIREBIRD AWARDS - 1st Place across multiple categories: ACTION ADVENTURE, MYSTERY, URBAN FANTASY, and BEST COVER DESIGN 2022

**************************************************************
KIRKUS REVIEW (excerpt):
A brisk, entertaining, tale of down-to-earth superheroes.

*************************************************************
READERS FAVORITE 5 STAR REVIEW AWARD
Reviewed by: Maria Victoria Beltran Review Rating: 5 Stars

It's easy to get wrapped up in McKinley Aspen's Praesidium (Shadows in the Wind). The first chapter immediately creates a feeling of suspense with a hint that things may not be as they seem. The main protagonists are interesting and well developed as they embark on an adventure into the unknown and face danger and excitement. I liked the pacing of the storyline as it determines the mood and gives the reader time to connect to the characters and the events occurring around them. You can also expect surprises along the way just when you think you have already figured out the plot. This is a detective story with a healthy amount of magic and mystery, and it is an engaging read.

From the Author

To YOU, the reader,

For you alone was Kate, Ashley, Greg and Michael born. It was for them to act, me to write, and you to read and love. I am honored and humbled that you chose to pick this story up and enter into the world of HGS.

Don't let anyone treat you like free salsa.
You are guacamole baby.
You.Are.Guacamole.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B5W5HNKN
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Muse Literary Publishing
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 4, 2022
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 5.0 MB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 242 pages
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Book 1 of 2 ‏ : ‎ Shadows in the Wind
  • Reading age ‏ : ‎ 14 - 18 years
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.1 out of 5 stars 84 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
McKinley Aspen

McKinley Aspen

Brief content visible, double tap to read full content.
Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

McKinley Aspen is a writer who lives in the United States. In addition to the normal family shenanigans, McKinley has a busy schedule as the "Chief Dog Walker" to Otis the puppy dog. A graduate of both University of Chicago and Elmhurst University, McKinley enjoys exploring the world through family road trips, meals featuring Portillo's beef with mozz, and St. Louis Cardinals baseball.

Customer reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
84 global ratings

Review this product

Share your thoughts with other customers
Write a customer review

Customers say

Customers find this book to be a riveting thriller with well-developed characters, particularly appreciating the strong female protagonist. Moreover, the pacing is engaging, with one customer noting how it pulls readers in from the first paragraph. Additionally, the writing quality receives positive feedback, and customers like the unique cover art.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more

15 customers mention "Suspenseful"15 positive0 negative

Customers find the book suspenseful, describing it as a riveting thriller with mysterious adventures that keep readers engrossed in the story.

"...Aspen has a way of writing that makes you feel the stakes. It’s not just about saving the world—it’s about saving yourself." Read more

"The blend of mystery, magic, and action is perfectly executed. Kathryn’s emotional journey gave the story depth...." Read more

"...This novel has a little bit of everything going on; some supernatural, some “new adult” coming of age, some Scooby Doo crime fighting college kids..." Read more

"...expertly blends action, mystery, and espionage, making it an exhilarating read for fans of thrilling adventures and intricate undercover operations." Read more

11 customers mention "Pacing"11 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the pacing of the book, describing it as a compelling and brisk read that pulls readers in from the first paragraph.

"This book wasted no time pulling me in. The pacing was excellent, and every chapter ended with me wanting more...." Read more

"The blend of mystery, magic, and action is perfectly executed. Kathryn’s emotional journey gave the story depth...." Read more

"I’d round this up to a four, now that I’ve finished it! I loved the pace; super fast and high interest...." Read more

"I’m generally not one for fiction, but this pulled me in from the very first paragraph and then I couldn’t put it down from there...." Read more

9 customers mention "Character development"9 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the well-developed characters in the book, particularly noting the strong female protagonist.

"...I loved the team dynamic—each character had a purpose and unique voice. Aspen has a way of writing that makes you feel the stakes...." Read more

"...It’s rare to find fantasy with such strong character development. I’ll be recommending this one to friends." Read more

"...narrative filled with suspense, intricate plot twists, and well-developed characters, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final page..." Read more

"...The character development was solid. The imagery and symbolism was vivid. Overall, the book was captivating, suspenseful, and a great read...." Read more

8 customers mention "Writing quality"8 positive0 negative

Customers praise the writing quality of the book, finding it exceptionally well written with vivid descriptions, and one customer describes it as a true page turner.

"...Aspen has a way of writing that makes you feel the stakes. It’s not just about saving the world—it’s about saving yourself." Read more

"...The author’s imagination takes us on an exotic journey, rich with detail that makes you feel you as if you are there...." Read more

"...Excellent writing with its exceptional characters, vivid descriptions, and exciting dialogue about shapeshifting and magic...." Read more

"...Praesidium is a true page turner. This is one of those rare finds...." Read more

4 customers mention "Cover art"4 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's cover art, describing it as beautiful and unique, with one customer noting its vivid imagery and symbolism.

"...The character development was solid. The imagery and symbolism was vivid. Overall, the book was captivating, suspenseful, and a great read...." Read more

"I really enjoyed this book! What an original and fun premise and a fast-paced, riveting read, one that left me thinking about these lovable..." Read more

"First off, the cover art on this book is beautiful! The way that the colors blend and create movement draws you to this book immediately...." Read more

"The ending of the first chapter will hook you in! Cover art by Zachary Fors is unique. Check it out..." Read more

3 customers mention "Readability"3 positive0 negative

Customers find the book readable, with one mentioning it's a perfect summer read.

"...Overall, the book was captivating, suspenseful, and a great read. Excellent! We can wait for the #2 installment!!!" Read more

"...It's a perfect summer read filled with mystery, magic, thrills, adventure and angels! What more could you ask for??" Read more

"Great Read!!..." Read more

Compelling read...can't wait for the next one...and the TV series!
5 out of 5 stars
Compelling read...can't wait for the next one...and the TV series!
Praesidium is the first in what I assume will be a multiple book series because the characters and story line are so compelling that they keep you engrossed in the story and wanting more! This was my reward for a taxing week and I only wish that I had the next one already! I highly recommend it. You come to care about the characters and I was left wanting to know even more about them. It's a perfect summer read filled with mystery, magic, thrills, adventure and angels! What more could you ask for??
Hide
Thank you for your feedback
Sorry, there was an error
Sorry we couldn't load the review

Top reviews from the United States

  • Sandra Williams
    5.0 out of 5 stars McKinley Aspen is One to Watch
    Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I honestly didn’t expect to be so emotionally invested in this story. The tension between Kathryn’s past and present added so much to her character. I loved the team dynamic—each character had a purpose and unique voice. Aspen has a way of writing that makes you feel the stakes. It’s not just about saving the world—it’s about saving yourself.
    Helpful
     Report
  • Jenny Johnson
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fast-paced and unpredictable
    Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    This book wasted no time pulling me in. The pacing was excellent, and every chapter ended with me wanting more. Kathryn’s arc from clueless grad to powerful operative felt authentic and earned. It’s rare to find fantasy with such strong character development. I’ll be recommending this one to friends.
    Helpful
     Report
  • Alexia Brown
    5.0 out of 5 stars Hooked from page one
    Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    The blend of mystery, magic, and action is perfectly executed. Kathryn’s emotional journey gave the story depth. I appreciated how the team’s relationships felt natural and not forced. Definitely a new favorite series.
    Helpful
     Report
  • A.B
    3.0 out of 5 stars Supernatural Scooby Doo-esque Crime Fighting Team
    Reviewed in the United States on November 15, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    I’d round this up to a four, now that I’ve finished it! I loved the pace; super fast and high interest. I started it just before dinner and then other than the breaks to cook and get the kids to bed I finished it in one sitting! I was wildly curious to know how it would end. This novel has a little bit of everything going on; some supernatural, some “new adult” coming of age, some Scooby Doo crime fighting college kids vibes, some action, and even some romance. It was decent!! I think the only thing I actively disliked was how confused and out of my element I felt in a couple scenes. (That’s more on me than the author; it was a good balance of all of the elements on her part.) The ending had me physically drop my jaw, and then honestly the funniest part of the entire book was the A+ acknowledgements. Although Aspen is a Cardinals fan, I think I’ll have to pick up Book Two!

    (Thank you, Red Clover Digital, for putting this one on my radar!)
    Customer image
    A.B
    3.0 out of 5 stars
    Supernatural Scooby Doo-esque Crime Fighting Team

    Reviewed in the United States on November 15, 2022
    I’d round this up to a four, now that I’ve finished it! I loved the pace; super fast and high interest. I started it just before dinner and then other than the breaks to cook and get the kids to bed I finished it in one sitting! I was wildly curious to know how it would end. This novel has a little bit of everything going on; some supernatural, some “new adult” coming of age, some Scooby Doo crime fighting college kids vibes, some action, and even some romance. It was decent!! I think the only thing I actively disliked was how confused and out of my element I felt in a couple scenes. (That’s more on me than the author; it was a good balance of all of the elements on her part.) The ending had me physically drop my jaw, and then honestly the funniest part of the entire book was the A+ acknowledgements. Although Aspen is a Cardinals fan, I think I’ll have to pick up Book Two!

    (Thank you, Red Clover Digital, for putting this one on my radar!)
    Images in this review
    Customer image
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Kindle Customer
    4.0 out of 5 stars Good versus Evil, does Good always win
    Reviewed in the United States on November 3, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    Four young adults with supernatural skills they did not know they had nor how to control and use.
    Enter Raphael ( arch angel?) to train and mentor them in missions to suppress evil.
    What does their future hold as they survive deadly missions.
    3 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • MT
    5.0 out of 5 stars Whispers of Royal Intrigue
    Reviewed in the United States on December 8, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    "Praesidium: Shadows in the Wind - Book One" is a riveting thriller that follows Kate and her team as they navigate a high-stakes mission involving a royal event, unexpected alliances, and a dangerous conspiracy. Aspen McKinley crafts a gripping narrative filled with suspense, intricate plot twists, and well-developed characters, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. The novel expertly blends action, mystery, and espionage, making it an exhilarating read for fans of thrilling adventures and intricate undercover operations.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Ali
    1.0 out of 5 stars Not worth the time it takes to read
    Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2025
    I lamented this book from the start of chapter 2. I normally rate books quite highly and wanted to at least rate 2/5 but couldn't find enough positive about it to rate more than 1. The characters weren't even developed enough to like or dislike. They made choices that made no sense and constantly forgot things they had already been told. The dialogue was super unnatural and every resolution felt like a deus ex machina. I wanted to finish because I got this through giveaways but every minute I read this felt like robbing myself of joy.
    Helpful
     Report
  • Dagmar K.
    2.0 out of 5 stars Interesting idea of the world, did not like the main character
    Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    The world and the idea were interesting. Unfortunately the MC, even though she should be in her twenties, acts immature and insecure more like a 14 year old. The whole story is written in a rather early young adult way. If this is the author’s first, it’s not that bad, but the MC acts very contradictorily and has as a lot to wish for, to be likable.

    Spoiler:
    The MC has a nice relationship with her boyfriend but they live in different towns. When she gets recruited by HRM, her BF is a bit afraid for her and she gets angry that he is not supportive. And when he comes to see her they sort of reconcile but when they find out that he has a talent himself, she gets angry (why?) and doesn’t want him on her team. (What… ?) Then he asks her to marry him and they get married immediately. (Oh?) But then on a mission she realizes that she doesn’t think about him at all. But thinks about having children with him. (Ouch!)

    Also when recruited, the MC decides she must become a leader of her four member group. Then she gets immediately jalous when another member of her group is active to threathen her plans, instead of being supportive like a real leader of a group should be. The whole leader intention feels forced and as if she doesn’t have enough of personality for it to be respected by her peers naturally.

    I wanted to like the book, but the demeanor of MC didn't match my idea about balanced and strong personality at all.
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report

Report an issue


Does this item contain inappropriate content?
Report
Do you believe that this item violates a copyright?
Report
Does this item contain quality or formatting issues?
Report