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Magic Fade #1
In the Fade
It was settled. Maslyn could finally go to magic school. And not just any magic academy. The prestigious Mulik, where only the best SpelFreys trained. Her strange brand of magic, magic she promises to keep secret, will finally come to good use. Use that would guarantee her top marks and a superior commission after graduation.
But starting this adventure is different from what she thought. Her best friend leaves on his own journey, stories of shadowed figures stealing people from their beds damper her excitement, and her father leaves her with a stranger as her guardian. All this only precludes the ultimate betrayal.
Forced to learn without her power, bullied by her peers, and avoiding the prince whose too-observant eye might lead to questions she can’t answer are only distractions to her real terror. Hiding in every shadow, she’s sure the masked kidnapper she barely escaped has come to claim her. This time, she isn’t strong enough to thwart him.
Maslyn must come to terms with her new place before the Wraiths find her. No longer hoping to be the best; she’s just hoping to survive.
Throne of Glass meets Shadowspell Academy in this new adult fantasy series. Start reading now!
Tropes and
royal
academy
chosen one
forbidden
bullies
he falls first
coming of age
found family
Betrayed
But starting this adventure is different from what she thought. Her best friend leaves on his own journey, stories of shadowed figures stealing people from their beds damper her excitement, and her father leaves her with a stranger as her guardian. All this only precludes the ultimate betrayal.
Forced to learn without her power, bullied by her peers, and avoiding the prince whose too-observant eye might lead to questions she can’t answer are only distractions to her real terror. Hiding in every shadow, she’s sure the masked kidnapper she barely escaped has come to claim her. This time, she isn’t strong enough to thwart him.
Maslyn must come to terms with her new place before the Wraiths find her. No longer hoping to be the best; she’s just hoping to survive.
Throne of Glass meets Shadowspell Academy in this new adult fantasy series. Start reading now!
Tropes and
royal
academy
chosen one
forbidden
bullies
he falls first
coming of age
found family
Betrayed
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
About the author
C.M. Martens
15 books50 followersCreated in a vat far from this world, C.M. Martens was sent to watch over this plane, to observe and witness the human condition. Discontent with simple observation, she's chosen to morph this reality into her own image through the written word. Supplied with coffee, sweets, and an endless supply of Trance and Chill electronic music (mixed with some video game soundtracks) C.M. Martens hopes to lead you on an adventure through the pages of her novels.
Discover more of her and her worlds at: CMMartens.com
Discover more of her and her worlds at: CMMartens.com
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 8, 2023
[Reviewing as an ARC reader]. In a voice all her own, Martens presents the MC, Maslyn, who contends with some hefty hardships suddenly placed upon her while in a brand new environment, a highly esteemed magic academy. The world Martens has created is rich and fresh, offering vivid descriptions of the setting that drew me in without bogging down the story.
The intelligent prose and age bracket sets this squarely in the new adult fantasy genre with some of my favorite elements of both YA and traditional fantasy. Unlike many YA fantasies, Maslyn fortunately lacks Mary Sue characterization. She genuinely struggles and makes some questionable decisions, which made her more real and caused me to want her to succeed all the more. I cant wait to see what happens next and how she deals with it.
The intelligent prose and age bracket sets this squarely in the new adult fantasy genre with some of my favorite elements of both YA and traditional fantasy. Unlike many YA fantasies, Maslyn fortunately lacks Mary Sue characterization. She genuinely struggles and makes some questionable decisions, which made her more real and caused me to want her to succeed all the more. I cant wait to see what happens next and how she deals with it.
May 30, 2023
I received an advanced readers copy of this book and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
This was my first time reading anything by this author and believe me I was not disappointed!
The book started a little bit slow but when it got going I couldn’t hardly put it down. Maslyn is an amazing, strong young woman with a power that defines her in every way. But her father decided to protect her the only way he knew how and that was to block the power in her. By this act, Maslyn found herself tripping over her own two feet all the time, and tripped right into the arms of Ezra our handsome prince, literally!
On top of a handsome prince who was everywhere she went, she lived in fear of a powerful man who had power stronger or on an even power than her own. Now that her power had been stripped from her her fear had become traumatizing, knowing if The Wraith found her she was a goner.
And now I’m stuck waiting on the next book, because this book ended on a cliffhanger! I love all the characters. Maslyn’s tenacity and strength in spite of so many against her, and I definitely can’t wait to see how the Maslyn/ Ezra relationship develops. I can’t say enough good about this book and I’m definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series as they come along.
This was my first time reading anything by this author and believe me I was not disappointed!
The book started a little bit slow but when it got going I couldn’t hardly put it down. Maslyn is an amazing, strong young woman with a power that defines her in every way. But her father decided to protect her the only way he knew how and that was to block the power in her. By this act, Maslyn found herself tripping over her own two feet all the time, and tripped right into the arms of Ezra our handsome prince, literally!
On top of a handsome prince who was everywhere she went, she lived in fear of a powerful man who had power stronger or on an even power than her own. Now that her power had been stripped from her her fear had become traumatizing, knowing if The Wraith found her she was a goner.
And now I’m stuck waiting on the next book, because this book ended on a cliffhanger! I love all the characters. Maslyn’s tenacity and strength in spite of so many against her, and I definitely can’t wait to see how the Maslyn/ Ezra relationship develops. I can’t say enough good about this book and I’m definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series as they come along.
June 27, 2023
Great Story
"In the Fade" by C. M. Martens is an enthralling story that captivates readers from start to finish. Maslyn's journey takes an unexpected turn as she loses her power on the eve of magic school, forcing her to confront masked kidnappers and navigate a world where survival becomes paramount. Martens ability to craft thought-provoking moments is evident throughout, and the quote "You will survive this. You will learn your purpose" resonated deeply with me. I really enjoyed the journey this book took me on. "In the Fade" is a must-read for fans of magical adventures and I’m excited for the next book in the series.
"In the Fade" by C. M. Martens is an enthralling story that captivates readers from start to finish. Maslyn's journey takes an unexpected turn as she loses her power on the eve of magic school, forcing her to confront masked kidnappers and navigate a world where survival becomes paramount. Martens ability to craft thought-provoking moments is evident throughout, and the quote "You will survive this. You will learn your purpose" resonated deeply with me. I really enjoyed the journey this book took me on. "In the Fade" is a must-read for fans of magical adventures and I’m excited for the next book in the series.
May 13, 2023
(ARC) Such a good slow burn of mystery, thrill and emotions. This world is so intriguing with hidden layers. All I have to say is #isidewithMaslyn all day. Every day. I’m super excited to see where this story takes her and the magics!
July 27, 2023
In the Fade: A New Adult Fantasy with Romance” is the first installment of C. M. Martens’ fantasy series, Magic Fade. It dives into a young woman’s dynamic life who is betrayed by her father in the name of safety, as she joins a highly esteemed magic academy.
The protagonist, Maslyn, possesses an unusual variety of magical powers that are distinct from everyone else’s. She has been yearning to attend the prestigious Mulik school which stood as the best warrior mage academy in Siela, where only the best SpelFreys trained. She can’t hold back her elation when the chance finally arises, but unforeseen to her is her father’s ultimatum that she keeps her brand of magic a secret, a condition that may be tough to uphold considering her fondness for mysticism.
Maslyn is forced to learn how to rely on herself in addition to stretching her limits on her way to Mulik, a feat that is turning out difficult to keep when situations arise, which can be easily warded off by the slightest tap into her powers. A sharp occurrence that sees the tale take a new twist has Maslyn’s powers quashed in an endeavor by her father to make her become like everyone else, making the path she has been so well-fitted for unexpectedly start to sink right under her.
C. M. Martens’ design of a young main character who bravely pushes forward to find her place in an unfamiliar setting after undergoing a traumatizing moment is thoughtful. Equally, the protagonist endeavors to turn fearful emotions into motivations, for a much-needed self-discovery. In addition, restoration of shattered aptitudes is a worthy stimulant to hundreds of young adult fantasy enthusiasts who may find themselves isolated and feeling inadequate in the face of severe and intense concerns. Numerous adrenalizing moments in the text will throw readers into a fantasy world with very many hidden layers, that create unforgettable and awe-inspiring memories such as the protagonist’s adventures with a charming prince.
In conclusion, author C. M. Martens’ “In the Fade: A New Adult Fantasy with Romance” is an amazing fantasy that will enthrall its audience from start to finish. The book is full of cliffhangers that create strong feelings of tension, and readers will be glad to put their hands on the next installment of this highly satisfying series!
The protagonist, Maslyn, possesses an unusual variety of magical powers that are distinct from everyone else’s. She has been yearning to attend the prestigious Mulik school which stood as the best warrior mage academy in Siela, where only the best SpelFreys trained. She can’t hold back her elation when the chance finally arises, but unforeseen to her is her father’s ultimatum that she keeps her brand of magic a secret, a condition that may be tough to uphold considering her fondness for mysticism.
Maslyn is forced to learn how to rely on herself in addition to stretching her limits on her way to Mulik, a feat that is turning out difficult to keep when situations arise, which can be easily warded off by the slightest tap into her powers. A sharp occurrence that sees the tale take a new twist has Maslyn’s powers quashed in an endeavor by her father to make her become like everyone else, making the path she has been so well-fitted for unexpectedly start to sink right under her.
C. M. Martens’ design of a young main character who bravely pushes forward to find her place in an unfamiliar setting after undergoing a traumatizing moment is thoughtful. Equally, the protagonist endeavors to turn fearful emotions into motivations, for a much-needed self-discovery. In addition, restoration of shattered aptitudes is a worthy stimulant to hundreds of young adult fantasy enthusiasts who may find themselves isolated and feeling inadequate in the face of severe and intense concerns. Numerous adrenalizing moments in the text will throw readers into a fantasy world with very many hidden layers, that create unforgettable and awe-inspiring memories such as the protagonist’s adventures with a charming prince.
In conclusion, author C. M. Martens’ “In the Fade: A New Adult Fantasy with Romance” is an amazing fantasy that will enthrall its audience from start to finish. The book is full of cliffhangers that create strong feelings of tension, and readers will be glad to put their hands on the next installment of this highly satisfying series!
June 25, 2023
Releases 27 June!
Don’t mess with Mother Nature
Floods bring much-needed river silt for crops. Fires can reveal hidden flora & fauna as well as create necessary nutrients for renewing forests and grasslands. Earthquakes regulate our world’s temperature. Mineral springs contain healing properties. Droughts allow dormant seeds to germinate and grow.
There are animals that need build up the strength they need to survive by fighting their way out of their eggs. Humans are no different.
Sometimes in life, we ourselves need that extra little push for us to self-assess, plan & implement changes, mature, regroup, then continue the cycle. When there’s absolutely no adversity, there’s stagnation. Our Maslyn runs into many obstacles on her journey (quite literally!); so many, that it seems like Mother Nature is raining down her entire arsenal upon our heroine. What choices does she have but to swim or drown?
When we are told ‘don’t cross the river’, there are occasions to ask “why ever not?”. The more we learn about our world, the better we’ll be prepared for Mother Nature when she comes a callin’… We can even prevent or mitigate losses by using only drought-resistant plants in dryer climates or by preserving food for longer stretches of time. Trading local crops in the region or letting fields lie fallow so they can heal from mankind’s farming. So many things…
Now’s the time to teach our youth the tools they need to survive and thrive). The below describes my thoughts so much better than I could articulate:
‘Mastering her magic also meant mastering herself.’
I appreciate that the author mentioned that healers are not only for the body, but also for the psyche. We need to take care of our emotions just as much, if not more so, than our bodies.
Some sage advice from the author:
‘Never react. Respond.’
‘Don’t let them see you down.’
‘It’s always prudent to be vigilant.’
Study various aspects of the same history because ‘the winners are ofttimes not the heroes’.
Fave lines:
‘We are more than our Blood’
‘An excuse is worse and more terrible than a lie.’
Definitely want to continue this series!
Don’t mess with Mother Nature
Floods bring much-needed river silt for crops. Fires can reveal hidden flora & fauna as well as create necessary nutrients for renewing forests and grasslands. Earthquakes regulate our world’s temperature. Mineral springs contain healing properties. Droughts allow dormant seeds to germinate and grow.
There are animals that need build up the strength they need to survive by fighting their way out of their eggs. Humans are no different.
Sometimes in life, we ourselves need that extra little push for us to self-assess, plan & implement changes, mature, regroup, then continue the cycle. When there’s absolutely no adversity, there’s stagnation. Our Maslyn runs into many obstacles on her journey (quite literally!); so many, that it seems like Mother Nature is raining down her entire arsenal upon our heroine. What choices does she have but to swim or drown?
When we are told ‘don’t cross the river’, there are occasions to ask “why ever not?”. The more we learn about our world, the better we’ll be prepared for Mother Nature when she comes a callin’… We can even prevent or mitigate losses by using only drought-resistant plants in dryer climates or by preserving food for longer stretches of time. Trading local crops in the region or letting fields lie fallow so they can heal from mankind’s farming. So many things…
Now’s the time to teach our youth the tools they need to survive and thrive). The below describes my thoughts so much better than I could articulate:
‘Mastering her magic also meant mastering herself.’
I appreciate that the author mentioned that healers are not only for the body, but also for the psyche. We need to take care of our emotions just as much, if not more so, than our bodies.
Some sage advice from the author:
‘Never react. Respond.’
‘Don’t let them see you down.’
‘It’s always prudent to be vigilant.’
Study various aspects of the same history because ‘the winners are ofttimes not the heroes’.
Fave lines:
‘We are more than our Blood’
‘An excuse is worse and more terrible than a lie.’
Definitely want to continue this series!
April 23, 2025
In the Fade has an interesting and engaging main character, Maslyn. In some ways, she is quite mature, but due to her very sheltered upbringing she is sometimes almost childlike. Maslyn and her supporting cast was one of the reasons that I stuck with the book despite the level of emotional and physical abuse (no SA, except for a threat) that Maslyn suffered.
The story is very disturbing at times and the level of cruelty meted out by a variety of bullies was almost too much for me. In addition, and I do not want to reveal spoilers, what was done to her with regards to her magic was just unacceptable.
That said, however, I do want to continue with the next book in the series. The writing, bar some irritating typos, has a lovely flow, the world building is good, and I am more than just a bit invested in Maslyn. The book ending is a cliffhanger, but it is book one of series and I was aware of this before I read the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is very disturbing at times and the level of cruelty meted out by a variety of bullies was almost too much for me. In addition, and I do not want to reveal spoilers, what was done to her with regards to her magic was just unacceptable.
That said, however, I do want to continue with the next book in the series. The writing, bar some irritating typos, has a lovely flow, the world building is good, and I am more than just a bit invested in Maslyn. The book ending is a cliffhanger, but it is book one of series and I was aware of this before I read the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2025
I enjoyed this book, despite the strong trigger situation Maslyn finds herself in. I thought it reminiscent of a strand of plot in the Harry Potter series (albeit reversed), but went much farther down that dark route than J.K.Rowling did. The world building was ok, although the background characters could have been fleshed out a little more, and also their interactions (two characters meet, then suddenly they’re apparently dating!). Aside from that, the story seems to be progressing well, although I’ve read so many similar tales that I feel I already know where it’s going; despite that, I look forward to reading number 2 in the series to discover where Maslyn will find herself next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 27, 2025
I like the unusal magical powers that I haven't read about before.
The main character is very unique and there isn't a character in this genre like her at the moment, yes it's a story about magic and a bit of romance thrown in but it's really about a persons struggles and how she lacks confidence, it's about a person who questions every single thing that she does. This makes her more relatable to the reader.
It's a very tense story filled with a lot of emotions with unexpected twists and turns all the way through. It will keep the pages turning. Every chapter produces new challenges, and revelations. The conclusion will leave you eager to read the next book.
The main character is very unique and there isn't a character in this genre like her at the moment, yes it's a story about magic and a bit of romance thrown in but it's really about a persons struggles and how she lacks confidence, it's about a person who questions every single thing that she does. This makes her more relatable to the reader.
It's a very tense story filled with a lot of emotions with unexpected twists and turns all the way through. It will keep the pages turning. Every chapter produces new challenges, and revelations. The conclusion will leave you eager to read the next book.
December 6, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. Thank you, C.M. Martens Booksirens for this gifted arc. My review is my own. If you enjoy YA fantasy, I think you will enjoy this start to the series. In the Fade's FMC, Maslyn has a lot of grit and tenacity. She's not going to give up or let anything or anyone get in her way of becoming a warrior meg. I'm heading to get book two, Undone, to see what's in store for Maslyn.
April 8, 2025
She finally get a place at the school she wanted to go to. Unfortunately it is not going to go as she expected especially since she needs to keep her magic hidden. Everything is different and it is also dangerous as she tries to hide from kidnappers as well. See how she gets on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was a brilliant read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was a brilliant read
August 1, 2023
Terribly boring and juvenile. While I thought the book might have potential at some parts, it was a major flop I’m sorry to say.
June 26, 2024
CM Martens has done it again!
I really enjoyed this book. Keeps your attention. I can not wait for book 2
I will be recommending this book to everyone
I really enjoyed this book. Keeps your attention. I can not wait for book 2
I will be recommending this book to everyone
April 7, 2025
A fun adult fantasy like character development and magic
July 1, 2023
🔮🌬 Rather entertaining.
The father of the young Maslyn, 8 years old, told her her favorite story. The little girl was delighted!
In addition, she was accompanied by her best friend Dash, 11 years old.
Maslyn possessed a lot of magical powers for her young age.
Her father had decided to hide her somewhere...
-------------------------
A youth fantasy novel that tells the first volume of the dangerous adventures full of twists and turns of young Maslyn.
Unfortunately, I didn't really get into the story or the characters in the novel.
On the other hand, I found that the writing of the author is very pleasant to read, full of sensitivity and emotions.
Here is a good rather entertaining youth fantasy novel for fans of the genre.
The father of the young Maslyn, 8 years old, told her her favorite story. The little girl was delighted!
In addition, she was accompanied by her best friend Dash, 11 years old.
Maslyn possessed a lot of magical powers for her young age.
Her father had decided to hide her somewhere...
-------------------------
A youth fantasy novel that tells the first volume of the dangerous adventures full of twists and turns of young Maslyn.
Unfortunately, I didn't really get into the story or the characters in the novel.
On the other hand, I found that the writing of the author is very pleasant to read, full of sensitivity and emotions.
Here is a good rather entertaining youth fantasy novel for fans of the genre.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews