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Umbra: Tales of a Shadow
Florydia, the city of masks, is as corrupt as it is beautiful.
Fulvio Donati, cyborg assassin and thief, adopted a double identity. When night falls, Fulvio becomes Umbra: a masked vigilante, a charming and lethal shadow.
Soleluna Giordani, philosopher and alchemist, searched for immortality and found it with terrible consequences. Their consciousness has been trapped within a mask for almost 800 years.
In a beautiful, yet corrupt land where crime lords, vicious celebrities, and ruthless politicians compete for the highest power, a deadly conspiracy is unfolding. While alchemists and courtesans fight to survive, and a prince searches for the one to save his life, Fulvio finds himself involved in intrigues and machinations.
Together, Fulvio and Soleluna will find the answer; Soleluna with their wit and wisdom, Fulvio with his charm, skills, and access to the future Soleluna has never seen.
Together, they shall save Florydia from its downfall.
Fulvio Donati, cyborg assassin and thief, adopted a double identity. When night falls, Fulvio becomes Umbra: a masked vigilante, a charming and lethal shadow.
Soleluna Giordani, philosopher and alchemist, searched for immortality and found it with terrible consequences. Their consciousness has been trapped within a mask for almost 800 years.
In a beautiful, yet corrupt land where crime lords, vicious celebrities, and ruthless politicians compete for the highest power, a deadly conspiracy is unfolding. While alchemists and courtesans fight to survive, and a prince searches for the one to save his life, Fulvio finds himself involved in intrigues and machinations.
Together, Fulvio and Soleluna will find the answer; Soleluna with their wit and wisdom, Fulvio with his charm, skills, and access to the future Soleluna has never seen.
Together, they shall save Florydia from its downfall.
391 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2023
2 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Freddie A. Clark
10 books40 followersFreddie A. Clark writes Science Fiction, Grimdark and Horror with a Cyberpunk and biomech twist. Based in Milan, Clark lives with three cats, their partner, and a massive collection of Venetian masks. They draw their creativity from ‘80s aesthetic, movies and pop culture, and from an endless pile of books, graphic novels, manga and video games. The art of H.R. Giger and Zdzisław Beksiński influenced them immensely, took over their mind, and gave them the ability to spawn nightmares through words.
Author picture by © Martina Belli
Author picture by © Martina Belli
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 28, 2023
Happy publication day 🎂
Don't talk to me I'm sad 🫠
Thanks to the author for the ARC, all thoughts are mine.
Umbra tales of a shadow was a wild ride.
We follow a shadow, named Fulvio. He’s a lively young man, who’s also a vigilante and a killer. I love him dearly.
He was trained from a very young age to do this job and defend his city, he’s know as the Umbra. We’re thrown into the constant noise of this city, trying to comprehend everything happening at once. It’s a whirlwind of fun, murder, conspiracy and innuendos. It’s super difficult to review this book, because all I want to say is how much I loved Fulvio, Soleluna, Leandro and Donatella. AND ATHENA. CANT FORGET THE PRECIOUS OWL. I wished for Fulvio to pet her for half the book and when it happened I cried. So. 🫠
Soleluna. They are the most grumpy and precious character of all time. Idc. I loved them so much 🥹. They’re so precious, their presence was one of my favourite aspects of this book. It was so smart ?
Gosh. I CANT explain how much I loved Soleluna and Fulvio dynamic. They are so fun together and they complete each other so well.
Leandro was a total babe, he saw all of Fulvio red flags and he went like ‘damn I should tap that’. Yep. Same.
IF you enjoy court intrigue, cyberpunk augmentation, banter, impossible meeting, queernormative world and overall if you like having a fun time: you should pick this as soon as it’s out !!
Don't talk to me I'm sad 🫠
Thanks to the author for the ARC, all thoughts are mine.
Umbra tales of a shadow was a wild ride.
We follow a shadow, named Fulvio. He’s a lively young man, who’s also a vigilante and a killer. I love him dearly.
He was trained from a very young age to do this job and defend his city, he’s know as the Umbra. We’re thrown into the constant noise of this city, trying to comprehend everything happening at once. It’s a whirlwind of fun, murder, conspiracy and innuendos. It’s super difficult to review this book, because all I want to say is how much I loved Fulvio, Soleluna, Leandro and Donatella. AND ATHENA. CANT FORGET THE PRECIOUS OWL. I wished for Fulvio to pet her for half the book and when it happened I cried. So. 🫠
Soleluna. They are the most grumpy and precious character of all time. Idc. I loved them so much 🥹. They’re so precious, their presence was one of my favourite aspects of this book. It was so smart ?
Gosh. I CANT explain how much I loved Soleluna and Fulvio dynamic. They are so fun together and they complete each other so well.
Leandro was a total babe, he saw all of Fulvio red flags and he went like ‘damn I should tap that’. Yep. Same.
IF you enjoy court intrigue, cyberpunk augmentation, banter, impossible meeting, queernormative world and overall if you like having a fun time: you should pick this as soon as it’s out !!
December 8, 2023
Review originally on
JamReads
Umbra: Tales of a Shadow is a vibrating cyberpunk novel, written by Freddie A. Clark, a story about exploring the complexity behind the discovery of self-identity; all set in the city of Florydia, a neon-powered cyberpunk city inspired by Venice. An excellent book, a queer read, that draws you toward following Fulvio's self-discovery journey in parallel with the conspiracy that is threatening to change Florydia for ever.
Fulvio Donatti has been trained since his childhood and cybernetically enhanced to act as Umbra, a masked vigilante and thief in the city of Florydia; a city that is full of scheming and power craving individuals, politicians and celebrities fighting for getting this power. And in these circumstances, Umbra finds himself involved in those same conspiracies; he's at the risk of just becoming a marionette of the powerful and those higher than him.
But all changes when he steals the mask where Soleluna is trapped; a legendary alchemist whose conscience was trapped eight centuries ago. Entering in contact with them will open a totally new world to Fulvio, a new door to questions that will make himself to question everything about how his identity was shaped by others; through the eyes of Fulvio, Soleluna will have a window to experience the world they were denied due to their mistake in the immortality quest.
All of this happening in the city of Florydia, a setting that feels a middle point between Night City and Venice; a place where the technology is the norm, corrupted by the schemes and the power fights, but which still has the beauty of channels and many of its traditions. Clark pays an excellent homage to them, especially to Carnivale and its masks, a metaphor of how people hides their real identity to perform in public.
And in the same way tradition and technology are coliving in Florydia, alchemy represents that classiness between the modernity; showing, however, an incredible aperture and acceptance of different options despite appearing many centuries ago.
The pacing goes greatly with the story, but still I think having several POV can be a bit confusing, despite being the best option to portray the conspiracy against Florydia. Characters are probably the other big hit of Clark, introducing themes such as found family through Fulvio's friends; you end appreciating many of them, even when some are forced to perform really dark actions.
With this novel, I can certainly declare that Venetianpunk is a genre, and that Clark has written an excellent novel, queer friendly, and that I recommend to anybody looking for LGTBQ+ cyberpunk with a perfect Italian touch. Woud love to come back to Florydia!
Umbra: Tales of a Shadow is a vibrating cyberpunk novel, written by Freddie A. Clark, a story about exploring the complexity behind the discovery of self-identity; all set in the city of Florydia, a neon-powered cyberpunk city inspired by Venice. An excellent book, a queer read, that draws you toward following Fulvio's self-discovery journey in parallel with the conspiracy that is threatening to change Florydia for ever.
Fulvio Donatti has been trained since his childhood and cybernetically enhanced to act as Umbra, a masked vigilante and thief in the city of Florydia; a city that is full of scheming and power craving individuals, politicians and celebrities fighting for getting this power. And in these circumstances, Umbra finds himself involved in those same conspiracies; he's at the risk of just becoming a marionette of the powerful and those higher than him.
But all changes when he steals the mask where Soleluna is trapped; a legendary alchemist whose conscience was trapped eight centuries ago. Entering in contact with them will open a totally new world to Fulvio, a new door to questions that will make himself to question everything about how his identity was shaped by others; through the eyes of Fulvio, Soleluna will have a window to experience the world they were denied due to their mistake in the immortality quest.
All of this happening in the city of Florydia, a setting that feels a middle point between Night City and Venice; a place where the technology is the norm, corrupted by the schemes and the power fights, but which still has the beauty of channels and many of its traditions. Clark pays an excellent homage to them, especially to Carnivale and its masks, a metaphor of how people hides their real identity to perform in public.
And in the same way tradition and technology are coliving in Florydia, alchemy represents that classiness between the modernity; showing, however, an incredible aperture and acceptance of different options despite appearing many centuries ago.
The pacing goes greatly with the story, but still I think having several POV can be a bit confusing, despite being the best option to portray the conspiracy against Florydia. Characters are probably the other big hit of Clark, introducing themes such as found family through Fulvio's friends; you end appreciating many of them, even when some are forced to perform really dark actions.
With this novel, I can certainly declare that Venetianpunk is a genre, and that Clark has written an excellent novel, queer friendly, and that I recommend to anybody looking for LGTBQ+ cyberpunk with a perfect Italian touch. Woud love to come back to Florydia!
November 28, 2023
Umbra: Tales of a Shadow is a glittering cyberpunk fever dream of assassins, political intrigue, and love set against a neon-drenched Venice where no one is exactly as they appear. I enjoyed every single second I spent in Floridya.
THIS IS IN MY TOP 10 BOOKS OF THE YEAR!!!!
THIS IS IN MY TOP 10 BOOKS OF THE YEAR!!!!
March 11, 2024
I. Am. Invested.
What’s inside: Action, murder, conspiracy, sex, love. And a beautifully built world, one full of its own mythos, alchemy, and fascinating tech. You’ll be treated to gorgeous architecture, stunning fashion, and I wager you’ll want a volto mask by the time you’re through. I sure did. And oh gosh I GOT ONE. It’s so delicate and pretty!
Trigger warnings: Expect genre-typical warnings, such as substance addiction, sexual assault, mentions of suicide, and plenty of explicit sex and violence.
Umbra isn’t only Fulvio’s story. Yes, he is our titular shadow, and I love his chapters and sections dearly because he’s got this charm, you know? But he’s not the only one we meet and spend time with. Even the city itself, Florydia, has a personality of its own and flaunts all its flawed beauty at every given chance.
And as the conspiracy sinks its teeth into our city of masks, we get to look over the shoulders of a fantastic and multi-faceted set of characters, all of which bring their individual ambitions, vices, and stories. Soleluna is, naturally, one of them. They are a delight, through and through (so is Athena, their owl. Please. Athena. If Fulvio can’t pet you, can I pet you?) and are at the centre of one of the most important moving pieces in Umbra: Fulvio’s growth. Plus, you know. Romance. But not as you might expect, I wager.
See, in Florydia, love and sex aren’t as rigidly defined and put into monogamous boxes. And I love how it’s executed and just how deep Fulvio’s love for the people in his life goes. He’s got his prince (Leandro, who has become undeniably smitten with Umbra the second Umbra saved his life), Donatella (gosh, I love her and her brother), and, yes. Eventually, and thanks to Fulvio’s insatiable curiosity and dedication, Soleluna. Each relationship is different; each was a joy to witness. And towards the end, one broke my heart.
That’s not all the characters, though! Take Sandra, for example.
She and Cerusico may at first only appear to be side characters, but they are just as impactful as every other character we share time with. Remove one of them, and the entire thing crumbles; that is how intricate the story is. (Also, I invite you to join me in worshipping Vera. Yes. Come. Let’s build a lill’ shrine. God. I love her.)
So. Yes. Umbra is not only about Fulvio. He’s not the only one with skin in the game; not the only one who suffers loss and betrayal. And he’s certainly not the only one we see grow. Transform, really. I mean, literally. Transformation and alchemy are weighty themes in the book and I’m endlessly fascinated by them. (Nearly as much as by Vera. Nearly.) His transformation is the most impactful though, I think, and one I feel extremely privileged to have witnessed.
And with that, allow me to leave you with a line from the book that’s been living rent-free in my head ever since I last read it:
What’s inside: Action, murder, conspiracy, sex, love. And a beautifully built world, one full of its own mythos, alchemy, and fascinating tech. You’ll be treated to gorgeous architecture, stunning fashion, and I wager you’ll want a volto mask by the time you’re through. I sure did. And oh gosh I GOT ONE. It’s so delicate and pretty!
Trigger warnings: Expect genre-typical warnings, such as substance addiction, sexual assault, mentions of suicide, and plenty of explicit sex and violence.
Umbra isn’t only Fulvio’s story. Yes, he is our titular shadow, and I love his chapters and sections dearly because he’s got this charm, you know? But he’s not the only one we meet and spend time with. Even the city itself, Florydia, has a personality of its own and flaunts all its flawed beauty at every given chance.
The city of masks, wearing a mask itself.
And as the conspiracy sinks its teeth into our city of masks, we get to look over the shoulders of a fantastic and multi-faceted set of characters, all of which bring their individual ambitions, vices, and stories. Soleluna is, naturally, one of them. They are a delight, through and through (so is Athena, their owl. Please. Athena. If Fulvio can’t pet you, can I pet you?) and are at the centre of one of the most important moving pieces in Umbra: Fulvio’s growth. Plus, you know. Romance. But not as you might expect, I wager.
See, in Florydia, love and sex aren’t as rigidly defined and put into monogamous boxes. And I love how it’s executed and just how deep Fulvio’s love for the people in his life goes. He’s got his prince (Leandro, who has become undeniably smitten with Umbra the second Umbra saved his life), Donatella (gosh, I love her and her brother), and, yes. Eventually, and thanks to Fulvio’s insatiable curiosity and dedication, Soleluna. Each relationship is different; each was a joy to witness. And towards the end, one broke my heart.
That’s not all the characters, though! Take Sandra, for example.
She was ancient, fascinating, and remarkably uncanny. No wonder many mistook her for a sorceress.
She and Cerusico may at first only appear to be side characters, but they are just as impactful as every other character we share time with. Remove one of them, and the entire thing crumbles; that is how intricate the story is. (Also, I invite you to join me in worshipping Vera. Yes. Come. Let’s build a lill’ shrine. God. I love her.)
So. Yes. Umbra is not only about Fulvio. He’s not the only one with skin in the game; not the only one who suffers loss and betrayal. And he’s certainly not the only one we see grow. Transform, really. I mean, literally. Transformation and alchemy are weighty themes in the book and I’m endlessly fascinated by them. (Nearly as much as by Vera. Nearly.) His transformation is the most impactful though, I think, and one I feel extremely privileged to have witnessed.
And with that, allow me to leave you with a line from the book that’s been living rent-free in my head ever since I last read it:
I can’t protect the voiceless through kindness, their oppressors don’t know what it means.
November 30, 2023
Thank you to the author for gifting me an e-ARC. Opinions are my own.
Spice: 2.5 stars
Picture this: a cyberpunk and queer-normative version of Venice where people have mechanical augmentations, a mystery involving heists and intrigues worthy of an Assassin's Creed game, and a protagonist that could easily be a mature and Damiano David-looking version of Sly Cooper. Sounds exciting, doesn't it? Well, that's just a taste of what you'll find in UMBRA: TALES OF A SHADOW for you!
Everything from the evocative writing to the slow build-up of the intrigue to the beautiful way the characters are crafted drew me into this story. The author has created a world that feels at once futuristic and reminiscent of the past. The way the society of Florydia was structured and how the intrigue was filled with political scheming and backstabbing brought me back to the Italian renaissance, a feeling that was evoked also by the way the characters spoke. Being this one of my favorite historical periods, I felt right at home! However, the mechanical augmentations and the technology at the characters' disposal was a leap in the future.
The characters, however, were my favorite part of the story. The found family dynamic was exceptionally done, with a cast of secondary characters that jump off the page and could easily become protagonists of their own adventures in the future. In Fulvio I found a protagonist that was dashing, funny, but also easily relatable, the kind you can't help but love! I especially loved his bond with Soleluna. Their dynamic reminded me of the "Venom trope", that instance where the main character has a voice or entity only they can hear following them along their journey. Their dynamic was so fun, but also emotional and deep.
My only difficulty was that, because of the several mini storylines being developed, it was easy to lose sight of the overarching plot. However it all converges beautifully and clearly by the end!
This is a perfect read if you love the series I mentioned above, books like Nevernight by Jay Kristoff, and definitely a great addition to diversify your fantasy shelves.
Spice: 2.5 stars
Picture this: a cyberpunk and queer-normative version of Venice where people have mechanical augmentations, a mystery involving heists and intrigues worthy of an Assassin's Creed game, and a protagonist that could easily be a mature and Damiano David-looking version of Sly Cooper. Sounds exciting, doesn't it? Well, that's just a taste of what you'll find in UMBRA: TALES OF A SHADOW for you!
Everything from the evocative writing to the slow build-up of the intrigue to the beautiful way the characters are crafted drew me into this story. The author has created a world that feels at once futuristic and reminiscent of the past. The way the society of Florydia was structured and how the intrigue was filled with political scheming and backstabbing brought me back to the Italian renaissance, a feeling that was evoked also by the way the characters spoke. Being this one of my favorite historical periods, I felt right at home! However, the mechanical augmentations and the technology at the characters' disposal was a leap in the future.
The characters, however, were my favorite part of the story. The found family dynamic was exceptionally done, with a cast of secondary characters that jump off the page and could easily become protagonists of their own adventures in the future. In Fulvio I found a protagonist that was dashing, funny, but also easily relatable, the kind you can't help but love! I especially loved his bond with Soleluna. Their dynamic reminded me of the "Venom trope", that instance where the main character has a voice or entity only they can hear following them along their journey. Their dynamic was so fun, but also emotional and deep.
My only difficulty was that, because of the several mini storylines being developed, it was easy to lose sight of the overarching plot. However it all converges beautifully and clearly by the end!
This is a perfect read if you love the series I mentioned above, books like Nevernight by Jay Kristoff, and definitely a great addition to diversify your fantasy shelves.
December 11, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Umbra: Tales of Shadow is an entertaining story. While it contains a love story and has romantic elements, it is not a romance and follows the vigilante Fulvio and the intellectual Soleluna as they delve into a conspiracy. Though Fulvio flies with cybernetic wings called Icarus, Soleluna embodies that character. Their belief in their own brilliance blinded them, but they have accepted their fate as penance. With only a cantankerous owl to keep them company, Soleluna has created Florydia and a life for themself within their cage. Though very Garbo-esque in their insistence to be left alone, when Fulvio offers them a way to experience a future they never hoped to see, they cannot turn down the chance.
Although some of the individual elements may not have resonated with me, as I whole, I did find Umbra: Tales of a Shadow to be an enjoyable read that I think fans of cyberpunk and queer-normative societies may like as well.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Umbra: Tales of Shadow is an entertaining story. While it contains a love story and has romantic elements, it is not a romance and follows the vigilante Fulvio and the intellectual Soleluna as they delve into a conspiracy. Though Fulvio flies with cybernetic wings called Icarus, Soleluna embodies that character. Their belief in their own brilliance blinded them, but they have accepted their fate as penance. With only a cantankerous owl to keep them company, Soleluna has created Florydia and a life for themself within their cage. Though very Garbo-esque in their insistence to be left alone, when Fulvio offers them a way to experience a future they never hoped to see, they cannot turn down the chance.
Although some of the individual elements may not have resonated with me, as I whole, I did find Umbra: Tales of a Shadow to be an enjoyable read that I think fans of cyberpunk and queer-normative societies may like as well.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
August 28, 2023
Venitian. Cyberpunk.
Let me tell you, I was sold the second I read those words, so I was unbelievably excited to read this book early. Then once I met all the characters and fell head-first into this neon-soaked Euro-centric world, I was even more in love.
While it still has all those tell-tale dystopian marks of cyberpunk, the extra flare of historical touches to blend old with new was the icing on the cake. You get a sprinkle of alchemy, a bunch of messy vigilantes and thugs, and a queer-normative world on top of the murderous plots and dirty politics pushing the story forward.
I'm going to steal Leandro.
And someone get Fulvio a pet owl. PLEASE.
Let me tell you, I was sold the second I read those words, so I was unbelievably excited to read this book early. Then once I met all the characters and fell head-first into this neon-soaked Euro-centric world, I was even more in love.
While it still has all those tell-tale dystopian marks of cyberpunk, the extra flare of historical touches to blend old with new was the icing on the cake. You get a sprinkle of alchemy, a bunch of messy vigilantes and thugs, and a queer-normative world on top of the murderous plots and dirty politics pushing the story forward.
I'm going to steal Leandro.
And someone get Fulvio a pet owl. PLEASE.
December 4, 2023
I'M SO INVESTED
Summons up my reading experience very well. Freddie has built an amazing world, set in a Venice-inspired futuristic city, mixed with lots of traditional elements and a political conspiracy.
The characters are authentic and take your heart by storm - especially Soleluna. Their banter with Fulvio and the resulting relationship is so deep and wonderful, I could read many more pages just about these two.
Summons up my reading experience very well. Freddie has built an amazing world, set in a Venice-inspired futuristic city, mixed with lots of traditional elements and a political conspiracy.
The characters are authentic and take your heart by storm - especially Soleluna. Their banter with Fulvio and the resulting relationship is so deep and wonderful, I could read many more pages just about these two.
September 1, 2023
I don’t even know where and how to start with this review. This book holds such a dear place in my heart I’m gonna really try my best to write this one.
First of all, it’s been such a great pleasure to be a beta reader and therefore reading it before the official release (yes, I’m quite proud of that). Second I gotta say, the author is one of my beloved friends and means family to me so I know how much passion and commitment they put into this story. I remember when Umbra was just an idea born as a love letter to Venice and within time it became this amazing story, mixing all these Sci-fi and cyberpunk elements with the traditional features of the city itself. Personally, I find that amazing.
What I loved mostly about this beautiful story is how real the characters portrayed are. They’re not just simple protagonists, they feel like proper people around you and people you could be friends with (I do have such a HUGE crush on Fulvio, would totally fall for his humour). If I had to describe them all I wouldn’t ever be able to finish this review and I don’t think I know enough good words to do so either, but believe me it’s a book that steals your heart.
It’s amazing how smoothly you can read the story and it feels like the reader is a part of the book it self, that’s why I found Fulvio’s humour so charming and Leandro so kind; I loved Donatella being this sort of strong independent woman and how much she cares for Cesco, acting as his own personal guardian.
Of course I gotta mention Soleluna even if they haven’t been my favourite character from the start, I learnt to appreciate them within time, understanding their point of view and their peculiar sarcasm. And I loved their outfits!
The story is full of twists and shocking moments you wouldn’t ever expect, with characters that aim to surprise you, taking you on this beautiful journey in an alternative, futuristic Venice that seems lovely to get lost in.
I also very much loved how descriptions were not too long as personally, I tend to get distracted easily without dialogues so that to me was another thumbs up moment since it helped me being focused on the story (plus it gives you a feeling of being physically inside the book as I previously mentioned).
Anyway, I can’t wait to have the physical copy of the book in my hands (November 28th isn’t far at all!!!) and get it signed. The cover looks amazing and I can’t wait to see it in person.
Therefore do yourself a gift and give this story an opportunity as it will steal your heart with these characters that seem so real, you won’t be disappointed! And all my love to Freddie, such an amazing writer. You have outdone yourself and I couldn’t be prouder of you
First of all, it’s been such a great pleasure to be a beta reader and therefore reading it before the official release (yes, I’m quite proud of that). Second I gotta say, the author is one of my beloved friends and means family to me so I know how much passion and commitment they put into this story. I remember when Umbra was just an idea born as a love letter to Venice and within time it became this amazing story, mixing all these Sci-fi and cyberpunk elements with the traditional features of the city itself. Personally, I find that amazing.
What I loved mostly about this beautiful story is how real the characters portrayed are. They’re not just simple protagonists, they feel like proper people around you and people you could be friends with (I do have such a HUGE crush on Fulvio, would totally fall for his humour). If I had to describe them all I wouldn’t ever be able to finish this review and I don’t think I know enough good words to do so either, but believe me it’s a book that steals your heart.
It’s amazing how smoothly you can read the story and it feels like the reader is a part of the book it self, that’s why I found Fulvio’s humour so charming and Leandro so kind; I loved Donatella being this sort of strong independent woman and how much she cares for Cesco, acting as his own personal guardian.
Of course I gotta mention Soleluna even if they haven’t been my favourite character from the start, I learnt to appreciate them within time, understanding their point of view and their peculiar sarcasm. And I loved their outfits!
The story is full of twists and shocking moments you wouldn’t ever expect, with characters that aim to surprise you, taking you on this beautiful journey in an alternative, futuristic Venice that seems lovely to get lost in.
I also very much loved how descriptions were not too long as personally, I tend to get distracted easily without dialogues so that to me was another thumbs up moment since it helped me being focused on the story (plus it gives you a feeling of being physically inside the book as I previously mentioned).
Anyway, I can’t wait to have the physical copy of the book in my hands (November 28th isn’t far at all!!!) and get it signed. The cover looks amazing and I can’t wait to see it in person.
Therefore do yourself a gift and give this story an opportunity as it will steal your heart with these characters that seem so real, you won’t be disappointed! And all my love to Freddie, such an amazing writer. You have outdone yourself and I couldn’t be prouder of you
January 8, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5⭐️
"Umbra: Tales of Shadow" is an entertaining story that follows the vigilante Fulvio and the intellectual Soleluna as they delve into a conspiracy. Though Fulvio flies with cybernetic wings called Icarus, Soleluna embodies that character. Their belief in their own brilliance blinded them, but they have accepted their fate as penance. . .Though very Garbo-esque in their insistence to be left alone, when Fulvio offers them a way to experience a future they never hoped to see, they cannot turn down the chance. . .Soleluna sees the potential in Fulvio and open his eyes to it. Fulvio likes his uncomplicated and unexamined life, but Soleluna challenges him in many ways, especially in his unquestioning acceptance of being a tool for another’s vision. . .
. . .If you have ever played Assassin’s Creed or consumed any rooftop-loving vigilante media, than you will recognize Fulvio. His prowess is almost supernatural and that’s before his final form. Fulvio is a charismatic, light-hearted charmer. . .but as Florydia’s embodiment, his easy-going side is paired with a merciless and wrathful one. Fulvio and Soleluna are foils and yet the same. They exemplify the type of duality in which the individual components are in extreme opposition, yet co-exist in balance when combined. . .The plot is intrigue and murders punctuated by philosophical doctrine. For the most part, Clark makes all these elements flow into one another naturally, . . .but there are times when the ruminations feel more lecture, less avenue for character development. . .
However, I really enjoyed Clarks’ use of alchemy to convey the story’s major theme; alchemy’s foundation in transmutation makes it a perfect vehicle. I appreciated the in-depth inclusion of alchemical and natural philosophy. . . There some of the structural unevenness e.g. the run-up to the has full-on character arcs with people who've only briefly appeared that are so abrupt they signpost major involvement. There are also technical elements that worked against the story, including malapropisms, . . .some awkward sentences/dialogue, and many repetitive descriptors. I saw the word “goggled” more times than in all my reading history combined . . .Although some of the individual elements may not have resonated with me, as I whole, I did find "Umbra: Tales of a Shadow" to be an enjoyable read that I think fans of cyberpunk and queer-normative societies may like as well.
Entire review @ Joyfully Jay Reviews
3.5⭐️
"Umbra: Tales of Shadow" is an entertaining story that follows the vigilante Fulvio and the intellectual Soleluna as they delve into a conspiracy. Though Fulvio flies with cybernetic wings called Icarus, Soleluna embodies that character. Their belief in their own brilliance blinded them, but they have accepted their fate as penance. . .Though very Garbo-esque in their insistence to be left alone, when Fulvio offers them a way to experience a future they never hoped to see, they cannot turn down the chance. . .Soleluna sees the potential in Fulvio and open his eyes to it. Fulvio likes his uncomplicated and unexamined life, but Soleluna challenges him in many ways, especially in his unquestioning acceptance of being a tool for another’s vision. . .
. . .If you have ever played Assassin’s Creed or consumed any rooftop-loving vigilante media, than you will recognize Fulvio. His prowess is almost supernatural and that’s before his final form. Fulvio is a charismatic, light-hearted charmer. . .but as Florydia’s embodiment, his easy-going side is paired with a merciless and wrathful one. Fulvio and Soleluna are foils and yet the same. They exemplify the type of duality in which the individual components are in extreme opposition, yet co-exist in balance when combined. . .The plot is intrigue and murders punctuated by philosophical doctrine. For the most part, Clark makes all these elements flow into one another naturally, . . .but there are times when the ruminations feel more lecture, less avenue for character development. . .
However, I really enjoyed Clarks’ use of alchemy to convey the story’s major theme; alchemy’s foundation in transmutation makes it a perfect vehicle. I appreciated the in-depth inclusion of alchemical and natural philosophy. . . There some of the structural unevenness e.g. the run-up to the has full-on character arcs with people who've only briefly appeared that are so abrupt they signpost major involvement. There are also technical elements that worked against the story, including malapropisms, . . .some awkward sentences/dialogue, and many repetitive descriptors. I saw the word “goggled” more times than in all my reading history combined . . .Although some of the individual elements may not have resonated with me, as I whole, I did find "Umbra: Tales of a Shadow" to be an enjoyable read that I think fans of cyberpunk and queer-normative societies may like as well.
Entire review @ Joyfully Jay Reviews
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October 4, 2023While a bit verbose on occasion, I love love love the worldbuilding!!!
This books is not for the faint of heart. There are so. many. kills. So many stabbings, knifings, slicings and dicings of human flesh. And the author doesn't gloss over them too much, either.
I like to find books with fun nonbinary MCs. It's not representation you find all that often, or at least, not in a big way. Soleluna is so preciously grouchy. My inner nerd also found their name very endearing, what with the whole thing where different cultures treat the moon and the sun as gendered dualities. Such a sweet little touch.
Also a quick note for romance fans - Soleluna doesn't get introduced until six chapters in. The first part is solid intrigue and Fulvio characterization.
Okay, I'm done with the fluff. Now, for the TECHNO-AESTHETICS. This is the neon vibrancy of cyberpunk meets the gilded opulence of the most indulgent historical fiction, with enough intrigue and class strife to satisfy fans of both those genres. I love a good techno-thriller, but it's even better if there are beautiful technology, elegant craftsmanship, and ARTISTRY accompanying the action. Why does functionality preclude aesthetics for so many spec fic writers? It is boring and tragic and this was a honestly so refreshing to read. I could see Julie Dillon or Xiao Tong “Velinxi” Kong illustrating these scenes, and that is high praise indeed.
While the earlier descriptions tend towards florid and rambling adjective chains, with the occasional bit of redundantly superfluous exposition, the characters are so charming and well-developed that I was invested from two chapters in. Everyone, from the minor to the major, gets their defining moments. I suppose fans of high fantasy might be more used to the earlier chunks of exposition that I was, since I personally prefer stories with more seamless integration between the worldbuilding and the plot.
But the intrigue, the love and care that went into the descriptions, and the unabashed queer joy in this book made me smile often and were honestly so soothing to read? Despite all the violence and seedy nefariousness. It was refreshing to see actual morally gray characters in said seedy underbelly. It was such an immersive novel, and I'm curious to see how it will expand in the future.
Could benefit from a little bit of editing, honestly. Just little grammatical and syntactical things here and there. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This books is not for the faint of heart. There are so. many. kills. So many stabbings, knifings, slicings and dicings of human flesh. And the author doesn't gloss over them too much, either.
I like to find books with fun nonbinary MCs. It's not representation you find all that often, or at least, not in a big way. Soleluna is so preciously grouchy. My inner nerd also found their name very endearing, what with the whole thing where different cultures treat the moon and the sun as gendered dualities. Such a sweet little touch.
Also a quick note for romance fans - Soleluna doesn't get introduced until six chapters in. The first part is solid intrigue and Fulvio characterization.
Okay, I'm done with the fluff. Now, for the TECHNO-AESTHETICS. This is the neon vibrancy of cyberpunk meets the gilded opulence of the most indulgent historical fiction, with enough intrigue and class strife to satisfy fans of both those genres. I love a good techno-thriller, but it's even better if there are beautiful technology, elegant craftsmanship, and ARTISTRY accompanying the action. Why does functionality preclude aesthetics for so many spec fic writers? It is boring and tragic and this was a honestly so refreshing to read. I could see Julie Dillon or Xiao Tong “Velinxi” Kong illustrating these scenes, and that is high praise indeed.
While the earlier descriptions tend towards florid and rambling adjective chains, with the occasional bit of redundantly superfluous exposition, the characters are so charming and well-developed that I was invested from two chapters in. Everyone, from the minor to the major, gets their defining moments. I suppose fans of high fantasy might be more used to the earlier chunks of exposition that I was, since I personally prefer stories with more seamless integration between the worldbuilding and the plot.
But the intrigue, the love and care that went into the descriptions, and the unabashed queer joy in this book made me smile often and were honestly so soothing to read? Despite all the violence and seedy nefariousness. It was refreshing to see actual morally gray characters in said seedy underbelly. It was such an immersive novel, and I'm curious to see how it will expand in the future.
Could benefit from a little bit of editing, honestly. Just little grammatical and syntactical things here and there. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 13, 2023
Umbra was such a different and unique kind of read for me personally, and I'm very glad I indulged in reading it! With such a neat setting of cyberpunk Venice, Florydia, and amazing visuals through all the masks, colored lights, and cybernetic augmentations, this was absolutely wonderful!!
Not to mention, the characters. Fulvio is our MC for most of the book, and he has my heart. I love his banter, his wittiness, his stupid inappropriate jokes. Can I also say he was remarkably attractive?? Like damn 🥵🥵 He's also poly, and usually I am not a reader of any sort of poly romance (just a me-thing!). But Umbra isn't a romance book, and Fulvio merely had different sorts of meaningful relationships with different people. So it worked for me, and I enjoyed it!
But yes, this is a story of Fulvio's AWAKENING I could say, and uncovering the inner workings of a conspiracy against the Honestissimo, the political rulers of Florydia. There are many POVs (like an omniscient narrator at times), though a majority of the book we see Fulvio's perspective. And Fulvio is the best, seriously, have I said that already? Him and Soleluna especially had the BEST banter. I love them, and I love this book! 💕💖
Not to mention, the characters. Fulvio is our MC for most of the book, and he has my heart. I love his banter, his wittiness, his stupid inappropriate jokes. Can I also say he was remarkably attractive?? Like damn 🥵🥵 He's also poly, and usually I am not a reader of any sort of poly romance (just a me-thing!). But Umbra isn't a romance book, and Fulvio merely had different sorts of meaningful relationships with different people. So it worked for me, and I enjoyed it!
But yes, this is a story of Fulvio's AWAKENING I could say, and uncovering the inner workings of a conspiracy against the Honestissimo, the political rulers of Florydia. There are many POVs (like an omniscient narrator at times), though a majority of the book we see Fulvio's perspective. And Fulvio is the best, seriously, have I said that already? Him and Soleluna especially had the BEST banter. I love them, and I love this book! 💕💖
July 3, 2024
Fulvio has been trained since childhood to live a double life, a thief and assassin as well as a vigilante/saviour to those in need of rescue.
Soleluna has imprinted their life into a mask which Fulvio steals - entwined they help expose the corruption that hides beneath the masked glitter of the city state in which they reside.
This story is set in Florydia - a futuristic version of the Venice of our world, with its canals and old palaces, buildings but with neon lighting and a population using cybernetics enhanced with alchemy.
Everyone in the city of Florydia wear masks and the more elaborate the mask, clothes and debauchery amongst the elite ensures constant infighting and assassinations to see who will run certain criminal factions.
The descriptions of the clothing and masks was very elaborate and IMO took up a bit too much page space - perfect for comic illustrations, fan art or animated series but I was more interested in the crime scenes and the solving of all the murders.
I really enjoyed the alchemy and cybernetic enhancements but in some people I felt that was overdone but alchemy to help one live for centuries, to breathe underwater and to fly were intriguing.
Though Fulvio and Soleluna are the primary protagonists there is a wonderful cast of side characters. Fluvio's childhood friends and criminal associates, the secret police, gang members and more make this a colourful story.
There is a growing love/sex interest that Fluvio's has with the Prince of the city (Fluvio is pansexual and enjoys having healthy sexual relationships) as well as using his looks and sexuality to bring down criminals and whilst Soleluna is non-binary they have fun being the occasional voyeur as well as being a voice of reason in contrast to Fluvio's impetuous nature.
I personally am not into on page sex but for those readers that are, this is a 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ read.
Soleluna has imprinted their life into a mask which Fulvio steals - entwined they help expose the corruption that hides beneath the masked glitter of the city state in which they reside.
This story is set in Florydia - a futuristic version of the Venice of our world, with its canals and old palaces, buildings but with neon lighting and a population using cybernetics enhanced with alchemy.
Everyone in the city of Florydia wear masks and the more elaborate the mask, clothes and debauchery amongst the elite ensures constant infighting and assassinations to see who will run certain criminal factions.
The descriptions of the clothing and masks was very elaborate and IMO took up a bit too much page space - perfect for comic illustrations, fan art or animated series but I was more interested in the crime scenes and the solving of all the murders.
I really enjoyed the alchemy and cybernetic enhancements but in some people I felt that was overdone but alchemy to help one live for centuries, to breathe underwater and to fly were intriguing.
Though Fulvio and Soleluna are the primary protagonists there is a wonderful cast of side characters. Fluvio's childhood friends and criminal associates, the secret police, gang members and more make this a colourful story.
There is a growing love/sex interest that Fluvio's has with the Prince of the city (Fluvio is pansexual and enjoys having healthy sexual relationships) as well as using his looks and sexuality to bring down criminals and whilst Soleluna is non-binary they have fun being the occasional voyeur as well as being a voice of reason in contrast to Fluvio's impetuous nature.
I personally am not into on page sex but for those readers that are, this is a 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ read.
December 10, 2023
Cyberpunk meets Renaissance Venice flair in an imaginative, delightfully queer, but at times too underexplained and confusing tale of assassins, conspiracies, and political machinations.
While I love the premise and the world this book is set in seems fascinating, I had trouble really getting into the story. It took me a few chapters to warm up to the writing style, which at times just spent entirely too much time on descriptions and too little on explanations, and despite this novel containing so many elements that are usually like catnip for me, it never quite hooked me. I kept putting the book down after a chapter or two and had to remind myself to pick it back up.
Some clever and fascinating ideas, but at some point I just gave up on trying to keep track of the many characters and myriad subplots.
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
While I love the premise and the world this book is set in seems fascinating, I had trouble really getting into the story. It took me a few chapters to warm up to the writing style, which at times just spent entirely too much time on descriptions and too little on explanations, and despite this novel containing so many elements that are usually like catnip for me, it never quite hooked me. I kept putting the book down after a chapter or two and had to remind myself to pick it back up.
Some clever and fascinating ideas, but at some point I just gave up on trying to keep track of the many characters and myriad subplots.
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
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November 28, 2023*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
The book was cute but it didn't really pull me in. I loved how the characters interacted with each other, but I spent way too long trying to understand the mechanics of the character. The author also does this thing where they use words and don't explain them. I felt like I was learning a new language, which is fine, but not when I'm reading a story. I found myself more interested in the world-building than the plot. That being said, you can clearly see the characters' wants and needs. The fighting scenes were also nicely written. If you like queer cyborgs and a lot of action, then this book is for you.
The book was cute but it didn't really pull me in. I loved how the characters interacted with each other, but I spent way too long trying to understand the mechanics of the character. The author also does this thing where they use words and don't explain them. I felt like I was learning a new language, which is fine, but not when I'm reading a story. I found myself more interested in the world-building than the plot. That being said, you can clearly see the characters' wants and needs. The fighting scenes were also nicely written. If you like queer cyborgs and a lot of action, then this book is for you.
October 2, 2023
Tales of a Shadow is a great story! The characters and places are vivid and easy to imagine. I can tell Freddie spent a lot of time fleshing out the many colorful characters and settings. The complex story of the Shadow is both engrossing and at time confusing (due to the use of untranslated and often times unpronounceable Italian used). The story has a slow burn quality that actually pays off very well towards the end. I really enjoyed the concepts of blending old world philosophy with new world tech. I look forward to diving into this world again! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
November 23, 2023
This was a wildly unique fantasy novel set within a Venice inspired neon cyberpunk city and led by a character that made me melt!!
I really found the world building in Umbra fascinating - Florydia somehow feels like a historical setting and a dystopian future at the same time; I loved the imagery. Both Fulvio and Soleluna were beautiful characters that totally had my heart by the end!! I sobbed my way through the end.
I did struggle to find my footing within the world during the first 30% or so - there is a significant amount of untranslated Italian and unexplained elements. Add in some of the other common debut mistakes and it made for a clunky read. I think Umbra would be a PHENOMENAL novel after a fresh round of editing!
I really found the world building in Umbra fascinating - Florydia somehow feels like a historical setting and a dystopian future at the same time; I loved the imagery. Both Fulvio and Soleluna were beautiful characters that totally had my heart by the end!! I sobbed my way through the end.
I did struggle to find my footing within the world during the first 30% or so - there is a significant amount of untranslated Italian and unexplained elements. Add in some of the other common debut mistakes and it made for a clunky read. I think Umbra would be a PHENOMENAL novel after a fresh round of editing!
March 21, 2024
I was given an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review, which I'm always happy to give, so here it is: I truly enjoy the concept of this book, it's very interesting. I love queer characters and romances so I was excited to read it. However, I think the book needs more editing. It's what I like to call over described and under explained. There are paragraphs dedicates to describing people and their clothes, but the things that need explanation are sorely lacking. One of the things that made it hardest for me to enjoy was the Italian terms. When writing a book mainly in English, intended for an English speaking audience, it's best to use foreign languages sparingly. Usually, the best practice is to use foreign words in dialogue or thoughts to develop character. If you want to use the terms outside of that, you have to explain them. There is also a definitive feeling of the author trying too hard to sound sophisticated. Sometimes using the bigger, fancier word isn't what's best for the sentence. Overall, I think the book is okay, but a bit amateur. It certainly needs more editing.
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