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Kalani: Shadows of Destiny
Shadows of Destiny
In a world where ancient prophecies collide with the tumultuous forces of fate, Desiree and Zach find themselves at the heart of a cosmic struggle between The Army of Awry and The Army of Magnar. As they navigate through the immortal world of Kalani, they are torn between love, loyalty, and their past.
As they set off on separate journeys, their stories become ones of self-discovery that unravels and challenges their concepts of realty and faith. Each torn between letting their past go, in order to accept an unknown destiny.
Shadows of Destiny is the premiere novel in the science-fiction Fostering Worlds series. It is a gripping tale of love, sacrifice, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Get ready to be transported to a world of breathtaking landscapes, heart-pounding adventures, and emotionally driven characters that will leave and indelible mark on your soul. Join Desiree and Zach as they embark on the ultimate test of faith.
In a world where ancient prophecies collide with the tumultuous forces of fate, Desiree and Zach find themselves at the heart of a cosmic struggle between The Army of Awry and The Army of Magnar. As they navigate through the immortal world of Kalani, they are torn between love, loyalty, and their past.
As they set off on separate journeys, their stories become ones of self-discovery that unravels and challenges their concepts of realty and faith. Each torn between letting their past go, in order to accept an unknown destiny.
Shadows of Destiny is the premiere novel in the science-fiction Fostering Worlds series. It is a gripping tale of love, sacrifice, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Get ready to be transported to a world of breathtaking landscapes, heart-pounding adventures, and emotionally driven characters that will leave and indelible mark on your soul. Join Desiree and Zach as they embark on the ultimate test of faith.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2023
23 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 9, 2024
This is a very unique and interesting world, We have two main characters we follow in their own struggles and learning about their god. I really love how this really portrays the real struggles people have with faith in a really fun and sci-fi way. I can't wait to see our two main characters finally meet! Really love this world.
September 15, 2024
Kalani Shadows of Destiny. A Christian fantasy book!? I’ve read very few Christian fantasies before and I found this book interesting.
It had a good story but the reason why I gave it 3 stars is because I was slightly confused at what was happening throughout the book. I don’t know what it was but I didn’t really feel…connected to the book? Something about it made me feel detached and confused. I felt like I couldn’t really grasp what exactly was happening at some points leaving me feeling a little lost.
Overall though, I love the message and hope the next book is less confusing for me 😅!
I hope whoever else reads this book doesn’t feel as lost as me! Happy reading!
It had a good story but the reason why I gave it 3 stars is because I was slightly confused at what was happening throughout the book. I don’t know what it was but I didn’t really feel…connected to the book? Something about it made me feel detached and confused. I felt like I couldn’t really grasp what exactly was happening at some points leaving me feeling a little lost.
Overall though, I love the message and hope the next book is less confusing for me 😅!
I hope whoever else reads this book doesn’t feel as lost as me! Happy reading!
February 25, 2024
Jolene has created a world unlike any I've encountered before, and it is indeed interesting. Her world-building captivated me directly from the first chapter.
Her cover design is excellent, and her writing style is consistent, with good balance and pace.
An excellent read and well categorized.
Her cover design is excellent, and her writing style is consistent, with good balance and pace.
An excellent read and well categorized.
February 13, 2024
I am going to give this book two ratings. One, for the book and the writing. The other will be a more bias opinion based on my own faith.
I was suggested this book by someone on Tiktok, because the author needs reviews. I read it because the audible was provided for free, but I ended up purchasing the audible anyway because the free version is on a website that doesn't allow you to speed it up. I read my audibles on 2x at least. All I saw about the book was that it was dystopian and the cover looked cool. I was not aware of the author or the author's beliefs until after I looked into it after starting the book.
I will say, that there should be trigger warnings on the book. So I will let you know what they are, based upon what I remember.
Abortion, Suicide, Rape, Child Rape, Sexual Assault, Racism, Drugs, Addiction, Cancer
The rape and sexual assault is not graphic but it is alluded to and mentioned more than once.
The abortion is not shown, it is alluded to, and described as the child being "cancelled"
Suicide is shown, early in the book.
Now to start with the reviews of the book itself:
The world building in the book is great. This author created a world with fantastical things. There are mirrors that change your clothing. There are necklaces that light up and encapsulate a part of their "god". The god speaks to you through it. It was pretty interesting. I enjoyed the writing and how the author used descriptors.
The book was about a world based in the afterlife. Gods exist and are heavily involved in what is going on and the actions of the people. If you believe in the god, you will be granted things. Your necklace will glow based upon your level of faith and devotion to that god.
Since it is the afterlife, people do not have normal family units based on blood relation. They are assigned family units. However, there is still a foster system in place.
The book's main female character was a foster child. You follow her struggles with feeling wanted and loved by her family unit, and the fear of being cast aside. You hear her inner monologue about her struggles as well.
The main male character had cancer and died. He is angry for being torn from the world when he had so much to live for, especially his girlfriend. You follow his struggles with actually believing that the god(s) have the best interests of the people at heart.
Both characters grow significantly throughout the book. You are also sent through various locations within this world, including how the dead are transported to the "afterlife". I thought that depiction of the process was really interesting.
Overall it was a decent story, written well. If you are a person of faith, you will enjoy it.
Now to my opinion based on my own beliefs. ALSO, this section will have spoilers. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
.
.
.
.
I am not a religious person. This book would not have been one I would have picked up, had I known that ahead of time. That being said, I continued it and finished it because I was intrigued about the world. I enjoyed the world. I just did not enjoy the faith aspect, which is a LARGE portion of the book. I get very annoyed with blind faith, which is heavy in this book. People having to "trust" a god has their best interests at heart, regardless of your own wants and feelings on the matter. The author (based on her own words) based this book on the idea that people are constantly putting down other peoples faith, which is fine to want to write about. Everyone writes books based upon the demographic of people they are looking to target. This book would be great for those people who do rely on blind faith in their life. It's a great sci-fi story with a faith twist.
However, I did NOT like the idea that because someone died by suicide, they would end up in a "prison of their own making". One of the characters even ask a question as to why the god doesn't just help people. Which is a VERY fair question, but it was rebuked by quoting "gods plan".
Also, this author shows her feelings about abortion. Claiming a fetus was a person. Showing that the fetus would be cared for in the afterlife, to the point that the MFC has to carry it around in her palm for a good part of the book. The text about the abortion claims the fetuses were "cancelled" and the level of disdain for the people who would "murder their own baby". The fetus barely had eyes. It was described as the head of a turtle and a worm. So it was very much a fetus.
I'm not sure the target demographic for a lot of this content. The age range seems weird. I'm not sure if it's YA or adult. Even though it says 10-18 years on amazon, it's just seems a bit heavy. This book would be banned in many schools/districts, but then again they might turn a blind eye because of "faith" being a centerfold. I personally think that heavy topics are fine for kids books as long as they are tackled carefully. This book was discrete enough to be YA.
Another annoying thing, the "parent" refusing to call the MFC as the name she wanted to be called. So much that the MFC had to petition the "gods" to get her name changed. That was extremely annoying. Why does a god have to be the one to tell you who you are?
I am also quite confused as to what the author feels about race. It was said that "On Therma, we' be sorted.... a nation with dark-skinned people being the least desirable". Then mentioning that on Kalani those things are irrelevant. But then goes on to mention that one of the characters, named RAFIKKI, is described as one of the "Lazies" and the "blackest person I've ever seen". A story teller. At no point was there really any redemption of that. The character also mentions how something she said can be seen as racist, and she didn't want to be seen as such. It's just a bit odd. I was waiting for there to be something saying that those with darker skin tones are not inferior, as they are thought to be. Maybe the redeeming qualities will be mentioned in another book, but they were very odd here.
The author does use the term "Indians" for, what seemed to be described as, Native Americans or Indigenous people.
I just found myself getting angrier and angrier at the book, despite enjoying the world. I don't see myself picking up the next one, but it's PURELY because of my own beliefs and nothing to do with the content or quality of the writing. That is why I gave this book a 4/5 but my personal review is 3/5. Books are written for the author and for certain people. The book I am writing is for people like me, and similar to books I like reading or want to read. I would never expect everyone to like it if they don't believe what I do. That is why I rated this book the way I did.
If you're looking for great writing, and world building, this is a great book for you. Especially if you enjoy sci-fi. If you are religious, this is definitely the book for you.
Audible note: The female narrator is lacking emotion and variation in her narration. The male narrator was great!
I was suggested this book by someone on Tiktok, because the author needs reviews. I read it because the audible was provided for free, but I ended up purchasing the audible anyway because the free version is on a website that doesn't allow you to speed it up. I read my audibles on 2x at least. All I saw about the book was that it was dystopian and the cover looked cool. I was not aware of the author or the author's beliefs until after I looked into it after starting the book.
I will say, that there should be trigger warnings on the book. So I will let you know what they are, based upon what I remember.
Abortion, Suicide, Rape, Child Rape, Sexual Assault, Racism, Drugs, Addiction, Cancer
The rape and sexual assault is not graphic but it is alluded to and mentioned more than once.
The abortion is not shown, it is alluded to, and described as the child being "cancelled"
Suicide is shown, early in the book.
Now to start with the reviews of the book itself:
The world building in the book is great. This author created a world with fantastical things. There are mirrors that change your clothing. There are necklaces that light up and encapsulate a part of their "god". The god speaks to you through it. It was pretty interesting. I enjoyed the writing and how the author used descriptors.
The book was about a world based in the afterlife. Gods exist and are heavily involved in what is going on and the actions of the people. If you believe in the god, you will be granted things. Your necklace will glow based upon your level of faith and devotion to that god.
Since it is the afterlife, people do not have normal family units based on blood relation. They are assigned family units. However, there is still a foster system in place.
The book's main female character was a foster child. You follow her struggles with feeling wanted and loved by her family unit, and the fear of being cast aside. You hear her inner monologue about her struggles as well.
The main male character had cancer and died. He is angry for being torn from the world when he had so much to live for, especially his girlfriend. You follow his struggles with actually believing that the god(s) have the best interests of the people at heart.
Both characters grow significantly throughout the book. You are also sent through various locations within this world, including how the dead are transported to the "afterlife". I thought that depiction of the process was really interesting.
Overall it was a decent story, written well. If you are a person of faith, you will enjoy it.
Now to my opinion based on my own beliefs. ALSO, this section will have spoilers. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
.
.
.
.
I am not a religious person. This book would not have been one I would have picked up, had I known that ahead of time. That being said, I continued it and finished it because I was intrigued about the world. I enjoyed the world. I just did not enjoy the faith aspect, which is a LARGE portion of the book. I get very annoyed with blind faith, which is heavy in this book. People having to "trust" a god has their best interests at heart, regardless of your own wants and feelings on the matter. The author (based on her own words) based this book on the idea that people are constantly putting down other peoples faith, which is fine to want to write about. Everyone writes books based upon the demographic of people they are looking to target. This book would be great for those people who do rely on blind faith in their life. It's a great sci-fi story with a faith twist.
However, I did NOT like the idea that because someone died by suicide, they would end up in a "prison of their own making". One of the characters even ask a question as to why the god doesn't just help people. Which is a VERY fair question, but it was rebuked by quoting "gods plan".
Also, this author shows her feelings about abortion. Claiming a fetus was a person. Showing that the fetus would be cared for in the afterlife, to the point that the MFC has to carry it around in her palm for a good part of the book. The text about the abortion claims the fetuses were "cancelled" and the level of disdain for the people who would "murder their own baby". The fetus barely had eyes. It was described as the head of a turtle and a worm. So it was very much a fetus.
I'm not sure the target demographic for a lot of this content. The age range seems weird. I'm not sure if it's YA or adult. Even though it says 10-18 years on amazon, it's just seems a bit heavy. This book would be banned in many schools/districts, but then again they might turn a blind eye because of "faith" being a centerfold. I personally think that heavy topics are fine for kids books as long as they are tackled carefully. This book was discrete enough to be YA.
Another annoying thing, the "parent" refusing to call the MFC as the name she wanted to be called. So much that the MFC had to petition the "gods" to get her name changed. That was extremely annoying. Why does a god have to be the one to tell you who you are?
I am also quite confused as to what the author feels about race. It was said that "On Therma, we' be sorted.... a nation with dark-skinned people being the least desirable". Then mentioning that on Kalani those things are irrelevant. But then goes on to mention that one of the characters, named RAFIKKI, is described as one of the "Lazies" and the "blackest person I've ever seen". A story teller. At no point was there really any redemption of that. The character also mentions how something she said can be seen as racist, and she didn't want to be seen as such. It's just a bit odd. I was waiting for there to be something saying that those with darker skin tones are not inferior, as they are thought to be. Maybe the redeeming qualities will be mentioned in another book, but they were very odd here.
The author does use the term "Indians" for, what seemed to be described as, Native Americans or Indigenous people.
I just found myself getting angrier and angrier at the book, despite enjoying the world. I don't see myself picking up the next one, but it's PURELY because of my own beliefs and nothing to do with the content or quality of the writing. That is why I gave this book a 4/5 but my personal review is 3/5. Books are written for the author and for certain people. The book I am writing is for people like me, and similar to books I like reading or want to read. I would never expect everyone to like it if they don't believe what I do. That is why I rated this book the way I did.
If you're looking for great writing, and world building, this is a great book for you. Especially if you enjoy sci-fi. If you are religious, this is definitely the book for you.
Audible note: The female narrator is lacking emotion and variation in her narration. The male narrator was great!
April 11, 2024
This book was a beautiful allegory for what it's like to live a God-focused life. It really reminded me of the Chronicles of Narnia - and I say that with the highest praise, for I have loved those books since I was a little kid. Both of the main characters struggle with putting their God first, and accepting that His way is the best way. It took a couple of chapters to get into, but once I did, I couldn't put it down. For fans of C. S. Lewis who want to see characters in a more modern-day, fantasy society, this is the perfect book.
October 30, 2024
Jolene Fine’s Kalani: Shadows of Destiny launches her Fostering Worlds series with remarkable flair. This ambitious fantasy debut delivers a rich tapestry of complex characters, high-stakes struggles, and deeply immersive world-building. Kalani, a planet ruled by god-like figures, brims with intrigue and conflict, with every corner of its beautifully mapped terrain promising readers a thrilling adventure. Fine’s storytelling will make you laugh, cry, and stay invested in each twist as you journey through this fascinating new world.
The novel centers on two main characters, Zach and Desiree, who navigate Kalani's world of immortals. Kalani’s inhabitants are divided into two classes: the Lambients and the Watchers. Fine masterfully introduces readers to this world’s structure, where advanced technology meets a unique social order from the very first page.
The author's emotional writing style makes it easy to connect with the characters as they grapple with belonging and identity in a complex and vividly imagined society. Zach, yearning for his girlfriend Gretchen back on his home planet Therma, petitions Kalani’s spiritual leaders, hoping for any chance to communicate with her. Meanwhile, Desiree, an outsider, finds herself pulled toward Kalani’s deeper mysteries, her drive for knowledge propelling her into powerful but dangerous territory.
Fine builds suspense masterfully, creating a world where every choice holds weight. Zach and Desiree encounter mystical barriers and god-like rulers, with each encounter steeped in high drama and tension. Their inner conflicts bring as much depth to the story as the fantastical elements, weaving a narrative that explores love, existential longing, and personal destiny. The world of Kalani feels simultaneously vast and intimate, with each page building anticipation and excitement.
I’d highly recommend Kalani: Shadows of Destiny to fans of character-driven fantasy and those who enjoy exploring dystopian worlds. For anyone new to fantasy, this novel is an excellent entry point, offering a story that balances rich world-building with genuine emotional resonance.
The novel centers on two main characters, Zach and Desiree, who navigate Kalani's world of immortals. Kalani’s inhabitants are divided into two classes: the Lambients and the Watchers. Fine masterfully introduces readers to this world’s structure, where advanced technology meets a unique social order from the very first page.
The author's emotional writing style makes it easy to connect with the characters as they grapple with belonging and identity in a complex and vividly imagined society. Zach, yearning for his girlfriend Gretchen back on his home planet Therma, petitions Kalani’s spiritual leaders, hoping for any chance to communicate with her. Meanwhile, Desiree, an outsider, finds herself pulled toward Kalani’s deeper mysteries, her drive for knowledge propelling her into powerful but dangerous territory.
Fine builds suspense masterfully, creating a world where every choice holds weight. Zach and Desiree encounter mystical barriers and god-like rulers, with each encounter steeped in high drama and tension. Their inner conflicts bring as much depth to the story as the fantastical elements, weaving a narrative that explores love, existential longing, and personal destiny. The world of Kalani feels simultaneously vast and intimate, with each page building anticipation and excitement.
I’d highly recommend Kalani: Shadows of Destiny to fans of character-driven fantasy and those who enjoy exploring dystopian worlds. For anyone new to fantasy, this novel is an excellent entry point, offering a story that balances rich world-building with genuine emotional resonance.
February 18, 2024
Had to buy this book as a hardcover for my Shelf.
I listened to this originally as a audiobook based on a friends recommendation because I am not a big reader but love to listen to books on my drives to work or to go see my dad on those 4 hour road trips.
I enjoyed the audiobook so much that I had to buy a hard cover to put on my shelf and a couple of soft covers to give as gifts to family.
I loved this author’s unique and nontraditional way of approaching sci-fi in her book. I would say this is foremost a faith-themed book with intense scifi and fantasy elements. I also liked the new take on immortality that leans into creating a somewhat imperfect world concept for Kalani (The heavens).
I loved that it was a fantasy story that had intense and descriptive world building thorough it and that made the story and setting more visual to me while listening to the audio book. There are two very well written fight scenes. Knowing this is book one makes me excited and anxious to listen to book two.
The author also had several unique gadgets and technology that were great parts to this story as sci-fi elements that were unique to this author’s universe.
My final thoughts is life is to busy for me personally to just stop every thing to sit and reading a book all at one sitting. Which means I have to start and stop many times to get finished with any books. So what I really loved about this book is how the male narrator did all the voices and characters for Zack life story. It would have been nice if the female narrator had done the same for Desiree part because when the male narrator for Zack did all the different voices it gave the book more like a movie feel. The characters become more life like and was easier to keep them separate and start right back where I left off and not have to relisten to it because he did it for me. I was able to sit and enjoy the story like I was really there. I can’t wait for book Two and I really hope the author takes the time to go on a book tour so that I can get my first book and the second book signed when she releases it.
I listened to this originally as a audiobook based on a friends recommendation because I am not a big reader but love to listen to books on my drives to work or to go see my dad on those 4 hour road trips.
I enjoyed the audiobook so much that I had to buy a hard cover to put on my shelf and a couple of soft covers to give as gifts to family.
I loved this author’s unique and nontraditional way of approaching sci-fi in her book. I would say this is foremost a faith-themed book with intense scifi and fantasy elements. I also liked the new take on immortality that leans into creating a somewhat imperfect world concept for Kalani (The heavens).
I loved that it was a fantasy story that had intense and descriptive world building thorough it and that made the story and setting more visual to me while listening to the audio book. There are two very well written fight scenes. Knowing this is book one makes me excited and anxious to listen to book two.
The author also had several unique gadgets and technology that were great parts to this story as sci-fi elements that were unique to this author’s universe.
My final thoughts is life is to busy for me personally to just stop every thing to sit and reading a book all at one sitting. Which means I have to start and stop many times to get finished with any books. So what I really loved about this book is how the male narrator did all the voices and characters for Zack life story. It would have been nice if the female narrator had done the same for Desiree part because when the male narrator for Zack did all the different voices it gave the book more like a movie feel. The characters become more life like and was easier to keep them separate and start right back where I left off and not have to relisten to it because he did it for me. I was able to sit and enjoy the story like I was really there. I can’t wait for book Two and I really hope the author takes the time to go on a book tour so that I can get my first book and the second book signed when she releases it.
July 20, 2025
Mild spoilers in the trigger warning.
I bought this book from the author Jolene Fine, at Rangerstop and Pop Atlanta back in June. All thoughts are my own.
I was hooked from the start. This is a unique and interesting world. There is sci-fi and fantasy, the pacing is pretty quick, and the story engaging. The characters, in my opinion, are well written, and the switch from Desiree 's point of view to Zach's felt smooth. I enjoyed the time spent to build the world of Kalani and the time spent to give glimpses of the world of Therma. I feel like the book has a balance of world building and character drive.
I am so glad that, after I bought book one, I went ahead and returned to Ms. Fine's booth, to get books 2 and 3.
some triggers: Desiree has been through foster care and has experienced the not so good side of it. She was abused, and SA'd.
There is a guy brought to Kalani. He was a pedophile, I don't know if we will get more information on this guy other than the fact that he does go to a prison. Desiree really struggles with saving him from demons. I don't blame her at all for that.
Those were the main things that sorta stuck with me. There may be something I missed, so as always, I recommend checking for other trigger warnings.
I bought this book from the author Jolene Fine, at Rangerstop and Pop Atlanta back in June. All thoughts are my own.
I was hooked from the start. This is a unique and interesting world. There is sci-fi and fantasy, the pacing is pretty quick, and the story engaging. The characters, in my opinion, are well written, and the switch from Desiree 's point of view to Zach's felt smooth. I enjoyed the time spent to build the world of Kalani and the time spent to give glimpses of the world of Therma. I feel like the book has a balance of world building and character drive.
I am so glad that, after I bought book one, I went ahead and returned to Ms. Fine's booth, to get books 2 and 3.
some triggers: Desiree has been through foster care and has experienced the not so good side of it. She was abused, and SA'd.
There is a guy brought to Kalani. He was a pedophile, I don't know if we will get more information on this guy other than the fact that he does go to a prison. Desiree really struggles with saving him from demons. I don't blame her at all for that.
Those were the main things that sorta stuck with me. There may be something I missed, so as always, I recommend checking for other trigger warnings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2024
To be honest, I was very curious about this book for a while. It very different than what I'm used to reading. I consider this book to be a Christian/sci-fi combo which is very unique and intriguing. I think Jolene really put a lot of effort into describing their world and how immortals can have their own issues. It took me a while to read through the first half as I was trying to get familiar with everything in it. I like how both characters are strong in their own way. Zach is definitely my favorite and he shows a lot of growth and defiance. Desiree has her own insecurities, which I can relate to. Things especially change in the end--- it really shows different perspectives--defies/challenges their deity vs. having faith. I think the book is very well written and it presents a very creative way on how to explain the perception of true faith.
January 4, 2025
I’m so happy that I made the decision to turn around at the anime convention to buy this book. It was lovely to meet the author in the flesh. Normally, sci-fi does not interest me, not even a little. For some reason, this book called out to me. The point of view between two different people was super exciting to read. I have such a strong connection with Desire. I can tell the author put so much feeling into this book which makes me want to give her a massive bear hug. I couldn’t put it down. Seriously… Usually, I read three different books at the same time to alternate as I get bored. This book has been my sole focus for the past three weeks. As a writer, I do have to mention that I did find a few grammatical errors in chapters 30-40. My keen eye in my own work has made me this way. The storyline alone is very well written.
December 19, 2025
Audiobook review: this has been a delight to listen to. The story is compelling with plenty of internal and external conflict, and I adored the sound effects (voice filters, weapons, electric beams, etc) that made it extremely immersive. The Christian faith-based theme of "Not my will, but His be done" runs strong throughout. It was encouraging to follow the main characters as they discover what this means at a deep, sometimes heartbreaking level.
I do wish the side character relationships were more developed in Zach's POV, with a more satisfying ending stemming from that growth between them. There was also less romance than I expected. However, I see potential in the next installment. The overall story was engaging
from start to finish. I'm very excited to see what Zach, Desiree and Yu will be up to next.
I do wish the side character relationships were more developed in Zach's POV, with a more satisfying ending stemming from that growth between them. There was also less romance than I expected. However, I see potential in the next installment. The overall story was engaging
from start to finish. I'm very excited to see what Zach, Desiree and Yu will be up to next.
October 1, 2023
Sci Fi: 5 stars
Dystopian: 5 stars
Coming of Age: 5 stars
Characters: 5 stars
Plot: 3.5 stars
World Building: 4.5 stars
Symbolism: 6 stars
"Shadows of Destiny" is an appropriate title because you see a "glimpse" of the destiny of these two characters. The author is most definitely building a series here. An entire book on character development and emotionally motivated characters opposed to plot motivated characters. That being said, I could have used more plot or plot twists...because that's what I'm used to. However, It was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next book in the series. I'm definitely invested in these two characters.
Dystopian: 5 stars
Coming of Age: 5 stars
Characters: 5 stars
Plot: 3.5 stars
World Building: 4.5 stars
Symbolism: 6 stars
"Shadows of Destiny" is an appropriate title because you see a "glimpse" of the destiny of these two characters. The author is most definitely building a series here. An entire book on character development and emotionally motivated characters opposed to plot motivated characters. That being said, I could have used more plot or plot twists...because that's what I'm used to. However, It was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next book in the series. I'm definitely invested in these two characters.
October 1, 2023
The world-building in Kalani: Shadows of Destiny is simply mesmerizing. The author has created a rich and intricate universe filled with unique creatures, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep mythology. Every detail is carefully crafted, immersing you in the world of Kalani and making you feel as if you're a part of its vibrant tapestry.
For readers seeking Christian themes, this book offers a refreshing perspective. It tackles themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the strength of one's faith, all while weaving them seamlessly into the story. It's a book that will resonate with Christian readers and inspire meaningful introspection.
For readers seeking Christian themes, this book offers a refreshing perspective. It tackles themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the strength of one's faith, all while weaving them seamlessly into the story. It's a book that will resonate with Christian readers and inspire meaningful introspection.
October 19, 2025
I liked the plot, I only wish there was a trigger warning list in the beginning. This was darker than I expected. I do love a dark storyline and usually don't mind most of the content, but I was not mentally prepared for this.
Loved the Christian themes throughout the story, if you are looking for a Christian scifi fantasy then you may enjoy this.
triggers:
*on the page suicide (not graphic)
*Abortion mentions (called cancelations)
*the family on kalani receive a fetus from a cancellation to take care of.
*Foster system stuff
*child abuse/ sa/ child r@pe mentions (not graphic)
*drugs/ addiction
*cancer
Loved the Christian themes throughout the story, if you are looking for a Christian scifi fantasy then you may enjoy this.
triggers:
*on the page suicide (not graphic)
*Abortion mentions (called cancelations)
*the family on kalani receive a fetus from a cancellation to take care of.
*Foster system stuff
*child abuse/ sa/ child r@pe mentions (not graphic)
*drugs/ addiction
*cancer
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2023
This book reminded me of The Giver and Fahrenheit 451, some of the other books that I loved that contain a lot of metaphors. I saw it as a statement on our society. How people are just too involved in technology and those who are obsessed with being "Watchers" can't progress and are stagnate in society. Made me think about what camp I might be in. Sure, we all want to be Lambients, but maybe I'm not acting like one.
February 24, 2024
I really admired how the author melded themes of Christian faith with sci-fi elements. The world that the author built is complex and interesting. Desiree and Zach's journeys are filled with emotion, and both characters grow so much in this book. I'm excited to see where their paths take them in the next one. Overall a great read!
September 28, 2023
interesting world
Ms Fine creates a new type of world where immortals still have problem to overcome. This is a sort of coming of age book and would be appropriate for teen as well as adults.
Ms Fine creates a new type of world where immortals still have problem to overcome. This is a sort of coming of age book and would be appropriate for teen as well as adults.
October 1, 2023
The cover art of Kalani: Shadows of Destiny is absolutely captivating. The vibrant colors and intricate design immediately draw you in, hinting at the fantastical world that awaits inside. It perfectly captures the essence of the story and makes you want to delve into its pages.
December 17, 2023
Five stars, great YA book.
Two stories tied together perfectly at end. Two characters that were well thought out , believable, and intriguing.
* Reading level might be a little high for some teens though.
Two stories tied together perfectly at end. Two characters that were well thought out , believable, and intriguing.
* Reading level might be a little high for some teens though.
December 17, 2023
So you think the afterlife is happy and peaceful? Not a chance…. Says Author Jolene Fine.
Immortality rethought. Five stars. Very creative. Makes you think and challenge what you thought you knew about faith, magic, and spirituality. And…. Heaven?
Immortality rethought. Five stars. Very creative. Makes you think and challenge what you thought you knew about faith, magic, and spirituality. And…. Heaven?
February 11, 2024
Kalani: Shadows of Destiny was a scifi fantasy book. I listened to the audiobook and it was one of the best books I have read in the last few years. It is about faith and how faith makes us feel, and about the challenges of faith. It was a very good read and I entirely recommend it.
July 11, 2024
Loved the theme
The ending was very good. Lots of good lessons learned by all the main characters. However, it was a slow start. There was a lot of detail, but not much actual story for a lot of the book.
The ending was very good. Lots of good lessons learned by all the main characters. However, it was a slow start. There was a lot of detail, but not much actual story for a lot of the book.
September 16, 2024
𝑰 𝒆𝒏𝒋𝒐𝒚𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅.
Maybe I’d enjoy it more at a different time, but I just couldn’t really get into it. 🤧
𝓣𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓴 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓪𝓾𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓻 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓹𝓻𝓸𝓿𝓲𝓭𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪 𝓬𝓸𝓹𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀!
Maybe I’d enjoy it more at a different time, but I just couldn’t really get into it. 🤧
𝓣𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓴 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓪𝓾𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓻 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓹𝓻𝓸𝓿𝓲𝓭𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪 𝓬𝓸𝓹𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀!
September 23, 2023
Very symbolic of the afterlife/immortality. Will challenge your concept of what you think Heaven or the Spirit World might be.
October 1, 2023
Story of faith and hope. Inspiring. Well-written. Recommend to those who may be struggling with their belief in God.
October 1, 2023
a breeze to read. The author's writing style flows effortlessly
October 1, 2023
Cool world.
December 1, 2023
A well put together novel that stays engaging while keeping on track. The visual descriptions were on par with the story making for an over all wonderful book!
April 28, 2024
unique world building
I loved the unique world that was built and the way the story followed two separate characters on two separate journeys while still keeping you intrigued and wanting to know more. Can’t wait to read the next one.
I loved the unique world that was built and the way the story followed two separate characters on two separate journeys while still keeping you intrigued and wanting to know more. Can’t wait to read the next one.
June 24, 2024
This book started out slow but gathered speed quickly. There's some war, some romance, and a lot of characters finding out who they are deep in their souls.you travel from world to world, rescuing people at one point. One of the main characters has something amazing happen to her at the end. This book made me want to read the next one immediately.
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