The Adventures of Izzy Adams: Descending Into Darkness

by Jessica Lee Sheppard

Born into a lineage steeped in tradition, Isabelle ‘Izzy’ Adams stands at a crossroads. Should she uphold her family’s legacy or chase her own dreams of higher education and societal impact? Her dilemma intensifies after her father’s death, adding guilt to the burden of family expectations, not to mention the perplexities of young love.But one fateful night changes everything. Overwhelmed with emotion, Izzy is thrust into a mystical spirit world. Pursued by malevolent entities drawn to her vulnerability, she also finds an unlikely protector—a spirit who claims to be her destined soulmate. As they dodge dangers and defy the intentions of Izzy’s own spirit guide, who is hell-bent on wiping her memories, she must make a choice. Will she return to the world she knows or embrace her newfound self and challenge the status quo?‘Descending into Darkness’ is more than a tale of dual-dimensional adventure. It’s an empowering narrative that underscores the power of self-belief, the importance of following one’s own path, and the unyielding power of deep spiritual bonds.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction

218 pages, Hardcover

Published December 5, 2023

About the author

Award-Winning Author:

Feathered Quill Book Awards Finalist 2024 for both Fantasy and Debut Author categories

American Fiction Awards Finalist 2024 for the Coming of Age Category

The Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards Finalist 2024 for the Fiction: New Adult Category

Reviews

[TaraReadsBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun fantasy! Izzy was an intriguing and loveable character dealing with a lot of grief, and I enjoyed the horror elements in the book, especially in the first half. The world building was A LOT in the second half, but I think it left a lot of breadcrumbs to be explored further in the series.

[Emma Sadler · Rating 3 out of 5]

I should first of all say that I don’t think I was the target audience for this book. Some of the plot and characters were a bit “young” for me. For example the boyfriend being in a band and putting on “gigs”.
I had a bit of an issue with the pacing of the story. It was only a short book, but the first half barely anything happened it was so slow. Just a few odd things that Izzy couldn’t explain. Then BAM! Everything was thrown at the reader. It was almost as if the author had thought about what could go in a fantasy book, and tried to shoehorn them all into 50 pages or so. Each new and very short chapter took a turn and I struggled to keep up. Strange creatures, gods, alternate timelines, parallel universes, a sports match that seemed to be reminiscent of quidditch and even a covid like pandemic. I was left reeling, and not in a good way.

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Descending Into Darkness is the first novel in The Adventures of Izzy Adams series and a fantastic debut by author Jessica Sheppard. We first meet Izzy in such an interesting and unique way that allows readers to really understand the character and her current struggles. I loved going on Izzy’s journey into the spirit world and seeing her character develop during the course of the book. The paranormal elements were so well described which created many exciting and sometimes horrifying moments that I couldn’t put the second half of the book down. I can’t wait to go on Izzy’s next adventure!

[Abdul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Izzy's Wild Spirit Ride is not your grandma's ghost story


Jessica Lee Sheppard's The Adventures of Izzy Adams throws you headfirst into a trippy supernatural fantasy.

Our girl Izzy's got family drama for days and a metric ton of guilt on her shoulders.

But hold onto your hats, 'cause one night she accidentally astral projects into some next-level spirit domain.

It's all fun and games until the creepy crawlies show up, but don't worry – No maybe, maybe you should be worried because dodging the baddy will turn on.

Sheppard serves up a wild cocktail of real-world problems that'll keep you flipping pages faster and faster.

[Cynic Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely author’s first

Many times this read like a creative writing assignment or maybe like tv show. There are excessive details like smells in places where it doesn’t help the plot in the beginning , and the transition from the beginning to the part where the author really loved was a bit rough and those details kind of dropped out. The way characters are introduced tends to be sudden. The ending was also kind of a quick wrap up.

That being said, this is the author’s first book, and while it’s a little rough, it’s still really well done. The story is interesting and she does wrap up her plot lines. I think when she hits her stride, she’ll be phenomenal. I am curious about the next book and it was a good enough read that I will probably read it.

[Robyn Flint · Rating 4 out of 5]

creative

I rarely get to read books like this one. It is a creative story with great details and character development.

[Shawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got to meet the author at a Lavender Festival in Orangeville. Seems like a really great person. A great read. It was a pretty intense ride overall, and I was quite surprised how the 2nd half of the book went after the events of the 1st half. Overall, I really enjoyed it, and I can't wait to experience the next book!

[Debby Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this read. Recommend

[Charlie Dogo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A page turning descent into darkness!

The Adventures of Izzy Adam’s, written by author Jessica Lee Sheppard, is a fantastic fantasy novel with epic moments of adventure, thrills and mysterious encounters. There’re so many colorful characters, but Izzy, or Iz, takes the cake and front stage as everything plays out before her.
My gosh! I loved the details Sheppard puts into her writing, “It’s highly descriptive and pulls the reader into the pages!”
Five big stars and more for this one ❤️🥳🥰

[Sara Hailstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Adventures of Izzy Adams” by award winning author, Jessica Lee Sheppard contains two, and soon to be three books in a series of five. “Descending into Darkness,” and “Bound by Darkness,” pull us into the life of Isabelle ‘Izzy’ Adams, a college student on the brink of waking up to a supernatural existence layered with folklore and a compelling cast of dangerous characters.

Izzy’s story begins in the pits of normalcy, she is torn between the obligation of carrying on a family business that her heart is not in, or, pursuing higher education against her domineering mother’s wishes. There is also the death of her father that haunts her and has left her vulnerable and obedient. Izzy’s life is thrown into a whirlwind of the supernatural when she astral projects one night into supernatural realms. She is stalked and attacked thereafter by these supernatural forces. With the state of her mental faculties in self-doubt, Sheppard carves out a character arc of a strong-spirited young woman coming into her own power and understanding of a world that was never as it appeared to be.

Threaded through these trajectories of multi-dimensional existences and boundaries set in her mortal life, Sheppard also encapsulates romance and the type of love we crave, a soul-mate love that extends beyond time and the limitations of space.

“Descending into Darkness” and “Bound by Darkness” exemplify a prowess in world-building and rich characterization that will appeal to readers who fell in love with Harry Potter. Amongst the shock and intrigue of mystical plot-elements, readers will fall in love with Izzy, her untamed hair and quirky idiosyncricities, and above all, they will root for her as she takes on more than what other college students go through.

Published on November 26, 2023, “Descending into Darkness” was the Feathered Quill Book Awards finalist for 2024 for both Fantasy and Debut Author categories. “Descending into Darkness” also was a finalist for the American Fiction Awards for the Coming of Age Category. Lastly, the novel was a finalist for The Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards in Fiction: New Adult Category. Readers will become invested in this Fantasy series with a rich protagonist and the promise of the potential of an up and coming Canadian author.

Jessica Lee Sheppard is a multi-award-winning Canadian author, social worker and mother of four. Sheppard earned her Masters in social work and has worked in child protection and mental health. This career trajectory has shaped her and inspired her writing. Pulling in themes centred around trauma and societal issues, Sheppard’s narratives push readers through real-world challenges underlying Fantasy plot elements. Admirably, Sheppard is self-published and has created her own publishing platform, Sheplen Press. Stamping her thumbprint through marketing and her involvement in festivals, Sheppard is forging her place in the Canadian industry.

Izzy took on a presence in my mind of a believable and relatable lead protagonist. I enjoyed witnessing her growth and rising to occasions in the midst of horror and suspense. Character pieces like twisting her blond curls around her finger and the dialogue with her family gave depth to Izzy and the supernatural world she would find herself immersed in.

The plotline of “Descending into Darkness” is described by other reviewers as “a slow-burning ember, gradually intensifying into a magnificent inferno over time.” It is evident that much thought and planning has gone into the span of a five-book series, Sheppard has left Easter eggs throughout that ties the overarching plot together. A supernatural landscape embedded with the human world was pulled off seamlessly enriching the setting and character orientation within it. The blend of mystical and human was believable, while some scenes have stayed in my mind.

Sheppard gives context to the creative and personal development of the spiritual on her website. The author explains that her “fascination with the afterlife began at our kitchen table, watching the women in my family get their tea leaves read. I was enthralled by the possibility that a spirit could be right there, whispering secrets from beyond.” She continues, “as I grew older, I found myself seeking out psychics, eagerly writing down the reading. Regardless of whether their predictions materialized, I persisted in exploring the world of spiritualism, desperately seeking some form of connection with “the other side.”” These encounters inspired Sheppard’s writing. “All of this gave me an idea for a novel about how a soul transforms. It would explore how a person’s choices across multiple lives could corrupt their soul, turning it from something pure into an irredeemable darkness.” Thus, “The Adventures of Izzy Adams” was born. “It was at this moment that my oldest daughter, Isabelle, otherwise known as “Izzy,” came to mind—a vibrant little prankster with blonde hair, sparkling blue eyes and a strong-willed spirit. Drawing from my daughter’s personality, as well as some of my own traits, the main character of my story came to life.” Blending real life and Fantasy, Sheppard has succeeded in creating a fictional world of intrigue.

I didn’t always see what was coming, and the curve balls in the plotline deepened Izzy’s story. This series will appeal to YA and Fantasy readers alike. I look forward to Book Three, “Shattered by Darkness” and the remainder of “The Adventures of Izzy Adams.”


https://www.sarahailstone.com/book-re...-

[Arthur Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main character, Izzy Adams, is compelling and drives the story forward with her distinct personality. Having compelling characters is important to me as a reader and it usually makes or breaks the book for me. I enjoyed Izzy Adams. Jessica Lee Sheppard successfully builds a believable world through Izzy, effectively capturing her growth and struggles. While Izzy Adams is well-developed, some supporting characters lack the same depth and complexity. Their motivations and backstories remain underexplored, occasionally detracting from my ability to connect with them.

The dialogue is realistic and well-constructed, though it occasionally slips into clichés that weaken certain scenes. Some conversations come across as stiff, making engaging with the characters emotionally challenging.

The story maintains a steady pace, never lingering too long on any single moment or rushing through key events, which I appreciate in a book. The sequence of events unfolds logically, keeping me engaged and curious. However, some subplots seem to disrupt the flow rather than enhance it, leading to minor confusion. Even with these disruptions, the transitions between scenes are handled seamlessly, ensuring the overall storyline remains cohesive. The plot has a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Overall, The Adventures of Izzy Adams: Descending Into Darkness balances suspense, action, and character development well. The book’s engaging plot and atmospheric setting provide a satisfying read despite a few predictable elements. The ending ties up loose ends while leaving room for further exploration, which will appeal to readers, including me, who enjoy character-driven narratives with a darker edge.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spellbinding and Strang

It’s a living nightmare into the spirit realm, a dark, strange abyss, but I can't turn back now. Curiosity is battling with fear, making every step forward a struggle.

The Adventures of Izzy Adams: Descending into Darkness is a bone-chilling tale that follows the journey of a young woman as she delves deep into strange and unknown territories. This new adult, coming-of-age novel is a gem from Canada, blending elements of the supernatural with real-life struggles to create an enthralling and haunting read. As Izzy embarks on a quest into the spirit world, she must also confront the pressures of her friends, family, and the pursuit of her dreams. But in this strange and eerie realm, she encounters daunting forces and battles conflicts within herself that threaten to devour her whole. Expertly crafted by Sheppard, this story weaves together complex characters and a vivid world, immersing readers in a mesmerizing and terrifying tale. The backdrop of a funeral home only adds to the spine-tingling atmosphere as Izzy grapples with themes of discrimination and poverty while navigating through mystical realms. With every turn of the page, readers will be left on edge, questioning what is truly real and what is merely a creation of their own imagination.

[Brandee Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Descending into Darkness by Jessica Lee Sheppard is a wonderful debut supernatural fantasy novel. This is the first novel in The Adventures of Izzy Adams series. Sheppard's world-building and character descriptions draw in the reader from the beginning, and the action and dialogue carry the story to the end.

Izzy Adams is a college student who is destined to carry on her family's business. However, her dreams lie elsewhere. In the midst of figuring out her next steps in her career and her relationship with Kyler (a young musician), and the new dynamics of her family after the tragic passing of her father a year earlier, Izzy begins to notice small differences in the world around her. These differences lead Izzy into an adventure of discovery not only of another dimension but also a discovery of herself and her place in her new reality.

I thoroughly look forward to reading more from Sheppard, especially the second book in this series. This debut novel shows much promise from an inventive and imaginative author who will no doubt be entertaining readers for years to come. I received a complimentary advance copy. This review is honest and voluntary.

[Kajori · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Adventures of Izzy Adams: Descending into Darkness is the first book in the series penned by Jessica Sheppard. Since losing her father in an accident, Izzy has immersed herself in spiritualism. She has been seeing and feeling things that are unnatural. Either she has lost her mind or truly discovered her spirituality. Also, she has been experiencing troubles with her family, friends, and boyfriend. Jessica Sheppard's The Adventures of Izzy Adams: Descending into Darkness is the coming-of-age tale of Izzy Adams with a twist of fantasy. Along with Izzy, the book literally takes us to the spiritual realm. It gives us a fantastical yet realistic idea about life after death. Along with all the action, adventure, and magic, Sheppard sheds light on important issues like racism and discrimination. I highly recommend this book to all YA and fantasy fans.

[Sari · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fresh Paranormal Fantasy

Sheppard's debut novel is a fresh take on the wide-ranging genre. Readers may joyfully reminisce in areas of familiarity, and be equally surprised and curious by the elements of the story you didn't see coming. If you are a fan of extensive world-building, this Adventure is for you! The possibilities are endless when you are reminded that this is Book 1 in a new series of the young Izzy Adams. Sheppard works to create a character in Izzy that you can connect with intimately, and yet understand that her potential avenues of personal challenges and setbacks, and growth and maturity, will keep you guessing about where she will go from here. This is just the beginning.

[Bill Conrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading too many self-help books recently and needed a break. So, I downloaded The Adventures of Izzy Adams: Descending Into Darkness by Jessica Lee Sheppard. It masterfully blends supernatural elements with a profound journey of self-discovery. The main character, Izzy, confronts otherworldly threats and personal struggles, creating a captivating narrative delving into themes of identity, courage, and familial expectations. With expertly crafted paranormal elements and poignant real-world issues like racism and bullying, this novel offers a fresh and engaging take on the new adult genre. I recommend this standout story that seamlessly intertwines the mundane and the magical, appealing to readers seeking a captivating blend of fantasy and reality.

[Paul Russell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I rate this book. With a blend of supernatural elements and deep emotional exploration, I found this novel captivating from the start. Portrayed with raw honesty, the complex relationships, particularly between Izzy and her sister Kate, reflect the struggles of grief and healing. For me, the whimsical, yet dark setting adds a layer of enchantment, drawing readers into a world where the mystical and mundane collide. The characters are well-developed, and Izzy’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment is inspiring. The author masterfully intertwines themes of love, loss, and the search for identity, making this a compelling read for those who enjoy thoughtful writing. My only criticism: I found the pace slow during the first third.

[Damselinthisdress21 · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would have to say, this one wasn't for me. It started out super slow and continued that way for slightly over half of the book. When it did start to pick up, it was a bit overwhelming and hard to follow for me personally. There was very good world and character building though, and I did love Izzy's character, she was very well written, and very relatable, and the plot wasnt bad, so I will leave the review somewhere in the middle as there are some pros, and some cons. I will probably give the next one in the series a fighting chance, as usually the first book in a series is more introductory and leaves less room for the plot.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt incredibly weird to read as the author is local to me and reading about the local town names, highway exits, and so on, felt odd to me but also really interesting.
As for the actual content — the story itself was really intriguing and definitely kept me turning pages. I didn't expect it to go the way that it did, leaving it unpredictable which is exactly what I prefer in a book.
HOWEVER, I did notice by the time I got to the end that there seems to be a few plotholes. There are a few things that don't quite add up, or weren't explained, leaving me with a few unanswered questions.

All in all though, I really enjoyed reading this book. I definitely recommend others give it a read.

[Kalan Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Adventures of Izzy Adams: Descending into Darkness was such a fun read! The gradual build of suspense had me unable to put this book down, I just had to see what happened next. Throughout the novel I felt almost every emotion imaginable, which kept me engaged and excited to continue reading. I can not wait to crack open the next novel to see what Izzy is up to and what adventure she will be taking me on!

[Jeanné Olivier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first fantasy book I've read in a couple of years, and I absolutely adored Izzy! I think it was well written, with relatable and likeable characters, and an enchanting and thought-provoking story-line. I really enjoyed the way real-world social issues were blended with the fantastical world, and I thought the funeral home was a creative and intriguing setting. I'm looking forward to the next one!

[Frances ORourke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book, and the author, at a local craft sale! What a pleasure! The story is great, delightful characters, and a good read! The author was telling me that she was writing the second book in the series, and I look forward to reading it!
Good job, Jessica! Did you manage to work me into the next book? Frances 🤗

[Quinn · Rating 2 out of 5]

While I found the book ok it took a while to get into at first. About half way through, I was really getting into Izzy's life and where she was headed. However, as the book went on, I felt lost and overwhelmed by all of the different aspects being thrown at me. It was hard to follow at times. I will read the next book in the series cause I would like to see where it takes Izzy.

[Marissa Samons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Normally I can start to predict the direction a story is going to go; but that wasn't the case with this book. The adventure the main character embarks on was a pleasant surprise. Well written and flows well. I'll be watching for the next book. **I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alicia Marsland · Rating 3 out of 5]

weird story

It was hard to decide whether this was a cartoon or a true drama/love story sort of thing. So many bizarre things happened that were hard to take seriously, but they were definitely imaginative and interesting. It just made the story’s tone bounce up and down.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Adventures of Izzy Adams

This is a fun coming-of-age paranormal fantasy story. It has great character development and a creative plot. I enjoyed it!

[Logan Carragher · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting world building. Definitely sets up for future expansion and adventure. Not sure where the plot was going for most of the book though.

[Laura Sweeney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The storyline pulls you in and the writing feels natural. Easy read for sure! Can't wait for book 2!

[Paula McFadden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting Introduction To a Hidden World

I did find this a little hard to get into, but once I did I was hooked. I look forward to continuing Izzy's adventures.

[Sean White · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a great adventure. The plot pulled me in right away. It's also well written, which is just as important to me as having a good story. Definitely recommended.