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The Amari #1
In The Shadows
Damned by gods and threaded by fates, two mortals must embrace the darkness to find their true destinies.
Lilith Clarke is supposed to be dead: murdered by the vicious King Oren, her blood staining a field of daisies. But death would have been merciful.
After years of having no name, she is finally given a title: Queen of Umbra. But it will cost her everything. Lily is now bound to King Asher, the most powerful and brutal shadow divinus in all of Omnia. Forced to rule in secret, she slowly loses herself to the darkness. She fears it will swallow her whole.
Until he arrives, tugging an ancient thread deep within her soul.
Theodore Kincaid seeks justice in Umbra but falls captive to his sworn enemy, the ruthless King Asher. Trapped in the kingdom that killed his beloved, his fate seems sealed until a chance encounter with the secret Queen of Umbra offers him an opportunity he can’t resist.
Theo and the Queen each believe that they are in full control, but neither is prepared for what the fates have in store.
Amidst a realm on the brink of chaos, two souls collide in a heart-wrenching tale of unveiling secrets, conquering the darkness, and igniting a love that could save or destroy.
In The Shadows is the first book in a new series filled with forbidden romance, enemies-to-lovers, magical powers, fated mates, and political intrigue. It’s perfect for fans of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, Fourth Wing, The Cruel Prince, One Dark Window, and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Lilith Clarke is supposed to be dead: murdered by the vicious King Oren, her blood staining a field of daisies. But death would have been merciful.
After years of having no name, she is finally given a title: Queen of Umbra. But it will cost her everything. Lily is now bound to King Asher, the most powerful and brutal shadow divinus in all of Omnia. Forced to rule in secret, she slowly loses herself to the darkness. She fears it will swallow her whole.
Until he arrives, tugging an ancient thread deep within her soul.
Theodore Kincaid seeks justice in Umbra but falls captive to his sworn enemy, the ruthless King Asher. Trapped in the kingdom that killed his beloved, his fate seems sealed until a chance encounter with the secret Queen of Umbra offers him an opportunity he can’t resist.
Theo and the Queen each believe that they are in full control, but neither is prepared for what the fates have in store.
Amidst a realm on the brink of chaos, two souls collide in a heart-wrenching tale of unveiling secrets, conquering the darkness, and igniting a love that could save or destroy.
In The Shadows is the first book in a new series filled with forbidden romance, enemies-to-lovers, magical powers, fated mates, and political intrigue. It’s perfect for fans of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, Fourth Wing, The Cruel Prince, One Dark Window, and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
496 pages, ebook
First published February 27, 2024
708 people are currently reading
15753 people want to read
About the author
L.B. August
1 book195 followersBorn and raised in Ohio, where she still resides with her spouse, young child, and sweet senior dog, L.B. August’s most significant memories are Cedar Point and failing Hooked on Phonics (true story). Thrill seeking and difficulty reading followed L.B. into adulthood until, in 2022, she discovered a genre that tapped into the excitement of escapism and world building while capturing her attention and turning her into a voracious reader of fantasy. As she devoured book after book, L.B. found herself desperately wanting to read more empowered female characters within the genre, so she set off to write her own. Encouraged by her best friend, she wrote her debut novel, In The Shadows. Now she can be found hyper-fixating on new projects, downing copious amounts of black coffee, and pretending to be a corporate professional, all while crafting intricate, rich stories with captivating characters that she hopes will pass on her newfound passion for reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
May 16, 2025
5 STARS!!!! *breaths heavily*
Y’all… PLEASE READ THIS BOOK! The way this flips all the tropes we know and love on its head is… *chef’s kiss*.
She’s the morally grey dom FMC who is forced into the shadows, but her heart yearns for her one true love, which they call ‘Amari’. His name is Theo.
He is a hot golden retriever man, and I LOVE HIM. He refers to her as his ‘warrior’, ‘queen’ and so many more things. I am obsessed.
This love story was so refreshing, and this take on romantasy is something I’d love to see more of.
I cannot wait for book 2, holy shit. It’s going to explode!
Y’all… PLEASE READ THIS BOOK! The way this flips all the tropes we know and love on its head is… *chef’s kiss*.
She’s the morally grey dom FMC who is forced into the shadows, but her heart yearns for her one true love, which they call ‘Amari’. His name is Theo.
He is a hot golden retriever man, and I LOVE HIM. He refers to her as his ‘warrior’, ‘queen’ and so many more things. I am obsessed.
This love story was so refreshing, and this take on romantasy is something I’d love to see more of.
I cannot wait for book 2, holy shit. It’s going to explode!
March 3, 2024
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by ZooloosBookTours.
In the Shadows is the first book in a new fantasy series, and all the way through, I had to keep reminding myself that this is a debut author. This book may be over 400 pages, but I devoured it in three sittings.
We follow Lilith (Lily) and Theodore (Theo) who's paths are entwined on a multi-layerd path of politics, romance, magic, and fate filled with secrets, destiny, desire and revenge along the way.
Each character is brought to life with amazing detail, and I adored Lily and Theo so much. I felt a part of the story, and each scene played vividly through my mind. There is some spice in this book, but it doesn't dominate it in any way and is tastefully and sensually written into the story.
There are some trigger warnings that are listed in the book, so do check these out if you are triggered easily or by certain topics.
Any fans of fantasy, romantasy, and dark fantasy really need to pick this book up! You can thank me later!
In the Shadows is the first book in a new fantasy series, and all the way through, I had to keep reminding myself that this is a debut author. This book may be over 400 pages, but I devoured it in three sittings.
We follow Lilith (Lily) and Theodore (Theo) who's paths are entwined on a multi-layerd path of politics, romance, magic, and fate filled with secrets, destiny, desire and revenge along the way.
Each character is brought to life with amazing detail, and I adored Lily and Theo so much. I felt a part of the story, and each scene played vividly through my mind. There is some spice in this book, but it doesn't dominate it in any way and is tastefully and sensually written into the story.
There are some trigger warnings that are listed in the book, so do check these out if you are triggered easily or by certain topics.
Any fans of fantasy, romantasy, and dark fantasy really need to pick this book up! You can thank me later!
Read
March 14, 2024DNF around 100 pages.
I don't really see how this has got so many high reviews, but maybe it gets a lot better.
Almost straight away I wasn't into this, although I couldn't work out why, so I kept going with it.
I didn't like that the relationship and feelings between the characters was already established from the opening page. I know that it then gets complicated, but the whole getting to know each other and the feelings developing is the part of the story I tend to enjoy, so I didn't find myself massively interested in them.
The whole hook up in the first few chapters put me off, too, as it felt dodgy that he couldn't remember who she was to him but she could. That wasn't really right and then she gave him something to make him forget. I feel like if the genders were swapped that would be massively dodgy, so it didn't sit right with me.
But my main issue I eventually worked out was the first person narration. It's usually something I like, but this was somehow told in such a dull way. It just felt like we were being told what was happening constantly rather than shown. So I got to 100 pages and it didn't get any better for me.
But loads of people seem to love it, so maybe it is just me. Leaving unrated, as I don't like to rate books I haven't actually finished or read a large chunk of
I don't really see how this has got so many high reviews, but maybe it gets a lot better.
Almost straight away I wasn't into this, although I couldn't work out why, so I kept going with it.
I didn't like that the relationship and feelings between the characters was already established from the opening page. I know that it then gets complicated, but the whole getting to know each other and the feelings developing is the part of the story I tend to enjoy, so I didn't find myself massively interested in them.
The whole hook up in the first few chapters put me off, too, as it felt dodgy that he couldn't remember who she was to him but she could. That wasn't really right and then she gave him something to make him forget. I feel like if the genders were swapped that would be massively dodgy, so it didn't sit right with me.
But my main issue I eventually worked out was the first person narration. It's usually something I like, but this was somehow told in such a dull way. It just felt like we were being told what was happening constantly rather than shown. So I got to 100 pages and it didn't get any better for me.
But loads of people seem to love it, so maybe it is just me. Leaving unrated, as I don't like to rate books I haven't actually finished or read a large chunk of
November 15, 2024
Ok, i’ve been sitting here trying to gather my thoughts on this book, and all I can say is wow I was not expecting anything in the story. I loved everything from the beginning to the end, and the twist and turns were not expected at all.
I loved how fierce the main female character was. Theo I wanted to smack upside the head a few times. 😂
It’s hard to write a review without giving away spoilers. I went into this completely blind, not even reading the blurb. I think it made it so much more exciting not knowing what was happening from one moment to the next, and I highly recommend doing just that and diving into this book and reading it.
If you are a fans of Raven Kennedy and Charissa Weaks…you will love this book! I’m shocked to see this is the authors debut book. I loved this book was so different from all other romantasy books I’ve read. I’m excited to read more from her.
This book is going to be ranked at the one of my top reads this year.
This book has lots of spice and it does end in a cliffhanger.
I loved how fierce the main female character was. Theo I wanted to smack upside the head a few times. 😂
It’s hard to write a review without giving away spoilers. I went into this completely blind, not even reading the blurb. I think it made it so much more exciting not knowing what was happening from one moment to the next, and I highly recommend doing just that and diving into this book and reading it.
If you are a fans of Raven Kennedy and Charissa Weaks…you will love this book! I’m shocked to see this is the authors debut book. I loved this book was so different from all other romantasy books I’ve read. I’m excited to read more from her.
This book is going to be ranked at the one of my top reads this year.
This book has lots of spice and it does end in a cliffhanger.
February 27, 2024
Fantasy Masterpiece
I need to give this all the stars and more!
I have so much I need to say about this book.
It is the authors debut novel and oh my, it did not disappoint!
This is gonna be as spoiler free as possible because everyone needs to read this, if you're a fantasy lover!
From the prologue, I was immediately hooked and knew this was gonna be complex , heartfelt, and have a great storyline.
It was an absolute joy to read, and I read it in around 12 hours, I could NOT put it down!
It starts with our 2 main characters, Lily and Theo, in their teenage years, living in Lux, in the world of Omina.
As we go through the book, it follows them and their love story, which is passionate, heartbreaking, uplifting, and full of so much love my heart wanted to burst!
The world building is exceptional. Really clear, concise wording builds a beautiful vivid picture of all the parts of Omina, especially Lux and the shadow realm of Umbra.
Each character is so well thought out, with clear visions of what they look like, complex emotional personalities, and multi layered growth.
The villains of the story are detestable and I absolutely raged at points due to what they do and how they treat certain characters. I was so invested in their wellbeing, when they were hurt, it hurt me.
There are heavy spice scenes, but they are beautiful, hot, and sensual. I need a Theo and a Lily in my life! There is a great Bi rep in this, too , with everything being sensitively handled.
There are graphic descriptions of abuse and violence against women , but again, it added to the story in such a way that it had me in tears. I really felt for the character involved.
The ending is just WOW! It's left me wanting book 2 like now! My heart was ripped out, then put back together, then ripped out again! Allll the feels!
All in all, this is an absolute masterpiece in fantasy writing, and I read A LOT of fantasy. Totally flawless.
TW: Violence, implied sexual assault, Mysongeny, torture, kidnap, emotional abuse .
FAVE QUOTES:
“I wish it was you because it has always been you. Even death can’t stop my love for you. The thread linking us will never break,”
“I’ll cross any line if it means keeping you safe. I’ll always put your safety and well-being above all else. I’m bound to you by duty and soul. You’re my Amari, too. There’s no length I won’t go to protect you, even if the one you need protecting from is the one tied to your heart.”
I need to give this all the stars and more!
I have so much I need to say about this book.
It is the authors debut novel and oh my, it did not disappoint!
This is gonna be as spoiler free as possible because everyone needs to read this, if you're a fantasy lover!
From the prologue, I was immediately hooked and knew this was gonna be complex , heartfelt, and have a great storyline.
It was an absolute joy to read, and I read it in around 12 hours, I could NOT put it down!
It starts with our 2 main characters, Lily and Theo, in their teenage years, living in Lux, in the world of Omina.
As we go through the book, it follows them and their love story, which is passionate, heartbreaking, uplifting, and full of so much love my heart wanted to burst!
The world building is exceptional. Really clear, concise wording builds a beautiful vivid picture of all the parts of Omina, especially Lux and the shadow realm of Umbra.
Each character is so well thought out, with clear visions of what they look like, complex emotional personalities, and multi layered growth.
The villains of the story are detestable and I absolutely raged at points due to what they do and how they treat certain characters. I was so invested in their wellbeing, when they were hurt, it hurt me.
There are heavy spice scenes, but they are beautiful, hot, and sensual. I need a Theo and a Lily in my life! There is a great Bi rep in this, too , with everything being sensitively handled.
There are graphic descriptions of abuse and violence against women , but again, it added to the story in such a way that it had me in tears. I really felt for the character involved.
The ending is just WOW! It's left me wanting book 2 like now! My heart was ripped out, then put back together, then ripped out again! Allll the feels!
All in all, this is an absolute masterpiece in fantasy writing, and I read A LOT of fantasy. Totally flawless.
TW: Violence, implied sexual assault, Mysongeny, torture, kidnap, emotional abuse .
FAVE QUOTES:
“I wish it was you because it has always been you. Even death can’t stop my love for you. The thread linking us will never break,”
“I’ll cross any line if it means keeping you safe. I’ll always put your safety and well-being above all else. I’m bound to you by duty and soul. You’re my Amari, too. There’s no length I won’t go to protect you, even if the one you need protecting from is the one tied to your heart.”
March 6, 2024
This was honestly a little bit of a letdown. The idea behind the plot is cool but I feel like the story and details need to be fleshed out more.
I really did not like this romance. The MMC was insufferable and was nonstop going back and forth from “YOURE A MANIPULATIVE MONSTER” to “I would switch allegiance if she asked she’s everything to me I love her”. I was so annoyed by the constant whiplash. It goes on and on for the entirety of the book.
I mean even up until the very end he was calling her a liar and screaming at her? Like i’m sorry but nothing about this was swoon worthy. I was rooting for them to breakup.
There were a lot of plot points that were randomly thrown into the story with no details to make the story flow smoothly.
This was just not for me.
I really did not like this romance. The MMC was insufferable and was nonstop going back and forth from “YOURE A MANIPULATIVE MONSTER” to “I would switch allegiance if she asked she’s everything to me I love her”. I was so annoyed by the constant whiplash. It goes on and on for the entirety of the book.
I mean even up until the very end he was calling her a liar and screaming at her? Like i’m sorry but nothing about this was swoon worthy. I was rooting for them to breakup.
There were a lot of plot points that were randomly thrown into the story with no details to make the story flow smoothly.
This was just not for me.
April 5, 2025
UMMM 4.5⭐️ THIS WAS SO STINKING GOOD???
I NEED BOOK 2 like yesterday!!!!! That ending!!???
Seriously this was so unbelievably unique & literally the best time. The spice, THE TENSION! WOW I’m shook rn.
☑️ forbidden love
☑️ enemies to lovers
☑️ memory loss (done right!!!)
☑️ fated mates
☑️ shadow MOMMY ‼️
☑️ SPICEEEE 🌶️🌶️🌶️
☑️ court politics
☑️ secrets & prophecy !!!
Just read this NOW so I have someone to yap to !!! Please!!
I NEED BOOK 2 like yesterday!!!!! That ending!!???
Seriously this was so unbelievably unique & literally the best time. The spice, THE TENSION! WOW I’m shook rn.
☑️ forbidden love
☑️ enemies to lovers
☑️ memory loss (done right!!!)
☑️ fated mates
☑️ shadow MOMMY ‼️
☑️ SPICEEEE 🌶️🌶️🌶️
☑️ court politics
☑️ secrets & prophecy !!!
Just read this NOW so I have someone to yap to !!! Please!!
May 21, 2025
Holy fuck this is slept on.
I devoured this. Loved this. That ending!?!? RUDE. I need book two immediately or I might start committing crimes.
This follows to people who discover they are “Amari” (soulmates) and fall madly in love, but of course evil forces pull them a part. It’s many years later when we reunite with these characters and may I just say, this was beautiful.
I LOVED the love story. So incredibly romantic and heartbreaking. Lily? She’s the shadow mommy of my dreams. We love a bi, flirty, dark queen. I love how strong she is for her people and how much she does to try and find her way back to Theo. She might be one of my fave FMC’s. Her shadow powers are epic, and I ate up the flirty banter she gave us.
Theo. My sweet cinnamon roll man. You want a man who lets his lady take control? Who praises her every step of the way? A man hopelessly in love that it basically consumes him. Ugh we love it. It was so heartbreaking to read his inner turmoil when falling for our queen. AND DID I MENTION ENDING!? RUUUDE. I had tears and now I’m terrified.
This definitely set up for more to come in the next book in terms of the fantasy plot. In this, we focused more on Theo and Lily’s love while also uncovering a mysterious and epic plot along the way. It all came together so perfectly (and soul-crushingly) in the end.
Okay, so give me book two.
I devoured this. Loved this. That ending!?!? RUDE. I need book two immediately or I might start committing crimes.
This follows to people who discover they are “Amari” (soulmates) and fall madly in love, but of course evil forces pull them a part. It’s many years later when we reunite with these characters and may I just say, this was beautiful.
I LOVED the love story. So incredibly romantic and heartbreaking. Lily? She’s the shadow mommy of my dreams. We love a bi, flirty, dark queen. I love how strong she is for her people and how much she does to try and find her way back to Theo. She might be one of my fave FMC’s. Her shadow powers are epic, and I ate up the flirty banter she gave us.
Theo. My sweet cinnamon roll man. You want a man who lets his lady take control? Who praises her every step of the way? A man hopelessly in love that it basically consumes him. Ugh we love it. It was so heartbreaking to read his inner turmoil when falling for our queen. AND DID I MENTION ENDING!? RUUUDE. I had tears and now I’m terrified.
This definitely set up for more to come in the next book in terms of the fantasy plot. In this, we focused more on Theo and Lily’s love while also uncovering a mysterious and epic plot along the way. It all came together so perfectly (and soul-crushingly) in the end.
Okay, so give me book two.
June 3, 2025
I DEVOURED this! HOW aren’t more people talking about this book??
🎧/📖: I combined reading with the audiobook, and the dual narrators… goddamn 🔥🥵 They made me blush, Flawless. 100% recommend the audio version!
What truly hooked me was the flipped dynamic: she’s the powerful, morally grey (shadow mama Queen!!) shaped by a dark past and walking a razor’s edge between vengeance and vulnerability. He’s the strong, sexy captain of the guard (for another land) - but with golden retriever energy and a genuinely good heart.
And the twist? He’s her prisoner. He doesn’t recognize her -his Amari, his fated mate, his childhood best friend- because he’s been forced to forget her. Worse, he believes she’s dead.
Their bond is deeply emotional… and absolutely gut-wrenching as it all starts to unravel. Watching her carry the weight of knowing who he is - while he stares at her like a stranger - was devastating in the best way.
The slow reveal of her trauma and his buried memories gave their relationship a raw, aching tension I couldn’t look away from. And the concept of the Amari - mortal mates, soul-deep and irrevocably bound as one true loves - adds an extra layer of pain and longing. Add in a land stalked by monsters creeping from the shadows, and divine powers she never asked for - a so-called gift from the gods that feels more like a curse - and you’ve got something that feels epic.
But that CLIFFHANGER? Absolutely brutal! I turned the last page with wide eyes, a racing heart… and the author absolutely did me dirty - no release date for Book 2 in sight!! 😩 Unforgivable. I CANNOT wait for the second book!
If you love:
• Morally grey heroines who own the shadows
• Strong, golden-retriever MMCs with buried history
• The prisoner/captor trope done right
• Monsters and divine magic with a cost
• Soul-deep fated mates (Amari) that hurt so good
• Books that make you scream “what just happened!!” at the end, if you love all that…. then read this! Come suffer with me and wait for book 2. (It’s free on Kindle Unlimited)
🎧/📖: I combined reading with the audiobook, and the dual narrators… goddamn 🔥🥵 They made me blush, Flawless. 100% recommend the audio version!
What truly hooked me was the flipped dynamic: she’s the powerful, morally grey (shadow mama Queen!!) shaped by a dark past and walking a razor’s edge between vengeance and vulnerability. He’s the strong, sexy captain of the guard (for another land) - but with golden retriever energy and a genuinely good heart.
And the twist? He’s her prisoner. He doesn’t recognize her -his Amari, his fated mate, his childhood best friend- because he’s been forced to forget her. Worse, he believes she’s dead.
Their bond is deeply emotional… and absolutely gut-wrenching as it all starts to unravel. Watching her carry the weight of knowing who he is - while he stares at her like a stranger - was devastating in the best way.
The slow reveal of her trauma and his buried memories gave their relationship a raw, aching tension I couldn’t look away from. And the concept of the Amari - mortal mates, soul-deep and irrevocably bound as one true loves - adds an extra layer of pain and longing. Add in a land stalked by monsters creeping from the shadows, and divine powers she never asked for - a so-called gift from the gods that feels more like a curse - and you’ve got something that feels epic.
But that CLIFFHANGER? Absolutely brutal! I turned the last page with wide eyes, a racing heart… and the author absolutely did me dirty - no release date for Book 2 in sight!! 😩 Unforgivable. I CANNOT wait for the second book!
If you love:
• Morally grey heroines who own the shadows
• Strong, golden-retriever MMCs with buried history
• The prisoner/captor trope done right
• Monsters and divine magic with a cost
• Soul-deep fated mates (Amari) that hurt so good
• Books that make you scream “what just happened!!” at the end, if you love all that…. then read this! Come suffer with me and wait for book 2. (It’s free on Kindle Unlimited)
February 25, 2024
"Even in the darkness, you created light, shining bright like a star, leading everyone to safety. You are good.”
Woow. I had a really nice time reading this book. It had everything I want in a Romantasy. In The Shadows is a great page turner, I could have read it in one seating. After a few chapters I was hooked and couldn’t stop. It was the kind of book I thought about it before going to bed and once I woke up I had to pick it up.
I enjoyed so much following Lily. She has lost everyone but she is still fierce and fought for her kingdom. I loved that she embraced her darkness at times. Looking for a shadow mommy? She is the right one.
The Slow burn and the romance were perfection, true *chief* work. The chemistry the author created with Lily & Theo was so intense and beautiful. I felt for them, their story was heartbreaking. They will definitely hold my heart forever and they are top tier book couple.
THE ENDING.. THE ENDING… A knife in my heart, it hurt! I need more right now!
I highly recommend this book and this serie might become one of my favorites.
Woow. I had a really nice time reading this book. It had everything I want in a Romantasy. In The Shadows is a great page turner, I could have read it in one seating. After a few chapters I was hooked and couldn’t stop. It was the kind of book I thought about it before going to bed and once I woke up I had to pick it up.
I enjoyed so much following Lily. She has lost everyone but she is still fierce and fought for her kingdom. I loved that she embraced her darkness at times. Looking for a shadow mommy? She is the right one.
The Slow burn and the romance were perfection, true *chief* work. The chemistry the author created with Lily & Theo was so intense and beautiful. I felt for them, their story was heartbreaking. They will definitely hold my heart forever and they are top tier book couple.
THE ENDING.. THE ENDING… A knife in my heart, it hurt! I need more right now!
I highly recommend this book and this serie might become one of my favorites.
April 12, 2025
⭐️: 4/5 🌶️: 3/5
If you are looking for a dark romantasy that doesn't follow the typical romantasy formula then you will LOVE this book! The audio is also wonderfully done (duet style).
• unconventional enemies to lovers
• memory loss
• forbidden love
• feminine rage / feminine empowerment
• fated mates / other bonds
• shadow MOMMY
The story starts with both the FMC and MMC as teenagers who are finally admitting their love for each other - right before tragedy strikes. The book picks up again years later and we begin to uncover what happened to our FMC after the events in chapter 1. She is a shadow wielding badass who can completely hold her own and really embodies the "don't need no man" thing. While I loved the revelations throughout the story, it took a while for me to figure out what was going on. I don't think it had anything to do with the writing as much as it did my own comprehension. Our MMC is a yearning KING and his inner dialogue was swoon worthy. Overall a really different and fun read - super excited for the next book!
If you are looking for a dark romantasy that doesn't follow the typical romantasy formula then you will LOVE this book! The audio is also wonderfully done (duet style).
• unconventional enemies to lovers
• memory loss
• forbidden love
• feminine rage / feminine empowerment
• fated mates / other bonds
• shadow MOMMY
The story starts with both the FMC and MMC as teenagers who are finally admitting their love for each other - right before tragedy strikes. The book picks up again years later and we begin to uncover what happened to our FMC after the events in chapter 1. She is a shadow wielding badass who can completely hold her own and really embodies the "don't need no man" thing. While I loved the revelations throughout the story, it took a while for me to figure out what was going on. I don't think it had anything to do with the writing as much as it did my own comprehension. Our MMC is a yearning KING and his inner dialogue was swoon worthy. Overall a really different and fun read - super excited for the next book!
June 26, 2024
DNF. I don't know how this has such a high rating, I got about 20% of the way in and I just couldn't do it - the writing was so stilted and all tell/no show. It was like "[name] said 'can you go light the candles?' I said 'sure' and I went to light the candles" level of writing. Just very matter of the fact and repetitive. The dialogue was also not great.
June 4, 2024
✨”I’m bound to the shadows while he must remain in the light”
Wow I had to sit here and stare into space for a good 5 minutes after finishing this book! Lys you did it! 🫶🏻
This book follows Lily and Theo and their love story. The book starts out breaking my heart into a million pieces but this story helps put all those pieces back together again. Their love story is heartbreaking and unique. They are Amari bound by the fates to be together but will they ever truly be together?
The world building in this book made me feel as if I was in the book alongside these characters.
There is some spice scenes that me giggling and blushing like a teenage girl. The banter between Lily and Theo made my heart swell! 4 out of 5 on the spice scale🌶️. *This book is also available in a close mod so if you do not want the spice scene you can choose out of it!*
The ending, ripped my heart out and just shoved it back it just to rip it out again! Talk about a cliffhanger!
Overall 5 stars🌟 With this being Lys first debut book, it reads as if she has been writing way longer than this! It had all my favorite aspects of a fantasy book! Will this be part of my holy grail fantasy reads? Yes it will be! It checks off all the boxes! I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book and I will sit here and theorize till I get it! So many little easter eggs hidden through this book made reading it even more enjoyable!
Fav Quotes✨
“Always. Until my last breath, I am yours, and I will keep you safe. Look for me in the shadows.”
“She will end you all. You will fall and weep at her feet. She. Will. End. You.”
“The darkness isn’t something you should fear, Theo. Far worse monsters hide in the light”
“That’s it. Take all of it, my queen”
**Please check the TW before you read this book!**
Wow I had to sit here and stare into space for a good 5 minutes after finishing this book! Lys you did it! 🫶🏻
This book follows Lily and Theo and their love story. The book starts out breaking my heart into a million pieces but this story helps put all those pieces back together again. Their love story is heartbreaking and unique. They are Amari bound by the fates to be together but will they ever truly be together?
The world building in this book made me feel as if I was in the book alongside these characters.
There is some spice scenes that me giggling and blushing like a teenage girl. The banter between Lily and Theo made my heart swell! 4 out of 5 on the spice scale🌶️. *This book is also available in a close mod so if you do not want the spice scene you can choose out of it!*
The ending, ripped my heart out and just shoved it back it just to rip it out again! Talk about a cliffhanger!
Overall 5 stars🌟 With this being Lys first debut book, it reads as if she has been writing way longer than this! It had all my favorite aspects of a fantasy book! Will this be part of my holy grail fantasy reads? Yes it will be! It checks off all the boxes! I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book and I will sit here and theorize till I get it! So many little easter eggs hidden through this book made reading it even more enjoyable!
Fav Quotes✨
“Always. Until my last breath, I am yours, and I will keep you safe. Look for me in the shadows.”
“She will end you all. You will fall and weep at her feet. She. Will. End. You.”
“The darkness isn’t something you should fear, Theo. Far worse monsters hide in the light”
“That’s it. Take all of it, my queen”
**Please check the TW before you read this book!**
February 25, 2024
GUYSSSS WHATTTT the hell - this book shattered me 😭😭😭
It was sooooo good. The story/plot is very intriguing.
You as the reader know the gist of many things going on, and why, but you have to watch the characters try to unravel and navigate through it and it is literally INSANITY. it is a emotional roller coaster. You want to scream, cry, punch people, and laugh. Like when I tell you every emotion was felt, every emotion was felt.
Theo - our MMC - is literally SWOON WORTHY. Not only is he a sweetheart but he also has a filthy little mouth (the abs best of both worlds)
Lilith - our FMC is a literal SAVAGE. SHEEE wields the shadows and I absolutely am obsessed to finally have a woman who does so. What she went through - idk how anyone can handle what she did and still be the person that she is today. I adore her. And I really just want the fates to allow this woman a damn break lol.
Her story - their story - is heartbreaking
The found family is the best in this. I love the dynamic they have going on. There’s so many characters too that there is so much mystery on and you’re like ohhhh I can’t wait to find out more about YOU ya little sneaky sneak.
I 10/10 recommend reading this book! You will LOVE IT and I need you to suffer with me because the ending has me in turmoil. I need book two like yesterday
It was sooooo good. The story/plot is very intriguing.
You as the reader know the gist of many things going on, and why, but you have to watch the characters try to unravel and navigate through it and it is literally INSANITY. it is a emotional roller coaster. You want to scream, cry, punch people, and laugh. Like when I tell you every emotion was felt, every emotion was felt.
Theo - our MMC - is literally SWOON WORTHY. Not only is he a sweetheart but he also has a filthy little mouth (the abs best of both worlds)
Lilith - our FMC is a literal SAVAGE. SHEEE wields the shadows and I absolutely am obsessed to finally have a woman who does so. What she went through - idk how anyone can handle what she did and still be the person that she is today. I adore her. And I really just want the fates to allow this woman a damn break lol.
Her story - their story - is heartbreaking
The found family is the best in this. I love the dynamic they have going on. There’s so many characters too that there is so much mystery on and you’re like ohhhh I can’t wait to find out more about YOU ya little sneaky sneak.
I 10/10 recommend reading this book! You will LOVE IT and I need you to suffer with me because the ending has me in turmoil. I need book two like yesterday
April 27, 2025
2.5🌟 This was a bit of a let down for me. I feel like the plot idea had a lot of potential, but everything needed to be fleshed out more. I was liking it at first and was curious to see where it would go, but idk the details were lacking and I just wanted something more from the story. There were points I wanted to DNF, but I don’t DNF so here we are hahahahha. The very very end might have interested me enough to want to read book 2.
Theo’s back and forth thoughts about The Queen and her kindom for the entirety of the book, felt kind of repetitive and a little annoying. The cave scene for example, they were literally yelling at one another and then I kid you not, not even a full sentence later, it was like Theo flipped a switch and was like “you’re the strongest person I’ve ever known” yada yada and then he was eating her out. I literally got whiplash from the emotional shifts lolll
Kira’s character was so goddamn annoying I physically couldn’t take it. It was no shock *at all* lol that she was the reason for whatever happened at the very end.
I think this story had the right idea, but something needed to be done differently.
Theo’s back and forth thoughts about The Queen and her kindom for the entirety of the book, felt kind of repetitive and a little annoying. The cave scene for example, they were literally yelling at one another and then I kid you not, not even a full sentence later, it was like Theo flipped a switch and was like “you’re the strongest person I’ve ever known” yada yada and then he was eating her out. I literally got whiplash from the emotional shifts lolll
Kira’s character was so goddamn annoying I physically couldn’t take it. It was no shock *at all* lol that she was the reason for whatever happened at the very end.
I think this story had the right idea, but something needed to be done differently.
February 28, 2024
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Trigger Warnings: Check Them
✨”I’m bound to the shadows while he must remain in the light.”✨
For once I didn’t write a review as soon as I was done with the book. I had to sit and brood with the story and the emotions that were pulled out of me. For this book to be a debut novel, the author knows how to pull you in from the dedication and not let you go till the cliffhanger.
I thought the world building was phenomenal and the way the author sprinkles it in without you knowing it shows amazing planning. It’s one thing that most fantasy books fall short on, but not this one! I find myself eager for book two just to come back and delve more into this fantasy world, discovering all the nuances and things that are yet to be revealed to us.
✨The darkness isn’t something you should fear. Far worse monsters hide in the light.✨
I think one of my favorite, and also most frustrating parts, is the development of our main character, Theo. He was raised his entire life to fear the dark kingdom and watching him realize how wrong he was, and resist that way of thinking, was amazing character development as well as one of the most frustrating moments of the book. There were multiple times I wanted to smack him but that’s just a testament to the authors writing. His development happened at just the right speed otherwise it would have been too quick and unrealistic or too slow and left me disappointed in the book.
✨She will end you all. You will fall and weep at her feet. She. Will. End. You. ✨
Lily is an amazing and badass female main character. I absolutely LOVED peeling back her layers and seeing all the many facets of who she is. A queen. A protector. A lover. A friend. A woman. A comrade. Powerful. Weak (in the best way). Playful. Serious. Protective. She is everything I wish I could be.
✨I’ll cross any line if it means keeping you safe. ✨
I love the banter, the side characters , the creatures (which I hope we get more of in book two). Honestly, there isn’t a single thing that I didn’t enjoy in this book and with that cliffhanger, I need book two yesterday.
Thank you to L.B August for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
Trigger Warnings: Check Them
✨”I’m bound to the shadows while he must remain in the light.”✨
For once I didn’t write a review as soon as I was done with the book. I had to sit and brood with the story and the emotions that were pulled out of me. For this book to be a debut novel, the author knows how to pull you in from the dedication and not let you go till the cliffhanger.
I thought the world building was phenomenal and the way the author sprinkles it in without you knowing it shows amazing planning. It’s one thing that most fantasy books fall short on, but not this one! I find myself eager for book two just to come back and delve more into this fantasy world, discovering all the nuances and things that are yet to be revealed to us.
✨The darkness isn’t something you should fear. Far worse monsters hide in the light.✨
I think one of my favorite, and also most frustrating parts, is the development of our main character, Theo. He was raised his entire life to fear the dark kingdom and watching him realize how wrong he was, and resist that way of thinking, was amazing character development as well as one of the most frustrating moments of the book. There were multiple times I wanted to smack him but that’s just a testament to the authors writing. His development happened at just the right speed otherwise it would have been too quick and unrealistic or too slow and left me disappointed in the book.
✨She will end you all. You will fall and weep at her feet. She. Will. End. You. ✨
Lily is an amazing and badass female main character. I absolutely LOVED peeling back her layers and seeing all the many facets of who she is. A queen. A protector. A lover. A friend. A woman. A comrade. Powerful. Weak (in the best way). Playful. Serious. Protective. She is everything I wish I could be.
✨I’ll cross any line if it means keeping you safe. ✨
I love the banter, the side characters , the creatures (which I hope we get more of in book two). Honestly, there isn’t a single thing that I didn’t enjoy in this book and with that cliffhanger, I need book two yesterday.
Thank you to L.B August for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
February 17, 2024
This book. I have no words. In The Shadows had me hooked right from the first line. This perfect mix of fantasy and romance had me sitting on the edge of my seat. The suspense of what was going to happen next, the sweet romance, the angst because everything was so chaotic, and it was quite literally hurting me physically.
Lily was such an amazing character, I kneel before her. She can step on me if she wants to, and I would ask her to do it again. She is one of the strongest characters that I have ever read, and her sacrifices know no bounds. She was smart and loyal, and so so powerful. She was pushed down over and over again, and every time, she rose stronger than before. Lily was truly an inspiring character. Her bisexual representation made me the happiest, and I loved how comfortable she was.
Theo was the perfect boyfriend. In the few chapters where I got to read about him as a lover, he was absolutely perfect. Truly. I loved how loyal Theo was when it came to his Amari, and I really respect him for it. He was vigilant, and he always wanted the best for his men and his kingdom. He knew when to pick his battles, and he was honestly just a good, layered character. I love reading about characters with multiple layers, and not only did the author do justice to Theo, but also Lily. He was so guarded, and it hurt my heart that he had to live without his Amari for so long, believing that she was dead.
I really really enjoyed this book, and I definitely recommend it to everyone. The pace of the book was perfect, whether it was regarding the plot or the relationship. The writing was easy to understand, and it was so beautifully written. The book completely absorbed me into its world, and I never want to get out of it. Also, the author is really nice. Thank you, for this ARC.
Lily was such an amazing character, I kneel before her. She can step on me if she wants to, and I would ask her to do it again. She is one of the strongest characters that I have ever read, and her sacrifices know no bounds. She was smart and loyal, and so so powerful. She was pushed down over and over again, and every time, she rose stronger than before. Lily was truly an inspiring character. Her bisexual representation made me the happiest, and I loved how comfortable she was.
Theo was the perfect boyfriend. In the few chapters where I got to read about him as a lover, he was absolutely perfect. Truly. I loved how loyal Theo was when it came to his Amari, and I really respect him for it. He was vigilant, and he always wanted the best for his men and his kingdom. He knew when to pick his battles, and he was honestly just a good, layered character. I love reading about characters with multiple layers, and not only did the author do justice to Theo, but also Lily. He was so guarded, and it hurt my heart that he had to live without his Amari for so long, believing that she was dead.
I really really enjoyed this book, and I definitely recommend it to everyone. The pace of the book was perfect, whether it was regarding the plot or the relationship. The writing was easy to understand, and it was so beautifully written. The book completely absorbed me into its world, and I never want to get out of it. Also, the author is really nice. Thank you, for this ARC.
February 27, 2024
From the very first page I was HOOKED!! THE CLIFFHANGER AT THE END!!! Are you joking!!! I wasn’t done reading yet please I need more!!! Lots of spice but the plot is still very much there. The instant love between Lily and Theo at the beginning and then it’s just ripped away AND THEN she’s right in front of him and he doesn’t even notice 😭😭 I can’t say too much without giving it away. It’s a must read! This story is so emotional but so GOOD! I felt such strong emotions for both of them. EEEEP!!
“I wish it was you because it has always been you. Even death can’t stop my love for you. The thread linking us will never break,” I say into the night air.
“I wish it was you because it has always been you. Even death can’t stop my love for you. The thread linking us will never break,” I say into the night air.
February 19, 2024
•Book Review•
In The Shadows by L.B. August
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“𝘔𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘐’𝘮 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 ���𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
In the Shadows is a dark romance fantasy, that will pull you in with the incredible characters and beautiful history and world building. The first of the series, this book introduces Lilly and Theo bound by fate but pulled apart by nefarious motives. While they do eventually find each other- there’s twists and turns, and cliffhangers that kept me still looking for more even after the acknowledgments. I appreciate that every character had their own history and added to the overall story. This will now be my Roman Empire for the rest of the year 🥲
I can’t wait to learn more about the world on Omnia and the characters in it in Book 2!
“𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘴.”
In The Shadows by L.B. August
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“𝘔𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘐’𝘮 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 ���𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
In the Shadows is a dark romance fantasy, that will pull you in with the incredible characters and beautiful history and world building. The first of the series, this book introduces Lilly and Theo bound by fate but pulled apart by nefarious motives. While they do eventually find each other- there’s twists and turns, and cliffhangers that kept me still looking for more even after the acknowledgments. I appreciate that every character had their own history and added to the overall story. This will now be my Roman Empire for the rest of the year 🥲
I can’t wait to learn more about the world on Omnia and the characters in it in Book 2!
“𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘴.”
February 21, 2024
This book reminded me why I love to read. The world building, the complex story line, the intricate characters & plot twists.. unreal. Absolutely amazing. I can visualize it perfectly and I need book 2 ASAP.
July 5, 2024
-she seems to be a collection of contradictions-
🔥Amari…..two souls bound together through this lifetime 🔥
💫 First off, the trigger warnings are mapped out precisely by trigger and which chapters the reader will run into them. Love this as it shows Lys’s sensitivity to all potential readers ❤️
💫I’m in love with the fact that the stage for In the Shadows is set with a children’s story ~ The Threads of Amari
🖤 Perfection 🖤
💫 Theo- bound to Lily
🥀my heart shatters into tiny pieces
💫 Lily-the beautiful daughter of a servant, both gifted & cursed with being a shadow goddess, bound to Theo, in heart
🥀you, is all she says.
Written in multiple POVs, pinging from past to present, between realms, In The Shadows is nothing less than mesmerizing. Every detail means something, and the story unfolds boldly & quickly. You’ll travel by way of a magical ring & meet the Cypres; shadow creatures who stay hidden in the forest that only allow you to survive the journey, if you’re worthy.
The fated love story of Lily & Theo will tug at all of your heartstrings.
Who will you fall for?
Why choose? 🔥
🔥Amari…..two souls bound together through this lifetime 🔥
💫 First off, the trigger warnings are mapped out precisely by trigger and which chapters the reader will run into them. Love this as it shows Lys’s sensitivity to all potential readers ❤️
💫I’m in love with the fact that the stage for In the Shadows is set with a children’s story ~ The Threads of Amari
🖤 Perfection 🖤
💫 Theo- bound to Lily
🥀my heart shatters into tiny pieces
💫 Lily-the beautiful daughter of a servant, both gifted & cursed with being a shadow goddess, bound to Theo, in heart
🥀you, is all she says.
Written in multiple POVs, pinging from past to present, between realms, In The Shadows is nothing less than mesmerizing. Every detail means something, and the story unfolds boldly & quickly. You’ll travel by way of a magical ring & meet the Cypres; shadow creatures who stay hidden in the forest that only allow you to survive the journey, if you’re worthy.
The fated love story of Lily & Theo will tug at all of your heartstrings.
Who will you fall for?
Why choose? 🔥
February 27, 2024
I am honored to have been chosen as an ARC reader for “In The Shadows” and thoroughly enjoyed that L.B. August was so involved with us ARC readers. Be sure to the check the content/trigger warnings. 🖤
“I wish it was you because it has always been you. Even death can’t stop my love for you. The thread linking us will never break.”
The first chapter had me unsure of how I would feel about this story, while I was intrigued I wasn’t hooked yet. The second chapter ended the hesitation immediately! I instantly became curious and needed to know more about Lily and Theo and their heartbreakingly beautiful story.
This story was full of suspense and slightly drawn out but I enjoyed having to piece the clues together and coming up with theories as to what happened/would happen. The suspense definitely added to the reading experience. I was not prepared for the ride this emotional roller coaster would take me on but it was thrilling! There was intense romance, adventure, mystery, forbidden love, and more.
It was a very unique magic system, more of god given powers with a hint of magic worked in . The world building was phenomenal and well designed. The spicy (and I mean SPICY) scenes were written in perfectly to add to the plot, rather than just tossed in without a thought. Plenty of witty banter and deep poetic conversation. I live for a FMC, especially one that’s a BADASS that never loses their light even after experiencing so much darkness. Reading from the POV of Theo and Lily helped to better understand who they each were as individuals. Their characters were well developed. I also fell in love with a couple of the secondary characters (Nyx and d Hiram) and look forward to learning more about them. There were, of course, the characters you love to hate as well and even though I LOATHE them I need to know more.
The ending had me spiraling. I had to reread the last few pages several times to help me process. I will impatiently wait for book two.
Overall, I would recommend. I enjoyed how this story really got my gears turning and had me on the edge the entire time. Like I said before, it was a thrilling ride. A beautifully dark fantasy romance.
.
“I wish it was you because it has always been you. Even death can’t stop my love for you. The thread linking us will never break.”
The first chapter had me unsure of how I would feel about this story, while I was intrigued I wasn’t hooked yet. The second chapter ended the hesitation immediately! I instantly became curious and needed to know more about Lily and Theo and their heartbreakingly beautiful story.
This story was full of suspense and slightly drawn out but I enjoyed having to piece the clues together and coming up with theories as to what happened/would happen. The suspense definitely added to the reading experience. I was not prepared for the ride this emotional roller coaster would take me on but it was thrilling! There was intense romance, adventure, mystery, forbidden love, and more.
It was a very unique magic system, more of god given powers with a hint of magic worked in . The world building was phenomenal and well designed. The spicy (and I mean SPICY) scenes were written in perfectly to add to the plot, rather than just tossed in without a thought. Plenty of witty banter and deep poetic conversation. I live for a FMC, especially one that’s a BADASS that never loses their light even after experiencing so much darkness. Reading from the POV of Theo and Lily helped to better understand who they each were as individuals. Their characters were well developed. I also fell in love with a couple of the secondary characters (Nyx and d Hiram) and look forward to learning more about them. There were, of course, the characters you love to hate as well and even though I LOATHE them I need to know more.
The ending had me spiraling. I had to reread the last few pages several times to help me process. I will impatiently wait for book two.
Overall, I would recommend. I enjoyed how this story really got my gears turning and had me on the edge the entire time. Like I said before, it was a thrilling ride. A beautifully dark fantasy romance.
.
May 29, 2024
Title: In The Shadows
Author: L.B. August
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“Damned by gods and threaded by fates, two mortals must embrace the darkness to find their true destinies.”
You already know I love this book. I have been screaming/shouting/screeching about this book since I was selected as an alpha reader last spring. It was so good on my first read. So, so, good.
It is utterly fantastic now.
Lily is the stuff dreams are made of. You already know a morally grey MMC is amazing. A morally grey FMC? Yes please. I am obsessed with her. I haven't been this obsessed with a FMC since Poppy. Lily is both hard and soft, loving and vengeful, confident and broken. She is all of us. I mean that’s it. No notes. She encompasses everything a FMC is supposed to be. Relatable yet hardcore. Badass and bossy, but loving and respectable.
Theo is just such a fantastic character. I love his character growth. I’m not going to lie, I definitely get Chaol vibes from him, but in the way that he has to relearn everything he’s ever been taught about the world of Umbra (and Omnia). But he does so with so much love in his heart for our queen that you are excited to be on this journey with him. I mean shower scene is all I need to say right now 😏
Let me tell you, as someone who is (very) late to the fantasy/romantasy game, it's very hard to find something that isn’t derivative of another author’s world or characters. And this book is definitely unique and unparalleled. You won’t find this world or ideas in other books. L.B. truly did create a new and exciting world.
Now. We must address the elephant in the room. There are cliffhangers. And there are CLIFFHANGERS and this book is definitely the latter. This is literally the second time I have read this ending and I am still shook. I need book #2 now. I mean, if we’re being honest I needed book #2 last June!
Seriously, though. This book is truly one of a kind and absolutely amazing. Do yourself a favor and read it today!
Author: L.B. August
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“Damned by gods and threaded by fates, two mortals must embrace the darkness to find their true destinies.”
You already know I love this book. I have been screaming/shouting/screeching about this book since I was selected as an alpha reader last spring. It was so good on my first read. So, so, good.
It is utterly fantastic now.
Lily is the stuff dreams are made of. You already know a morally grey MMC is amazing. A morally grey FMC? Yes please. I am obsessed with her. I haven't been this obsessed with a FMC since Poppy. Lily is both hard and soft, loving and vengeful, confident and broken. She is all of us. I mean that’s it. No notes. She encompasses everything a FMC is supposed to be. Relatable yet hardcore. Badass and bossy, but loving and respectable.
Theo is just such a fantastic character. I love his character growth. I’m not going to lie, I definitely get Chaol vibes from him, but in the way that he has to relearn everything he’s ever been taught about the world of Umbra (and Omnia). But he does so with so much love in his heart for our queen that you are excited to be on this journey with him. I mean shower scene is all I need to say right now 😏
Let me tell you, as someone who is (very) late to the fantasy/romantasy game, it's very hard to find something that isn’t derivative of another author’s world or characters. And this book is definitely unique and unparalleled. You won’t find this world or ideas in other books. L.B. truly did create a new and exciting world.
Now. We must address the elephant in the room. There are cliffhangers. And there are CLIFFHANGERS and this book is definitely the latter. This is literally the second time I have read this ending and I am still shook. I need book #2 now. I mean, if we’re being honest I needed book #2 last June!
Seriously, though. This book is truly one of a kind and absolutely amazing. Do yourself a favor and read it today!
February 20, 2024
Oh she's a GOOD book. This epic, devastating, dark, fantasy romance grabbed me in its shadowy claws in chapter one. She did not let go until the end and in fact, she's still got me in her grasp.
In the Shadows tells the tale of Lily and Theo. Lily is an absolute badass female main character. Her story is devastating, terrifying, and just bleak. Theo is kind of a puppy dog of a male main character. He's sweet and has good intentions, but sheesh is he dopey at times. I don't want to give too much detail of the story because you should absolutely read it without a single spoiler. You will laugh, cry, throw your book, be terrified, be turned on, and it will be glorious.
The book is dark in the sense that the main magic system that we see play out is shadow magic and the majority of the story takes place in a sort of "shadow realm" complete with shadow monsters. The FMC back story is emotionally dark and like I said, devastating. The spice is occasional and tame in a good way. It's nothing crazy and doesn't detract from the story at all.
The writing/storytelling/prose of this book is flawless. The characters feel like friends you are connected to. I was emotionally invested in this story in a way I have not been in a while. I was devastated, terrorized, crying, laughing, and quite literally feeling all the feels. The banter was wonderful. The descriptions of food were a delight.
Some world and historical details were confusing. Not enough to take away a star, just enough to be a normal 1st installment of a fantasy book, I suppose! Most of it comes together but there are still some pieces that don't quite make sense for me. Also, the book ends on massive cliffhanger. It's insane but oh so good. I VERY anxiously await the continuation of this emotional rollercoaster of a story.
Thank you to the author, L.B. August, for the ARC copy of this book.
In the Shadows tells the tale of Lily and Theo. Lily is an absolute badass female main character. Her story is devastating, terrifying, and just bleak. Theo is kind of a puppy dog of a male main character. He's sweet and has good intentions, but sheesh is he dopey at times. I don't want to give too much detail of the story because you should absolutely read it without a single spoiler. You will laugh, cry, throw your book, be terrified, be turned on, and it will be glorious.
The book is dark in the sense that the main magic system that we see play out is shadow magic and the majority of the story takes place in a sort of "shadow realm" complete with shadow monsters. The FMC back story is emotionally dark and like I said, devastating. The spice is occasional and tame in a good way. It's nothing crazy and doesn't detract from the story at all.
The writing/storytelling/prose of this book is flawless. The characters feel like friends you are connected to. I was emotionally invested in this story in a way I have not been in a while. I was devastated, terrorized, crying, laughing, and quite literally feeling all the feels. The banter was wonderful. The descriptions of food were a delight.
Some world and historical details were confusing. Not enough to take away a star, just enough to be a normal 1st installment of a fantasy book, I suppose! Most of it comes together but there are still some pieces that don't quite make sense for me. Also, the book ends on massive cliffhanger. It's insane but oh so good. I VERY anxiously await the continuation of this emotional rollercoaster of a story.
Thank you to the author, L.B. August, for the ARC copy of this book.
March 10, 2024
Frankly this book should maybe get more stars for the amount of mental space it's occupied since I finished it as I try and understand how it has almost a perfect 5 star rating on here...I'm left genuinely wondering if I read a different book than these other reviewers.
This book was...fine. Stilted dialogue from the get go, sure, but manageable.
Written from multi character POV...but the characters were written in astonishingly similar tone and lacked their own clear voices, common trap and forgivable I guess.
More than once, an odd word choice made me stop and go back to understand what I was reading. It was annoying for sure. Until I got to a specific section.
**Spoilers here**
There's an attempted sexual assault. But I only know it was attempted and not actual penetrative r*pe because I had to reread and edit the writing for myself to understand within context clues. "Pushing into" and "pushing against" are not interchangeable phrases in this scenario. Not a part I wanted to read multiple times to understand, frankly. And the worst place to leave readers confused in my opinion.
**End of spoilers**
And the cliffhanger I kept seeing people rave about was so abrupt that it didn't leave me wanting the next book. It left me thinking, "Oh...huh...I guess that's it then?"
Am I saying avoid this book entirely? No. Again, it's fine. There's potential. But it doesn't need to go to the top of your TBR lists by any stretch.
The way I would describe it is as a book you can read but you feel the author writing as you go. You can't get lost in it. The brush strokes are visible. It isn't easy or smooth. It's lumpy and misshapen.
This book was...fine. Stilted dialogue from the get go, sure, but manageable.
Written from multi character POV...but the characters were written in astonishingly similar tone and lacked their own clear voices, common trap and forgivable I guess.
More than once, an odd word choice made me stop and go back to understand what I was reading. It was annoying for sure. Until I got to a specific section.
**Spoilers here**
There's an attempted sexual assault. But I only know it was attempted and not actual penetrative r*pe because I had to reread and edit the writing for myself to understand within context clues. "Pushing into" and "pushing against" are not interchangeable phrases in this scenario. Not a part I wanted to read multiple times to understand, frankly. And the worst place to leave readers confused in my opinion.
**End of spoilers**
And the cliffhanger I kept seeing people rave about was so abrupt that it didn't leave me wanting the next book. It left me thinking, "Oh...huh...I guess that's it then?"
Am I saying avoid this book entirely? No. Again, it's fine. There's potential. But it doesn't need to go to the top of your TBR lists by any stretch.
The way I would describe it is as a book you can read but you feel the author writing as you go. You can't get lost in it. The brush strokes are visible. It isn't easy or smooth. It's lumpy and misshapen.
November 29, 2024
reread 11/2024: audio + physical
4.5⭐ Honestly I loved this just as much the second time around. This is everything you want in a dark spicy Romantasy. Yes there's a good amount of spicy scenes but there's also a solid plot and intricate world-building to balance it. It's fast paced but also a slow burn. It's enemies to lovers but also star-crossed lovers. It's a unique story with many familiar tropes we all know and go feral for.
Audio specific review: The duet narration was amazing. The male narrator did a great job differentiating his voice for sooooo many male characters. He was a perfect Theo. The female narrator also did a great job however I did notice certain parts were extra breathy and there was some out-of-place sighing going on. It was very noticeable for me and would momentarily take me out of the story because it was distracting. But she also made a great Lily and I loved the emotion she put into her performance.
Overall definitely recommend this book in all formats!
4.5⭐ Honestly I loved this just as much the second time around. This is everything you want in a dark spicy Romantasy. Yes there's a good amount of spicy scenes but there's also a solid plot and intricate world-building to balance it. It's fast paced but also a slow burn. It's enemies to lovers but also star-crossed lovers. It's a unique story with many familiar tropes we all know and go feral for.
Audio specific review: The duet narration was amazing. The male narrator did a great job differentiating his voice for sooooo many male characters. He was a perfect Theo. The female narrator also did a great job however I did notice certain parts were extra breathy and there was some out-of-place sighing going on. It was very noticeable for me and would momentarily take me out of the story because it was distracting. But she also made a great Lily and I loved the emotion she put into her performance.
Overall definitely recommend this book in all formats!
February 27, 2024
This story hooked me from the first chapter, the intricate tale of love and destiny amidst darkness. The story follows Lilith Clarke, an unlikely queen bound to a tyrannical king, and Theodore Kincaid, a justice-seeker ensnared in enemy lines. Their tumultuous journey through Omnia's shadowy realm, Umbra, is a world-building and character-development masterclass. The story's heart is the slow-burn romance and nuanced characters, especially the formidable Lilith. The plot twists and cliffhanger ending left me eagerly awaiting the next installment. A debut that stands out for its emotional depth, magical intrigue, and the promise of an unforgettable series, this book is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts craving a blend of darkness, romance, and resilience.
February 27, 2024
Stabby Shadow Mommy and a Cinnamon Roll with deeply ingrained trust issues walk out of a bar. Things get frisky, someone gets drug induced amnesia, and antics ensue!
The pendulum I swung on between being stupidly turned on and kicking my feet over the SHEER JOY this book brought me would’ve put Miley Cyrus’s wrecking ball music video to shame.
.5 point redacted from Gryffindor for that CLIFFHANGER ENDING L.B. HOW DARE YOU!!!!
The pendulum I swung on between being stupidly turned on and kicking my feet over the SHEER JOY this book brought me would’ve put Miley Cyrus’s wrecking ball music video to shame.
.5 point redacted from Gryffindor for that CLIFFHANGER ENDING L.B. HOW DARE YOU!!!!
February 19, 2024
4 stars, 7.00 on CAWPILE
Thank you to LB August for a copy of the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!!
Shadow magic but it's the LADYS MAGIC? Yes please! The Queen of Umbra was a fascinating character. She was multi-dimensional and intriguing to read about, especially when we got to read from her point of view. She has gone through a lot- my only issue is that I kind of wish we got to SEE more of that. Instead, a lot of what she went through happened in her past and we hear about it after the fact through her or others talking about it.
Theo was so cute! Young Theo, so eager, so kind! Captain Theo, a good man, protecting those who need it. He is a sweet man but I found myself slightly frustrated there AT THE END WITH HIS REFUSAL TO DO A CERTAIN THING. SIR. WHY.
I really adored Haram and Nyx. I need to see more of them. Broody grumpy Nyx makes me so happy. Plus he's an archer.
Some of the world building here confused me a bit at first. King Oren, King Asher, King Leopold, etc but I did figure that out in the end. Much of the world, though, still remains slightly confusing to me so I hope book 2 can make it all more clear.
Also.. I'm still not sure about certain peoples motivations for why they are doing certain things and I would like to know what the heck they are doing!
Also, two plot twists and a cliffhanger! How long do I gotta wait??
Anyway, fun time! I hope you all enjoy this book once it comes out!
Thank you to LB August for a copy of the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!!
Shadow magic but it's the LADYS MAGIC? Yes please! The Queen of Umbra was a fascinating character. She was multi-dimensional and intriguing to read about, especially when we got to read from her point of view. She has gone through a lot- my only issue is that I kind of wish we got to SEE more of that. Instead, a lot of what she went through happened in her past and we hear about it after the fact through her or others talking about it.
Theo was so cute! Young Theo, so eager, so kind! Captain Theo, a good man, protecting those who need it. He is a sweet man but I found myself slightly frustrated there AT THE END WITH HIS REFUSAL TO DO A CERTAIN THING. SIR. WHY.
I really adored Haram and Nyx. I need to see more of them. Broody grumpy Nyx makes me so happy. Plus he's an archer.
Some of the world building here confused me a bit at first. King Oren, King Asher, King Leopold, etc but I did figure that out in the end. Much of the world, though, still remains slightly confusing to me so I hope book 2 can make it all more clear.
Also.. I'm still not sure about certain peoples motivations for why they are doing certain things and I would like to know what the heck they are doing!
Also, two plot twists and a cliffhanger! How long do I gotta wait??
Anyway, fun time! I hope you all enjoy this book once it comes out!
February 27, 2024
Since I’ve been following the author’s journey on different platforms, this was a highly anticipated book for me
I only wish I had this as a physical book. Boy oh boy, the things I would’ve annotated. The world building in this book was fire. The writing was one of the best I’ve ever read. The plot, the characters, the setting, the spice, the mystical creatures, the banter, the overprotectiveness, the twists and turns, the EVERYTHING 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Never have I ever read a book that had twists and turns and had me hooked from the PROLOGUE… until I read this masterpiece
The spicy scenes are heavy and hot and perfect and just what I needed. Don’t even get me started in the art 🥵🥵🥵 I literally put it as my wallpaper 😅
Lily was one of the strongest, fiercest, most respected, most powerful, most mesmerizing FMC I have ever read about. Her sacrifices and scars and oblations know no bounds and didn’t go unnoticed. After being pushed around and kicked and scolded and wounded over and over again, she stood up again and again and with more and more confidence every single time
Theo was also a very strong and respected captain. He’s haughty and a hottie 😏 The author did him justice. There was a lot of character growth. I loved him from the start, so imagine how I felt by the end
This book wrecked me to my core. Like, the ending, are you FOR REAL?!?!?! As if I could handle MORE TWISTS? NO. A CLIFFHANGER TOO??? Please tell me the second book is read!!!!!!
The quotes in this book.. The right things Theo says and the right thing Lily does and literally everything about this book was done perfectly. It was such an easy book to read and the whole plot was so unique and very influential. Easily, with no hesitations, one of the BESTT fantasy books ever
I only wish I had this as a physical book. Boy oh boy, the things I would’ve annotated. The world building in this book was fire. The writing was one of the best I’ve ever read. The plot, the characters, the setting, the spice, the mystical creatures, the banter, the overprotectiveness, the twists and turns, the EVERYTHING 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Never have I ever read a book that had twists and turns and had me hooked from the PROLOGUE… until I read this masterpiece
The spicy scenes are heavy and hot and perfect and just what I needed. Don’t even get me started in the art 🥵🥵🥵 I literally put it as my wallpaper 😅
Lily was one of the strongest, fiercest, most respected, most powerful, most mesmerizing FMC I have ever read about. Her sacrifices and scars and oblations know no bounds and didn’t go unnoticed. After being pushed around and kicked and scolded and wounded over and over again, she stood up again and again and with more and more confidence every single time
Theo was also a very strong and respected captain. He’s haughty and a hottie 😏 The author did him justice. There was a lot of character growth. I loved him from the start, so imagine how I felt by the end
This book wrecked me to my core. Like, the ending, are you FOR REAL?!?!?! As if I could handle MORE TWISTS? NO. A CLIFFHANGER TOO??? Please tell me the second book is read!!!!!!
The quotes in this book.. The right things Theo says and the right thing Lily does and literally everything about this book was done perfectly. It was such an easy book to read and the whole plot was so unique and very influential. Easily, with no hesitations, one of the BESTT fantasy books ever
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