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Shadowcast
He has known nothing but darkness for years. Now it’s time to let it consume him.
After witnessing the brutal death of his brother at the hands of the Steward Knights, Mason Grey turns to vengeance. Using his Gifts to read and control the minds of others, he climbs the ranks of the Dark Army, determined to earn the coveted Shadowstone—a powerful tool against the light-wielding Stewards. But when he is wounded in battle, he finds himself recovering in the home of a chatty peasant girl...without the use of his Gifts. Even worse, the girl mistakes him for one of the Stewards he despises.
Seria Gayle longs to be seen as more than the town washerwoman. When she finds an injured Steward in the woods, she welcomes the chance to use her healing skills and hopes it will earn her some respect. But as she nurses the sullen stranger back to health, she discovers he is nothing like the knights she has long admired.
When Mason's true identity is revealed, Seria is devastated and humiliated. But she is offered a chance at redemption by the very prince that Mason hates. Now Mason struggles between two choices: accept the Shadowstone to avenge his brother or pursue this newfound light in the form of a peasant girl. With time running out and war looming, will Mason and Seria defy their own convictions for a chance at love or stand against one another like they’ve sworn to do?
After witnessing the brutal death of his brother at the hands of the Steward Knights, Mason Grey turns to vengeance. Using his Gifts to read and control the minds of others, he climbs the ranks of the Dark Army, determined to earn the coveted Shadowstone—a powerful tool against the light-wielding Stewards. But when he is wounded in battle, he finds himself recovering in the home of a chatty peasant girl...without the use of his Gifts. Even worse, the girl mistakes him for one of the Stewards he despises.
Seria Gayle longs to be seen as more than the town washerwoman. When she finds an injured Steward in the woods, she welcomes the chance to use her healing skills and hopes it will earn her some respect. But as she nurses the sullen stranger back to health, she discovers he is nothing like the knights she has long admired.
When Mason's true identity is revealed, Seria is devastated and humiliated. But she is offered a chance at redemption by the very prince that Mason hates. Now Mason struggles between two choices: accept the Shadowstone to avenge his brother or pursue this newfound light in the form of a peasant girl. With time running out and war looming, will Mason and Seria defy their own convictions for a chance at love or stand against one another like they’ve sworn to do?
Audible Audio
Published October 13, 2023
34 people are currently reading
741 people want to read
About the author
Crystal D. Grant
19 books112 followersCrystal Grant is a daydreamer who adores freshly-baked cookies and anything with fur or feathers. During the day, she strives to instill a love of books and learning within her young students. As a hearing-impaired, home-school graduate, she found her voice in writing and has had multiple short stories and poems published. When she’s not reading or writing stories that sweep her away to another time and place, she watches classic movies and TV shows that do the same. Or she works on jigsaw puzzles. She currently resides in smalltown Missouri with her melodramatic German shepherd, Sadie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
September 21, 2024
7/3/2024
Oh my! I just finished my reread of Shadowcast, and I am so excited to already have my arc of the next one on my Kindle. It was a nailbiting finish, and the next book, Lightshed, feels like a necessity right now.
This allegorical, good against evil story, takes place in a fantasy world where the Lambient gives light in the form of Beacons to soldiers, known as Stewards, who are fully committed to the Lambient's Sacred Code. The Beacons are powerful defensive and offensive weapons able to battle against the forces of evil. In this story, evil comes in the form of Emperor Jader and his Darkmen and Shadowmen army. The Shadowmen possess the antithesis to the Beacon: the Shadowstone, which is given selectively by the emperor linking the Shadowman to his power of darkness. It gives powers that can only be overcome by the Beacons.
While the Beacons and Shadowstones are given selectively by their respective givers, there are Gifts that are given to people more "sporadically" by the Lambient when those folks are born at certain times of the moon cycle. These Gifts can be given to men and women on either side of this conflict.
Enter Mason, Seria, and Prince Eric, our MCs. (I would argue that Uralis Faunt is a subtle "under-MC" as we see his words heading up many of the chapters. His words, along with the Sacred Code, give background and stability to the story.) All three of our MCs have traveled difficult roads and have responded differently to their difficulties. These characters' lives have been and will become entwined in ways they could not have foreseen. The question is, will revenge, regret, and rejection win the day?
There are no easy answers in Shadowcast. No easy outs. The battles faced within and without are powerful and complicated. I love how the author did not shy away from the complexities of the good against evil situations in life. This is a deep story that deals with the grittiness of life and does 🚨🚨🚨🚨😢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢
Read and be drawn in by Shadowcast and its characters. Do not expect a perfectly told story--it does have a "new author" feel in places (for example--switching POVs randomly) and can feel a bit trite, at least until you reach the end. Honestly, the last 5 chapters or so felt almost like a different book. I feel like the author must have poured her heart and soul into those last few chapters and then left them there! I was pulled along, wide-eyed, even on this 2nd time through the story. I might have even cried.😉 If you can be forgiving of the issues I mentioned above, then I strongly recommend this book! I am on to Lightshed tonight! I cannot wait to find out what happens to Seria, Mason, and Eric!
4/29/24
*The second book is coming out this fall, and I am so excited! I can’t believe I never wrote a review for this one. (I do have a harder time reviewing books I love, so I suppose that is why.) When it is closer to book 2’s release, I will reread Shadowcast and leave a proper review.😌
Oh my! I just finished my reread of Shadowcast, and I am so excited to already have my arc of the next one on my Kindle. It was a nailbiting finish, and the next book, Lightshed, feels like a necessity right now.
This allegorical, good against evil story, takes place in a fantasy world where the Lambient gives light in the form of Beacons to soldiers, known as Stewards, who are fully committed to the Lambient's Sacred Code. The Beacons are powerful defensive and offensive weapons able to battle against the forces of evil. In this story, evil comes in the form of Emperor Jader and his Darkmen and Shadowmen army. The Shadowmen possess the antithesis to the Beacon: the Shadowstone, which is given selectively by the emperor linking the Shadowman to his power of darkness. It gives powers that can only be overcome by the Beacons.
While the Beacons and Shadowstones are given selectively by their respective givers, there are Gifts that are given to people more "sporadically" by the Lambient when those folks are born at certain times of the moon cycle. These Gifts can be given to men and women on either side of this conflict.
Enter Mason, Seria, and Prince Eric, our MCs. (I would argue that Uralis Faunt is a subtle "under-MC" as we see his words heading up many of the chapters. His words, along with the Sacred Code, give background and stability to the story.) All three of our MCs have traveled difficult roads and have responded differently to their difficulties. These characters' lives have been and will become entwined in ways they could not have foreseen. The question is, will revenge, regret, and rejection win the day?
There are no easy answers in Shadowcast. No easy outs. The battles faced within and without are powerful and complicated. I love how the author did not shy away from the complexities of the good against evil situations in life. This is a deep story that deals with the grittiness of life and does 🚨🚨🚨🚨😢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢
Read and be drawn in by Shadowcast and its characters. Do not expect a perfectly told story--it does have a "new author" feel in places (for example--switching POVs randomly) and can feel a bit trite, at least until you reach the end. Honestly, the last 5 chapters or so felt almost like a different book. I feel like the author must have poured her heart and soul into those last few chapters and then left them there! I was pulled along, wide-eyed, even on this 2nd time through the story. I might have even cried.😉 If you can be forgiving of the issues I mentioned above, then I strongly recommend this book! I am on to Lightshed tonight! I cannot wait to find out what happens to Seria, Mason, and Eric!
4/29/24
*The second book is coming out this fall, and I am so excited! I can’t believe I never wrote a review for this one. (I do have a harder time reviewing books I love, so I suppose that is why.) When it is closer to book 2’s release, I will reread Shadowcast and leave a proper review.😌
February 22, 2023
This story! These characters! This WORLD!!! I’m so amazed by the world Crystal has crafted and I’m so excited for the world to get this book in September 2023! This is a story the world needs to hear and I’m honored to have gotten the chance to read it early!
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September 21, 2023*update* It's done! Shadowcast has been launched out into the world! I'm so excited to see where my book baby will land. thanks to everyone who has been behind me and supported me! I appreciate you all so much!
*update* We're so close to the release date! I can't believe I'm here, getting ready to launch this baby out into the world. I can't wait until you can hold it in your hands!
This book is coming Fall of 2023! I'm finishing up the line edits this month to send back to my publisher. Be watching for updates on the character and back cover blurb!
I can't wait to share this story with you! In the meantime, if you would spread the word and add this to your "Want to Read" shelf, I would be SO SO grateful!
*update* We're so close to the release date! I can't believe I'm here, getting ready to launch this baby out into the world. I can't wait until you can hold it in your hands!
This book is coming Fall of 2023! I'm finishing up the line edits this month to send back to my publisher. Be watching for updates on the character and back cover blurb!
I can't wait to share this story with you! In the meantime, if you would spread the word and add this to your "Want to Read" shelf, I would be SO SO grateful!
Read
August 6, 2024This book was... idek. It was kind of meh, imo. Although I might have enjoyed it more if I was able to read a physical copy. *shrugs*
It was pretty interesting, if not the most original. For the longest time tho, whenever it would switch to Eric's POV I would be kind of frustrated. I'm not sure why, I would usually love getting a POV from someone in his position, and it's not like I dislike him or anything, but yeah.
I would say Mason is my fav character - he prob still is - but he did drive me crazy with his thoughts about how most young women Seria's age are helpless, and just let their fathers take care of them until they get married. That definitely rubbed me the wrong way. Now, I can stomach that sort of thing, if it's addressed as wrong, but it never was. Not only does Mason never seem to realize he was wrong, but the way it was written doesn't even make it feel like the author thinks he's wrong. Although I'll give them the benefit of the doubt, and believe it was supposed to show that Mason is, in fact, incorrect about certain things.
On a similar note... Dreeya. *prepares for a little rant* Alright, so Dreeya is the only female warrior we ever get to meet in this book, and she's on the dark side (yeah, I could talk about that for a minute, but let's avoid making this review even longer, shall we?). Anyway, Dreeya is an extremely shallow character. It's not like she's the only one, we literally have a town drunk in this book who does nothing but harass the FMC (although not sexually, so, that's something), but that's beside the point. Because Dreeya is the one that really drives me crazy. Because Dreeya is one of two friends, or whatever, of Mason's that we see. And, as aforementioned, the only female warrior we actually meet. And she spends all her page time trying to get Mason to sleep with her, the only exception being when she's yelling at a stable boy about a (small) grease spot on her saddle. I feel like there was no point to her, and she was just so... stereotypical. And that frustrates me much more than she does. #Notafan
The allegorical aspect was fine, but... I wasn't exactly a fan. Although, to be fair, allegories in general aren't really my thing, so maybe that's just me. This one felt both too on the nose, and yet also not at all, if that makes any sense. Yes, I'm aware I prob sound crazy, but I can't explain it.
Also, just gotta say, reading this around the same time as rereading Six of Crows sort of gave me whiplash with the whole revenge thing. Did I almost want Mason to get revenge? Not really, but also...
Forgive me if, in spite of his flaws, I found him more sympathetic than the other characters. Forgive me if I found myself perhaps just slightly hating some Stewards, myself, at times. Forgive me if I agree with not forcing the Code on people.
Oh my, what are all my Christian friends going to think about this review?
But seriously, you can't force someone to be a Christain. That kind of goes against the whole point. And I get that this world is divided into two sides and all, but... remember what I said about the allegory? Yeah. Maybe I'm just not used to reading them. Maybe that's the issue.
Anyway, in spite of all my complaining, I did enjoy this to a certain extent, and the fact that I didn't enjoy it more might be partially due to my being unable to read a physical copy, as well as the fact that I was reading multiple books at once. And I will prob read the sequel at some point, although I'm not really sure.
It was pretty interesting, if not the most original. For the longest time tho, whenever it would switch to Eric's POV I would be kind of frustrated. I'm not sure why, I would usually love getting a POV from someone in his position, and it's not like I dislike him or anything, but yeah.
I would say Mason is my fav character - he prob still is - but he did drive me crazy with his thoughts about how most young women Seria's age are helpless, and just let their fathers take care of them until they get married. That definitely rubbed me the wrong way. Now, I can stomach that sort of thing, if it's addressed as wrong, but it never was. Not only does Mason never seem to realize he was wrong, but the way it was written doesn't even make it feel like the author thinks he's wrong. Although I'll give them the benefit of the doubt, and believe it was supposed to show that Mason is, in fact, incorrect about certain things.
On a similar note... Dreeya. *prepares for a little rant* Alright, so Dreeya is the only female warrior we ever get to meet in this book, and she's on the dark side (yeah, I could talk about that for a minute, but let's avoid making this review even longer, shall we?). Anyway, Dreeya is an extremely shallow character. It's not like she's the only one, we literally have a town drunk in this book who does nothing but harass the FMC (although not sexually, so, that's something), but that's beside the point. Because Dreeya is the one that really drives me crazy. Because Dreeya is one of two friends, or whatever, of Mason's that we see. And, as aforementioned, the only female warrior we actually meet. And she spends all her page time trying to get Mason to sleep with her, the only exception being when she's yelling at a stable boy about a (small) grease spot on her saddle. I feel like there was no point to her, and she was just so... stereotypical. And that frustrates me much more than she does. #Notafan
The allegorical aspect was fine, but... I wasn't exactly a fan. Although, to be fair, allegories in general aren't really my thing, so maybe that's just me. This one felt both too on the nose, and yet also not at all, if that makes any sense. Yes, I'm aware I prob sound crazy, but I can't explain it.
Also, just gotta say, reading this around the same time as rereading Six of Crows sort of gave me whiplash with the whole revenge thing. Did I almost want Mason to get revenge? Not really, but also...
Forgive me if, in spite of his flaws, I found him more sympathetic than the other characters. Forgive me if I found myself perhaps just slightly hating some Stewards, myself, at times. Forgive me if I agree with not forcing the Code on people.
Oh my, what are all my Christian friends going to think about this review?
But seriously, you can't force someone to be a Christain. That kind of goes against the whole point. And I get that this world is divided into two sides and all, but... remember what I said about the allegory? Yeah. Maybe I'm just not used to reading them. Maybe that's the issue.
Anyway, in spite of all my complaining, I did enjoy this to a certain extent, and the fact that I didn't enjoy it more might be partially due to my being unable to read a physical copy, as well as the fact that I was reading multiple books at once. And I will prob read the sequel at some point, although I'm not really sure.
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September 9, 2024I couldn’t do it guys. 😭 I didn’t make it past the second chapter. 😂 I just wasn’t motivated to read it (didn’t help it was an ebook) and I wasn’t really hearing anything amazing about it, so I kinda…forgot about it. 😂 Anyways, I might pick it up again sometime, but for right now I don’t want to read it.
September 20, 2023
In Shadowcast, a sweet romance provides the backdrop of a compelling story about the power of light and the lure of darkness. I found myself reading with bated breath as the battle between good and evil waged with swords and in the hearts of the characters. Ans the ending left me desperate to see what will happen next.
July 14, 2024
Well I kinda slid into this book not expecting too much and it was a fun and easy read but the last 10-20% was so great 😀
It started as a 2. 1/2 star and just kept improving so much so that now I’m interested in reading the next book.
Nice
It started as a 2. 1/2 star and just kept improving so much so that now I’m interested in reading the next book.
Nice
March 14, 2024
4.5 Stars ✨
Clean Fantasy Romance
“Once rooted, darkness devours everything in its path, satisfied by nothing but its own hunger”
The Sacred Code
🎧 Audio Book Version via Audible
Bravo 👏🏽 Miss Grant! This was everything I enjoy in a book! Fantasy, enemies to lovers, faith undertones, and medieval vibes. I absolutely loved it! Our world needs more books like this.
Mason Grey longs to be a part of the Steward Knights, until he witnesses them kill his brother- his only living relative. With no one to turn to, this ultimately puts him on the path of vengeance. Blessed with the gift of controlling and reading minds, he is able to quickly become part of the Dark Army.
Seria faces the world alone in her cabin until one night she becomes a witness of brutal battle between the Stewards and the Dark Army. It’s there she finds a wounded knight which she takes home to nurse back to health.
Packed full of political intrigue, likable characters and a war between good and evil, this is a story my heart longed for. I really enjoyed seeing the push and pull in multiple characters. Their inner battles were written so well, which made it feel real and not forced. It makes the reader think about how the choices one makes can completely alter the course of their life. One of my favorite parts of the book were the readings from “The Sacred Code” before each chapter. It was 🤌🏽 a beautiful addition! I want to buy a physical copy now.
If you’re looking for a clean romantic fantasy with faith elements woven effortlessly in-between, look no further than Shadowcast! The ending has me begging for more!! Can’t wait for the next book!
Clean Fantasy Romance
“Once rooted, darkness devours everything in its path, satisfied by nothing but its own hunger”
The Sacred Code
🎧 Audio Book Version via Audible
Bravo 👏🏽 Miss Grant! This was everything I enjoy in a book! Fantasy, enemies to lovers, faith undertones, and medieval vibes. I absolutely loved it! Our world needs more books like this.
Mason Grey longs to be a part of the Steward Knights, until he witnesses them kill his brother- his only living relative. With no one to turn to, this ultimately puts him on the path of vengeance. Blessed with the gift of controlling and reading minds, he is able to quickly become part of the Dark Army.
Seria faces the world alone in her cabin until one night she becomes a witness of brutal battle between the Stewards and the Dark Army. It’s there she finds a wounded knight which she takes home to nurse back to health.
Packed full of political intrigue, likable characters and a war between good and evil, this is a story my heart longed for. I really enjoyed seeing the push and pull in multiple characters. Their inner battles were written so well, which made it feel real and not forced. It makes the reader think about how the choices one makes can completely alter the course of their life. One of my favorite parts of the book were the readings from “The Sacred Code” before each chapter. It was 🤌🏽 a beautiful addition! I want to buy a physical copy now.
If you’re looking for a clean romantic fantasy with faith elements woven effortlessly in-between, look no further than Shadowcast! The ending has me begging for more!! Can’t wait for the next book!
September 18, 2023
Alright, let's be honest. Anyone else gun shy to try a new-to-you author in a genre you enjoy, but have your "favorites?" Let me happily tell you to move this book to the TOP of your TBR stack.
When you look at the dates I read this story, don't let them fool you. I was reading this story around all of my other commitment reads. Trust me, I did NOT want to put this book down, I just HAD to, sadly. If you're looking for a story you can "escape" into, this will do the trick. Every time I picked the book up, I felt like I was right back in it!
We start off by meeting wide-eyed wonder (at the time), Mason, but almost immediately, he has a life changing experience when the Stewards cut down his brother and friends in cold blood. This turns him into a very angry young man who is set on vengeance. This is exactly the kind of man the Ruler of the Dark Army is looking for.
And then we meet my favorite character, Seria. Seriously, I just loved her. I loved her innocence (even after all she's been through), her kindness, and her strength. It's rather ironic that Mason ends up in the care of Seria because she drives him batty with how much she talks. I'll admit that there are times it becomes pretty comical. After his injury in a battle, he can't use a gift the Dark Army ruler is hoping will defeat the Stewards of the Old Realm so that his New Realm can take over.
Lastly, we meet Prince Eric. He's in Cadence where he's trying to take over the reins of the Stewards after a heavy loss during battle. His past hasn't put him in the best light with his army which makes it difficult to lead.
If you love medieval period stories, then you will 100% love this one. There's a strong faith element, and you come to see how the Lambient is this fictional world's word God. The author seamlessly weaves in the faith thread and I love how the Stewards rely on Him. This story is an epic battle between good and evil.
*I received the ARC ebook for review. This is my personal opinion.
When you look at the dates I read this story, don't let them fool you. I was reading this story around all of my other commitment reads. Trust me, I did NOT want to put this book down, I just HAD to, sadly. If you're looking for a story you can "escape" into, this will do the trick. Every time I picked the book up, I felt like I was right back in it!
We start off by meeting wide-eyed wonder (at the time), Mason, but almost immediately, he has a life changing experience when the Stewards cut down his brother and friends in cold blood. This turns him into a very angry young man who is set on vengeance. This is exactly the kind of man the Ruler of the Dark Army is looking for.
And then we meet my favorite character, Seria. Seriously, I just loved her. I loved her innocence (even after all she's been through), her kindness, and her strength. It's rather ironic that Mason ends up in the care of Seria because she drives him batty with how much she talks. I'll admit that there are times it becomes pretty comical. After his injury in a battle, he can't use a gift the Dark Army ruler is hoping will defeat the Stewards of the Old Realm so that his New Realm can take over.
Lastly, we meet Prince Eric. He's in Cadence where he's trying to take over the reins of the Stewards after a heavy loss during battle. His past hasn't put him in the best light with his army which makes it difficult to lead.
If you love medieval period stories, then you will 100% love this one. There's a strong faith element, and you come to see how the Lambient is this fictional world's word God. The author seamlessly weaves in the faith thread and I love how the Stewards rely on Him. This story is an epic battle between good and evil.
*I received the ARC ebook for review. This is my personal opinion.
August 7, 2023
I had the privilege and honor of reading an ARC copy of Shadowcast.
Drenched in political intrigued and the neverending war between good and evil, Shadowcast highlights how one decision-whether good or bad-can change the course of another's life. Yet the reader learns that although we may feel cornered by the darkness, there is always a light to be found.
Drenched in political intrigued and the neverending war between good and evil, Shadowcast highlights how one decision-whether good or bad-can change the course of another's life. Yet the reader learns that although we may feel cornered by the darkness, there is always a light to be found.
September 20, 2023
Shadowcast is amazing. I loved every second of this story. The characters are well developed, the storyline keeps moving, there was never a dull moment. Siera embodies light she is so giving and humble and kind I just adore her. Mason is the morally grey character I feel like I shouldn't love but I do lolol he has such a story you'll be sucked right into it. Eric too he is light but he struggles and has secrets he has some growing to do. Sanjo is my favorite donkey I love him so much. Seriously this book has action, love , all the tropes you could want like enemies to friends to lovers. There is mystery and magic and Dark vs light. You can tell through the writing that crystal put her all into this story. Oh it's so good!
I received in arc and wow I am glad I did I cannot wait for my physical copy I purchased. My opinion is my own I wanted to share this book with others I love it so much.
I received in arc and wow I am glad I did I cannot wait for my physical copy I purchased. My opinion is my own I wanted to share this book with others I love it so much.
July 29, 2023
I rarely read a lot of epic fantasy books, but this one kept me hooked. I really enjoyed seeing the dynamic between three characters and their perspectives on the war and the mess. I like Mason and Seria a lot. They are my favorite character. If you like multiple characters, survival, and the warfare between good and evil, then you will like this book!
November 11, 2023
The books pulled me into its world with a forced proximity and lie. I loved how the scenario played out. I can't wait for the sequel.
August 1, 2024
A promising start to a trilogy!
Going into the book, I think I was expecting something with a little more action, so the slow pace of the plot took some getting used to. Around halfway, it started to pick up, but the characters conflicts that developed in the last 25% were what really sold me. I’m curious where the series will go from here!
Going into the book, I think I was expecting something with a little more action, so the slow pace of the plot took some getting used to. Around halfway, it started to pick up, but the characters conflicts that developed in the last 25% were what really sold me. I’m curious where the series will go from here!
September 20, 2023
'The light within you is greater than the darkness without.'
Mason Grey has one mission in life, to eradicate the Stewards and get his revenge. When he is injured in battle, a peasant girl finds him and nurses him back to health, mistaking him for one of the Stewards he hates so much.
This story is so beautiful and sad all at the same time. The powerful struggle in Mason's heart as he has to choose between his lifelong quest of vengeance and the newfound peace and love he sees in a simple peasant girl is heart-wrenching. At the same time we meet Prince Eric Passion, leader of the Stewards, as he faces the challenges of leading with honour and dealing with haunting mistakes from the past. Again, heart-wrenching and beautiful. I became so invested in these characters and that is the what really made this a memorable read. The characters. They are written really well, full of all the ups and downs of humanity and all the hope and despair, the second chances and the difficult choices.
'Shadowcast' is filled with powerful storytelling, wonderful characters and gorgeous scenery. I loved every second.
Mason Grey has one mission in life, to eradicate the Stewards and get his revenge. When he is injured in battle, a peasant girl finds him and nurses him back to health, mistaking him for one of the Stewards he hates so much.
This story is so beautiful and sad all at the same time. The powerful struggle in Mason's heart as he has to choose between his lifelong quest of vengeance and the newfound peace and love he sees in a simple peasant girl is heart-wrenching. At the same time we meet Prince Eric Passion, leader of the Stewards, as he faces the challenges of leading with honour and dealing with haunting mistakes from the past. Again, heart-wrenching and beautiful. I became so invested in these characters and that is the what really made this a memorable read. The characters. They are written really well, full of all the ups and downs of humanity and all the hope and despair, the second chances and the difficult choices.
'Shadowcast' is filled with powerful storytelling, wonderful characters and gorgeous scenery. I loved every second.
August 13, 2023
Fantastic first book in an epic series! I was pleasantly impressed with Grant's eloquent writing style and her mastery in hooking the reader right away. I was never bored at any point in the book. I appreciated that she allowed characters to recover from injuries in a believable time period—yes, it would take weeks to recover from a battle, and not just a few days, as some books would want you to believe!—and that she used that time to deepen relationships between the characters.
The story was completely unpredictable. I found myself shocked even on the final page of the book—and yes, screaming in disbelief over the cliffhanger. (Good screaming, though. The second book in this series will be at the top of my list to read once it releases!)
Highly recommended for those who enjoy clean, epic fantasy romances. Plan a solid weekend to read it so you won't have to put it down! ;)
The story was completely unpredictable. I found myself shocked even on the final page of the book—and yes, screaming in disbelief over the cliffhanger. (Good screaming, though. The second book in this series will be at the top of my list to read once it releases!)
Highly recommended for those who enjoy clean, epic fantasy romances. Plan a solid weekend to read it so you won't have to put it down! ;)
June 26, 2024
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars)
Listened to the audiobook which is why it took me so long to finish (I just don’t make time to listen very often). The narrator is excellent and so is the story. There’s good character development and wonderful world building. I’m looking forward to the sequel and finding out what happens next!
Listened to the audiobook which is why it took me so long to finish (I just don’t make time to listen very often). The narrator is excellent and so is the story. There’s good character development and wonderful world building. I’m looking forward to the sequel and finding out what happens next!
September 28, 2023
Light and darkness clash in the Gateway...
I am always up for a good fantasy novel from a new-to-me author and Shadowcast was certainly both. Coming in at over 500 pages this first The Gateway Trilogy novel from Crystal D. Grant is quite the story. Featuring battles, betrayal, spies, a touch of romance, redemption, and sacrifice this book has a little bit of everything.
Crystal D. Grant had me intrigued by her well done – and certainly vivid – fantasy realm from start to finish. Darkmen, Stewards, and Gifts of the Moon, plus the mysterious Shadowstones. Add in a healer with more laundry to take care of than she has patients, a man bent on a revenge after a tragic loss, a man trying to find his place once again despite the mistakes of the past, and the evil one determined to own or destroy them all. Well, as you can see you get a pretty entertaining tale.
Shadowcast is the first book in The Gateway Trilogy and as it ended on something of a cliffhanger I am on tenterhooks as to what will happen next. I am by no means waiting patiently so I hope it won't be too long before I get to visit with Seria, Mason, Eric, and the others both good and evil. It's going to be an epic tale for sure...
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I am always up for a good fantasy novel from a new-to-me author and Shadowcast was certainly both. Coming in at over 500 pages this first The Gateway Trilogy novel from Crystal D. Grant is quite the story. Featuring battles, betrayal, spies, a touch of romance, redemption, and sacrifice this book has a little bit of everything.
Crystal D. Grant had me intrigued by her well done – and certainly vivid – fantasy realm from start to finish. Darkmen, Stewards, and Gifts of the Moon, plus the mysterious Shadowstones. Add in a healer with more laundry to take care of than she has patients, a man bent on a revenge after a tragic loss, a man trying to find his place once again despite the mistakes of the past, and the evil one determined to own or destroy them all. Well, as you can see you get a pretty entertaining tale.
Shadowcast is the first book in The Gateway Trilogy and as it ended on something of a cliffhanger I am on tenterhooks as to what will happen next. I am by no means waiting patiently so I hope it won't be too long before I get to visit with Seria, Mason, Eric, and the others both good and evil. It's going to be an epic tale for sure...
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
September 23, 2023
*I received an e-copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own!*
What a wild ride Shadowcast took me on! I’m not always a huge fantasy reader, but this story drew me in from the very first chapter and kept me hooked until the very end!
This is a story filled with hope, redemption, and the power of good versus evil. The characters are so well-developed and the plot just kept getting better and better. If you’re a fan of slow burn romances or enemies to lovers, I think you will enjoy this one a lot!
Another thing that felt refreshing about Shadowcast is that while it is definitely a romantasy, it is a closed-door, spice-free romance. This book would be a great alternative to fans of Fourth Wing who are looking for something similar with less graphic content. I also found the parallels between Lambient and God to be really interesting and beautiful.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. The ending of Shadowcast left me very eager for the sequel. If you enjoy fantasy, I think you will love this one!
What a wild ride Shadowcast took me on! I’m not always a huge fantasy reader, but this story drew me in from the very first chapter and kept me hooked until the very end!
This is a story filled with hope, redemption, and the power of good versus evil. The characters are so well-developed and the plot just kept getting better and better. If you’re a fan of slow burn romances or enemies to lovers, I think you will enjoy this one a lot!
Another thing that felt refreshing about Shadowcast is that while it is definitely a romantasy, it is a closed-door, spice-free romance. This book would be a great alternative to fans of Fourth Wing who are looking for something similar with less graphic content. I also found the parallels between Lambient and God to be really interesting and beautiful.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. The ending of Shadowcast left me very eager for the sequel. If you enjoy fantasy, I think you will love this one!
August 23, 2024
This book. I cried. I wanted to throw it across the room at the end, but then pick it up and hug it and apologize and say I love you, I'm sorry. But it was an e-ARC, and I didn't want to break my phone. I wouldn't have done it with a real book either, but that's beside the point. I wanted to, and that's one mark of a good author!
It started out a little slow, worldbuilding, character introduction and all, but after a little ways, there was no putting it down. Mason, so dark and broody, trauma up the wazoo. Seria, light and laughter but not without her own troubles and trauma. Sanjo was adorable. And the Prince was an interesting character as well. I thought the character development was very realistic, and am interested to see where they all go in the next book! Such an imaginative, allegorical story, dark and gritty, but still wonderful and clean! And such a gorgeous cover as well!! Overall an amazing book, 5 🌟, can't wait for the rest of the trilogy!!
It started out a little slow, worldbuilding, character introduction and all, but after a little ways, there was no putting it down. Mason, so dark and broody, trauma up the wazoo. Seria, light and laughter but not without her own troubles and trauma. Sanjo was adorable. And the Prince was an interesting character as well. I thought the character development was very realistic, and am interested to see where they all go in the next book! Such an imaginative, allegorical story, dark and gritty, but still wonderful and clean! And such a gorgeous cover as well!! Overall an amazing book, 5 🌟, can't wait for the rest of the trilogy!!
September 12, 2023
Words. Need them. But they're hard after finishing this book. From setting to characters to plot, Grant hits it out of the park with her debut novel. Mason and Seria both captured my heart from the very beginning, drawing me into their worlds and lives. The supporting cast of characters rally around them with wit, sincerity, friendship, and forgiveness to make readers fall in love with the whole group (Except for Jadar. I have theories about him that make me especially dislike him.), cheering them on as they fight darkness and their own selfishness to become better people.
The story is multi-POV, which I didn't care for at first, but now can't imagine it any other way. The pacing is a little slow at first, but really allows the reader to immerse him/herself in the world and get to know the characters. My only complaint is that the books ends with a cliffhanger, and I don't have the next one to immediately dive into.
The story is multi-POV, which I didn't care for at first, but now can't imagine it any other way. The pacing is a little slow at first, but really allows the reader to immerse him/herself in the world and get to know the characters. My only complaint is that the books ends with a cliffhanger, and I don't have the next one to immediately dive into.
March 13, 2024
Wow! This book has me so hooked on this world and the the complicated situations that the characters are in.
It took be a little bit to get into. There are quite a few characters that I was wondering how they fit together. But it did come together in a way that was well woven and I just neeeeeed to know what happens next!
One thing that I find really intriguing is the way the faith system is explained. I really appreciated the contrast best
The battle between light and dark and how the truths shared can be paralleled with our world.
I loved how even the characters who are on the "dark side" are complex and multilayered. They have motives and reasons for why they have made the choices they have.
I don't often become so invested in morally grey characters. But boy.
I am invested.
Can't wait for book 2!
It took be a little bit to get into. There are quite a few characters that I was wondering how they fit together. But it did come together in a way that was well woven and I just neeeeeed to know what happens next!
One thing that I find really intriguing is the way the faith system is explained. I really appreciated the contrast best
The battle between light and dark and how the truths shared can be paralleled with our world.
I loved how even the characters who are on the "dark side" are complex and multilayered. They have motives and reasons for why they have made the choices they have.
I don't often become so invested in morally grey characters. But boy.
I am invested.
Can't wait for book 2!
December 29, 2024
This is beautiful story, sweet and complex. It’s high fantasy, which is what I enjoy and boy this book delivers the fantasy! I loved the Tammy and the Batchelor vibes early on in the book between mason and Seria. The grumpy sunshine romance was so sweet and cute. The battle aspect of this book is the age old story of light and dark and the people who can be misguided or miss led to the wrong side. What side is true good…. You will have to find out cause no spoilers.
August 18, 2023
Shadowcast has it all: a brilliantly designed fantasy world, war, romance, and the struggle between good and evil. Crystal D. Grant has a powerful writing style with beautifully descriptive language. Her fighting and battle scenes are the best I’ve ever read. For someone who does not always pick up fantasy, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in the Gateway Trilogy.
August 14, 2024
This was an enjoyable read. Two of my teenaged daughters read it as well and we're all eagerly awaiting book 2.
August 14, 2023
My new favorite book!
All the characters are great! Seriah is so sweet, and seeing her struggle is hard, but seeing her overcome her situation and have a good attitude while still being realistic is cathartic. Mason's shift from disdain to reluctant friendship to love is very compelling. Eric is really interesting because he was more relatable than I expected. While on the topic of characters, I especially like how human the Darkmen are. The author did a great job of making them not seem like generic bad guys. They all seem like normal people who believe in the cause they're fighting for. I really like that. The good guys are flawed but still good, and they try to do the right thing. The world building is also super interesting! I love the gifts and how unique they are! I'm excited to see what new things we learn about the world in the next book!I definitely recommend and will be anxiously awaiting book two!
All the characters are great! Seriah is so sweet, and seeing her struggle is hard, but seeing her overcome her situation and have a good attitude while still being realistic is cathartic. Mason's shift from disdain to reluctant friendship to love is very compelling. Eric is really interesting because he was more relatable than I expected. While on the topic of characters, I especially like how human the Darkmen are. The author did a great job of making them not seem like generic bad guys. They all seem like normal people who believe in the cause they're fighting for. I really like that. The good guys are flawed but still good, and they try to do the right thing. The world building is also super interesting! I love the gifts and how unique they are! I'm excited to see what new things we learn about the world in the next book!I definitely recommend and will be anxiously awaiting book two!
July 18, 2023
"The light within you is stronger than the darkness without."
I loved all the embedded scriptural parallels in this gripping story!
Usually, I have a hard time visualizing settings-- considering the number of details required in your typical fantasy novel--but this author skillfully crafted clear descriptions.
I was also impressed how Shadowcast had more than one narrating character, but it never felt overwhelming or disorienting. Seria, the healing heroine, and her unlikely charge came across as realistic and sympathetic.
So glad I received this ARC, and I can't wait to see how the series progresses! 💜
I loved all the embedded scriptural parallels in this gripping story!
Usually, I have a hard time visualizing settings-- considering the number of details required in your typical fantasy novel--but this author skillfully crafted clear descriptions.
I was also impressed how Shadowcast had more than one narrating character, but it never felt overwhelming or disorienting. Seria, the healing heroine, and her unlikely charge came across as realistic and sympathetic.
So glad I received this ARC, and I can't wait to see how the series progresses! 💜
August 25, 2024
It's sooooooo gooooood! The story, Mason and Seria💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜, the cover, the writing, the world building..... even the cliffhanger! Everything is perfect!
I👏need👏the👏 second 👏book👏now! But I'm sure I'm going to read it a few times more until then💜💜💜💜💜
I just cannot put it in words, how great the book is, so everyone simply has to read it🤷🏼♀️🥰
I👏need👏the👏 second 👏book👏now! But I'm sure I'm going to read it a few times more until then💜💜💜💜💜
I just cannot put it in words, how great the book is, so everyone simply has to read it🤷🏼♀️🥰
April 19, 2024
What a great story! Shadowcast kept me hooked — the stakes were high and each chapter left me wanting my questions answered.
My favorite thing about Shadowcast was the characters. The change and growth they experience is fantastic.
The end made me very excited for the next book!
My favorite thing about Shadowcast was the characters. The change and growth they experience is fantastic.
The end made me very excited for the next book!
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