What do you think?
Rate this book
Shadow and Light Duology #1
The Shadows Beyond
Cinnamon ‘Cinn’ Saunders thought he’d learnt to control his little ghost problem.
That is, until the moment he brings back a malevolent spirit from the shadowrealm, and quickly finds himself unjustly arrested for the murder of four people.
After breaking free of foster care and a stint in juvie, all Cinn wanted to do was keep his head down and work his way up to become a professional chef. Now he’s forced to make a choice: life in jail, or allow a stranger to whisk him away to a mysterious institute in rural Switzerland with the promise of learning how to control his terrifying supernatural abilities.
Julien, the French charismatic charmer who is charged with warding over Cinn, also has a problem: the murder of his sister is still unsolved.
He needs help. Help that only Cinn can provide. He’ll do anything to get it, including making Cinn an offer that he can’t refuse. What Julien doesn't expect out of the bargain is their undeniable connection, which only serves to complicate matters as they navigate uncharted territories together.
Between battling an uprising of deadly creatures that not only threaten the moteblessed community, but the entire planet, and fighting their ever-growing attraction, can this opposites-attract pair overcome their demons to save the world, and each other?
The Shadows Beyond is part 1 of an MM urban fantasy romance duology. It contains explicit content. Full content warnings can be found within the book and on the author’s website. The overarching plot continues in book two, with the end of book one offering a ‘happy-for-now’ for the main characters.
That is, until the moment he brings back a malevolent spirit from the shadowrealm, and quickly finds himself unjustly arrested for the murder of four people.
After breaking free of foster care and a stint in juvie, all Cinn wanted to do was keep his head down and work his way up to become a professional chef. Now he’s forced to make a choice: life in jail, or allow a stranger to whisk him away to a mysterious institute in rural Switzerland with the promise of learning how to control his terrifying supernatural abilities.
Julien, the French charismatic charmer who is charged with warding over Cinn, also has a problem: the murder of his sister is still unsolved.
He needs help. Help that only Cinn can provide. He’ll do anything to get it, including making Cinn an offer that he can’t refuse. What Julien doesn't expect out of the bargain is their undeniable connection, which only serves to complicate matters as they navigate uncharted territories together.
Between battling an uprising of deadly creatures that not only threaten the moteblessed community, but the entire planet, and fighting their ever-growing attraction, can this opposites-attract pair overcome their demons to save the world, and each other?
The Shadows Beyond is part 1 of an MM urban fantasy romance duology. It contains explicit content. Full content warnings can be found within the book and on the author’s website. The overarching plot continues in book two, with the end of book one offering a ‘happy-for-now’ for the main characters.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2024
306 people are currently reading
1933 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Rose
9 books299 followersTJ Rose is steadily turning her wild imagination into alternate universes, one happily-ever-after at a time.
By day, she weaves action-packed queer romances packed with vivid worlds and characters who dance between sugar, spice, and pure chaos. By night, she's either plotting doomsday scenarios or binging horror movies—sometimes simultaneously.
When not writing or daydreaming, you'll find her wandering through the British wilderness, coffee in hand, sunlight optional but strongly preferred.
Visit her website www.tjrosebooks.com to join her mailing list to stay up-to-date!
By day, she weaves action-packed queer romances packed with vivid worlds and characters who dance between sugar, spice, and pure chaos. By night, she's either plotting doomsday scenarios or binging horror movies—sometimes simultaneously.
When not writing or daydreaming, you'll find her wandering through the British wilderness, coffee in hand, sunlight optional but strongly preferred.
Visit her website www.tjrosebooks.com to join her mailing list to stay up-to-date!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
July 13, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW ✨
To say this book was an amazing surprise would be an understatement. This book has great worldbuilding, an interesting magic system and great characters. Cinn's world does a 180° shift and he does his best to adapt to his new situation. He's very reserved and a bit guarded, and his special magic makes him an asset. Julien, Darcy and Elliot are tasked with helping him and keeping an eye on him. Julien seems like this perfect stuck-up dude, also guarded. But he hides a lot of trauma and isn't as perfect as he seems. I love how human both MCs were, how imperfect. And how their relationship developed little by little, from barely trusting each other to being each other greatest supporter.
The plot is intricate and has laid the foundation for a greater conflict in next book. There are many open fronts for our MCs to face. Also, what a final plot twist *chef's kiss*
It ends in a HFN and I can't wait for the next book!
To say this book was an amazing surprise would be an understatement. This book has great worldbuilding, an interesting magic system and great characters. Cinn's world does a 180° shift and he does his best to adapt to his new situation. He's very reserved and a bit guarded, and his special magic makes him an asset. Julien, Darcy and Elliot are tasked with helping him and keeping an eye on him. Julien seems like this perfect stuck-up dude, also guarded. But he hides a lot of trauma and isn't as perfect as he seems. I love how human both MCs were, how imperfect. And how their relationship developed little by little, from barely trusting each other to being each other greatest supporter.
The plot is intricate and has laid the foundation for a greater conflict in next book. There are many open fronts for our MCs to face. Also, what a final plot twist *chef's kiss*
It ends in a HFN and I can't wait for the next book!
October 18, 2024
DNF at 43% and probably won't be back to this author. I don't know why almost every book with a gay MC has to have one of the MC's being a playboy with "many, many lovers" but it's quite irritating and for once, I'm not going to sit through it. Not my favorite stereotype authors seem to love putting LGBTQ+ characters in. I loved Cin as a character from what I have read so far, but the supporting cast are just not doing it for me. Elliot I didn't like at all, Darcy was extremely rude to Julian when he showed a slight interest in Cin, and Julian was just a rich playboy that slept around and broke hearts apparently. They're supposed to be a close knit friend group that have known each other for years, but you don't get that feeling really. The pacing was pretty slow and usually I could sit through the character development for the stereotypical gay but the plot has to keep me engaged. So far at 43% there was very little of anything.
November 27, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ A great romantasy from an author am excited to read more from! We follow Cinn as he's sent to an institution in Switzerland after a rather traumatic event. Here he meets the trio, Julien, Darcy and Elliot, a group of friends who have been waiting for Cinn and his secrets.
This fantasy story is so interesting from the very first page, and I was hooked! All the characters are great as well, and I loved Cinn and Julien so, so much. If you love fantasy, romance, mystery, dramatic action and great world building, this is a must read for you!
This fantasy story is so interesting from the very first page, and I was hooked! All the characters are great as well, and I loved Cinn and Julien so, so much. If you love fantasy, romance, mystery, dramatic action and great world building, this is a must read for you!
November 3, 2024
Cinnamon Saunders (Cinn) has a bit of a rough childhood: he's grown up in the foster system since he was a teen, and some unusual things happen to him when he's stressed out. After a particularly bad incident, he finds himself on a plane with an older lady he doesn't know. She promises to explain all the things that have been happening to him and basically hands him over to a group of his peers (Julien, Elliot and Darcy) to help him learn about his abilities. The plot thickens when Julien asks Finn to use his gifts to help him solve the mysterious death of his sister. This book has it all: romance, fantasy, action, a bit of a mystery and even a recipe!
The isekai'd vibe of this book was on point, Cinn is transported (literally at times lol) into a whole new world where he learns so much about himself. Finding a cute, emotionally unavailable friend with benefits along the way is just part of the fun. I really liked the way TJ Rose creates her characters: the entire friend group feels very real and authentic, and all the extra little details make for an enjoyable read. I did find myself wanting the same level of detail in the plot that we get in the characterization and for that reason I gave the book 4 stars. It was an extremely enjoyable read and the cover is gorgeous. I'm looking forward to book 2.
Rating: 4 stars
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 2/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
The isekai'd vibe of this book was on point, Cinn is transported (literally at times lol) into a whole new world where he learns so much about himself. Finding a cute, emotionally unavailable friend with benefits along the way is just part of the fun. I really liked the way TJ Rose creates her characters: the entire friend group feels very real and authentic, and all the extra little details make for an enjoyable read. I did find myself wanting the same level of detail in the plot that we get in the characterization and for that reason I gave the book 4 stars. It was an extremely enjoyable read and the cover is gorgeous. I'm looking forward to book 2.
Rating: 4 stars
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 2/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
October 8, 2025
Rating: 4.5 ⭐
It was so good! I loved every single thing about this novel.The worldbuilding, the characters, everything was on point! I'm truly impressed.
One thing about me, I'll always eat up the found family trope. The way Julien, Darcy and Eliott included Cinn in their little gang was very touching.
Special mention for Darcy, who's an awesome character!
The romance aspect was very well handled. The banter, the flirt, and just Julien in general? Chief kiss. Cinn and him are so sweet together, I can't wait to read more of them in the next book ❤
This quote is literally the proof of their soulmatism! 🤗
It was so good! I loved every single thing about this novel.The worldbuilding, the characters, everything was on point! I'm truly impressed.
One thing about me, I'll always eat up the found family trope. The way Julien, Darcy and Eliott included Cinn in their little gang was very touching.
Special mention for Darcy, who's an awesome character!
The romance aspect was very well handled. The banter, the flirt, and just Julien in general? Chief kiss. Cinn and him are so sweet together, I can't wait to read more of them in the next book ❤
They clutched each other like they never wanted to let go. Like they were holding a piece of themselves. Flickering flames in a hearth, merging as one. Two puzzle pieces, slotting seamlessly together. Two wings of a bird. Two hands, bound in prayer. Two halves of a whole. One shadow, and one light.
This quote is literally the proof of their soulmatism! 🤗
April 11, 2025
When Cinn accidentally brought back a malevolent spirit from the shadowrealm, he found himself being responsible for four deaths. Fortunately a mysterious institute took interest in him and whisked him to Switzerland to start a new life and learn to control his abilities.
What I love about this book is the complex dynamics between Cinn and Julien, who is a broken mess. Their romance is a bumpy ride, and although Julien can act like an assh*le sometimes, the author makes sure that he’s still likeable and redeemable.
The worldbuilding is pretty original, with motes being the source of their science-magic. The shadowrealm stays a mystery, although we get more glimpses of it as the story proceeds. I’m worried how the author can explain and solve this all when there’s only one book left, but I guess I’ll find out.
What I love about this book is the complex dynamics between Cinn and Julien, who is a broken mess. Their romance is a bumpy ride, and although Julien can act like an assh*le sometimes, the author makes sure that he’s still likeable and redeemable.
The worldbuilding is pretty original, with motes being the source of their science-magic. The shadowrealm stays a mystery, although we get more glimpses of it as the story proceeds. I’m worried how the author can explain and solve this all when there’s only one book left, but I guess I’ll find out.
November 20, 2024
Absolutely fantastic, unique new type of fantasy world, and very lovable, realistic characters.
I have nothing but good things to say about this book. I adore Cinn. The friends group aspect is excellent. Julian is more than just a rich douche. There is chemistry, warmth, and excellent pacing.
Very impressed!
I have nothing but good things to say about this book. I adore Cinn. The friends group aspect is excellent. Julian is more than just a rich douche. There is chemistry, warmth, and excellent pacing.
Very impressed!
July 7, 2024
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book since this is a new author for me, but wow this was a great read! I assumed it would be more of a slow burn, but honestly for me it wasn't. There are so many good scenes with tension and longing (the garden scene and the plane scene were both fantastic for that) and when they got around to some spice it was perfect! I really liked the dynamic between Julien and Cinn. I liked the little nod to the series title toward the end there. I really liked Darcy and Elliot.
I am a smooth-brained ape so I usually avoid anything with super complex worldbuilding or magic/power systems but this one only confused me a little. I think normal-brained people would not have a problem.
Also because Cinn is a music fanatic, there are so many little blink and you miss it music references that really just add to the vibes (hello, fleetwood mac tattoo?) and just make it feel real.
If I had to make any complaint, I would say I really, really didn't like the subplot with Tyler. I absolutely HATED that he goaded Julien into saying and doing the ~thing~ and then twisted it to make himself look like the victim. Basically, if Tyler has 1 million haters I am one of them. If Tyler has 10 haters, I am one of them. If Tyler has no haters, I am dead.
I am a smooth-brained ape so I usually avoid anything with super complex worldbuilding or magic/power systems but this one only confused me a little. I think normal-brained people would not have a problem.
Also because Cinn is a music fanatic, there are so many little blink and you miss it music references that really just add to the vibes (hello, fleetwood mac tattoo?) and just make it feel real.
If I had to make any complaint, I would say I really, really didn't like the subplot with Tyler. I absolutely HATED that he goaded Julien into saying and doing the ~thing~ and then twisted it to make himself look like the victim. Basically, if Tyler has 1 million haters I am one of them. If Tyler has 10 haters, I am one of them. If Tyler has no haters, I am dead.
October 1, 2024
DNF-44%
It’s a cool concept, I’m just so bored and don’t like any of the characters enough to push through. Maybe it gets better, but I have other books and other authors with more coherent world-building I could be spending my time reading.
It’s a cool concept, I’m just so bored and don’t like any of the characters enough to push through. Maybe it gets better, but I have other books and other authors with more coherent world-building I could be spending my time reading.
January 5, 2025
As so often these days it was the cover that decided what to read next; the cover and some of the reviews and going into the story I started to believe that the plot is exactly what I was looking for. I have to admit that the light Potter similarities weren't bad either. What's not to like about an orphaned guy with a dangerous ability to be whisked away to a secret institute where he's supposed to learn to control that ability and help to protect the secret world from possible doom. Couldn't be done without close-knit friends found at the institute who have his back and of course a love interest with a difficult background. At first I also enjoyed that there was no big info dump and that the reader doesn't know a lot more than Cinn and has to create his own picture about the new world of magical not-magic … but somewhere on the way to knowledge I got confused, something was missing like the reason why it's not magic, why they were still able to keep it secret (okay, it happens in the 90s with walkman instead of iPhone but still). So the world building seemed a bit fractured i.e. a lot of nice ideas and interesting situations but no seamless links between to show the big picture eventually. The same applies for the characters; besides Cinn and Julien there was no real person, only role types and unfortunately I wasn't able to connect with Julien which is probably me because trust-fund playboys with a guilt complex, a dark secret and a cold abusive father were never my favorite character and obviously No didn't mean No necessarily in the 90s either. So I shelve this under 'Could have been a good story but missed the mark'.
July 13, 2024
~4.5
Loved:
* A unique concept of magic as an ability to channel living magical elements - loved the concept and the scientific applications
* Both MCs - Cinn is instantly lovable while Julien takes a while to warm up to. But both are complex fleshed out characters with meaningful past and depth. They seem different on the surface, but underneath, both are fiercely loyal and protective of those they love.
* Relationships development - the attraction and connection were there from the beginning, but it took time to act on it. First, there was understanding and trust to build.
* Secondary characters with their own voice and backstories
* Friend group dynamics: loyalty, honesty, banter
* The unexpected plot twist at the end that made so much sense considering the duology title. I love it when authors manage to pull it through.
* Impressive worldbuilding
* HFN ending. There are still plenty of mysteries to uncover and the world to save, but there was no heart-stopping cliffhanger.
Niggles:
* Uneven pacing: slow at the beginning, can't put the book down at the 2nd half.
* Tyler subplot. I hope it will have some meaning to the future book because it felt like unnecessary drama in this one.
I picked up the book based on the blurb and a random review that popped up on my GR feed. And I'm so happy I did. Can't wait for the 2nd part!
Loved:
* A unique concept of magic as an ability to channel living magical elements - loved the concept and the scientific applications
* Both MCs - Cinn is instantly lovable while Julien takes a while to warm up to. But both are complex fleshed out characters with meaningful past and depth. They seem different on the surface, but underneath, both are fiercely loyal and protective of those they love.
* Relationships development - the attraction and connection were there from the beginning, but it took time to act on it. First, there was understanding and trust to build.
* Secondary characters with their own voice and backstories
* Friend group dynamics: loyalty, honesty, banter
* The unexpected plot twist at the end that made so much sense considering the duology title. I love it when authors manage to pull it through.
* Impressive worldbuilding
* HFN ending. There are still plenty of mysteries to uncover and the world to save, but there was no heart-stopping cliffhanger.
Niggles:
* Uneven pacing: slow at the beginning, can't put the book down at the 2nd half.
* Tyler subplot. I hope it will have some meaning to the future book because it felt like unnecessary drama in this one.
I picked up the book based on the blurb and a random review that popped up on my GR feed. And I'm so happy I did. Can't wait for the 2nd part!
November 1, 2024
This book wasn't what I expected but I liked it a lot anyway. I expected a "transported to another world" story. And got a "magical community in crisis in our world" story. But outside of some unanswered questions about what motes are and where they came from and how it all works, it is a very well built world. You can tell TJ had a clear idea of what the goal is.
And Cinn and Julien have such a complicated relationship in an interesting way. It's not just them, it's also everyone around them and everything going on that is making things hard for them, which makes it all the more engrossing. I'm looking forward for the sequel
And Cinn and Julien have such a complicated relationship in an interesting way. It's not just them, it's also everyone around them and everything going on that is making things hard for them, which makes it all the more engrossing. I'm looking forward for the sequel
Read
July 12, 2024Out now!
Magic… a murder mystery… and more than a little mayhem!
Get ready to delve into an MM romance urban fantasy duology featuring…
🕯️alternate magical world
✨fantasy academic institute
🕯️sweet and spicy MM romance
✨hurt/comfort
🕯️opposites attract
✨ghosts & graveyards
🕯️very scary monsters
✨group of friends on a mission
🕯️a dash of dark academia
✨ & that demon cat…
Psst - don’t forget to check out my downloadable bonus chapter, An Interlude at Julien's, which takes place after The Shadows Beyond & before The Light Within. It features a creative use of ties. 👔😉
Magic… a murder mystery… and more than a little mayhem!
Get ready to delve into an MM romance urban fantasy duology featuring…
🕯️alternate magical world
✨fantasy academic institute
🕯️sweet and spicy MM romance
✨hurt/comfort
🕯️opposites attract
✨ghosts & graveyards
🕯️very scary monsters
✨group of friends on a mission
🕯️a dash of dark academia
✨ & that demon cat…
Psst - don’t forget to check out my downloadable bonus chapter, An Interlude at Julien's, which takes place after The Shadows Beyond & before The Light Within. It features a creative use of ties. 👔😉
September 1, 2024
Gaaaah. One of my top reads this year. Been ages since I read a great fantasy book that didn’t murder me with world building.
TJ Rose’s writing is absolutely beautiful and this felt like a genuinely fresh story. I loved the two main characters so much, I love grumpy prickly characters who don’t find it easy to be vulnerable but then eventually you get to see their gooey little insides. Perfection.
The side characters in this were also fantastic, really well fleshed out. I literally cannot wait for book 2 😭
Cannot recommend this enough. Such a brilliant book.
TJ Rose’s writing is absolutely beautiful and this felt like a genuinely fresh story. I loved the two main characters so much, I love grumpy prickly characters who don’t find it easy to be vulnerable but then eventually you get to see their gooey little insides. Perfection.
The side characters in this were also fantastic, really well fleshed out. I literally cannot wait for book 2 😭
Cannot recommend this enough. Such a brilliant book.
July 6, 2024
Two wings of a bird. Two hands, bound in prayer.
Two halves of a whole. One shadow, and one light.
❥ Dual POV
❥ MM Romance
❥ Urban Fantasy
❥ Academic Institute
❥ Paranormal Vibes
❥ Friends On a Mission
❥ Murder Mystery
❥ Opposites Attract
❥ Hurt/Comfort
❥ "I only do casual"
❥ Spice
❥ HFN
This was my first time reading a book by TJ Rose, and I was very excited about getting started. The blurb sounded super interesting, though I don't read much fantasy anymore. Which is why, I'm sure, it took me a little time to get into the book. I had to rewire my brain from the romance I usually read, and grasp the magic (that isn't really magic) system and the world building, which isn't super complex or anything, but add the fact that English isn't my first language as well, then it just took me a minute to really enjoy the world I was presented. But.. once I did, I was completely sucked in, stayed up late reading, cooked while reading, vacuumed while reading... And when the romance and spice was added to the story - yes thank you and can I please have some more!
Cinnamon Saunders, who will ask you to call him Cinn, has a heart of gold and wants nothing else than to see those he cares about happy, which is how he gets in trouble in the beginning of the book. A robbery gone wrong, a panic attack which accidentally leaves four dead bodies behind. Cinn has the rare ability to slip into the shadowrealm, a dark place with evil spirits, but Cinn has absolutely no control over this ability of his, and this "little" accident leads to him traveling across Europe with a woman he doesn't know, and landing in Switzerland.
Here he's introduced to a new life, well basically a whole new world, a world where he maybe finds himself belonging, where his ability is accepted and where he learns to understand it and control it. A world where others have abilities too. But it's also quickly obvious that Cinn is a pawn in a game he doesn't understand yet, a war with monsters, and maybe somehow all of that has something to do with the murder he's helping his new friends to solve.
Julien is desperate to find out what happened with his sister, and only Cinn can help him solve the mysteries revolving around her possible murder. What he doesn't expect is the instant connection he feels with Cinn, and how easily Cinn fits in their friend group. Julien, Elliot and Darcy have been trying to solve Beatrice's murder for a while, and with the help of Cinn, they're finally getting closer to the truth, but the truth isn't simple, and it might be hidden in a flighty demon cat 👀
In the meantime Julien and Cinn's relationship gets rather complicated as Julien is a bit of a playboy and doesn't do serious, but he finds himself wanting to break some rules when it comes to Cinn.
I loved so many things about this book.
I think I got a good grasp on the motepower, which (if I understood it correctly) is more science than magic, and there are different kind of elemental-based motes, which can be used to a lot of things, and those who are able to channel motes are called moteblessed. It was super interesting and very different from anything else I've read.
I loved the dynamic between Julien, Elliot and Darcy, they've been friends for years and the book really shows that relationship between them, and I loved how Cinn slowly but surely became a part of the group, and the loyalty and it's been a while since I've read a book with a group of friends against the world kind of vibe. It was awesome.
And the relationship between Julien and Cinn was definitely slow burn, but so worth it. Their chemistry was pure fire. They're so opposite of each other, which just worked so well. I absolutely loved Julien, who is a bit of a mess and a little unhinged when it comes to Cinn.
“Julien, my love, you deserve the world. You’ve just never believed it, and that is why you occasionally act like a total psychopath.”
I'm very excited about the next book in this duology, because while it didn't have a cliffhanger that leaves you crying and staring at the ceiling for hours, it does leave you with a lot of unsolved things and a lot of questions.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Read the full review on my blog here.
July 12, 2024
"The Shadows Beyond" by TJ Rose was, in a word, epic. The book (part one of a duology) centers around Cinnamon "Cinn" Saunders and his peculiar ability to shift into different realities. After accidentally bringing a murderous ghost back with him, Cinn is scooped up by a mysterious woman who takes him to an even more mysterious institute; the Aurelia Arcanum Institute of Esoteric Sciences. There he meets Darcy, Julien, and Elliot who immediately have a task for Cinn. Slip into the shadowrealm and communicate with Julien's sister whose death remains clouded in mystery. Over time, the group begins to bond and Cinn begins to have feelings for Julien. The Institute comes under attack and soon there are sightings all over of shadowy creatures that have the power to kill. Can the new friends stop the umbraphages from slipping out of the shadowrealm? And will Cinn and Julien's budding relationship have a chance to take off before it's snuffed out for good?
This book was so awesome. It's on the longer side of what I typically read (413 pages) and has a lot of world-building. TJ paints the most vivid pictures with her words. I could clearly imagine the scenes and felt deeply immersed in the story. The fantasy and mystery components are strong in this book. Don't go in expecting a story that glosses over everything but the romance. It deals with themes of addiction, grief, enabling, and neglect. My heart broke for Cinn several times throughout the story. And also for Julien. Since this book is written in dual POV, we get to be inside his heart and mind as well. His grief and heartbreak is palpable at times.
Julien and Cinn's relationship starts off rocky but evolves into a complex love affair. There's some light other-man drama, and Julien is the king of heartless sexscapades who doesn't do relationships. Couple that with Cinn who hates being alone and has had a long-term serious relationship and you've got a recipe for drama. I think it was handled quite well by the author and helped demonstrate character growth as the story went on. I was definitely rooting for them.
The pacing of the story is great and makes perfect sense. I didn't feel bored at any point. The next story beat was always just a few pages away and the exposition that was present was absolutely necessary. This a moteblessed (don't you dare say magical!) world and there's a lot to explain.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy, murder mysteries, and romance. Special thanks to TJ Rose for the ARC of this book. 🩵
This book was so awesome. It's on the longer side of what I typically read (413 pages) and has a lot of world-building. TJ paints the most vivid pictures with her words. I could clearly imagine the scenes and felt deeply immersed in the story. The fantasy and mystery components are strong in this book. Don't go in expecting a story that glosses over everything but the romance. It deals with themes of addiction, grief, enabling, and neglect. My heart broke for Cinn several times throughout the story. And also for Julien. Since this book is written in dual POV, we get to be inside his heart and mind as well. His grief and heartbreak is palpable at times.
Julien and Cinn's relationship starts off rocky but evolves into a complex love affair. There's some light other-man drama, and Julien is the king of heartless sexscapades who doesn't do relationships. Couple that with Cinn who hates being alone and has had a long-term serious relationship and you've got a recipe for drama. I think it was handled quite well by the author and helped demonstrate character growth as the story went on. I was definitely rooting for them.
The pacing of the story is great and makes perfect sense. I didn't feel bored at any point. The next story beat was always just a few pages away and the exposition that was present was absolutely necessary. This a moteblessed (don't you dare say magical!) world and there's a lot to explain.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy, murder mysteries, and romance. Special thanks to TJ Rose for the ARC of this book. 🩵
August 12, 2024
felt like the rest of the story got derailed repeatedly in favor of the romance. I loved their story tho.
June 25, 2024
Adored the Artwork for the cover on this book, I guess this represents Cinnamon, one of the MC. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
.30% in and I was loving this whole new magical mystery world. I’m so enjoying the change from my usual genre. Is it Dystopian, Paranormal? I didn’t have a clue what to expect but I wasn’t deterred from forging headlong into finding out more.
Cinnamon Saunders was kidnapped and thrust on a plane to Switzerland which traumatised him as he had never flown before. But, apparently it was a rescue mission, saving him from what he thinks would have been a murder charge. All he was trying to do was help his best friend Tyler, pay off his drug supplier. Both of them had a hard life, living on the streets of London, where Tyler mixed with low life characters, thieves and drug dealers. Cinnamon has always tried to look out for Tyler, and that is how Cinnamon landed in this predicament.
In Switzerland, Eleanor, his rescuer, takes Cinnamon to a small house telling him he will be contacted by a team from Aurelia Institute of Science the next day. None of this Team were prepared for Cinnamon Saunders, who is so far removed from their world of wealth, magic and science.. Elliot Perez is American, Darcy Beaumont is Scottish and Julien Montaigne is an enigmatic Frenchman. They seem to have a secret agenda apart from their work and they believe that Cinnamon is the link they need, at least that is what Eleanor told them.
Weird and wonderful things happen to Cinnamon in Switzerland in a world he has no clue about, Julien engineers the most strange objects that make the impossible possible, Darcy conjures up potent concoctions that does strange things to a body, Elliott has strange powers in his hands that can create barriers between the enemy. Ah Cinnamon, (he hates the use of his full name), he has a very weird ability that he never understood when he was younger, he is able to slip away into other worlds and see stuff that’s going on. He is told by Darcy and crew that he is a ‘shadowslipper’, he can slip away into other worlds, and become a ghostlike presence there and talk to the inhabitants.
He’s been brought to Switzerland to help the Aurelia Institute of Sciences discover who the enemy, known as umbraphages, are and what they want. But Julien also has a special mission for him, he want to know why his beloved sister Beatrice was killed.
The plot thickens when Julian’s father, the powerful Lucien Montaigne, the man who holds all the power, insists Julien comes back to Paris to attend a dinner and bring his friend, meaning Darcy. Of course, Julien, who hates his father and his stepmother, decided to bring in Cinnamon, who he’s already got a huge crush on. Plus it will annoy the hell out of his father. Weeks later, he further antagonises him when be brings Elliot, (a persona non grata to Lucien), Darcy and Cinnamon to attend his father’s birthday celebrations. Here Julien and Cinnamon steal something precious to Julien that belonged to his sister. Back in their hotel Julien known for his “love ‘em and leave ‘em” ways gets all hot and passionate with Cinnamon who is more than willing reciprocates but later wonders if Julien is just leading him on so he will help solve the mystery of Beatrice’s death and then dump him.
With battles happening around them all, Darcy takes a call from London, Tyler is in more trouble. Again, Cinnamon, with financial help from Julien, sorts it out. But it doesn’t take long before Cinnamon ends up having to go back to London, this time to save Tyler’s life. Of course his friends insist he doesn’t go alone. The fallout of this trip may destroy his relationship with Darcy, Elliott and especially Julien.
The world in which this book is set is entirely new to me, as I read I thought of Star Wars and Doctor Who scenarios but it was so much more than that, it had magical elements, and potions that did strange things to bodies. All of this kept me turning the pages but also had the romance element. I trust that T J Rose will keep these four interesting charmers in the sequel due later in the year. I could even become an aficionado of this world.
I received a free ARC from the author via BookFunnell and this is my unbiased review.
.30% in and I was loving this whole new magical mystery world. I’m so enjoying the change from my usual genre. Is it Dystopian, Paranormal? I didn’t have a clue what to expect but I wasn’t deterred from forging headlong into finding out more.
Cinnamon Saunders was kidnapped and thrust on a plane to Switzerland which traumatised him as he had never flown before. But, apparently it was a rescue mission, saving him from what he thinks would have been a murder charge. All he was trying to do was help his best friend Tyler, pay off his drug supplier. Both of them had a hard life, living on the streets of London, where Tyler mixed with low life characters, thieves and drug dealers. Cinnamon has always tried to look out for Tyler, and that is how Cinnamon landed in this predicament.
In Switzerland, Eleanor, his rescuer, takes Cinnamon to a small house telling him he will be contacted by a team from Aurelia Institute of Science the next day. None of this Team were prepared for Cinnamon Saunders, who is so far removed from their world of wealth, magic and science.. Elliot Perez is American, Darcy Beaumont is Scottish and Julien Montaigne is an enigmatic Frenchman. They seem to have a secret agenda apart from their work and they believe that Cinnamon is the link they need, at least that is what Eleanor told them.
Weird and wonderful things happen to Cinnamon in Switzerland in a world he has no clue about, Julien engineers the most strange objects that make the impossible possible, Darcy conjures up potent concoctions that does strange things to a body, Elliott has strange powers in his hands that can create barriers between the enemy. Ah Cinnamon, (he hates the use of his full name), he has a very weird ability that he never understood when he was younger, he is able to slip away into other worlds and see stuff that’s going on. He is told by Darcy and crew that he is a ‘shadowslipper’, he can slip away into other worlds, and become a ghostlike presence there and talk to the inhabitants.
He’s been brought to Switzerland to help the Aurelia Institute of Sciences discover who the enemy, known as umbraphages, are and what they want. But Julien also has a special mission for him, he want to know why his beloved sister Beatrice was killed.
The plot thickens when Julian’s father, the powerful Lucien Montaigne, the man who holds all the power, insists Julien comes back to Paris to attend a dinner and bring his friend, meaning Darcy. Of course, Julien, who hates his father and his stepmother, decided to bring in Cinnamon, who he’s already got a huge crush on. Plus it will annoy the hell out of his father. Weeks later, he further antagonises him when be brings Elliot, (a persona non grata to Lucien), Darcy and Cinnamon to attend his father’s birthday celebrations. Here Julien and Cinnamon steal something precious to Julien that belonged to his sister. Back in their hotel Julien known for his “love ‘em and leave ‘em” ways gets all hot and passionate with Cinnamon who is more than willing reciprocates but later wonders if Julien is just leading him on so he will help solve the mystery of Beatrice’s death and then dump him.
With battles happening around them all, Darcy takes a call from London, Tyler is in more trouble. Again, Cinnamon, with financial help from Julien, sorts it out. But it doesn’t take long before Cinnamon ends up having to go back to London, this time to save Tyler’s life. Of course his friends insist he doesn’t go alone. The fallout of this trip may destroy his relationship with Darcy, Elliott and especially Julien.
The world in which this book is set is entirely new to me, as I read I thought of Star Wars and Doctor Who scenarios but it was so much more than that, it had magical elements, and potions that did strange things to bodies. All of this kept me turning the pages but also had the romance element. I trust that T J Rose will keep these four interesting charmers in the sequel due later in the year. I could even become an aficionado of this world.
I received a free ARC from the author via BookFunnell and this is my unbiased review.
January 23, 2025
THE SHADOWS BEYOND was an interesting read and while I didn't enjoy it as much as the author's debut book I still found a lot to like. The world building was very unique and I'm looking forward to learning more about the moteblessed, umbraphages, and the Arcane Purifiers; I think we're in for some surprises in book 2! Everything was pretty easy to understand, though I wondered how the umbraphage attacks were being hidden from the rest of the world.
I liked Cinn from the very beginning, he's loyal and genuine, but also kind of a grumpy mess. Julien took longer for me to warm up to, he was jealous, closed off, and he's a pretty big jerk to Cinn in the beginning. These two have an angsty romance, which isn't my favorite, but once they started to trust each other and be vulnerable I really started to like them together. I do think Julien's change from casual to serious was abrupt but it didn't necessarily solve the relationship problems so I appreciated that they still needed to work through their issues (and will probably continue to do so in book 2).
The side characters, Darcy and Elliot, were fun and they helped to round out Cinn and Julien's more prickly personalities. It did sometimes feel like the characters were a lot younger than they appeared and I think their involvement with the Institute (which felt like a school) helped create that feeling. As for Tyler -- sigh -- I kind of wish he wasn't such a prominent problem and I'm not completely sure what purpose he served in the story other than to create unnecessary drama (maybe that was the purpose). For instance, making Julien and Cinn divert attention away from a much bigger problem just so they could go rescue Tyler from a drug lord felt very out of pace with the rest of the plot.
Content Warning: grief and recent death of a sibling; past parental neglect; drug use (side character)
I liked Cinn from the very beginning, he's loyal and genuine, but also kind of a grumpy mess. Julien took longer for me to warm up to, he was jealous, closed off, and he's a pretty big jerk to Cinn in the beginning. These two have an angsty romance, which isn't my favorite, but once they started to trust each other and be vulnerable I really started to like them together. I do think Julien's change from casual to serious was abrupt but it didn't necessarily solve the relationship problems so I appreciated that they still needed to work through their issues (and will probably continue to do so in book 2).
The side characters, Darcy and Elliot, were fun and they helped to round out Cinn and Julien's more prickly personalities. It did sometimes feel like the characters were a lot younger than they appeared and I think their involvement with the Institute (which felt like a school) helped create that feeling. As for Tyler -- sigh -- I kind of wish he wasn't such a prominent problem and I'm not completely sure what purpose he served in the story other than to create unnecessary drama (maybe that was the purpose). For instance, making Julien and Cinn divert attention away from a much bigger problem just so they could go rescue Tyler from a drug lord felt very out of pace with the rest of the plot.
Content Warning: grief and recent death of a sibling; past parental neglect; drug use (side character)
October 21, 2024
Oh Julien, you broken little sweet pie...
This review may contain some slight spoilers
This book has been a delightful emotional ride: confusion followed by hype, frustration, joy, sadness... Fear. The author is amazing at bringing tears to my eyes, as well as laughter to my lips. It is not the lightest book to read as it flirts with subjects such as death, mourning, guilt and hopelessness but it wasn't as heavy as I thought it'd be either: there were more moments of lightness than moments of heaviness, which made the story all the more enjoyable while remaining realistic (apart from all of the mote-things and stuff).
My heart breaks for Julien, honestly. Well, Cinn's life has been equally horrible but I relate all too well with our French boy's way of messing things up because of how (understandably) emotionally constipated he is. Ugh, how about we communicate a little, huh? How about a nice little therapy session? Seriously though: the characters were all really well written. Darcy reminded me of Hermione, smart and caring, unafraid of voicing her opinion loud and clear and calling the boys out on their bullshit. Elliot is a tough nut to crack but we got there eventually! It would take a while for me to voice my opinion on everyone but just so you know: I absolutely despise Tyler.
As for the story: I am absolutely intrigued. I want to know what happened, what these murderous shadowy thingies are, why is everything the way it is... And the cat?! I want to know more- so much more! I only got the tiniest answers to some of my questions about Julien and gosh, I wish I had more. I can't wait to get my hands on book two and get lost in their world again!
You are the most beautiful thing, inside and out. Stay here with me. Never go home. I won’t hate it here if you’re with me. I think I’m falling in love with you. Non, I know I am.
This review may contain some slight spoilers
This book has been a delightful emotional ride: confusion followed by hype, frustration, joy, sadness... Fear. The author is amazing at bringing tears to my eyes, as well as laughter to my lips. It is not the lightest book to read as it flirts with subjects such as death, mourning, guilt and hopelessness but it wasn't as heavy as I thought it'd be either: there were more moments of lightness than moments of heaviness, which made the story all the more enjoyable while remaining realistic (apart from all of the mote-things and stuff).
My heart breaks for Julien, honestly. Well, Cinn's life has been equally horrible but I relate all too well with our French boy's way of messing things up because of how (understandably) emotionally constipated he is. Ugh, how about we communicate a little, huh? How about a nice little therapy session? Seriously though: the characters were all really well written. Darcy reminded me of Hermione, smart and caring, unafraid of voicing her opinion loud and clear and calling the boys out on their bullshit. Elliot is a tough nut to crack but we got there eventually! It would take a while for me to voice my opinion on everyone but just so you know: I absolutely despise Tyler.
As for the story: I am absolutely intrigued. I want to know what happened, what these murderous shadowy thingies are, why is everything the way it is... And the cat?! I want to know more- so much more! I only got the tiniest answers to some of my questions about Julien and gosh, I wish I had more. I can't wait to get my hands on book two and get lost in their world again!
You are the most beautiful thing, inside and out. Stay here with me. Never go home. I won’t hate it here if you’re with me. I think I’m falling in love with you. Non, I know I am.
March 3, 2025
hate is too strong of a word for this, but it really did nawwwt do it for me. the writing was okay. although there were many many strange grammar and wording choices that i found deeply distracting. unsure if this was self-published but it would have benefited from an editor! like strongly benefited. and if there was an editor involved... get a new one!
otherwise very little about the worldbuilding, plot, or characters interested me. if i was going to describe it with one word, it would be serviceable. probs a case of not for me, but i'm also finding myself increasingly bored w fantasy romance these days, despite loving both genres. if i'm reading a fantasy romance, i still want the fantasy element to be able to stand on its own. or at least be original, and not hammy.
ik this is scathing but like. my head hurts. this made my head hurt, and not in a fun intricate way
otherwise very little about the worldbuilding, plot, or characters interested me. if i was going to describe it with one word, it would be serviceable. probs a case of not for me, but i'm also finding myself increasingly bored w fantasy romance these days, despite loving both genres. if i'm reading a fantasy romance, i still want the fantasy element to be able to stand on its own. or at least be original, and not hammy.
ik this is scathing but like. my head hurts. this made my head hurt, and not in a fun intricate way
October 31, 2024
Ahhhhhh so good! This was an amazing urban fantasy novel about a university for magically gifted individuals- the magic system was fascinating, with people being able to channel different types of ‘motes’ of magical energy - water, air, earth etc.
Cinn Saunders was born and raised in London; with a poor upbringing and alcoholic mother, Cinn had spent time in and out of the foster system and prison. Since childhood, he’s always been able to shadowslip, but not control it, dropping into the shadow realm and talking to the dead… but on one slip, he accidentally brings back some malevolent spirits and ends up accused of the murder of 4 people.
Before he is sent back to prison, he is taken to Auri, a magical institution, to learn about his powers. Here he meets Darcy, Elliot and the alluring and mysterious Julien.
Julien is hiding from his past - the son of a wealthy businessman, he’s on track for big things at Auri. But he’s struggling with the death of his sister and the pressures from his father. When he meets Cinn his world is turned upside down, but will it be enough to stop his self destructive path… especially when attacks from shadow creatures are increasing and more and more secrets about his family are coming to light.
This book was just a real trip - I loved Cinn and Julien, both are broken in their own ways but they fit so well together ♥️ I am so excited for the next book!
Read The Shadows Beyond for:
✨ Unique magical worldbuilding
✨ Two broken MCs trying to heal
✨ Magical shadow realm
✨ Searching for Julien’s dead sister
✨ Found family
✨ Class difference
✨ Mystery at every turn
✨ A magical shadow cat
The only reason this didn’t get 5 stars from me is I found the pacing a little jerky - some elements felt felt slow whereas some sped by and I found myself having to backtrack to check what had happened. That’s just a me thing though - I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who loves urban fantasy!
Thank you to GRR for a copy of this book!
Cinn Saunders was born and raised in London; with a poor upbringing and alcoholic mother, Cinn had spent time in and out of the foster system and prison. Since childhood, he’s always been able to shadowslip, but not control it, dropping into the shadow realm and talking to the dead… but on one slip, he accidentally brings back some malevolent spirits and ends up accused of the murder of 4 people.
Before he is sent back to prison, he is taken to Auri, a magical institution, to learn about his powers. Here he meets Darcy, Elliot and the alluring and mysterious Julien.
Julien is hiding from his past - the son of a wealthy businessman, he’s on track for big things at Auri. But he’s struggling with the death of his sister and the pressures from his father. When he meets Cinn his world is turned upside down, but will it be enough to stop his self destructive path… especially when attacks from shadow creatures are increasing and more and more secrets about his family are coming to light.
This book was just a real trip - I loved Cinn and Julien, both are broken in their own ways but they fit so well together ♥️ I am so excited for the next book!
Read The Shadows Beyond for:
✨ Unique magical worldbuilding
✨ Two broken MCs trying to heal
✨ Magical shadow realm
✨ Searching for Julien’s dead sister
✨ Found family
✨ Class difference
✨ Mystery at every turn
✨ A magical shadow cat
The only reason this didn’t get 5 stars from me is I found the pacing a little jerky - some elements felt felt slow whereas some sped by and I found myself having to backtrack to check what had happened. That’s just a me thing though - I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who loves urban fantasy!
Thank you to GRR for a copy of this book!
October 13, 2024
4⭐️
1.5🌶️
I came across this book randomly and decided to give it a go. And I am so happy I did! TJ Rose is a new to me author, and I am now a fan!
This was just an interesting take on “fantasy and magic”. There were a few times it read a little slow, but that was due to information about the world and the “motes” and like Cinn, my thoughts were “can you please explain like I’m 5” hahaha
But aside from that, I did enjoy the book. Cinn & Julien…phew. Those two nearly made me meeeeelt.
And I adored the found family/friend group of it all.
There’s a bit of murder mystery going on, and the world is also being tormented by some nasty shadow creatures. Plus there is a radical group trying to unalive everyone. So this crew has their work cut out for them.
But like Julien is sooooo gone for Cinn. I so do love when the fck boy falls first 🫠🫠🫠🫠
Anyways, I’ll be waiting on pins and needles for November when part two releases!
1.5🌶️
I came across this book randomly and decided to give it a go. And I am so happy I did! TJ Rose is a new to me author, and I am now a fan!
This was just an interesting take on “fantasy and magic”. There were a few times it read a little slow, but that was due to information about the world and the “motes” and like Cinn, my thoughts were “can you please explain like I’m 5” hahaha
But aside from that, I did enjoy the book. Cinn & Julien…phew. Those two nearly made me meeeeelt.
And I adored the found family/friend group of it all.
There’s a bit of murder mystery going on, and the world is also being tormented by some nasty shadow creatures. Plus there is a radical group trying to unalive everyone. So this crew has their work cut out for them.
But like Julien is sooooo gone for Cinn. I so do love when the fck boy falls first 🫠🫠🫠🫠
Anyways, I’ll be waiting on pins and needles for November when part two releases!
July 21, 2024
Thanks GRR for the arc, this is my honest review!
It's a solid 4.5, rounded up to a 5 because I had so much fun reading it. ( also I've binged it because we didn't have power in the house for a few hours and I had to keep myself busy!)
LET ME SAY SOMETHING CINNAMON TOO PURE TOO GOOD FOR THIS WORLD. GET BEHIND ME ILL PROTECT YOU DON'T WORRY.
With that said. I really enjoyed the story, the magic system is super fun and intriguing. I loved how it mixed with the technology.
The characters are vibrant, at times dumb but overall so charming.
Shout-out to the French, because as a French asshole myself I'm sooo easily pissed off with badly use French. But here it was impeccable. It made sense and Julien is the perfect sassy French ass. Love him. Even when I wanted to slap him for hurt my baby CINn.
The way I need to bubblewrap them all from harm.
Cinn. Is just so loveable. I need to hug him. And I need to do it now.
I adored the place friendship took in the book, and how they're all devoted to one another. Even if it could be one sided with Julien's fuck up.
He's an egoist, grieving and sad boy and I love him. He does deserve some ass kicking tho.
Darcy is a queen. I need her to be more present in book 2 pls ! She deserves a gf.
Elliot was awesome toooo! Pls give him a love interest too.
Cinn and Julien's relationship made me sigh and smile and roll my eyes. And I LOVE IT.
The plot is well thought and if the ending gave us some well deserved answers and clues, I can't wait for book 2 ! I need more answers about Béatrice!!
ANYWAY. Loved it
It's a solid 4.5, rounded up to a 5 because I had so much fun reading it. ( also I've binged it because we didn't have power in the house for a few hours and I had to keep myself busy!)
LET ME SAY SOMETHING CINNAMON TOO PURE TOO GOOD FOR THIS WORLD. GET BEHIND ME ILL PROTECT YOU DON'T WORRY.
With that said. I really enjoyed the story, the magic system is super fun and intriguing. I loved how it mixed with the technology.
The characters are vibrant, at times dumb but overall so charming.
Shout-out to the French, because as a French asshole myself I'm sooo easily pissed off with badly use French. But here it was impeccable. It made sense and Julien is the perfect sassy French ass. Love him. Even when I wanted to slap him for hurt my baby CINn.
The way I need to bubblewrap them all from harm.
Cinn. Is just so loveable. I need to hug him. And I need to do it now.
I adored the place friendship took in the book, and how they're all devoted to one another. Even if it could be one sided with Julien's fuck up.
He's an egoist, grieving and sad boy and I love him. He does deserve some ass kicking tho.
Darcy is a queen. I need her to be more present in book 2 pls ! She deserves a gf.
Elliot was awesome toooo! Pls give him a love interest too.
Cinn and Julien's relationship made me sigh and smile and roll my eyes. And I LOVE IT.
The plot is well thought and if the ending gave us some well deserved answers and clues, I can't wait for book 2 ! I need more answers about Béatrice!!
ANYWAY. Loved it
July 6, 2025
2.75🌟
the plot and characters were okay at best and I think the characters weren't as developed as they could've been and we spent so many chapters in Paris for like one single event that mattered that was over in 3 pages. the s*x scenes were also a let down tbh. either go vanilla or if it's gonna be d/s vibes COMMIT to it.
the plot and characters were okay at best and I think the characters weren't as developed as they could've been and we spent so many chapters in Paris for like one single event that mattered that was over in 3 pages. the s*x scenes were also a let down tbh. either go vanilla or if it's gonna be d/s vibes COMMIT to it.
dnf-or-onpause
July 17, 2024➺ 𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𖦹 𝟐𝟎% ✦
promising story with a good writing style but sadly i'm not feeling it at the moment.. i'll get back to it once i'm in the right mood #moodreader🙃
promising story with a good writing style but sadly i'm not feeling it at the moment.. i'll get back to it once i'm in the right mood #moodreader🙃
August 19, 2025
This book has been on my TBR for quite some time now, but after falling in love with TJ's writing thanks to Bite Marks & Broken Hearts and Little Red Riding Hood, I knew I couldn't let it gather dust any longer. And I'm so glad I finally read this! I'm also very glad I have the second part of this duology already, hah.
I like how feisty but also soft Cinn is. He’s guarded, but has such a soft center. I love him so much. Julien, on the other hand, takes some time to warm up to. He can be infuriating, but… at his core, he’s a good person. I think these two fit well together. They need each other. The romance isn't in a HEA place at the end of this one, not even a HFN really, but as it's a duology, that makes sense. And I look forward to seeing how things play out in the second book. I'm also rather fond of Elliot and Darcy! They're fun characters, and I almost wish we could get Elliot a book of his own because he deserves to have his own HEA, really.
The world in this book is quite unique, which is hard to accomplish. Still, it felt fresh and interesting and I was sucked into it from the start. I can't wait to see how the rest of the story plays out.
I like how feisty but also soft Cinn is. He’s guarded, but has such a soft center. I love him so much. Julien, on the other hand, takes some time to warm up to. He can be infuriating, but… at his core, he’s a good person. I think these two fit well together. They need each other. The romance isn't in a HEA place at the end of this one, not even a HFN really, but as it's a duology, that makes sense. And I look forward to seeing how things play out in the second book. I'm also rather fond of Elliot and Darcy! They're fun characters, and I almost wish we could get Elliot a book of his own because he deserves to have his own HEA, really.
The world in this book is quite unique, which is hard to accomplish. Still, it felt fresh and interesting and I was sucked into it from the start. I can't wait to see how the rest of the story plays out.
July 4, 2024
❤️ An ARC provided via Bookfunnel and this is my honest thoughts on the book.
This was a new author for me with this book which I absolutely loved.
Cinn, 24 yrs, was flying in an aeroplane that he'd never been on before, his anxieties were high. Disappointed by his failed trainee-ship in hospitality in London which lead to a robbery.
A good beginning although it took me a while to figure out what was happening with Cinn as the story jumps right into Cinn’s flight. Cinn was a paranormal dude with uncontrollable powers that if he's stressed, the results aren't good at all especially witnessing a demon killings.
Helping a mate out earns him in trouble with the police which is where he is rescued by the Madam Eleanor.
An interesting tale as Cinn lands in Switzerland (against his will) to new adventures in a new organization to learn to control his talents with ghosts.
Julian was about to do something silly with his mates at the library as they try to communicate with his departed sister. They needed Cinn to prove accidental deaths are not accidents at all.
This is a brilliantly told story as scenes kept me glued to the characters and dramas.
I loved the blossoming romance between Cinn and Julian as they learned about each other as the story progresses. A lot happens in this which I wont spoil but its a page turner for all the characters involved.
This includes both povs and much more into the novel which ending in a HFN which continues in the next book. I’ll be looking forward to more of this series.
This was a new author for me with this book which I absolutely loved.
Cinn, 24 yrs, was flying in an aeroplane that he'd never been on before, his anxieties were high. Disappointed by his failed trainee-ship in hospitality in London which lead to a robbery.
A good beginning although it took me a while to figure out what was happening with Cinn as the story jumps right into Cinn’s flight. Cinn was a paranormal dude with uncontrollable powers that if he's stressed, the results aren't good at all especially witnessing a demon killings.
Helping a mate out earns him in trouble with the police which is where he is rescued by the Madam Eleanor.
An interesting tale as Cinn lands in Switzerland (against his will) to new adventures in a new organization to learn to control his talents with ghosts.
Julian was about to do something silly with his mates at the library as they try to communicate with his departed sister. They needed Cinn to prove accidental deaths are not accidents at all.
This is a brilliantly told story as scenes kept me glued to the characters and dramas.
I loved the blossoming romance between Cinn and Julian as they learned about each other as the story progresses. A lot happens in this which I wont spoil but its a page turner for all the characters involved.
This includes both povs and much more into the novel which ending in a HFN which continues in the next book. I’ll be looking forward to more of this series.
December 24, 2025
This book was amazing! 10/10, no notes.
I started this year thinking I didn't like urban fantasy. It turns out, I just don't like "bad" urban fantasy. This duology has been the most fun and engaging book I've read in a while. And it's written with so much skill that, frankly, I'm in search of my jaw. It must be somewhere on the floor.
It's so full of X-Men vibes that I was sold on page one. An academy for people with abilities but with old European architecture? And there's a friend group who'd do anything for each other? And they're queer? Say. No. More.
I'm in.
I started this year thinking I didn't like urban fantasy. It turns out, I just don't like "bad" urban fantasy. This duology has been the most fun and engaging book I've read in a while. And it's written with so much skill that, frankly, I'm in search of my jaw. It must be somewhere on the floor.
It's so full of X-Men vibes that I was sold on page one. An academy for people with abilities but with old European architecture? And there's a friend group who'd do anything for each other? And they're queer? Say. No. More.
I'm in.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews