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Shadow of Hope
IT WAS HER.
SHE WAS THE MARK.
THE GIRL I’D VOWED TO PROTECT WHEN I BECAME THE SHADOW…
Was the next name on Mahan’s list, and it had me questioning everything. It had been seven years since I’d seen her, and now she was betrothed to Captain Luke Ramsey. She would never choose me over him, and she shouldn’t. He was an accomplished captain with the world at his fingertips. I was an orphan with a shady past. I had nothing to offer her but lies about who I was and apologies I hoped she’d never know she deserved. Even so, two things were keeping a small spark of my hope alive. One was the way Kalista looked at me. The other was the way she looked at him. If I was seeing clearly, she didn’t love him. I remembered how she looked at me when she saw me in the stables. I had seen it in her eyes. Delight.
SHE WAS THE MARK.
THE GIRL I’D VOWED TO PROTECT WHEN I BECAME THE SHADOW…
Was the next name on Mahan’s list, and it had me questioning everything. It had been seven years since I’d seen her, and now she was betrothed to Captain Luke Ramsey. She would never choose me over him, and she shouldn’t. He was an accomplished captain with the world at his fingertips. I was an orphan with a shady past. I had nothing to offer her but lies about who I was and apologies I hoped she’d never know she deserved. Even so, two things were keeping a small spark of my hope alive. One was the way Kalista looked at me. The other was the way she looked at him. If I was seeing clearly, she didn’t love him. I remembered how she looked at me when she saw me in the stables. I had seen it in her eyes. Delight.
- GenresFantasy
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2024
23 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
Molly Crowe
2 books48 followersMolly Crowe is a young adult fantasy author who grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. As a child, she was rarely herself, always pretending and playing out the stories she created in her mind. As a teenager, she spent her time filling up journals and daydreaming, and now sneaks her writing in during the early mornings before her husband and two boys wake up and take over her world. Molly loves a hot cup of coffee any time of day, both teaching and practicing yoga, and spending time in the mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 8, 2025
I am in shock 😳
I don’t even have the words to describe how hooked I was by this story. I stumbled across this series because I’m an ARC reader for the second book. Honestly? I didn’t expect to get so invested, but it completely captivated me. Shadow of Hope is a gripping tale set in a world filled with mystery, secrets, and suspense.
Molly Crowe has crafted a setting where every page left me with more questions than answers. I won’t spoil anything, but trust me—the layers of intrigue run deep. And just when you think things couldn’t get more intense, there’s a love triangle between the future queen, the army captain chosen to be her fiancé, and a deadly assassin who can’t stop thinking about her… and she can’t stop thinking about him either.
The ending caught me completely off guard. I honestly don’t even know who I’m rooting for anymore! What I do know is that this book is absolutely worth reading, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience it. I’m diving into book two now—it hasn’t been published yet, but I get to read it early. I’ll keep you posted!
I don’t even have the words to describe how hooked I was by this story. I stumbled across this series because I’m an ARC reader for the second book. Honestly? I didn’t expect to get so invested, but it completely captivated me. Shadow of Hope is a gripping tale set in a world filled with mystery, secrets, and suspense.
Molly Crowe has crafted a setting where every page left me with more questions than answers. I won’t spoil anything, but trust me—the layers of intrigue run deep. And just when you think things couldn’t get more intense, there’s a love triangle between the future queen, the army captain chosen to be her fiancé, and a deadly assassin who can’t stop thinking about her… and she can’t stop thinking about him either.
The ending caught me completely off guard. I honestly don’t even know who I’m rooting for anymore! What I do know is that this book is absolutely worth reading, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience it. I’m diving into book two now—it hasn’t been published yet, but I get to read it early. I’ll keep you posted!
June 25, 2025
THIS. BOOK. WAS. AMAZING!
No exaggeration, I was hooked from page one and didn’t want to stop. I flew through my day just to get back to this story. The best part? I already have Book 2 lined up!
When Raine was 13, he saved a girl’s life and became “The Shadow.” Years later, he's sent to kidnap a princess...only to realize it’s her: Kalista. But she’s no longer a girl, she’s a strong, beautiful woman… and promised to Captain Luke, her loyal childhood friend.
Kalista is torn. She cares deeply for Luke, but Raine is literally the man from her dreams. Their bond is intense, magnetic, and IMPOSSIBLE to ignore. But Raine’s refusal to complete his mission (kidnapping Kalista) has put her in danger, and now more are coming for her and her kingdom. As evil threatens Avalyn, Raine must act fast: protect Kalista, protect the kingdom, and try to protect their hearts in the process!!!
This book had it all: suspense, romance, chemistry, and a love triangle that was perfectly done.
Faith themes, some language, and a very vague fade-to-black scene (closed door).
I’m OBSESSED and I am diving straight into Book 2! I can not wait to finish this story!
No exaggeration, I was hooked from page one and didn’t want to stop. I flew through my day just to get back to this story. The best part? I already have Book 2 lined up!
When Raine was 13, he saved a girl’s life and became “The Shadow.” Years later, he's sent to kidnap a princess...only to realize it’s her: Kalista. But she’s no longer a girl, she’s a strong, beautiful woman… and promised to Captain Luke, her loyal childhood friend.
Kalista is torn. She cares deeply for Luke, but Raine is literally the man from her dreams. Their bond is intense, magnetic, and IMPOSSIBLE to ignore. But Raine’s refusal to complete his mission (kidnapping Kalista) has put her in danger, and now more are coming for her and her kingdom. As evil threatens Avalyn, Raine must act fast: protect Kalista, protect the kingdom, and try to protect their hearts in the process!!!
This book had it all: suspense, romance, chemistry, and a love triangle that was perfectly done.
Faith themes, some language, and a very vague fade-to-black scene (closed door).
I’m OBSESSED and I am diving straight into Book 2! I can not wait to finish this story!
May 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! I love fantasy romance so much more lately. The cover is beautiful. I love the way she’s looking over the lands.
It was definitely a wonderful YA fantasy romance. The characters were so easy to like. The way Molly wrote their story was so good.
There was romance evolving between the characters.
I loved the maps that came at the beginning of the book. It gives you a good view into the realms and worlds that the characters are living in. Kalista’s character dealt with a lot of emotion and being torn between duties, loyalty and her desires.
This was definitely a great first book of the Sol Defenders. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
It was definitely a wonderful YA fantasy romance. The characters were so easy to like. The way Molly wrote their story was so good.
There was romance evolving between the characters.
I loved the maps that came at the beginning of the book. It gives you a good view into the realms and worlds that the characters are living in. Kalista’s character dealt with a lot of emotion and being torn between duties, loyalty and her desires.
This was definitely a great first book of the Sol Defenders. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
February 9, 2025
This book destroyed me. It deserves all of the awards it's received and more, and I am dying for the sequel. Kalista and Raine are absolutely fantastic, and 5 there wasn't even a single side character I disliked, except the villain, of course.
The love triangle trope is probably one of my least favorite in YA, but I loved it here. Kalista tears herself apart trying to decide between the expectations of her arranged marriage with Luke, who she knows would be both a good partner and ruler, or choosing the boy she fell in love with as a child and then never saw again.
The love triangle trope is probably one of my least favorite in YA, but I loved it here. Kalista tears herself apart trying to decide between the expectations of her arranged marriage with Luke, who she knows would be both a good partner and ruler, or choosing the boy she fell in love with as a child and then never saw again.
May 15, 2025
This was a great start to the series. The concept was strong and worked very well indeed.
I thought the cover for this book was simole and understated. Yet it was still eye catching. The colour palette is stunning. The book included some maps which is always appreciated as it helps with the locations.
The book is well written and flows nicely. It's descriptive. The world building was phenomenal! It's vital in a fantasy for this to be done right and Molly delivered!
The characters were fantastic. They all worked so well together in the overall picture of the story. Raine, Kalista and Luke were interesting. I loved the dynamics and how everything has developed for them so far!
The book is written in first person from Adelaide and Tesla's point of view. Which worked well in the story.
I recommend this book. It was a good read and a fantastic start to the series. Job well done Molly!
I thought the cover for this book was simole and understated. Yet it was still eye catching. The colour palette is stunning. The book included some maps which is always appreciated as it helps with the locations.
The book is well written and flows nicely. It's descriptive. The world building was phenomenal! It's vital in a fantasy for this to be done right and Molly delivered!
The characters were fantastic. They all worked so well together in the overall picture of the story. Raine, Kalista and Luke were interesting. I loved the dynamics and how everything has developed for them so far!
The book is written in first person from Adelaide and Tesla's point of view. Which worked well in the story.
I recommend this book. It was a good read and a fantastic start to the series. Job well done Molly!
May 22, 2024
Shadow of Hope
A wonderful ya fantasy that was full of so much emotion and depth. I loved the characters and it was easy to root for all of them.
The story itself was intriguing and I loved the concept of the Sol Defenders. I can’t wait to uncover more about them and what will happen next!
There were lots of exciting tropes in here as well; ya romance, love triangle, fierce fighter FMC, protective MMCs, royalty, morally grey assassin MMC, arranged marriage, forced proximity, and so much more!!
A wonderful ya fantasy that was full of so much emotion and depth. I loved the characters and it was easy to root for all of them.
The story itself was intriguing and I loved the concept of the Sol Defenders. I can’t wait to uncover more about them and what will happen next!
There were lots of exciting tropes in here as well; ya romance, love triangle, fierce fighter FMC, protective MMCs, royalty, morally grey assassin MMC, arranged marriage, forced proximity, and so much more!!
June 24, 2025
So good! What a great adventure filled with lovable characters!
June 21, 2025
When I read the blurb of the book, I thought to myself, easy Kalista, pick Raine... I was so wrong...
Reading the book from the POVs of Kalista, Raine, AND Luke changed so much for me... It was so difficult to pick Raine over Luke... All of them are so likeable, and interesting...
I also enjoyed the world building, and how the fantasy element in this world was Spirits... I'm now invested in reading more about the Sol Defenders...
Reading the book from the POVs of Kalista, Raine, AND Luke changed so much for me... It was so difficult to pick Raine over Luke... All of them are so likeable, and interesting...
I also enjoyed the world building, and how the fantasy element in this world was Spirits... I'm now invested in reading more about the Sol Defenders...
June 28, 2024
Great book with characters that draw you in. Enjoyed the storyline and cannot wait for the next one. The ending of the book was perfect.
April 16, 2025
When I tell you I was obsessed: I was OBSESSED.
I could not put it back down after I’d read a few pages. I was so in love with this fmc.
I am a sucker for forbidden love, i had been looking for one and Shadow of Hope gave me the satisfaction that i yearned for.
Thank you for giving me the honor to read an advanced review copy for free and trusting me with a review voluntarily given.
I will for sure read the sequel too!
I could not put it back down after I’d read a few pages. I was so in love with this fmc.
I am a sucker for forbidden love, i had been looking for one and Shadow of Hope gave me the satisfaction that i yearned for.
Thank you for giving me the honor to read an advanced review copy for free and trusting me with a review voluntarily given.
I will for sure read the sequel too!
May 29, 2025
A great epic story. What a tangled web, unrelated events can twist three lives. Raine saves Kalista, not knowing she is the future queen of Avalyn. Kalista and Luke have grown up knowing that they are bethrothed. Seven years later, events will have Luke wanting more from Kalista and she will stall as she keeps seeing green eyes when she sleeps. Raine will return to Avalyn to kill the princess, not knowing she is the child he saved. He will vow to be her protector as he is the Shadow, the most feared assassin. Kalista will waver between her loyalty to Luke and the feelings that she has for Raine. This book is full of drama, extreme emotions that grabs your heart and makes you feel the anguish that Kalista faces, and it ends with an ending that has you looking forward to the next book. I enjoyed reading this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 28, 2024
A reluctant assassin. A love triangle. A sword-weilding princess destined to fulfill a prophecy. This book is AMAZING!
March 20, 2025
What in the world did I just read?! 😱 Shadow of Hope by Molly Crowe is now officially a top-tier read for me, right up there with The Kindred Curse Saga and Throne of Glass! The emotional rollercoaster I went on was insane – I almost shed a tear (and if you know me, that NEVER happens!). 😅
Here’s what you need to know:
✨ Easy world-building with a minimal fantasy focus – Shadow of Hope is more character-driven and plot-focused, but it doesn’t take away from the richness of the world.
✨ You’ll go on a journey of growth with Kalista, experiencing her emotional struggles up close. ✨ There are kissing scenes but nothing beyond that, making it perfect for fans of clean fantasy/romance.
📚I also loved learning about the author’s inspiration – Molly Crowe shared on Instagram:
“I get my inspiration from how the Holy Spirit works in our lives. My books aren’t Christian books, but they have strong Christian themes with clean fantasy/romance that speak to some things I’ve learned about God over the years. I want my writing to bring young people hope and joy, even with some drama.”
🫶This added a whole new layer to the story, and I loved it even more
If you're a fan of character-driven fantasy with deep emotional arcs, you NEED to pick this up! 📚✨
Here’s what you need to know:
✨ Easy world-building with a minimal fantasy focus – Shadow of Hope is more character-driven and plot-focused, but it doesn’t take away from the richness of the world.
✨ You’ll go on a journey of growth with Kalista, experiencing her emotional struggles up close. ✨ There are kissing scenes but nothing beyond that, making it perfect for fans of clean fantasy/romance.
📚I also loved learning about the author’s inspiration – Molly Crowe shared on Instagram:
“I get my inspiration from how the Holy Spirit works in our lives. My books aren’t Christian books, but they have strong Christian themes with clean fantasy/romance that speak to some things I’ve learned about God over the years. I want my writing to bring young people hope and joy, even with some drama.”
🫶This added a whole new layer to the story, and I loved it even more
If you're a fan of character-driven fantasy with deep emotional arcs, you NEED to pick this up! 📚✨
April 17, 2024
Great book and such a fast read! I enjoy the character development throughout the story — I love the world that was created!
March 28, 2024
Shadow of Hope, the inaugural entry in the Sol Defenders Series by Molly Crowe, offers readers a foray into a world where choices between love and duty intertwine. The protagonist, Kalista, finds herself at the crossroads of love and obligation, haunted by a ghost from her past who once saved her life but now poses a threat. This central dilemma, while intriguing, is part of a larger narrative that extends beyond the confines of a conventional fantasy romance.
The narrative primarily revolves around a love triangle involving Kalista, Luke, and Raine. The dynamics between these characters form the heart of the story, though the book delves deeper than just romantic entanglements. Readers might find that the plot unfolds predictably within the genre's norms but maintains an engaging pace. One aspect of the book that stands out is the development of secondary characters. They are crafted with depth and personality that transcends the central theme of romance, making them particularly compelling. In contrast, Kalista's character sometimes feels overshadowed by the more substantial presence around her, primarily serving as a focal point for the developing relationships.
While romance is the driving force of this tale, glimpses into the broader world's mythology and political landscape add layers of intrigue. Though not extensively explored in this first book, these elements lay the groundwork for potential expansion in subsequent installments. Readers who appreciate a blend of fantasy and romance will find this book a gratifying read, though those seeking a more profound exploration of fantastical elements might yearn for more.
Shadow of Hope is a promising start to the series. It skillfully weaves elements of romance, personal growth, and fantasy, setting the stage for further exploration in the Sol Defenders universe. For fans of the genre, it's certainly worth exploring.
The narrative primarily revolves around a love triangle involving Kalista, Luke, and Raine. The dynamics between these characters form the heart of the story, though the book delves deeper than just romantic entanglements. Readers might find that the plot unfolds predictably within the genre's norms but maintains an engaging pace. One aspect of the book that stands out is the development of secondary characters. They are crafted with depth and personality that transcends the central theme of romance, making them particularly compelling. In contrast, Kalista's character sometimes feels overshadowed by the more substantial presence around her, primarily serving as a focal point for the developing relationships.
While romance is the driving force of this tale, glimpses into the broader world's mythology and political landscape add layers of intrigue. Though not extensively explored in this first book, these elements lay the groundwork for potential expansion in subsequent installments. Readers who appreciate a blend of fantasy and romance will find this book a gratifying read, though those seeking a more profound exploration of fantastical elements might yearn for more.
Shadow of Hope is a promising start to the series. It skillfully weaves elements of romance, personal growth, and fantasy, setting the stage for further exploration in the Sol Defenders universe. For fans of the genre, it's certainly worth exploring.
May 14, 2025
Raine was 13 when he was tasked by his master to succeed in a trial and he would become an assassin. However, instead of following instructions and removing anyone he saw, Raine rescued a young girl from drowning off the Krasiv Isles instead.
7 years later, Raine returns and begins to learn who he really is and where he’s from, and meets the girl he saved years ago again, but she’s now an adult…and a princess, and realizes he could never be good enough for her.
Kalista has dreamed about the boy who saved her life 7 years ago. And now he’s here, now a man, and she’s about to marry her betrothed and begins to wonder about her feelings.
This was an enjoyable quick read. It was written in a way that seemed simple or easy to read. It’s a light fantasy world with a lot of modernization added to it from our world, which I don’t always enjoy, but it did not deter from the story.
I loved the family amongst Kalista, Luke and their siblings. The banter between the siblings was hilarious and realistic.
With Luke and Kalista having grown up together and then Raine who saved Kalista and is who she’s dreamed about all her life made for an interesting love triangle romance.
Despite it being an easy read, I really enjoyed it and look forward to starting the next book!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
7 years later, Raine returns and begins to learn who he really is and where he’s from, and meets the girl he saved years ago again, but she’s now an adult…and a princess, and realizes he could never be good enough for her.
Kalista has dreamed about the boy who saved her life 7 years ago. And now he’s here, now a man, and she’s about to marry her betrothed and begins to wonder about her feelings.
This was an enjoyable quick read. It was written in a way that seemed simple or easy to read. It’s a light fantasy world with a lot of modernization added to it from our world, which I don’t always enjoy, but it did not deter from the story.
I loved the family amongst Kalista, Luke and their siblings. The banter between the siblings was hilarious and realistic.
With Luke and Kalista having grown up together and then Raine who saved Kalista and is who she’s dreamed about all her life made for an interesting love triangle romance.
Despite it being an easy read, I really enjoyed it and look forward to starting the next book!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 3, 2025
Rating / Recommend: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶.5/ Yes
If you like YA Romantacy, Love Triangles, and want to read a new take about Rogue Spirits vs Spirit Defenders you may enjoy this!
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this!
This wasn’t really like anything I’ve ever read before. I loved the Sol Defenders aspect. It’s so interesting they’re fighting against evil spirits with good spirits.
The romance aspect I think was difficult for me. The love triangle was very back and forth and I just felt myself screaming on the inside:
“JUST CHOOSE ONE ALREADY!”
But it’s so difficult because I like both MMCs? Kalista (FMC) has a very young mindset? She has never been in a real relationship but then is betrothed to a childhood best friend and yet has fallen in love with an Assassin.
Kalista (FMC) frustrated me at times. I feel like she’s so selfless but also selfish? She has a very me me me mentality but then is also very set on doing her duty as future queen no matter what.
I also feel like her sister Georgia is basically her servant? Like the entire book Georgia is helping her but what has she ever done for her sister? Georgia didn’t seem bothered but I was.
CW: Fighting, Torture, Minimal Spice: Multiple Kissing Scenes.
February 3, 2025
This novel was an enjoyable read, told from the points of view of the 3 main characters. There is a love triangle between Kalista, Luke, and Raine. This novel contains romance, betrayal, adventure, action, and tragedy. It begins with the Spirits, but only some can sense or feel their presence. The strong belief in the Sol Defenders helps keep the kingdom of Avalyn safe. Kalista is the heart of the kingdom, for she spreads her kindness to all. Luke is the leader of the army, engaged to Kalista since they were children, his love for her profound. Raine is the Shadow, the assassin sent by the king of the Krasiv Isles to kidnap Princess Kalista, and he is much more than the rumors say. All three are needed for the kingdom to deal with the evil that is coming, each with their own role to play, each their their own trials to overcome. Decisions are made that will affect all, and expressions and actions sometimes speak louder than words. At times a little slow paced, but otherwise a good read. I look forward to the next novel. I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 9, 2024
Love the characters in this story. I also loved some of the small things placed throughout the book. Such as the addition of a character with special needs, it felt like a beautiful nod to the little light house and was perfectly woven into the story. I also couldn’t help but chuckle at the description of seasons (or lack there of) in Avalyn. “Winter would sweep into Avalyn quickly. Avalyn was either hot or cold and didn’t allow many in-between days” 😂 Definitely a climate I know well.
And then the culmination at the end, seeing Kalista’s development as a person and leader. Mild spoilers - I don’t typically cry in books (or movies or anything really) but I had all the happy feels and my eyes stung a bit when she went out to meet her people. The writing was done in a way I could really feel her talking about each life lost, and the stories felt so real and heartfelt. I was immersed in the passages.
Definitely a YA book but still very enjoyable. When I had time to read it, I couldn’t put it down and stayed up way too late a few nights reading. Can’t wait for more of their story!
And then the culmination at the end, seeing Kalista’s development as a person and leader. Mild spoilers - I don’t typically cry in books (or movies or anything really) but I had all the happy feels and my eyes stung a bit when she went out to meet her people. The writing was done in a way I could really feel her talking about each life lost, and the stories felt so real and heartfelt. I was immersed in the passages.
Definitely a YA book but still very enjoyable. When I had time to read it, I couldn’t put it down and stayed up way too late a few nights reading. Can’t wait for more of their story!
June 24, 2025
I have never read fantasy romance before and certainly never YA romance! I happened on to this story and I loved it! I am a 60-year-old woman, but this story was amazing! Kudos to the author for writing an engaging story with well developed characters and a story line that kept me turning the pages late into the night. I can't wait to read the sequel!
The battle between good and evil is not so clearly defined at times! Kalista has been betrothed to Luke since birth and of course she fancies him but being the daughter of the king means it's a marriage of duty. Luke is more her friend than anything. They are good soldiers together but good spouses? She's not sure! There is so much going on in the kingdom and she still dreams of the boy she met on a beach long ago.
Raine is ordered to kill the woman he's loved since childhood but he just...can't! The more he interacts with her, he fights the order and has to find a way out of it. Kalista's heart is pulling her in two directions between two men. Which way will win?
The battle between good and evil is not so clearly defined at times! Kalista has been betrothed to Luke since birth and of course she fancies him but being the daughter of the king means it's a marriage of duty. Luke is more her friend than anything. They are good soldiers together but good spouses? She's not sure! There is so much going on in the kingdom and she still dreams of the boy she met on a beach long ago.
Raine is ordered to kill the woman he's loved since childhood but he just...can't! The more he interacts with her, he fights the order and has to find a way out of it. Kalista's heart is pulling her in two directions between two men. Which way will win?
April 12, 2025
Shadow of Hope was WOW! From the very first chapter I was hooked. The way the author describes the scene between two of the characters made me fall in love immediately. I became so invested in seeing what happened next.
This story had a great balance of world building and character building and though there were some slow parts throughout, the last 40% had my jaw on the floor. I could not put the book down.
The themes of light and dark and the Sol Defenders was done beautifully. Something about characters being able to feel/hear/communicate with spirits really healed something in me.
I’m not typically into reading about love triangles but this book pulled it off in a way that added just enough guessing and tension that made me invested in how it would turn out.
I am excited to read the next book in the series!
This story had a great balance of world building and character building and though there were some slow parts throughout, the last 40% had my jaw on the floor. I could not put the book down.
The themes of light and dark and the Sol Defenders was done beautifully. Something about characters being able to feel/hear/communicate with spirits really healed something in me.
I’m not typically into reading about love triangles but this book pulled it off in a way that added just enough guessing and tension that made me invested in how it would turn out.
I am excited to read the next book in the series!
November 7, 2025
❝Could I open up to Luke when in the back of my mind, a pair of green eyes just wouldn't leave? ❞
It's been a while since I read a young adult fantasy and this one DELIVERED. There's a lot to unpack here. First, world-building. I love how they kept it simple and narrow but managed to take us explore most of the aspect. Perfect amount for a first book in a series. The second would be the plot which is tightly connected to the romance between MCs. I'm all for the yearning and longing both from Raine's and Luke's side. With the plot coming in, it's getting so much interesting. Gave it 4 stars just because there are a lot of moment where the dialogue seems repetitive and unnecessary also how pushover the characters could be on certain moment. I'm excited for the sequel!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's been a while since I read a young adult fantasy and this one DELIVERED. There's a lot to unpack here. First, world-building. I love how they kept it simple and narrow but managed to take us explore most of the aspect. Perfect amount for a first book in a series. The second would be the plot which is tightly connected to the romance between MCs. I'm all for the yearning and longing both from Raine's and Luke's side. With the plot coming in, it's getting so much interesting. Gave it 4 stars just because there are a lot of moment where the dialogue seems repetitive and unnecessary also how pushover the characters could be on certain moment. I'm excited for the sequel!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 19, 2025
An enjoyable Young Adult read that is character-driven and rich with intrigue and adventure. The story is told from the alternating points of view of the three main characters: Kalista, Raine, and Luke. Through this, Crowe is able to capture the emotional weight of each of their choices and their growth as characters. Although I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, it works well here. I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters.
I found myself wanting more vivid descriptions of the setting - Crowe created such a unique and interesting world that I just wanted more.
The ending took me by surprise! I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free on Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found myself wanting more vivid descriptions of the setting - Crowe created such a unique and interesting world that I just wanted more.
The ending took me by surprise! I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free on Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up
The last 25 percent of this book was perfect. There was action. There was fighting. There was magic. There was some romance. Everything I want in a good romantacy.
The problem with the first 75 percent was that it was TOO much romance and not enough of the other stuff. Sure, there was some mixed in, but it mainly focused on feelings and the love triangle.
Yes, I read the synopsis, but when reading it, instead of focusing on the love triangle I focused on the "I am the shadow and she is my mark," which was obviously wrong.
With all of that said...it is well written, the characters are wonderful and the storyline is good. I think the second book will be more what I am looking for so I am excited to read it.
The last 25 percent of this book was perfect. There was action. There was fighting. There was magic. There was some romance. Everything I want in a good romantacy.
The problem with the first 75 percent was that it was TOO much romance and not enough of the other stuff. Sure, there was some mixed in, but it mainly focused on feelings and the love triangle.
Yes, I read the synopsis, but when reading it, instead of focusing on the love triangle I focused on the "I am the shadow and she is my mark," which was obviously wrong.
With all of that said...it is well written, the characters are wonderful and the storyline is good. I think the second book will be more what I am looking for so I am excited to read it.
December 29, 2024
Loved this fantasy book! Princess Kalista is torn between following the plans her parents (the King and Queen) laid out for her— to marry Luke, a boy she’s known since she was a child, or following her own heart— falling in love with Rain, the shadow and mysterious boy from the Krasiv Isles who saved her when she was a child. As she untangles her feelings and who she loves, she is faced with other problems as the evil Mahan begins his slow attack on her kingdom. I have so many questions. I can’t wait for the 2nd book in this series!
January 15, 2025
Shadow of Hope is a beautiful story of hope and resilience. The character growth and development is phenomenal with a fast-paced plot. The fantasy world building is minimal, but it’s still a unique world.
This book takes you on an emotional roller coaster with Kalista, Raine, and Luke! Each character was relatable in their own right, and you are able to truly feel their emotional struggles and triumphs through the writing.
I loved the unique world that was created and the idea of the Sol Defenders. It’s clear to see the author’s creativity and faith on the page with the Spirits. I can’t wait to read book 2 and see what happens next!
Tropes I loved:
- YA fantasy
- Clean romance (kisses only)
- Love triangle
- Fierce FMC
- Protective MMCs
- Forced proximity
- Redemption
This book takes you on an emotional roller coaster with Kalista, Raine, and Luke! Each character was relatable in their own right, and you are able to truly feel their emotional struggles and triumphs through the writing.
I loved the unique world that was created and the idea of the Sol Defenders. It’s clear to see the author’s creativity and faith on the page with the Spirits. I can’t wait to read book 2 and see what happens next!
Tropes I loved:
- YA fantasy
- Clean romance (kisses only)
- Love triangle
- Fierce FMC
- Protective MMCs
- Forced proximity
- Redemption
February 22, 2025
I really enjoyed reading the book. The author was able to make the reader feel the emotions the individual characters feel and understand the character's actions.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is fantasy and romance with a strong female lead and two male interests. Rooting for one of them but at the same time truly understanding why the female lead would choose the other one makes the reader really anticipate how the story will end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is fantasy and romance with a strong female lead and two male interests. Rooting for one of them but at the same time truly understanding why the female lead would choose the other one makes the reader really anticipate how the story will end.
March 17, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens and Molly Crowe for the ARC.
Plot 4.25/5
Characters 4.5/5
Ending 4.25/5
Interest 4.25/5
Overall 4.25/5
-I quite enjoyed this book. It was very easy to read and there was nice mix of fantasy and romance elements. Perhaps a little too much of romantic love triangle over the plot line but I was very invested so I didn’t truly mind. The spy, assassin and that whole content was intriguing and I loved the whole Karsive Isles thing.
-The characters were great. The meeting between Kalista and Raine was so amazing and I loved how they both had feelings for one another years after. I’m not usually one for instant love but in this case I really liked it. The love triangle wasn’t really a triangle but I still liked Luke and his storyline. I did feel bad for him though, because he tried.
-I wasn’t sure how to react to the ending. In a way u loved how complicated things were so that there was lots of intrigue for the sequel. The conclusion to the love triangle or the book was definitely questionable. I had not expected and in a way it’s definitely keeping me on my toes. I can’t wait to read book 2, and I already have it so that’s even better.
Plot 4.25/5
Characters 4.5/5
Ending 4.25/5
Interest 4.25/5
Overall 4.25/5
-I quite enjoyed this book. It was very easy to read and there was nice mix of fantasy and romance elements. Perhaps a little too much of romantic love triangle over the plot line but I was very invested so I didn’t truly mind. The spy, assassin and that whole content was intriguing and I loved the whole Karsive Isles thing.
-The characters were great. The meeting between Kalista and Raine was so amazing and I loved how they both had feelings for one another years after. I’m not usually one for instant love but in this case I really liked it. The love triangle wasn’t really a triangle but I still liked Luke and his storyline. I did feel bad for him though, because he tried.
-I wasn’t sure how to react to the ending. In a way u loved how complicated things were so that there was lots of intrigue for the sequel. The conclusion to the love triangle or the book was definitely questionable. I had not expected and in a way it’s definitely keeping me on my toes. I can’t wait to read book 2, and I already have it so that’s even better.
April 8, 2025
I'm not usually a fan of YA, but this book looked intriguing and I was not disappointed! The characters are engaging and develop well throughout the book. The world itself is absorbing, with plenty of political intrigue, and mythology. I must admit I forgot that I'm not a fan of love triangles, as Kalista's feelings are understandable given her situation and the interactions between the characters feel so organic. I'm really looking forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 15, 2024
Shadow of Hope is a page-turner that will leave you wanting to go to battle for your favorite character. The goodness & light that Molly illustrates through her characters and their realm is beautiful, and you can’t help but feel uplifted by the theme of hope throughout each chapter. It’s a story of good versus evil, overflowing with moments of love and resilience, and thought-provoking reflections on destiny and purpose. I’m eager for Book #2 — desperately need to know what happens next!
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