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Seeing Gray

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Celestials have been killing Seers for centuries, as prophesy states that a Seer will overthrow Celestial rule. Worried for Zoey’s safety, her parents forbid her from registering as a Seer and interacting with the Celestials, Fae, and Demons who hide among humankind. Zoey is forced to wear a necklace that hides magic from her and conceals her magic from them.

Witness to her mother’s murder at the hands of a Demon, Zoey vows to track down her mother's killer and make him pay. Embracing her magic, Zoey is brought deeper into the mythical world by an unlikely ally and wonders if perhaps her parents were right to keep her out of it.

Will she avenge her mother’s death, or will she meet the same untimely fate?

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 7, 2024

3 people are currently reading
101 people want to read

About the author

C.E. Brown

1 book37 followers
C.E. Brown has lived most of her life in the Pacific Northwest, close to family and friends. She loves to travel, always searching for magical places to help inspire creativity. C.E. attests that she has a very patient and understanding husband, a wildly creative son, and three crazy cats—one steals her shoes, another steals her food, and the third is a sweetly neurotic old man who can’t decide if he’d prefer to be pet or left alone. C.E. didn’t find her passion for writing until she began wrangling kids as a school counselor, but then the writing bug bit and she’s been writing ever since.

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,961 reviews116 followers
August 10, 2024
Celestials, Fae, and Demons, this urban fantasy series draws you in as we follow Zoey on her journey of revenge. Her whole life she has hidden her magic by wearing a necklace but after witnessing her mother’s murder, Zoey embraces her magic. It’s an intriguing and exciting read, with beautiful and incredible world building, it’s fun and had me hooked from start to finish. Zoey is such a great character, a typical teen who makes mistakes but will do anything for others and her blossoming romance with Tristan is tentative and great to follow. I have to say I can’t wait to read book two!
Profile Image for ♡ A ♡.
744 reviews11 followers
July 2, 2024
A fabulous urban fantasy with lovable, swoon-worthy characters, and a plot that hooks you instantly.

Seeing Gray follows Zoey, a Seer who is forced by her parents to hide her powers and never interaction with Celestials, Fae, and Demons or she’ll be forced to register. And her life would be even more in danger as Celestials have been killing Seers for centuries. Zoey wears a necklace that conceals her magic, but when her mother is brutally murdered in front of her by a Demon, Zoey throws caution and hiding to the wind to get revenge. She delves deeper into the mythical world as she meets an unlikely ally who may be more dangerous than she thinks. As her life turns upside down, and the threats start closing in on her, Zoey has to work quickly to avenge her mother’s murder or meet the same untimely fate.

This reminded me a lot of 2013 YA like City of Bone-esque and I loved that! I miss reading this genre so much and I really need to find more because it is such a fun genre. The author did an amazing job making her world unique and fascinating. I loved the different species and worlds we get to delve into. The plot starts right away and hooks you instantly. I had so much fun reading and immersing myself in the gorgeously described worlds and magic systems. I want to read to so many more books set in her worlds—10/10 recommend!

Zoey is a great main character and getting to learn more about the worlds through her eyes was so well done. She’s so brave and active in propelling the plot. I admire her courage speaking to the creatures and risking her life so many time throughout the course of her novel to protect her friends, herself, and to get revenge on the demon who killed her mom. I loved Tristian—he is so swoony and such a bad boy love interest. I love LI’s like him and he’s definitely added to my list of fav book bf’s. I can’t wait to see more of him and how their relationship might progress in the sequel. They are so good together, that perfect balance, and it’s so sweet how much they care for each other by the end. So impressed—they’re so cute!!

Overall, this is a really great urban fantasy with a fascinating, unique world, explosive plot, and a swoony romance you can’t help but fall in love with! I can't wait for the sequel!

Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
4,517 reviews21 followers
August 7, 2024
I loved this story and thought it did a great job to start a new series that I want more of. It introduces a world close to ours but with paranormals of different kinds and an unequal paradigm. In this the main character is a teen named Zoey who tries to stay hidden from those in power until she can make a choice when she turns 18. But of course things to not go as planned and she ends up in trouble, found out that she exists, and makes some interesting choices and friends. It made me laugh and groan and want to smack her at times until I remember she is only 17. But Zoey is a great character and this was an amazing story I had a hard time to put down as had to see what would happen next and what she might do next and blunder into. A bit of a quest feel among the hilarious scenes at times. Just a really good story I enjoyed. a lot.
Profile Image for Katy Metzger.
Author 8 books59 followers
July 28, 2024
I really enjoyed Seeing Gray! This character-driven YA urban/portal fantasy had me cheering for Zoey the whole way. A teen girl on a mission to find the demon who killed her mom, Zoey packs a whole lot of bravado that wavers when she encounters the mythical world, of which she has so much to learn. She notices cute guys & makes impulsive decisions, but she’s ultimately a kind heart who would do anything to help others. She feels like a real teen girl with an extraordinary ability & problem.

The budding romance between her & Tristan is swoon-worthy, as they both deal with the concept of trust & a theme of favors versus friendship. As the story goes, Zoey’s growing feelings for him even when she knows he’s dangerous, become central to the plot.

I’m looking forward to seeing how book 2 builds on everything established in book 1! I’d love to see more of Regina, Ava, Gracie, and Carter and how those relationships develop. If you love urban fantasy with elaborate world-building, I highly recommend checking out Seeing Gray!
Profile Image for Everlyn Thompson.
Author 4 books38 followers
July 13, 2024
Seeing Grey was a truly unique take on YA urban fantasy. The world building was expertly done, with just the right amount of detail to paint a vivid picture. There were a lot of new supernatural races that I'd never heard of before, but the author did a great job of introducing them in memorable way so I was never confused. I found Zoey lovable and relatable, her awkwardness and sass was bang on for a teen girl dealing with a whole lot of supernatural drama. Tristan was the stereotypical bad boy that only showed his softer side around Zoey, and could easily give Edward Cullen a run for his money in the book bf department. The troll poop made me laugh out loud, and I'm still wondering what it's used for. And what is Carter's backstory? I hope there's a book 2 coming, just so we can dig into Carter's past. I honestly thought the author was setting things up for a love triangle between Tristan, Zoey, and Carter but that didn't happen.
Profile Image for Vicky.
Author 26 books71 followers
July 13, 2024
Although this is obviously part of a serialized story (which I normally do not care for), I really enjoyed this. The main characters did accomplish what they set out to do, but we also know there is a lot more to come.

Zoey is a Seer whose mother refused to register her as a Mythic and tries to keep her hidden from the Mythic world. But Zoey can’t wait to be registered as she believes all good things will come from that. But she finds out that it’s not all good. When she “Sees” the demon who murders her mother, she vows revenge and meets an unlikely ally in the form of Tristan, a demon enforcer who’s hot in more ways than one. They form an unlikely alliance as both need something only the other can get.

Zoey is a great character. She is rash and impulsive—which gets her into a lot of trouble. In fact, all the characters are great, as is the world building. We get to see all the different realms and species - like Carrion, the troll that Zoey befriends. There is a lot to like about this book and I am looking forward to more in the series.

Definitely recommended.

Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Profile Image for Ani Birch.
Author 3 books2 followers
November 9, 2025
C.E. Brown’s Seeing Gray is a YA urban fantasy featuring Zoey, a teen who can see the true faces of magical beings—Fae, Celestials, and Demons—who hide among humans behind glamours. I loved the concept before I even started reading, and it absolutely delivered.

The plot is fast-paced and fun; Zoey feels like a realistic teen protagonist, and her hot-and-cold demon “friend” was both infuriating and endearing—I wanted to slap him and hug him, often in the same chapter. My favourite parts were their adventures in other realms, especially the encounters with the portal door sentries. I laughed out loud at Zoey’s run-in with the trolls—her solution to grumpiness? Feed them. ;)

Brown’s world-building shines, with detailed magical hierarchies, laws, and governing bodies. If Zoey didn’t have her seer eyes, she’d never know these hidden magical people groups existed. I’m eager to learn more about why humans are protected and how these systems function in the next book; my brain is buzzing with theories.

I highly recommend Seeing Gray for teens and up. While younger readers might enjoy the concept, the language and slightly mature themes make it better suited for older teens and adults. There’s nothing explicit or too violent.

It was a super fun read, and I can’t wait to see where Zoey’s story goes next.
266 reviews2 followers
July 25, 2024
This was an entertaining book. It is kind of slow in the beginning but then the adventure begins. So many questions, so many unanswered and I want to know more!

Zoey is a strong FMC that has been through a lot in the past few months. She tries her best to unravel secrets, lies and who or what she really is. She has been sheltered her whole life but knows that she can See things that no one else does. Her mother has kept their family from being found out but has left Zoey with so many questions. Recent events puts her in the path of demons and Mystics.

She meets different people and is thrusted into another world of different species. She meets Tristan who tells her he should not be trusted. But he is a puzzle all on his own. When a certain artifact is found, she is thrown into adventure but is left with many questions. Who will answer these questions? Is Tristan really there to help her find some answers or will he leave her to find out on her own?

This book is full of twists and turns. Different animals introduced including flaming horses and dogs that have wings. Who can be trusted? Who is the true enemy? Not all questions will be answered. Makes you ready for the next book and adventures.
Profile Image for Stephanie Cross.
124 reviews12 followers
September 18, 2024
What a delightful urban fantasy!

Zoey makes for a fun, spunky FMC—a great guide as we discover the magic in her world with her. There are bridge trolls, portals, other realms, fae, elementals, celestials, demons, and more! Oh, and she has the most precious relationship with her dad. The hardest part of her new life is figuring out who to trust—if she can trust anyone. Especially when it comes to Tristan.

The setting was well laid out—I could clearly envision Zoey's home and the other realms she visited. The characters quickly endear themselves to us, but most maintain an air of mystery—even Zoey since we don't know exactly what she's capable of.

Since I also love mysteries and true crime, this book hit just right in several ways. It's a quick, fun read.

content: no spice, just flirting and a little bit of innuendo; violence and death; grief; about ten uses of the f-word, other mild-medium infrequent cursing (a few instances of the b-word); demons

I received a review copy for free through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review because I want to, not because I have to.
5 reviews2 followers
September 29, 2024
After witnessing her mother's murder by a demon, Zoey is determined to seek revenge. This leads her to embrace her own unexplored powers and step into a mythical world that she's been kept from her whole life. When a mysterious stranger makes a deal to help Zoey, things get even more intriguing, with the reader wondering along with Zoey who can really be trusted.

Offering baked goods to trolls, crushing on cute boys, and trying her best to put on a brave face when confronted by new and terrifying realities, Zoey is a wonderful companion into these worlds, with both her humor and heart.

The worldbuilding for both the human world and the mythical realms were immersive and engaging with the exact right amount of detail, and included all my favorite supernatural creatures and some intriguing new ones as well! (Hello, anthropomorphic bat friend!) I loved how the author balanced moving the main plot forward while setting up intriguing questions and conflicts in the background that I am excited to see unfold in the next book.

Seeing Gray will leave you wanting both a pumpkin spice chai latte and the sequel!
Profile Image for Frances Law.
1,123 reviews14 followers
August 8, 2024
Zoey is born with the ability to see magical creatures. Her father thinks that she has visions but her mother knows better. This is a great book for the YA market. It’s well written and looks at a magical world in a way that I haven’t seen before. For me, the author took too long in introducing us to that world and, when she did, it was a case of the bad are good and the (supposedly) good are bad. To me, you can’t be bad if you’re an angel. That’s just a non sequitur. Once Zoey’s background is explained we start to make some progress and there is some good action. The story pauses rather than ends because Zoey only completes one challenge with two to go so there are more exciting possibilities ahead of her. Hopefully, she will overcome her naïveté and realise that not all societies play fair.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Winnett.
249 reviews
August 6, 2024
What a great new YA fantasy! Zoey is a Mythic, which means she's part 'other' - celestial, fae, or demon, but doesn't know it at first. All she knows is her mother was horribly murdered and she wants vengeance.

She is thrown into the mythic work, arrested, bullied, beaten up, but she doesn't stay down. With the help of a sexy demon guy her age, Tristan, they dive into other realms to find her mom's killer. But things go sideways and she's forced go (temporarily?) give up that quest to fulfill other more pressing business.

Zoey makes mistakes and pays the price. She isn't fearless, but she's brave. A heroine I can totally stand behind. And the early romance between her and Tristan has sparked my interest and makes me want more!

Great debut by CE!
12 reviews
August 11, 2024
Fantastic debut book by an author who hits all the right notes. If you enjoyed Cassandra Clare's first series, you'll love Seeing Gray! It's not as dense (which to me is a good thing), but like The Mortal Instruments it has a teen heroine who is just learning about a fantastic new world.

Filled with quippy dialogue and playful banter, the character driven book features a well fleshed out world with unique creatures and lots of adventure. Zoey is a Seer immersed rather suddenly in world of magic while still facing regular life problems such as helping her dad out around the house.

Zoey makes some borderline sketchy choices, but they read true to character as she's a teenage girl dealing with grief and major life changes. I loved the enemies to friends vibe and the quest feel to the second half of the book. Clearly part of a duology or trilogy, the book has a solid ending and doesn't leave you hanging, but also makes me excited for Brown's next book! Can't wait to see more of the troll and dragon!
Profile Image for Angela Brannon.
152 reviews6 followers
September 12, 2024
I really enjoyed this young adult book. The worldbuilding between the celestial, fae and demon worlds was well done and believable. I loved watching Zoey embrace the world she has always seen, but been denied by her parents. Her emotions were spot on for what a teenager would feel. I also enjoyed watching her woo over Tristan, the half-demon she befriends in spite of himself.

The action is slow to build as she puzzles out these strange new worlds, but once it gains momentum, it is a fast and fun ride. I can't wait for the story to continue in book 2.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
6 reviews4 followers
October 11, 2024
I loved this book. Very cool plot that had me hooked quickly. These days I rarely have the motivation to read books cover to cover quickly. I was extremely happy to rekindle my love of reading with this book :) I'll be watching for more books from CE Brown. Bonus points for being a PNW writer!

My 9 year old son is a huge reader and read it when I was done. He loved it and immediately asked if the next one was out. He's a huge fan of Rick Roirdan and compared the book to the Percy Jackson books, saying it reminded him of them in the pace and suspense level.

Huge thanks for a great book we both could enjoy!
Profile Image for Twilla Lamm.
Author 1 book25 followers
July 11, 2024
Seer Zoey Talbot, half-human and half-celestial, vows to avenge her mother’s murder. The vow sends her on a quest into other realms where strange and unusual are the norm. Her human instinct is to trust, but for her own survival, should she?

The characters are well-developed with a blend of wholesome and borderline wholesome. The vivid descriptions of the beings are well-imagined. The backstory, parents protecting their young, is plausible. Good plotting made "Seeing Gray" a fast-paced story from beginning to end and satisfying from start to finish.

Reviewed by-Twilla Kay Lamm, Author
608 reviews7 followers
July 5, 2024
This book was throughly enjoyable and kept me enthralled from start to finish. The relationship between Tristan and Zoey is so tenuous and yet both are fighting so hard so keep it going and have it deepen. Carter is a momentary blip I think I do not think he will be able to keep up. I’m waiting for the next book and the next veil to fall.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Cindy.
24 reviews3 followers
July 10, 2024
Seeing Gray by C.E. Brown was an entertaining story that I devoured in a few days. I loved how courageous the FMC, Zoey, was, and her relationship with Tristan added an exciting twist to the storyline. This book was excellently written, and it reminded me of the Percy Jackson series. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves fantasies, and I can’t wait to read more by this talented author.
Profile Image for Sarah.
281 reviews9 followers
June 13, 2024
It's great to read a new urban fantasy-romance that is unique and compelling (yet safe for young adults). This is a fantastic debut novel from a talented author. Amazing characters and a great, character-driven story! Definitely worth checking out.
Profile Image for Anmarie Maier.
55 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2024
“Seeing Gray” had me hooked at the first page. The setting at first seems almost normal, but rapidly draws you in to all the layers of a world with Seers, Faes, Celestials, and Demons. Zoey’s friendships are full of surprises and will leave you eager for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for J.R..
Author 9 books59 followers
December 12, 2024
If you love the pacing and world-building in Cassandra Clare’s books, you need to read this book. I adored Zoey from page one, and the slow-burn with Tristan was absolutely swoon-worthy.
483 reviews4 followers
January 13, 2025
What if you could see mystical creatures?

But worse, what if you saw one kill your Mom? And you couldn't tell anyone? Good world building. Interesting characters.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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