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Into Shadow
Wren is a Rook, one of the people rumoured to be able to tame dragons. When King Daniel conquered Wren’s country, he promised Rooks equal rights. Now, two years later, Wren still can’t use a weapon, use magic or even touch someone who isn’t a Rook, and if anyone found out about her illness, the Switch, she could be locked away. Sometimes, it feels like Timothy is the only one who keeps the darkness at bay, but when Timothy gets on a non-Rook’s bad side, Wren has to fight not only for her own survival, but also for Timothy’s.
Queen Celeste is also fighting for her life. With no heir in sight, she stands to lose all she cares about. News of a captured dragon reaches the city, setting off a chain of events that sees both women’s lives deteriorate. As Wren fights to save the man she loves, and Celeste fights to survive, their lives intertwine, and the women discover how far they would go to save a loved one…or to save themselves.
Queen Celeste is also fighting for her life. With no heir in sight, she stands to lose all she cares about. News of a captured dragon reaches the city, setting off a chain of events that sees both women’s lives deteriorate. As Wren fights to save the man she loves, and Celeste fights to survive, their lives intertwine, and the women discover how far they would go to save a loved one…or to save themselves.
- GenresFantasy
388 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2024
13 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
March 28, 2025
I finished Into Shadow by Laura Jones just this morning, and now I sit here trying to form the right words to describe this book. Again, my gut feeling was right when I was pulled to this debut fantasy and signed up for the ARC. I'm not sure how this is a debut novel because Into Shadow is a book that truly stands out.
Into Shadow is a rather dark, multi-POV fantasy novel. So, is it a fantasy? Yes. Are there dragons? Yes. Is there magic? Yes. But these are just parts of what makes Into Shadows incredible. This is a story about love that knows no limits, friendships born in the direst of circumstances, alliances formed and broken, lives lived and lost under oppression. This is a story of a voyage of self-acceptance, finding inner strength when all seems lost, never losing your inner light, and fighting for what is right.
The relationship between Wren and Timothy, the main characters, is the heart of Into Shadow. Despite living as an oppressed population, they manage to find hope in a world filled with darkness. Their love is a beacon of light, a testament to the power of resilience and acceptance.
Wren lives with the Switch, bipolar disorder. Laura has masterfully portrayed all that comes with it: the struggles, the feelings, both positive and negative, the way Wren sometimes feels less worthy even though she shouldn't, and her long road to accepting herself for who she is and finding power and strength in the acceptance.
Timothy is a character deserving of all the love and care in the world. He is brave and kind, putting himself in danger time after time to save others. He is hopelessly and utterly in love with Wren. Their love and bond, the way they always find each other, is something to aspire to.
We are gifted with several other POVs, another factor making Into Shadow such a marvellous book. We see the world through the eyes of Wren and Timothy, the oppressed Rooks, but also through the eyes of Celeste, the queen who has fallen out of grace; Alina, a knight and personal guard to Celeste; and Tristan, a prince who is prince no more.
Into Shadow's characters are so intricate; they possess positive and negative traits and those in between. They all have their motives, wishes, and needs, and they find different ways to try and fulfil them. Even when they do something that can be seen as bad, you cannot help but scratch under the surface and think about what lies within and why they are the way they are.
Into Shadow will make and break your heart so many times. You will ache for Wren, Timothy, and all their hardships; you will love their love and their need to care and help; you will marvel at the bond they will form with their dragons, and you will hate the world for trying to put them down time after time. You will find sympathy for Celeste, even at her darkest times, because you will see what drives her and try to understand her while loathing some of her actions. You will care deeply for Alina, a knight lost in her purpose, realizing things and people aren't always as they seem. Lastly, you will enjoy Tristan's POVs, horrible violin playing, and hilarious train of thought. Still, there is so much more to him than meets the eye, and I know he will play a huge part in future books.
Thank you, Laura, for having me as your ARC reader. You have my undying support, and I cannot wait to witness your success!
Into Shadow will show you
- a complex, diverse cast with multiple POVs
- gritty, political, complex fantasy with feminist themes
- mental health rep (bipolar II)
- beautiful established romance
- women friendships
- difficult journey
- darkness with some humor
- cat-like dragons
- an Anne Boleyn-inspired queen
and so much more!
Into Shadow is a rather dark, multi-POV fantasy novel. So, is it a fantasy? Yes. Are there dragons? Yes. Is there magic? Yes. But these are just parts of what makes Into Shadows incredible. This is a story about love that knows no limits, friendships born in the direst of circumstances, alliances formed and broken, lives lived and lost under oppression. This is a story of a voyage of self-acceptance, finding inner strength when all seems lost, never losing your inner light, and fighting for what is right.
The relationship between Wren and Timothy, the main characters, is the heart of Into Shadow. Despite living as an oppressed population, they manage to find hope in a world filled with darkness. Their love is a beacon of light, a testament to the power of resilience and acceptance.
Wren lives with the Switch, bipolar disorder. Laura has masterfully portrayed all that comes with it: the struggles, the feelings, both positive and negative, the way Wren sometimes feels less worthy even though she shouldn't, and her long road to accepting herself for who she is and finding power and strength in the acceptance.
Timothy is a character deserving of all the love and care in the world. He is brave and kind, putting himself in danger time after time to save others. He is hopelessly and utterly in love with Wren. Their love and bond, the way they always find each other, is something to aspire to.
We are gifted with several other POVs, another factor making Into Shadow such a marvellous book. We see the world through the eyes of Wren and Timothy, the oppressed Rooks, but also through the eyes of Celeste, the queen who has fallen out of grace; Alina, a knight and personal guard to Celeste; and Tristan, a prince who is prince no more.
Into Shadow's characters are so intricate; they possess positive and negative traits and those in between. They all have their motives, wishes, and needs, and they find different ways to try and fulfil them. Even when they do something that can be seen as bad, you cannot help but scratch under the surface and think about what lies within and why they are the way they are.
Into Shadow will make and break your heart so many times. You will ache for Wren, Timothy, and all their hardships; you will love their love and their need to care and help; you will marvel at the bond they will form with their dragons, and you will hate the world for trying to put them down time after time. You will find sympathy for Celeste, even at her darkest times, because you will see what drives her and try to understand her while loathing some of her actions. You will care deeply for Alina, a knight lost in her purpose, realizing things and people aren't always as they seem. Lastly, you will enjoy Tristan's POVs, horrible violin playing, and hilarious train of thought. Still, there is so much more to him than meets the eye, and I know he will play a huge part in future books.
Thank you, Laura, for having me as your ARC reader. You have my undying support, and I cannot wait to witness your success!
Into Shadow will show you
- a complex, diverse cast with multiple POVs
- gritty, political, complex fantasy with feminist themes
- mental health rep (bipolar II)
- beautiful established romance
- women friendships
- difficult journey
- darkness with some humor
- cat-like dragons
- an Anne Boleyn-inspired queen
and so much more!
December 31, 2024
Content warnings are available on my website: https://laurakejones.ca/books/
Thank you for reading!
Thank you for reading!
May 31, 2024
REVIEW!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Well where to start with this book. I really enjoyed it. When I began the book with all the different points of view I was struggling to keep up but after a few chapters I had it and it was a great story.
I loved watching how all the characters grew and developed. I loved wren...her very quiet personality and her issues with 'the switch' really showed how you can overcome anything life throws at you.
The story takes lots of twists and turns and it caught me off guard a few times. I love when something unexpected happens.
A fantastic first book. Thank you so much for the arc @laura.k.e.jones I cannot wait for the next in this series 🌹
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Well where to start with this book. I really enjoyed it. When I began the book with all the different points of view I was struggling to keep up but after a few chapters I had it and it was a great story.
I loved watching how all the characters grew and developed. I loved wren...her very quiet personality and her issues with 'the switch' really showed how you can overcome anything life throws at you.
The story takes lots of twists and turns and it caught me off guard a few times. I love when something unexpected happens.
A fantastic first book. Thank you so much for the arc @laura.k.e.jones I cannot wait for the next in this series 🌹
April 3, 2025
This was a super intriguing page-turner that got me absolutely hooked! I was really struck by the detailed world-building. Jones takes her time establishing the world and it really pays off as you read more. I really grew attached to its multifaceted characters; the decision to have each chapter told from the perspectives of a handful of important characters absolutely served this story well. I truly think the characters in this story are unforgettable!
Another great aspect of this book is the social hierarchy and the protagonist’s “curse”, The Switch. It’s just so refreshing to have real-life diagnosis like Bipolar disorder incorporated into a fantasy story and given such detailed attention and representation.
I finished this story dying for the sequel, I can’t wait to see how all of these plot threads develop and conclude in the future. Super grateful to have had the chance to read such a great story.
Another great aspect of this book is the social hierarchy and the protagonist’s “curse”, The Switch. It’s just so refreshing to have real-life diagnosis like Bipolar disorder incorporated into a fantasy story and given such detailed attention and representation.
I finished this story dying for the sequel, I can’t wait to see how all of these plot threads develop and conclude in the future. Super grateful to have had the chance to read such a great story.
June 4, 2024
Absolutely loved Into Shadow, as a debut novel it’s well written, multiple POVs, as I read I could see it as a movie in my head.
The FMC and MMC have my heart, I can’t wait to read what comes next.
The FMC and MMC have my heart, I can’t wait to read what comes next.
May 30, 2024
Yet another amazing fantasy book!
This book was so good!
It deals with bipolar disorder in a beautiful way that tugged at my heart.
It is so well written, and the story is one of love, mental health, and inequality.
I highly recommend this beauty!
This book was so good!
It deals with bipolar disorder in a beautiful way that tugged at my heart.
It is so well written, and the story is one of love, mental health, and inequality.
I highly recommend this beauty!
December 18, 2024
I loved loved this book! The multiple pov's seem a bit confusing, but once you are used to it, it's super easy to follow.
The plot, magic, and dragons are absolutely amazing.
It's nice to see an FMC who isn't your typically strong-willed character. Wren is yet to come into her confidence. She grew up in poverty, and all of a sudden, she is being whisked away on an adventure? I don't blame her for being scared.
She is such a lovable character, and the mental health representation is greatly appreciated.
Each character was written with impressive care and thought. Each one going through something or other, and I'm excited to watch them all grow... maybe with the exception of 1.
The plot grips you in and takes you to a land faaar away, and for this, I'm grateful. The twists the turns and the betrayals I'll take more of them please.
I look forward to the next one.
Thank you, Laura, for allowing me the privilege of reading this before it's out in a few days
The plot, magic, and dragons are absolutely amazing.
It's nice to see an FMC who isn't your typically strong-willed character. Wren is yet to come into her confidence. She grew up in poverty, and all of a sudden, she is being whisked away on an adventure? I don't blame her for being scared.
She is such a lovable character, and the mental health representation is greatly appreciated.
Each character was written with impressive care and thought. Each one going through something or other, and I'm excited to watch them all grow... maybe with the exception of 1.
The plot grips you in and takes you to a land faaar away, and for this, I'm grateful. The twists the turns and the betrayals I'll take more of them please.
I look forward to the next one.
Thank you, Laura, for allowing me the privilege of reading this before it's out in a few days
May 30, 2024
Harsh high fantasy world. Found family. Mental health rep (bipolar II). Female friendships. Sweet romance. Anne Boleyn-inspired queen. Cat-like dragons.
I could NOT put this book down! This is going to be my new favorite high fantasy novel about found family, mental illness representation, and dragons!
What sets this story apart is Wren, our female protagonist, who grapples with bipolar II disorder. Living in a world plagued by injustice and stigma, Wren's journey to find her place is both compelling and inspiring.
Timothy and Wren are not just lovers but best friends in the truest sense. Also, the way Timothy and his mother wholeheartedly accept and understand Wren is incredibly touching and heartwarming.
The romance in this novel is sweet, subtle, and behind closed doors.
The characters are well written, and the plot is fast-paced and engaging. I found myself staying up late, unable to tear myself away from the pages. It's filled with angst, tension, and pain, but also brims with hope and strength. This story sends a powerful message that despite mental illness, one can lead a fulfilling life—finding love, forging friendships, contributing to society, and embarking on incredible adventures.
Also, I have a soft spot for Prince Tristan, despite his less-than-stellar violin skills. He seems to have a good heart, I can't wait to read about him grow stronger and reclaim his rightful place. I eagerly await book two and hope the wait isn't long!
I highly recommend this book to all fantasy lovers!
The author kindly provided me with the ARC of this book, however, all opinions and reviews expressed in this post are my own and are based on my honest thoughts and experiences with the book.
I could NOT put this book down! This is going to be my new favorite high fantasy novel about found family, mental illness representation, and dragons!
What sets this story apart is Wren, our female protagonist, who grapples with bipolar II disorder. Living in a world plagued by injustice and stigma, Wren's journey to find her place is both compelling and inspiring.
Timothy and Wren are not just lovers but best friends in the truest sense. Also, the way Timothy and his mother wholeheartedly accept and understand Wren is incredibly touching and heartwarming.
The romance in this novel is sweet, subtle, and behind closed doors.
The characters are well written, and the plot is fast-paced and engaging. I found myself staying up late, unable to tear myself away from the pages. It's filled with angst, tension, and pain, but also brims with hope and strength. This story sends a powerful message that despite mental illness, one can lead a fulfilling life—finding love, forging friendships, contributing to society, and embarking on incredible adventures.
Also, I have a soft spot for Prince Tristan, despite his less-than-stellar violin skills. He seems to have a good heart, I can't wait to read about him grow stronger and reclaim his rightful place. I eagerly await book two and hope the wait isn't long!
I highly recommend this book to all fantasy lovers!
The author kindly provided me with the ARC of this book, however, all opinions and reviews expressed in this post are my own and are based on my honest thoughts and experiences with the book.
June 11, 2024
It’s been awhile since I’ve read a book with storylines this well thought out! By the second half of the book, I was hoping this would turn into a several-book series because I was enjoying the multi-POV of the characters so much as well as seeing them interact and cross-over etc. It reminded me of Throne of Glass in this way (my fav series).
Many of the books I read are variations/dark versions of fairytales etc, but this one isn’t. And none of the plot seems borrowed from other books (which I’ve def seen before-and still liked the book). So it’s original as far as I can tell, and well written. The dialogue is good and so are the emotions that develop in the characters and reader.
I really enjoyed the bipolar representation as well as the description of life of an oppressed and basically enslaved people—people who live in a ghetto and no one wants to touch, who can be whipped for being touched by someone who isn’t one of them.
I’m stingy with my stars so in my mind 4* is a fantastic rating for an indie self-published author!
Many of the books I read are variations/dark versions of fairytales etc, but this one isn’t. And none of the plot seems borrowed from other books (which I’ve def seen before-and still liked the book). So it’s original as far as I can tell, and well written. The dialogue is good and so are the emotions that develop in the characters and reader.
I really enjoyed the bipolar representation as well as the description of life of an oppressed and basically enslaved people—people who live in a ghetto and no one wants to touch, who can be whipped for being touched by someone who isn’t one of them.
I’m stingy with my stars so in my mind 4* is a fantastic rating for an indie self-published author!
June 11, 2024
3.5 stars
The first half of the book was so paced as any new fantasy series is. There was a lot of back story needed.
The multiple pov was confusing at first but after a bit it was good to get everyones pov. I do wish we could've gotten the dragons pov as well tho.
The second half of the book was nice and fast paced. I really like Timothy and wren, they deserve each other
The first half of the book was so paced as any new fantasy series is. There was a lot of back story needed.
The multiple pov was confusing at first but after a bit it was good to get everyones pov. I do wish we could've gotten the dragons pov as well tho.
The second half of the book was nice and fast paced. I really like Timothy and wren, they deserve each other
December 3, 2024
This book was such a wild ride and I really enjoyed it!
Into Shadow explores marginalised peoples, dragons, magic, rebellions and kingdom wars. It’s well written, wasn’t predictable, and had some twists on the usual fantasy read.
I loved Wren, who has silent strength, shadow magic and is a Rook (the marginalised population.) Her love for Timothy right from the start was a refreshing take on romance within a fantasy novel - I’m so used to enemies to lovers lol😂
Alina and Celeste were a great unlikely friendship, but I will say I still dislike Celeste’s personality (which is the point) but will there be a redemption arc in the next book maybe?
The multiple POVs was done really well and I found it so interesting to read how each character met each other and meshed into the plot together!
Tropes:
🐉 found family
🖤 mental health rep
🐉 unconditional love
🖤 political intrigue
Into Shadow explores marginalised peoples, dragons, magic, rebellions and kingdom wars. It’s well written, wasn’t predictable, and had some twists on the usual fantasy read.
I loved Wren, who has silent strength, shadow magic and is a Rook (the marginalised population.) Her love for Timothy right from the start was a refreshing take on romance within a fantasy novel - I’m so used to enemies to lovers lol😂
Alina and Celeste were a great unlikely friendship, but I will say I still dislike Celeste’s personality (which is the point) but will there be a redemption arc in the next book maybe?
The multiple POVs was done really well and I found it so interesting to read how each character met each other and meshed into the plot together!
Tropes:
🐉 found family
🖤 mental health rep
🐉 unconditional love
🖤 political intrigue
May 7, 2025
I seriously don't know why we aren't talking about this book. It has everything I love in a fantasy. It's multiple POV, medium to fast paced, political, modern day problem parallels, and DRAGONS. Can't wait for the second one!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews