What do you think?
Rate this book
Shadow and Light Duology #2
The Light Within
Cinnamon ‘Cinn’ Saunders has learnt a lot since his arrival at the Aurelia Arcanum Institute of Esoteric Sciences.
He's learnt he’s a shadowslipper, capable of moving between realms.
He's learnt that he's expected to be the solution to the ever-growing waves of deadly umbraphage attacks.
He's learnt that cocky French men with pretty, punchable faces can be fun to kiss.
After Cinn's explosive arrival into his world, Julien Montaigne has also learnt a lot.
His dead sister Béatrice was a member of the terrorist group, the Arcane Purifiers;
Béatrice may or may not have returned to them as the world’s ugliest cat;
English men with a fondness for beanie hats make him go weak at the knees.
Trouble is stirring, and Cinn, Julien, Darcy and Elliot are about to be caught in the cross-fire between the consortium and the Arcane Purifiers. As dangers circle like sharks, the four friends must unravel the threads of the mysteries they’re wrapped up in and choose which side of the war they belong to before their enemies close in.
He's learnt he’s a shadowslipper, capable of moving between realms.
He's learnt that he's expected to be the solution to the ever-growing waves of deadly umbraphage attacks.
He's learnt that cocky French men with pretty, punchable faces can be fun to kiss.
After Cinn's explosive arrival into his world, Julien Montaigne has also learnt a lot.
His dead sister Béatrice was a member of the terrorist group, the Arcane Purifiers;
Béatrice may or may not have returned to them as the world’s ugliest cat;
English men with a fondness for beanie hats make him go weak at the knees.
Trouble is stirring, and Cinn, Julien, Darcy and Elliot are about to be caught in the cross-fire between the consortium and the Arcane Purifiers. As dangers circle like sharks, the four friends must unravel the threads of the mysteries they’re wrapped up in and choose which side of the war they belong to before their enemies close in.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2024
87 people are currently reading
605 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Rose
9 books314 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 143 reviews
November 4, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
LOOOOOOVE THIS. I've been anxiously waiting for the second installment since I read the first and it didn't disappoint AT ALL.
We get to finally understand what's happening with the umbraphages and the motes. We learn more about the Arcane Purifiers and Beatrice (shadow cat FTW). There's action, explosions, an amazing date night in Paris (gendarmes included), Christmas celebrations, amazing friendships, evil parents and surprising allies. I enjoyed every single thing that happened in this second part to the story. Being in Elliot's and Darcy's head was also a highlight. Also, can we get more of Malik? 😏
I loved Cinn and Julien together. The way Cinn understood Julien and treated him with a love Julien didn't think he deserved. Even when Julien would go to extremes (and I mean Extremes™️) that could have made Cinn exasperated, Cinn always understood and was supportive. And I love that about them, how that don't take each other for granted but their relationship is made of the little things they do for one another. The knitted scarf, the walkman, the baking, the caring for the other 🥹. Lovely.
I want to read more stories in this world.
LOOOOOOVE THIS. I've been anxiously waiting for the second installment since I read the first and it didn't disappoint AT ALL.
We get to finally understand what's happening with the umbraphages and the motes. We learn more about the Arcane Purifiers and Beatrice (shadow cat FTW). There's action, explosions, an amazing date night in Paris (gendarmes included), Christmas celebrations, amazing friendships, evil parents and surprising allies. I enjoyed every single thing that happened in this second part to the story. Being in Elliot's and Darcy's head was also a highlight. Also, can we get more of Malik? 😏
I loved Cinn and Julien together. The way Cinn understood Julien and treated him with a love Julien didn't think he deserved. Even when Julien would go to extremes (and I mean Extremes™️) that could have made Cinn exasperated, Cinn always understood and was supportive. And I love that about them, how that don't take each other for granted but their relationship is made of the little things they do for one another. The knitted scarf, the walkman, the baking, the caring for the other 🥹. Lovely.
I want to read more stories in this world.
November 8, 2024
The Light Within is book 2 in the Shadow and Light Duology and picks up where Book 1 leaves off. Cinn, Julien, Elliot and Darcy continue to unravel the mystery of Julien's sister Béatrice's murder with the help of Cinn's moteblessed shadowslipper abilities.
The worldbuilding and creativity in this series is spot on and really interesting to read. For me personally, the characters are very engaging and as I said in my review for book 1, the little details make all the difference. The fantasy elements and characterization were the highlights of the book for me. The plot was less interesting and less complex as compared to the other parts of the book. The plot was lacking a little for me and felt a bit flat/predictable compared to how wonderful the characters were. I was wish there was a bit more nuance and complexity: the characters who are two dimensional pretty much scream villain the whole way through so figuring out which of the bad guys did what is essentially how the mystery is solved. Some plot elements seemed to be set up for the purpose of covering plot holes. With that said, overall I really enjoyed reading the book. The fantasy elements were my favourite parts and I really admire T.J. Rose's imagination. The imagery and descriptions in the book are really good and I liked how each character had a well-rounded and distinct personality.
Rating: 3.25 stars
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 2/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
The worldbuilding and creativity in this series is spot on and really interesting to read. For me personally, the characters are very engaging and as I said in my review for book 1, the little details make all the difference. The fantasy elements and characterization were the highlights of the book for me. The plot was less interesting and less complex as compared to the other parts of the book. The plot was lacking a little for me and felt a bit flat/predictable compared to how wonderful the characters were. I was wish there was a bit more nuance and complexity: the characters who are two dimensional pretty much scream villain the whole way through so figuring out which of the bad guys did what is essentially how the mystery is solved. Some plot elements seemed to be set up for the purpose of covering plot holes. With that said, overall I really enjoyed reading the book. The fantasy elements were my favourite parts and I really admire T.J. Rose's imagination. The imagery and descriptions in the book are really good and I liked how each character had a well-rounded and distinct personality.
Rating: 3.25 stars
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 2/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
November 22, 2024
Ah, Julien and Cinn! I love these guys. So delighted to go back into this romantasy world that’s alternate to ours, set in what feels like the 80s, but with magic called motes, along with shadows and umbraphages, wreaking havoc for our heroes.
This is NOT a stand alone, and you definitely do not want to miss book 1, The Shadows Beyond, for the start of the story. It’s terrific! In fact I think plotwise it’s stronger than this book, but, this book gets to revel in the romance, so, win-win. It just didn’t feel as complex as I was expecting based on the intricacies of book 1. But whatever, I read for the romance. And Cinn and Julien get to be Romantic capital R in this one.
There’s danger abounding still, with the possible terrorist group the Arcane Purifiers running around, and Julien’s own father being a massive jerk who’s probably responsible for some of the problems everyone’s facing. When a powerful natural event causes a huge earthquake and crack in the very grounds of the college where our heroes and their allies live, they know things are coming to a head.
There’s much to enjoy here, from Julien having evolved from man-ho in book 1 to just SO gone over Cinn it’s adorable, to shadow-cat-Beatrice loving only Cinn, to Elliot gaining a stalker, to Darcy being…well, Darcy, she’s just fabulous at calling everyone else out on their BS, to allies turned possible enemies and so many secrets coming to light, and Cinn reuniting with a major figure from his past…there’s a lot to enthrall the reader. My favorite part is Julien taking Cinn on a days-long date to Paris. Ah, l’amour!
While plot twists and action are present, the book still felt quieter than book 1. Which made more time for romance! But it didn’t feel as complex, and the one thread that created strong romantic conflict in book 1, Cinn’s relationship with his former best friend Tyler, was completely dropped and I didn’t get why. It’s mentioned once? Maybe twice? But I expected more to come from that quarter, and got…nothing. There’s also the aforementioned reunion for Cinn, but it’s also kind of one and done and didn’t impact things as much as it could have? Felt like a side-plot that didn’t fully gel with and support the main story.
One thing didn’t satisfy me was the revelations around the motes and umbraphages and the way that was resolved. I expected Cinn and Julien to complement each other’s powers and discover part of their draw to each other was the shadow and the light needing to support and boost each other, and that was…a big misread on my part, I guess. But it felt like a miss. Their powers came into play a few times and yet somehow didn’t feel as important in the end as I expected? They’re needed for the finale, but the way it ends…I don’t know. I expected something…else. The school also doesn’t play a big part in this book, and I’m not sure what’s next for these two life-wise (apart from they’re with each other, of course!).
Julien acts like a fool a couple times. A big ole fool in love, but, I did kinda want to drop-kick him for not respecting Cinn’s right to be part of some big decisions. Martyr syndrome. The struggle is real.
Overall though, I loved being in this world again, and smiled so big at seeing these two in love. TJ Rose has fast become a favorite author, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
HEA, magic/motes channelers, romantasy, former enemies to now very-much-in-lovers. No cheating, no other-person drama in any way at all (and the author only mentioned Julien’s…uh…exceedingly colorful past a couple times! Ha ha. It didn’t really come up in this book.). I highly recommend this imaginative duet.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
This is NOT a stand alone, and you definitely do not want to miss book 1, The Shadows Beyond, for the start of the story. It’s terrific! In fact I think plotwise it’s stronger than this book, but, this book gets to revel in the romance, so, win-win. It just didn’t feel as complex as I was expecting based on the intricacies of book 1. But whatever, I read for the romance. And Cinn and Julien get to be Romantic capital R in this one.
There’s danger abounding still, with the possible terrorist group the Arcane Purifiers running around, and Julien’s own father being a massive jerk who’s probably responsible for some of the problems everyone’s facing. When a powerful natural event causes a huge earthquake and crack in the very grounds of the college where our heroes and their allies live, they know things are coming to a head.
There’s much to enjoy here, from Julien having evolved from man-ho in book 1 to just SO gone over Cinn it’s adorable, to shadow-cat-Beatrice loving only Cinn, to Elliot gaining a stalker, to Darcy being…well, Darcy, she’s just fabulous at calling everyone else out on their BS, to allies turned possible enemies and so many secrets coming to light, and Cinn reuniting with a major figure from his past…there’s a lot to enthrall the reader. My favorite part is Julien taking Cinn on a days-long date to Paris. Ah, l’amour!
While plot twists and action are present, the book still felt quieter than book 1. Which made more time for romance! But it didn’t feel as complex, and the one thread that created strong romantic conflict in book 1, Cinn’s relationship with his former best friend Tyler, was completely dropped and I didn’t get why. It’s mentioned once? Maybe twice? But I expected more to come from that quarter, and got…nothing. There’s also the aforementioned reunion for Cinn, but it’s also kind of one and done and didn’t impact things as much as it could have? Felt like a side-plot that didn’t fully gel with and support the main story.
One thing didn’t satisfy me was the revelations around the motes and umbraphages and the way that was resolved. I expected Cinn and Julien to complement each other’s powers and discover part of their draw to each other was the shadow and the light needing to support and boost each other, and that was…a big misread on my part, I guess. But it felt like a miss. Their powers came into play a few times and yet somehow didn’t feel as important in the end as I expected? They’re needed for the finale, but the way it ends…I don’t know. I expected something…else. The school also doesn’t play a big part in this book, and I’m not sure what’s next for these two life-wise (apart from they’re with each other, of course!).
Julien acts like a fool a couple times. A big ole fool in love, but, I did kinda want to drop-kick him for not respecting Cinn’s right to be part of some big decisions. Martyr syndrome. The struggle is real.
Overall though, I loved being in this world again, and smiled so big at seeing these two in love. TJ Rose has fast become a favorite author, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
HEA, magic/motes channelers, romantasy, former enemies to now very-much-in-lovers. No cheating, no other-person drama in any way at all (and the author only mentioned Julien’s…uh…exceedingly colorful past a couple times! Ha ha. It didn’t really come up in this book.). I highly recommend this imaginative duet.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
November 16, 2024
~3.5
Still loved: The unique magic world, the motes, both MCs and their dynamics, the friends group, and the strong found family bond between them.The umbraphages who were not what they seemed.
Unfortunately, the plot wasn't as strong as the rest:
* I expected more from the light/shadow motes angle.
* The action sequence taking over the explanation. There were things that just happened and were never explained.
* Unnecessary storylines without closure: Tyler, Elliot being in love with Julien.
Rounding up since, overall, I enjoyed the duology and would love to come back to this world. Elliott needs to have his own love story.
Still loved: The unique magic world, the motes, both MCs and their dynamics, the friends group, and the strong found family bond between them.The umbraphages who were not what they seemed.
Unfortunately, the plot wasn't as strong as the rest:
* I expected more from the light/shadow motes angle.
* The action sequence taking over the explanation. There were things that just happened and were never explained.
* Unnecessary storylines without closure: Tyler, Elliot being in love with Julien.
Rounding up since, overall, I enjoyed the duology and would love to come back to this world. Elliott needs to have his own love story.
April 13, 2025
This isn’t really what I’d expected from the conclusion of what seems a complex world in the first book. For one, we’re given a bit too many mundane and sweet scenes—from celebrating Christmas together, Cinn’s reunion with someone from his past, Cinn & Julien’s first date, and many, many smut scenes (not complaining). And when I say sweet, it’s the “double caramel, five blocks of sugar, your teeth are guaranteed to fall off” kinda sweet.
It’s not that those scenes are bad, but it certainly forces the important plot to take a backseat, and it’s such a pity. The major build-up in book 1—with the complexity of motes, Auri, umbraphages, AP, MEET, and family issues—crumbles to something so simple and easy to resolve (and the author still needs the main character to do something stupid to move the plot forward).
Julien, though, is still my favorite character of the book. He’s a complex character, and I enjoy the ride to see his unhinged self going from one extreme to the other.
It’s not that those scenes are bad, but it certainly forces the important plot to take a backseat, and it’s such a pity. The major build-up in book 1—with the complexity of motes, Auri, umbraphages, AP, MEET, and family issues—crumbles to something so simple and easy to resolve (and the author still needs the main character to do something stupid to move the plot forward).
Julien, though, is still my favorite character of the book. He’s a complex character, and I enjoy the ride to see his unhinged self going from one extreme to the other.
November 22, 2024
5🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟- The Light Within - T J ROSE
So excited to be back in the Fantasy world with Justin, Cinnamon, Elliot and Darcy. Book 1 was so exciting but Book 2 was a bit terrifying and had me holding my breath at times. Both Julien and Cinnamon faced the most awful tasks in The Light Within. Poor Julien had to relive past horrors regarding his mothers death in Book 1 and of course his nasty father Lucien Montaigne hasn’t finished messing with this Fabulous Four Friends. Luckily, assumed enemies and a new old friend, Malik, were at hand when help was needed most but it took a long while for the Quartet to realise and accept that truth.
Cinnamon was also able to discover his own family secrets when he managed to meet his mother in London.
I loved how this Quartet of friends were able to travel from Switzerland to London and then to Paris, apparently in the blink of an eye, wish that fantasy was real.
TJ Rose has written an exciting story set in Fantasy world, which included a lot to technical wizardry, which just sailed over my head, but nevertheless I was so engrossed in this whole story throughout the two books.
Julien, Cinnamon, Elliot and Darcy were such lovable characters, but Julien and Cinnamon and their love for each other was so adorable to follow right from the beginning of this duet. And that first real date in Paris, wow, Cinnamon will never forget that one.
There is murder and mayhem described vividly on page plus Julien and Cinnamon have plenty of romantic sessions when not employing their magic gifts to extricate themselves from tricky situations.
If you’re a fan of Fantasy Worlds this Duet by T J Rose deserves a place on your Library Shelf.
I received an ARC copy of this book via the author and this is my freely given honest review.
So excited to be back in the Fantasy world with Justin, Cinnamon, Elliot and Darcy. Book 1 was so exciting but Book 2 was a bit terrifying and had me holding my breath at times. Both Julien and Cinnamon faced the most awful tasks in The Light Within. Poor Julien had to relive past horrors regarding his mothers death in Book 1 and of course his nasty father Lucien Montaigne hasn’t finished messing with this Fabulous Four Friends. Luckily, assumed enemies and a new old friend, Malik, were at hand when help was needed most but it took a long while for the Quartet to realise and accept that truth.
Cinnamon was also able to discover his own family secrets when he managed to meet his mother in London.
I loved how this Quartet of friends were able to travel from Switzerland to London and then to Paris, apparently in the blink of an eye, wish that fantasy was real.
TJ Rose has written an exciting story set in Fantasy world, which included a lot to technical wizardry, which just sailed over my head, but nevertheless I was so engrossed in this whole story throughout the two books.
Julien, Cinnamon, Elliot and Darcy were such lovable characters, but Julien and Cinnamon and their love for each other was so adorable to follow right from the beginning of this duet. And that first real date in Paris, wow, Cinnamon will never forget that one.
There is murder and mayhem described vividly on page plus Julien and Cinnamon have plenty of romantic sessions when not employing their magic gifts to extricate themselves from tricky situations.
If you’re a fan of Fantasy Worlds this Duet by T J Rose deserves a place on your Library Shelf.
I received an ARC copy of this book via the author and this is my freely given honest review.
November 2, 2024
This book developed a lot more smoothly than expected. While at times the first one felt like a lot (because if we're honest, we get dumped in a new sort of "world" with little information to go with), here things move a lot more smoothly. And I love how Cinn and Julien settle together and solve the issue, in a way. And we get a satisfying conclusion to it all
November 22, 2024
I very much enjoyed this.
Julian and Cinn are the “I will do ANYTHING for you” type of people and I adooore that type of relationship. They prove themselves to each other over and over and I really believed their love.
The pacing here was fantastic and I was worried the ending was going to be rushed but it wasn’t. I really enjoyed myself the whole way through.
I would love to read a story about the side character Elliot. Warning to other readers that two side characters do get chapters here (Elliot gets two, Darcy gets one), but I actually appreciated them. In one of Elliot’s we see an especially tender moment between Julian and Cinn and that made it all worth it.
Julian and Cinn are the “I will do ANYTHING for you” type of people and I adooore that type of relationship. They prove themselves to each other over and over and I really believed their love.
The pacing here was fantastic and I was worried the ending was going to be rushed but it wasn’t. I really enjoyed myself the whole way through.
I would love to read a story about the side character Elliot. Warning to other readers that two side characters do get chapters here (Elliot gets two, Darcy gets one), but I actually appreciated them. In one of Elliot’s we see an especially tender moment between Julian and Cinn and that made it all worth it.
November 29, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ A fantastic ending to a beautiful romantasy! I had such a blast with the final book in the Shadow and Light Duology. The story continue right where the first one left of, and we follow the four friends, Cinn, Julien, Darcy and Elliot as they continue to try to figure out what is happening with the threaths that keeps haunting them. In all the chaos and drama, we of course follow the story between Cinn and Julien, and the love they have for eachother. What I really liked with the final book was that it was something happening all the time, and I was never bored! It was exiting, thrilling, heartbreaking and such a fun time - a definitive must for any fantasy lover that want's to read a unique story about friendship, love and good vs evil!
A huge thank you to TJ Rose for letting me read an ARC for their book! <3
A huge thank you to TJ Rose for letting me read an ARC for their book! <3
July 4, 2025
Rating: 4 ⭐
I'm honestly sad, because I didn't want to finish this.
Julien and Cinn have my heart. As expected, they were the sweetest.
Even though I prefer the first book plotwise, this one was still good. In term of romance, however, it was everything!
I won't be opposed to more content from this universe: Eliott and Darcy both need their own time to shine!
This duology is really great, I recommend it.
“I am…” Julien’s hand gently brushed Cinn’s hair from his forehead. “Quite frankly…” He leaned down, his breath warm against Cinn’s lips. “So fucking in love with you, it hurts.”
"I’ve spent my life doubting the existence of soulmates. I don’t know if I believe in destiny, but you are the most compelling case for it I’ve ever seen."
I'm honestly sad, because I didn't want to finish this.
Julien and Cinn have my heart. As expected, they were the sweetest.
Even though I prefer the first book plotwise, this one was still good. In term of romance, however, it was everything!
I won't be opposed to more content from this universe: Eliott and Darcy both need their own time to shine!
This duology is really great, I recommend it.
November 1, 2024
What an amazing second instalment to this incredible duology! Picking up directly after the first book finished, Cinn, Julian and the gang continue to search for the reasons behind Julian’s sisters death (accompanied by her in shadow cat form!), fight the every increasing number of Umbraphages trying to destroy the world and, all whilst Cinn and Julien try to manage their own tumultuous relationship.
The relationship between Julian and Cinn really blossoms in this book (although Julian continues to be a stupid martyr at times - is it so hard to tell your boyfriend you’re going to a secret meeting with a terrorist group in the middle of the night to try and save his life? Hmmmm?). I love their push-pull and their growing love and dependence on each other to help heal what their upbringings had broken.
There was a lot of action, fight scenes and drama in this one, parts of which reminded me of the avengers films, so if you’re into superhero movies this one is gonna be a blast for you!!
I absolutely loved this duology and would absolutely recommend for all urban fantasy fans! Just like the last book, the literal only reason this one lost a star for me is the pacing, which again felt all over the place (however, as with the last book, this is definitely a me thing, so don’t let it put you off reading!)
Read The Light Within for:
✨ Fast paced urban fantasy
✨ Magic, mayhem, murder
✨ Shadow and light magic
✨ Cinn and Julien getting their shit together (sort of lol)
✨ Found family
✨ Broken boys in in love ♥️
Thank you to GRR for an ARC copy of this book!
The relationship between Julian and Cinn really blossoms in this book (although Julian continues to be a stupid martyr at times - is it so hard to tell your boyfriend you’re going to a secret meeting with a terrorist group in the middle of the night to try and save his life? Hmmmm?). I love their push-pull and their growing love and dependence on each other to help heal what their upbringings had broken.
There was a lot of action, fight scenes and drama in this one, parts of which reminded me of the avengers films, so if you’re into superhero movies this one is gonna be a blast for you!!
I absolutely loved this duology and would absolutely recommend for all urban fantasy fans! Just like the last book, the literal only reason this one lost a star for me is the pacing, which again felt all over the place (however, as with the last book, this is definitely a me thing, so don’t let it put you off reading!)
Read The Light Within for:
✨ Fast paced urban fantasy
✨ Magic, mayhem, murder
✨ Shadow and light magic
✨ Cinn and Julien getting their shit together (sort of lol)
✨ Found family
✨ Broken boys in in love ♥️
Thank you to GRR for an ARC copy of this book!
November 9, 2024
I was a beta reader and received an ARC of this book. Please take this into account as much as you need.
I adore TJ Rose's novels so much that I asked not only if I could be an ARC reader, but also offered my time as a beta reader as well. The Light Within is a spectacular conclusion to the Shadow and Light duology.
Earthquakes and explosions rock the centers of mote activity throughout the world as the magic between the realms becomes increasingly unstable. Racing against the dissolution of their world, the fiery foursome travel through multiple countries, tracking both the shadow cat who may or may not be Julien's dead sister, and the mystery at the heart of the the imminent collapse. The stakes are high, their loyalties and bonds tested. They're forced to confront their pasts in order to have a future together.
With multiple POVs, Julien is at his most adorable and insufferable and Cinn's disgruntled devotion is on full display with delightful effect. The amount of laughing , eye-rolling, squealing and cheering I did throughout reading this book was a rare joy.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Absolutely!!!
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: Cinn's narrative voice and Julien's enchanting yet sometimes idiotic self-sacrificing tendencies are highlights in this novel. I loved them in The Shadows Beyond and they're as lovable here. We're also given the unexpected gift of more Elliott moments, tantalizing glimpses into the American best friend of an affluent French boy who is equal parts mercurial and charming. TJ also does a brilliant job of detailing how obtuse three men sometimes can be with the wonderful juxtaposition of Darcy and her no-nonsense affection for the boys. She is truly the backbone of the group. I cherish found family dynamics done well and TJ is a master at them!
PLOT: Medium-to-fast-paced, the plot mixes the external magical conflict with the internal group dynamics as the group juggles to join from four separate puzzle pieces into the team of heroes capable of stopping a magical apocalypse. Confronting pasts, weaknesses, and each other, Cinn, Julien, Elliott, and Darcy take it upon themselves to protect ordinary citizens at the heart of the chaos, putting their lives at stake in the quest for answers. Cinn and Julien both fit into a chosen one trope in their own ways, a personal favorite of mine. Plenty of action, steamy scenes, emotional scenes, and an intensity that continues to build, the plot is wonderfully balanced!
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
4:5/high. The stakes are high, the emotional connection I have for the characters is high, and the world is so immersive as well.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
100%. Fulfillment all the way through! From the climactic moments to the denouement to wrapping up all the loose threads. I'm thrilled with how this conclusion turned out and highly recommend the duology!
I adore TJ Rose's novels so much that I asked not only if I could be an ARC reader, but also offered my time as a beta reader as well. The Light Within is a spectacular conclusion to the Shadow and Light duology.
Earthquakes and explosions rock the centers of mote activity throughout the world as the magic between the realms becomes increasingly unstable. Racing against the dissolution of their world, the fiery foursome travel through multiple countries, tracking both the shadow cat who may or may not be Julien's dead sister, and the mystery at the heart of the the imminent collapse. The stakes are high, their loyalties and bonds tested. They're forced to confront their pasts in order to have a future together.
With multiple POVs, Julien is at his most adorable and insufferable and Cinn's disgruntled devotion is on full display with delightful effect. The amount of laughing , eye-rolling, squealing and cheering I did throughout reading this book was a rare joy.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Absolutely!!!
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: Cinn's narrative voice and Julien's enchanting yet sometimes idiotic self-sacrificing tendencies are highlights in this novel. I loved them in The Shadows Beyond and they're as lovable here. We're also given the unexpected gift of more Elliott moments, tantalizing glimpses into the American best friend of an affluent French boy who is equal parts mercurial and charming. TJ also does a brilliant job of detailing how obtuse three men sometimes can be with the wonderful juxtaposition of Darcy and her no-nonsense affection for the boys. She is truly the backbone of the group. I cherish found family dynamics done well and TJ is a master at them!
PLOT: Medium-to-fast-paced, the plot mixes the external magical conflict with the internal group dynamics as the group juggles to join from four separate puzzle pieces into the team of heroes capable of stopping a magical apocalypse. Confronting pasts, weaknesses, and each other, Cinn, Julien, Elliott, and Darcy take it upon themselves to protect ordinary citizens at the heart of the chaos, putting their lives at stake in the quest for answers. Cinn and Julien both fit into a chosen one trope in their own ways, a personal favorite of mine. Plenty of action, steamy scenes, emotional scenes, and an intensity that continues to build, the plot is wonderfully balanced!
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
4:5/high. The stakes are high, the emotional connection I have for the characters is high, and the world is so immersive as well.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
100%. Fulfillment all the way through! From the climactic moments to the denouement to wrapping up all the loose threads. I'm thrilled with how this conclusion turned out and highly recommend the duology!
November 6, 2024
I've been looking forward to the second part of this duology since the moment I finished the first part and it was a wild ride from start to finish. Like in the first book I ADORED Cinn and Julien's dynamic, and all the moments between them were sooo good. The piano, the hoodie, the chocolate log thing, there were so many little scenes and details between them that I loved.
I also loved Darcy and Eliot in this book. I didn't know if we would get a love interest for Eliot but I'm glad he ended up with someone, though I wish we could have gotten to know him more.
The overall vibe of this book was so hectic and chaotic, with so much action and external plot. Not that it's a bad thing but I hope that one day TJ writes a book that is less actiony and more chill romancey, only because the chill parts between Cinn and Julien are always my favorite and I'm just not an action and high stakes danger kind of person. That is just my personal preference though. I think most people will love the twists and turns of everything going on.
Overall I would highly recommend it as well as the first. It's different and very well written, with a great and very likable cast of characters.
I also loved Darcy and Eliot in this book. I didn't know if we would get a love interest for Eliot but I'm glad he ended up with someone, though I wish we could have gotten to know him more.
The overall vibe of this book was so hectic and chaotic, with so much action and external plot. Not that it's a bad thing but I hope that one day TJ writes a book that is less actiony and more chill romancey, only because the chill parts between Cinn and Julien are always my favorite and I'm just not an action and high stakes danger kind of person. That is just my personal preference though. I think most people will love the twists and turns of everything going on.
Overall I would highly recommend it as well as the first. It's different and very well written, with a great and very likable cast of characters.
November 18, 2024
So realistically this books is probably 3 stars at least. But I hate Julien so much everything about his story and character arcs are just awful.
On the romance side he’s awful as well, poor Cinn deserves someone better.
The only thing I’m looking forward to from this author if it even happens is Elliot x Malik, which I feel like is what was hinted at.
So maybe just maybe, now that all the daddy issues and self loathing is gone. We might just get a decent story from Elliot.
On the romance side he’s awful as well, poor Cinn deserves someone better.
The only thing I’m looking forward to from this author if it even happens is Elliot x Malik, which I feel like is what was hinted at.
So maybe just maybe, now that all the daddy issues and self loathing is gone. We might just get a decent story from Elliot.
November 9, 2024
Blown away!!
Wanna start this off by saying I absolutely adore the friendship between Cinn, Julien, Darcy, and Elliot. It’s so beautiful. And the way they support each other just warms my heart. Elliot really had me wanting to try Cinn’s cooking. 🤣🤣
The twists and turns in this book had me in a chokehold. While there were some things I figured out, other things took me completely by surprise. And I cried more than I thought I would, which shouldn’t have surprised me. The first book had some very emotional scenes as well. Some of which were given some history and expansion here.
I love Julien’s obsession with Cinn, and vice versa. They fit each other so well, and their chemistry was just perfect. They understood each other in a way I don’t think anyone else could’ve. It was just beautiful to watch them blossom.
Still blown away with the magic system and how much detail went into it. Learning even more about it in this book made it all the better. World building is something that truly makes a story for me, and the way TJ Rose weaves this world together was amazing. There was some wonderful depth to it that I thoroughly appreciate.
Thank you so much for the advanced copy!!
Wanna start this off by saying I absolutely adore the friendship between Cinn, Julien, Darcy, and Elliot. It’s so beautiful. And the way they support each other just warms my heart. Elliot really had me wanting to try Cinn’s cooking. 🤣🤣
The twists and turns in this book had me in a chokehold. While there were some things I figured out, other things took me completely by surprise. And I cried more than I thought I would, which shouldn’t have surprised me. The first book had some very emotional scenes as well. Some of which were given some history and expansion here.
I love Julien’s obsession with Cinn, and vice versa. They fit each other so well, and their chemistry was just perfect. They understood each other in a way I don’t think anyone else could’ve. It was just beautiful to watch them blossom.
Still blown away with the magic system and how much detail went into it. Learning even more about it in this book made it all the better. World building is something that truly makes a story for me, and the way TJ Rose weaves this world together was amazing. There was some wonderful depth to it that I thoroughly appreciate.
Thank you so much for the advanced copy!!
August 20, 2025
4.5 stars
NICE! Oh, this was good. Really good. Both books together are so so so good. Such a thrilling, romantic, wonderful story. Love it!
NICE! Oh, this was good. Really good. Both books together are so so so good. Such a thrilling, romantic, wonderful story. Love it!
November 15, 2024
The series continues after book 1 with the team hunting the dark shadow who they thought the cat was 🐈⬛Beatrice, Julian's sister.
Julian and Cinn had to have The Talk about what happened, especially with the dramas around Tyler. There relationship was feeling a bit rocky after two weeks not talking but they needed Beatrice 🐈⬛ to sort out that was next.
Christmas was coming which they guys didn't have fond memories of. Scenes begin with earthly dramas with their building but that was only the start of what was to happen.
A mystery of what happened to Beatrice when she was working for Arcane Purifiers was that she was killed. Julian gets up to all sorts of mischief without Cinn’s knowledge and at times comes close to getting caught. Julian has a way to sweet talk to his man in french, I loved those scenes. The mystery deepens for Cinn with Julian’s help they find answers but find more questions.
Holly smokes this has a wow scene as a major change for Cinn as a dangerous situation appears. I wont spoil what progresses but I couldn't put this book down once I started reading.
This book is another fantastic book for the series I loved both stories for Cinn and Julian romance.
Julian and Cinn had to have The Talk about what happened, especially with the dramas around Tyler. There relationship was feeling a bit rocky after two weeks not talking but they needed Beatrice 🐈⬛ to sort out that was next.
Christmas was coming which they guys didn't have fond memories of. Scenes begin with earthly dramas with their building but that was only the start of what was to happen.
A mystery of what happened to Beatrice when she was working for Arcane Purifiers was that she was killed. Julian gets up to all sorts of mischief without Cinn’s knowledge and at times comes close to getting caught. Julian has a way to sweet talk to his man in french, I loved those scenes. The mystery deepens for Cinn with Julian’s help they find answers but find more questions.
Holly smokes this has a wow scene as a major change for Cinn as a dangerous situation appears. I wont spoil what progresses but I couldn't put this book down once I started reading.
This book is another fantastic book for the series I loved both stories for Cinn and Julian romance.
November 14, 2024
This book. THIS BOOK. If I didn’t know better, I’d swear TJ Rose had written hundreds of books. The world building is superb. Rose has created this unique world with magical motes and tech, with shadows and light and characters who wield both. The story itself is powerful and fluid, emotional in its own way with each character navigating the chaos while also fighting their individual battles. And the message beneath it all is a compelling one.
The Light Within starts right where The Shadows Beyond left off. I don’t want to give too much detail because I don’t want to spoil anything. The umbraphages are still wreaking havoc while the folks at Auri struggle to fight them off. Cinn has brought back a demon cat who they believe to be Beatrice. Julian is finally attempting to channel again. Darcy is worrying over her father and what will happen if they lose access to the motes. Elliot is finding his strength and moving towards something new while remaining true to those he cares for the most. This group of found family is such a solid bunch. The way they work together, care for each other, hold each other accountable…if only we all had friends like this. I thought the addition of having chapters from everyone’s pov was creative and smart. It gave a different perspective which was helpful to the storyline.
In the midst of all this, Julian and Cinn are building on the relationship that began in book one. They are figuring out what that looks like for them. I loved seeing Julian’s vulnerability, the way he wanted to protect Cinn always. The letter he sent to Cinn was so moving. And Cinn, he was adorable with his own grumpy version of being shy when it comes to showing his emotions. Cinn knows that Julian feels like he has to be responsible, to save them all. He accepts that while also refusing to let him do it alone. Their bond is something special, and TJ Rose really lets you feel that through their connection and banter.
Overall, it was just such a wonderful book! And bonus points to whoever edited it…as someone who edits for a job, this was a job well done.
The Light Within starts right where The Shadows Beyond left off. I don’t want to give too much detail because I don’t want to spoil anything. The umbraphages are still wreaking havoc while the folks at Auri struggle to fight them off. Cinn has brought back a demon cat who they believe to be Beatrice. Julian is finally attempting to channel again. Darcy is worrying over her father and what will happen if they lose access to the motes. Elliot is finding his strength and moving towards something new while remaining true to those he cares for the most. This group of found family is such a solid bunch. The way they work together, care for each other, hold each other accountable…if only we all had friends like this. I thought the addition of having chapters from everyone’s pov was creative and smart. It gave a different perspective which was helpful to the storyline.
In the midst of all this, Julian and Cinn are building on the relationship that began in book one. They are figuring out what that looks like for them. I loved seeing Julian’s vulnerability, the way he wanted to protect Cinn always. The letter he sent to Cinn was so moving. And Cinn, he was adorable with his own grumpy version of being shy when it comes to showing his emotions. Cinn knows that Julian feels like he has to be responsible, to save them all. He accepts that while also refusing to let him do it alone. Their bond is something special, and TJ Rose really lets you feel that through their connection and banter.
Overall, it was just such a wonderful book! And bonus points to whoever edited it…as someone who edits for a job, this was a job well done.
January 10, 2025
The Light Within
Fantastic! What a great sequel that had plenty of suspense, high stakes, sweet romance, secrets, drama, and so much more! I loved all the twists in this one and how it all wrapped up in the end.
I enjoyed the high stakes and mysteries that were uncovered. The story was paced well as well.
Julien and Cinn were magical together. I loved watching their relationship grow and how real it felt. They brought out the best in each other and supported each other throughout. They’re one couple I doubt I’ll forget any time soon.
Some more reasons to read are, high stakes, mm romance, morally grey characters, loyal friends, found family, hurt/comfort, secrets, betrayals, twists, end of the world, soulmate vibes, magic, suspense, steam, and so much more.
Fantastic! What a great sequel that had plenty of suspense, high stakes, sweet romance, secrets, drama, and so much more! I loved all the twists in this one and how it all wrapped up in the end.
I enjoyed the high stakes and mysteries that were uncovered. The story was paced well as well.
Julien and Cinn were magical together. I loved watching their relationship grow and how real it felt. They brought out the best in each other and supported each other throughout. They’re one couple I doubt I’ll forget any time soon.
Some more reasons to read are, high stakes, mm romance, morally grey characters, loyal friends, found family, hurt/comfort, secrets, betrayals, twists, end of the world, soulmate vibes, magic, suspense, steam, and so much more.
November 9, 2024
The Light Within is the second book in the Shadow and Light Duology series. This is not a standalone and should be read after The Shadows Beyond. We are back with Cinn, Julien, Darcy and Elliot for this book. We come back to the story where it ended in book one and get back into the story quickly. It was great to learn more about why things are happening in the story. I loved watching Cinn and Julien become a great couple. They are perfect for each other in my opinion. I loved all the twists and turns the story took to get to the end. I look forward to reading whatever TJ Rose writes next. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
November 9, 2024
ARC Review
I have been eagerly awaiting the conclusion to this duo. I was not disappointed. I loved it!
My favourite element of this series is the found family surrounding Cinn & Julian. We also got a peak into Elliot & Darcy's perspectives which was brilliant. I am looking forward to more adventures to come... fingers crossed.
The action is jam packed into this book as the foursome gets closer to solving the mystery of Julian's sister Beatrice's murder. In the end they get some assistance from a very surprising allies.
I hope this isn't the last we see of Julian, Cinn, Elliot & Darcy. I am not ready to let them go!!
I have been eagerly awaiting the conclusion to this duo. I was not disappointed. I loved it!
My favourite element of this series is the found family surrounding Cinn & Julian. We also got a peak into Elliot & Darcy's perspectives which was brilliant. I am looking forward to more adventures to come... fingers crossed.
The action is jam packed into this book as the foursome gets closer to solving the mystery of Julian's sister Beatrice's murder. In the end they get some assistance from a very surprising allies.
I hope this isn't the last we see of Julian, Cinn, Elliot & Darcy. I am not ready to let them go!!
November 15, 2024
"A gritty, relentless sort of love. The ride-or-die kind. Us against the world. The, tomorrow, and tomorrow and tomorrow sort of love.
It's a truly amazing sequel, and in my opinion, it is really hard to achieve a duology where both books are 5 ⭐️ but Rose did it. The editing, story, writing, and characters were all pretty flawlessly done.
Julien, Cinn, Elliot, and Darcy are back with the second half of the duology. I absolutely loved that this one included Christmas and Cinns' enthusiasm for the holiday was overbearingly adorable. I just wholeheartedly love everything about all the characters and the relationship that Cinn and Julien have. It's not perfect but it is so lovely and wholesome.
My only critique of this is that I wanted more. I really wanted to see what life would be like after and see more into the lives of Elliot and Darcy, and perhaps even a little look into a void-eyed shadow cat.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's a truly amazing sequel, and in my opinion, it is really hard to achieve a duology where both books are 5 ⭐️ but Rose did it. The editing, story, writing, and characters were all pretty flawlessly done.
Julien, Cinn, Elliot, and Darcy are back with the second half of the duology. I absolutely loved that this one included Christmas and Cinns' enthusiasm for the holiday was overbearingly adorable. I just wholeheartedly love everything about all the characters and the relationship that Cinn and Julien have. It's not perfect but it is so lovely and wholesome.
My only critique of this is that I wanted more. I really wanted to see what life would be like after and see more into the lives of Elliot and Darcy, and perhaps even a little look into a void-eyed shadow cat.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2024
What a fulfilling conclusion for Cinn and Julien. The pacing of this book was great but I am happy there was still time for romance. My view on Jazz music is forever changed … I really enjoyed how they both supported each other through each other’s trauma. I’m going to miss their chaotic but supportive friend group. I am praying we get to see more of Elliot and Malik, instantly fell in love with Malik after the chase scene. The “oh no he’s hot” moment sent me cheering for Elliot. Thank you TJ Rose for the ARC as soon as I heard there was a 2nd book I had instantly preordered.
October 30, 2024
This was a great conclusion to the duology!
We explore Cin and Julians relationship further and they keep getting better and better together! And all the mayhem! So much happens! And we somethimes get if from different POV's which is great!
I'm still a big fan of the found family thrope and it in this book too keeps getting the attention it deserves!
I really loved the ending and I really love the author for giving us this epilogue!
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC!
We explore Cin and Julians relationship further and they keep getting better and better together! And all the mayhem! So much happens! And we somethimes get if from different POV's which is great!
I'm still a big fan of the found family thrope and it in this book too keeps getting the attention it deserves!
I really loved the ending and I really love the author for giving us this epilogue!
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC!
November 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. You will need to read The Light Within to understand the overall arc of the story. The book starts off as the first book ends. I really enjoyed how Julien and Cinn get closer together as their relationship gets stronger as the story goes along. We also find out more about what happened with Julien’s sister, his father and the academy they are at. Loved it and looking forward to reading more by this author.
October 31, 2024
What a fantastic ending to this duology. Cinn and Julien had me kicking my feet throughout the entire book. The Christmas setting that happened in this book was such a nice little surprise. As well the actual plot was a great conclusion. The reader got to learn more about motes and the world Cinn has become apart of. I’m sad it’s over but it was good. A huge thanks to the author for the advanced copy!!
November 21, 2024
What a brilliant conclusion it was to this duet! I admit I will miss Julien and Cinn.
November 22, 2024
Engaging characters and lovely world building.
I enjoyed this duology - hoping for more set in this world.
I enjoyed this duology - hoping for more set in this world.
Read
December 1, 2024RTC
November 9, 2024
The Light Within is the perfect sequel to this duology, and answers all lingering questions.
We get a lot more insight into Julien's past and his character - and lots more of Julien being an idiot, but that's why we love him, isn't it? I absolutely adored him in The Light Within, and he deserves as many hugs as humanly possible.
Cinn is incredibly gentle and patient with him while their relationship develops and grows stronger. They support and care about each other in the sweetest way, which was so wonderfully depicted. Also amazing to read was how Cinn himself became more confident and stronger, trusting himself more.
Learning more about Elliot and Darcy was sweet as well - and maybe we'll get more of Malik one day? That'd be wonderful!
The revelations about the Arcane Purifiers were so well written and intriguing, I loved it. Understanding where the umbraphages come from and what's actually happening was intriguing, and so was the climax.
All in all, The Light Within is the perfect continuation and climax of the Shadow and Light Duology.
I received an ARC of this book from the Author and this is my honest review.
We get a lot more insight into Julien's past and his character - and lots more of Julien being an idiot, but that's why we love him, isn't it? I absolutely adored him in The Light Within, and he deserves as many hugs as humanly possible.
Cinn is incredibly gentle and patient with him while their relationship develops and grows stronger. They support and care about each other in the sweetest way, which was so wonderfully depicted. Also amazing to read was how Cinn himself became more confident and stronger, trusting himself more.
Learning more about Elliot and Darcy was sweet as well - and maybe we'll get more of Malik one day? That'd be wonderful!
The revelations about the Arcane Purifiers were so well written and intriguing, I loved it. Understanding where the umbraphages come from and what's actually happening was intriguing, and so was the climax.
All in all, The Light Within is the perfect continuation and climax of the Shadow and Light Duology.
I received an ARC of this book from the Author and this is my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews