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The Lost Queen #1
A Touch of Shadows: A totally gripping and addictive romantic fantasy read
A lost queen’s sacrifice. Two kingdoms at war for centuries. And a spark of passion between hunter and hunted with the power to end everything…
The shadow magic has always whispered to Wren. The same dark power that once ravaged her home kingdom of Asteroth. So she must keep her magic hidden, only using it to help people in need in the remote border village she calls home. Discovery of her gifts would mean death.
Noble knight Finn has sworn to serve his new home, Asteroth, by hunting down those who use shadow magic. He has never forgiven his father, ruler of enemy kingdom Ilanthus, for his terrible cruelty. Spying for Asteroth in his own father’s royal court is his revenge – and carrying a warning of raiding parties on the move, Finn is passing through Wren’s small town…
When terrible creatures in the nearby forest attack him, Wren risks exposing her magic and saves his life. But as they touch, burning desire takes over. And Wren’s magic floods through them both.
As the power fades, Wren and Finn’s wariness of each other returns, even with a new bond between them. But there’s no time to untangle their feelings from the seductive call of the magic. Because with enemy soldiers crossing the border, dark days are coming to Asteroth…
Their fates now entwined, can Wren and Finn learn to trust each other to save their kingdom? Or will they be the key to its destruction?
A Touch of Shadows is a totally gripping and enchanting fantasy romance, packed full of delicious passion, stunning world-building and bewitching magic. This first book in an addictive new series is perfect for fans of Rebecca Yarros, Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
The shadow magic has always whispered to Wren. The same dark power that once ravaged her home kingdom of Asteroth. So she must keep her magic hidden, only using it to help people in need in the remote border village she calls home. Discovery of her gifts would mean death.
Noble knight Finn has sworn to serve his new home, Asteroth, by hunting down those who use shadow magic. He has never forgiven his father, ruler of enemy kingdom Ilanthus, for his terrible cruelty. Spying for Asteroth in his own father’s royal court is his revenge – and carrying a warning of raiding parties on the move, Finn is passing through Wren’s small town…
When terrible creatures in the nearby forest attack him, Wren risks exposing her magic and saves his life. But as they touch, burning desire takes over. And Wren’s magic floods through them both.
As the power fades, Wren and Finn’s wariness of each other returns, even with a new bond between them. But there’s no time to untangle their feelings from the seductive call of the magic. Because with enemy soldiers crossing the border, dark days are coming to Asteroth…
Their fates now entwined, can Wren and Finn learn to trust each other to save their kingdom? Or will they be the key to its destruction?
A Touch of Shadows is a totally gripping and enchanting fantasy romance, packed full of delicious passion, stunning world-building and bewitching magic. This first book in an addictive new series is perfect for fans of Rebecca Yarros, Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
298 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2024
671 people are currently reading
2725 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Thorne
12 books244 followersJessica Thorne watched far too much sci-fi and read far too much fantasy at an impressionable age. And it was awesome. She writes fantasy and sci-fi romance with a steampunk edge and just refuses to face reality.
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September 4, 2024I am sorry to report that this book was not for me. I couldn’t get into it despite trying several different listening environments and situations. I can usually tell if I will DNF a book within the first couple pages, and I knew pretty instantly this book wouldn’t be one I could finish. To start, the world building was weak, and the beginning chapters didn’t do anything to grab me or make me care about the characters or the story. I appreciate Jessica Thorne, Second Sky, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in advance.
July 24, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the early access of this book!
I will start out by saying that this Romantasy was fairly easy to read. I enjoyed it and would 100% recommend this to someone who is just starting their fantasy journey. It’s not overwhelming.
As an avid fantasy reader though - I do find some elements weren’t complete. The world building and the magic system weren’t explored as much as I would’ve liked.
It’s a really short book - about 260 pages, so it reads like a breeze.
The romance was a love at first sight and it didn’t fully develop? I felt like the romance was lacking in the romance department.
But overall, I enjoyed this quick read and recommend it!
I will start out by saying that this Romantasy was fairly easy to read. I enjoyed it and would 100% recommend this to someone who is just starting their fantasy journey. It’s not overwhelming.
As an avid fantasy reader though - I do find some elements weren’t complete. The world building and the magic system weren’t explored as much as I would’ve liked.
It’s a really short book - about 260 pages, so it reads like a breeze.
The romance was a love at first sight and it didn’t fully develop? I felt like the romance was lacking in the romance department.
But overall, I enjoyed this quick read and recommend it!
August 27, 2024
"A Touch of Shadows" by Jessica Thorne is the inaugural book in the Lost Queen series. This Fantasy/Romance novel is notably light on world-building and is relatively brief for its genre, offering a swift reading experience. It appears to be the first installment of a trilogy, with subsequent volumes expected in the coming months, and I am eager to see the story's conclusion.
Wren is drawn to shadow magic, yet she must conceal her abilities to protect her life. Finn, a noble knight, has vowed to serve Asteroth by pursuing users of shadow magic. He has not forgiven his father for his heinous acts, and serving as a spy for Asteroth is his chosen form of retribution. During their travels, a creature assaults Finn, prompting Wren to use her magic to save him, risking her own life. Their touch ignites a fiery passion as Wren's magic surges between them. However, they cannot afford to delve into their newfound connection, as enemy forces are breaching the borders. Bound by fate, they must cultivate trust to safeguard their realm.
The characters are engaging and accessible, making it an ideal read for those new to the fantasy genre due to its straightforward narrative and minimal world-building. I anticipate the release of the next book with great interest.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Second Sky for providing this Advanced Reader's Copy in return for an honest review.
Wren is drawn to shadow magic, yet she must conceal her abilities to protect her life. Finn, a noble knight, has vowed to serve Asteroth by pursuing users of shadow magic. He has not forgiven his father for his heinous acts, and serving as a spy for Asteroth is his chosen form of retribution. During their travels, a creature assaults Finn, prompting Wren to use her magic to save him, risking her own life. Their touch ignites a fiery passion as Wren's magic surges between them. However, they cannot afford to delve into their newfound connection, as enemy forces are breaching the borders. Bound by fate, they must cultivate trust to safeguard their realm.
The characters are engaging and accessible, making it an ideal read for those new to the fantasy genre due to its straightforward narrative and minimal world-building. I anticipate the release of the next book with great interest.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Second Sky for providing this Advanced Reader's Copy in return for an honest review.
August 21, 2024
2.5 Stars ✨
Adult Fantasy
Audio Version 🎧 Via Netgalley
Narration 5/5
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced audio copy of A Touch of Shadows, in exchange for an honest review.
This was a decent and easy fantasy read. The plot was fast paced but felt a bit underdeveloped. There is a glossary of sorts at the beginning of the book that explains a few things, but that seemed like a shortcut to not fully explain and actually build the world. I did like parts of the storyline and the characters were ok, but didn’t feel fully fleshed out. Then there was the romance - it was 100 % instalove and I’m more of a slow burn kind of girl. I will say that the instalove was part of the magic system - so I guess it was semi justified. I did like the narrator and thought she did an awesome job. Overall it wasn’t terrible, but I’m not sure if I would continue with the series.
Content ⚠️
-no language
-open door romance (chapter 34)
Adult Fantasy
Audio Version 🎧 Via Netgalley
Narration 5/5
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced audio copy of A Touch of Shadows, in exchange for an honest review.
This was a decent and easy fantasy read. The plot was fast paced but felt a bit underdeveloped. There is a glossary of sorts at the beginning of the book that explains a few things, but that seemed like a shortcut to not fully explain and actually build the world. I did like parts of the storyline and the characters were ok, but didn’t feel fully fleshed out. Then there was the romance - it was 100 % instalove and I’m more of a slow burn kind of girl. I will say that the instalove was part of the magic system - so I guess it was semi justified. I did like the narrator and thought she did an awesome job. Overall it wasn’t terrible, but I’m not sure if I would continue with the series.
Content ⚠️
-no language
-open door romance (chapter 34)
March 3, 2025
Rating-
4/5 stars
Genre-
Romantasy
Age Rating For It-
16 or 17+ because there is definitely some violence in the book with some fighting, killing and burning of villages and people. On the romance level there is definitely some spice, (only one spice scene though) but it’s nothing too explicit or detailed which is why the age rating isn’t higher and if you want to it’s pretty easy to skip too.
Tropes-
Insta lust (pretty much)
Lost queen
Unknown heritage
Mystical powers
Evil force of power
Quotes-
“Let it try, she thought fiercely. Let it try to take her child away.”
“We fight the Nox, now and always, with flame and sword.”
“It was all past. It was all gone. There was only her. His dark queen. A goddess of shadows thought long-lost. And he was hers.
Just as it was always meant to be.”
“He knew her. He worshiped her. He had been a fool to think he would ever escape.”
“There was something about him, something like an addiction just waiting for her to fall prey to.”
“We are Witchkind. We will live free or die.”
“He was hers. He knew it better than he knew his own name. Hers. Her creature. Now and forever.”
“He was the wild animal, the hunter, and the forest itself. He was death waiting in the darkness. He was a firestorm.”
“Show him. Show him how wrong he is. They have grown arrogant, these kings, without my hand at their throat. Make him bow and beg.”
“No, my love. This isn’t you, little bird. Please, stop. Don’t give in to the shadows. Let go of it, Wren. Just let go. Help is coming.”
“The things you do to me, Wren…”
“‘Even if I am a monster’….’You could never be a monster,’ she told him and smiled as she pushed herself up on her elbows so she could press her lips to his. ‘You’re mine. I want you. All of you.’”
“She was everything. That was all he needed to know. She was darkness and light, Hope and fear, pleasure and longing so deep it was the twin of pain. He was lost in her, and he couldn’t bring himself to fight that, let alone care.”
“‘Tomorrow we leave for Pelias,’ she whispered, unable to hid her fear. ‘And everything is going to change, isn’t it?’
‘Yes,’ he said at last. ‘I’m afraid it is. But I’ll be there with you. I promise.’”
Thoughts/Would I Recommend This?-
I honestly loved this book and devoured this book in almost one sitting. The past few books I’ve read have honestly been not great, and I have been really wanting to read a good book again, and when I started this one I knew I would like it. I was a bit worried about the insta lust aspect of the whole thing because I hadn’t read many books with that trope, but I liked this one a lot and I thought it made sense in the whole plot of the book. All in all, l I definitely recommend this book to read, and I personally loved it and think others will too!
(Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
4/5 stars
Genre-
Romantasy
Age Rating For It-
16 or 17+ because there is definitely some violence in the book with some fighting, killing and burning of villages and people. On the romance level there is definitely some spice, (only one spice scene though) but it’s nothing too explicit or detailed which is why the age rating isn’t higher and if you want to it’s pretty easy to skip too.
Tropes-
Insta lust (pretty much)
Lost queen
Unknown heritage
Mystical powers
Evil force of power
Quotes-
“Let it try, she thought fiercely. Let it try to take her child away.”
“We fight the Nox, now and always, with flame and sword.”
“It was all past. It was all gone. There was only her. His dark queen. A goddess of shadows thought long-lost. And he was hers.
Just as it was always meant to be.”
“He knew her. He worshiped her. He had been a fool to think he would ever escape.”
“There was something about him, something like an addiction just waiting for her to fall prey to.”
“We are Witchkind. We will live free or die.”
“He was hers. He knew it better than he knew his own name. Hers. Her creature. Now and forever.”
“He was the wild animal, the hunter, and the forest itself. He was death waiting in the darkness. He was a firestorm.”
“Show him. Show him how wrong he is. They have grown arrogant, these kings, without my hand at their throat. Make him bow and beg.”
“No, my love. This isn’t you, little bird. Please, stop. Don’t give in to the shadows. Let go of it, Wren. Just let go. Help is coming.”
“The things you do to me, Wren…”
“‘Even if I am a monster’….’You could never be a monster,’ she told him and smiled as she pushed herself up on her elbows so she could press her lips to his. ‘You’re mine. I want you. All of you.’”
“She was everything. That was all he needed to know. She was darkness and light, Hope and fear, pleasure and longing so deep it was the twin of pain. He was lost in her, and he couldn’t bring himself to fight that, let alone care.”
“‘Tomorrow we leave for Pelias,’ she whispered, unable to hid her fear. ‘And everything is going to change, isn’t it?’
‘Yes,’ he said at last. ‘I’m afraid it is. But I’ll be there with you. I promise.’”
Thoughts/Would I Recommend This?-
I honestly loved this book and devoured this book in almost one sitting. The past few books I’ve read have honestly been not great, and I have been really wanting to read a good book again, and when I started this one I knew I would like it. I was a bit worried about the insta lust aspect of the whole thing because I hadn’t read many books with that trope, but I liked this one a lot and I thought it made sense in the whole plot of the book. All in all, l I definitely recommend this book to read, and I personally loved it and think others will too!
(Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
August 31, 2024
3.5/5. Releases 9/5/2024 (in audio).
The Vibes: that thing where it’s kinda giving Dark Phoenix, instalove, lionheart/chosen one
Heat Index: 5/10
The Basics:
Tempted by the darkness and cut off from her true past, Wren lives in obscurity until knight Finn crashes into her life. His mission is to hunt those touched by shadow—and it’s personal. But when circumstances lead Wren to save his life, he’s touched by her magic; and inextricably drawn to her. The problem? That could lead to their kingdom’s destruction.
The Review:
I don’t have a TON to say about this—other than the fact that it kind of reads like it’s meant for a younger audience. While the fantasy here is very much present, the world isn’t overwhelmingly built. The romance is pretty straightfoward; I would call it instalove. But it’s not… annoying, exactly. Finn especially is a charming character. I really enjoy a noble knight who’s tempted into darkness by love.
It’s inoffensive. The prose is good. I was interested.
But… it’s a pretty surface-level book in a lot of ways. It read as a bit YA to me. That’s not an insult; I could actually see recommending this as a bridge book for YA readers who want to try something a bit more adult. It reminded me, tonally, of Kendare Blake’s Three Dark Crowns series. None of this is bad. It’s just not going to keep my attention for very long.
I also didn’t really get into Wren. Finn appealed to me a good bit more, and his conflict of like, stridently trying to be good in conflict with his bad dad was a story. Wren… was a chosen one archetype. But dark. Maybe?
That being said—there’s a backstory for a pair of… more complicated characters. Who are like, in their forties by the time the book begins. THAT I was into. It was compelling, it was much more complex than whatever Finn and Wren had going on. I think this was where it felt more like I was reading about adults with adult issues (and I was).
The Sex:
You get a bit of sex in this, and it’s well-done, if not especially exciting. Again, I feel like you could recommend this to a teen who’s trying to dabble in adult romance. It’s explicit, but not SCANDALOUS.
So, yeah. Not a dud, exactly, but not really something I would pick up again. I’d recommend it to a specific audience, and I felt like the narration for the audiobook was good!
Thanks to NetGalley and Second Sky for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Vibes: that thing where it’s kinda giving Dark Phoenix, instalove, lionheart/chosen one
Heat Index: 5/10
The Basics:
Tempted by the darkness and cut off from her true past, Wren lives in obscurity until knight Finn crashes into her life. His mission is to hunt those touched by shadow—and it’s personal. But when circumstances lead Wren to save his life, he’s touched by her magic; and inextricably drawn to her. The problem? That could lead to their kingdom’s destruction.
The Review:
I don’t have a TON to say about this—other than the fact that it kind of reads like it’s meant for a younger audience. While the fantasy here is very much present, the world isn’t overwhelmingly built. The romance is pretty straightfoward; I would call it instalove. But it’s not… annoying, exactly. Finn especially is a charming character. I really enjoy a noble knight who’s tempted into darkness by love.
It’s inoffensive. The prose is good. I was interested.
But… it’s a pretty surface-level book in a lot of ways. It read as a bit YA to me. That’s not an insult; I could actually see recommending this as a bridge book for YA readers who want to try something a bit more adult. It reminded me, tonally, of Kendare Blake’s Three Dark Crowns series. None of this is bad. It’s just not going to keep my attention for very long.
I also didn’t really get into Wren. Finn appealed to me a good bit more, and his conflict of like, stridently trying to be good in conflict with his bad dad was a story. Wren… was a chosen one archetype. But dark. Maybe?
That being said—there’s a backstory for a pair of… more complicated characters. Who are like, in their forties by the time the book begins. THAT I was into. It was compelling, it was much more complex than whatever Finn and Wren had going on. I think this was where it felt more like I was reading about adults with adult issues (and I was).
The Sex:
You get a bit of sex in this, and it’s well-done, if not especially exciting. Again, I feel like you could recommend this to a teen who’s trying to dabble in adult romance. It’s explicit, but not SCANDALOUS.
So, yeah. Not a dud, exactly, but not really something I would pick up again. I’d recommend it to a specific audience, and I felt like the narration for the audiobook was good!
Thanks to NetGalley and Second Sky for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 2, 2024
I really enjoyed the vibes this gave me it’s fantasy/romance I love the two genres put them together and I’m all for it lol. This read gives you a taste of romance and fantasy world building it’s not too crazy with the world building so I was able to keep up with it.
Everything in this read had the right amount it wasn’t too spicy it’s just right for this type of story the twists and turns are also there. Overall I feel this is a great read for anyone who’s into fantasy there are topics of magic amongst other things in this storyline. I don’t wanna ruin it for anyone so I’ll leave it at that😊 Also, the narration is perfect for this book
I would recommend this to anyone who’s into fantasy 🥰
thank you, NetGalley, Second Sky, and Jessica Thorne for giving me the chance to read this arc 🥰
Everything in this read had the right amount it wasn’t too spicy it’s just right for this type of story the twists and turns are also there. Overall I feel this is a great read for anyone who’s into fantasy there are topics of magic amongst other things in this storyline. I don’t wanna ruin it for anyone so I’ll leave it at that😊 Also, the narration is perfect for this book
I would recommend this to anyone who’s into fantasy 🥰
thank you, NetGalley, Second Sky, and Jessica Thorne for giving me the chance to read this arc 🥰
September 11, 2024
I enjoyed this book while on vaca! This is the first book I have read by this author. I liked the plot development. The world building was there. I felt like the side characters were more than just existing to exist. I really look forward to the next book in the series.
August 17, 2024
"A Touch of Shadows" spins a captivating tale of long-standing rivalries, forbidden magic, and burning passion. A noble knight sworn to exterminate her kind and a hidden sorceress burdened by the shadow magic that once destroyed her realm, Wren and Finn are a pair whose fates become entangled in a way neither could have predicted. Wren and Finn's relationship felt like intsa-love, and I personally am not a fan of insta-love. The world-building of the story is was minimal, but Asteroth and Ilanthus provide an interesting setting for the story. This book would be a great beginner series for those that are interested in fantasy romance books. For the more seasoned fantasy readers, this story lacks the world building, character development, and slow-burn romance elements.
Overall, this was a quick listen and an enjoyable experience.
Thank you Netgalley and for the audio-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Overall, this was a quick listen and an enjoyable experience.
Thank you Netgalley and for the audio-arc in exchange for my honest review.
August 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, Jessica Thorne, and Second Sky for providing me with this ARC!
2.5 Stars
A Touch of Shadows follows our main character, Wren, a young witch who is drawn to the shadows. When her city is burned in flames, she runs into the wood that is infested with darkness. On her escape, she runs into a man named Finn, whom she instantly trusts. The story follows their journey to a palace until they are separated by her “mother” Elodie, against Wren’s will.
Plot: The plot was very quick paced, but unfortunately, underdeveloped. At times there seemed to be big plot holes, and I felt confused to what was happening.
Worldbuilding: There is very little worldbuilding included in this story. We move from one place to another quick enough that it’s hard to imagine the places we go.
Characters: All of the characters also felt underdeveloped to me as well. We have a classic “Rapunzel” story of Wren being held in a tower (and has magic hair when it’s long), and Elodie didn’t want Wren to be discovered. None of the characters seemed to have any special qualities that drew me in to their development.
Romance: The romance was an instant love situation, and it was hard to buy that instantly Wren, who has little experience with men from what we know, instantly loved this stranger.
Overall, it was a very average romantasy. Nothing more, nothing less.
2.5 Stars
A Touch of Shadows follows our main character, Wren, a young witch who is drawn to the shadows. When her city is burned in flames, she runs into the wood that is infested with darkness. On her escape, she runs into a man named Finn, whom she instantly trusts. The story follows their journey to a palace until they are separated by her “mother” Elodie, against Wren’s will.
Plot: The plot was very quick paced, but unfortunately, underdeveloped. At times there seemed to be big plot holes, and I felt confused to what was happening.
Worldbuilding: There is very little worldbuilding included in this story. We move from one place to another quick enough that it’s hard to imagine the places we go.
Characters: All of the characters also felt underdeveloped to me as well. We have a classic “Rapunzel” story of Wren being held in a tower (and has magic hair when it’s long), and Elodie didn’t want Wren to be discovered. None of the characters seemed to have any special qualities that drew me in to their development.
Romance: The romance was an instant love situation, and it was hard to buy that instantly Wren, who has little experience with men from what we know, instantly loved this stranger.
Overall, it was a very average romantasy. Nothing more, nothing less.
September 3, 2024
I would like to thank NetGalley for giving me an audio-arc in exchange for an honest review.
For a romantasy book, this was definitely on the lighter side in terms of in-depth worldbuilding, however I found I rather enjoyed it. Wren has been kept in the woods away from everyone, including her own past, by a witch. She eventually has to go out and find her mother with the help of a knight, Finn. She's got magic hair that she has to keep short for reasons. And when she saves his life with magic, her magic creates a bond between them.
If this isn't a darker version of Rapunzel, then I don't know what is. But, I enjoyed it. I know some people are turned off by instalove, but in this, it made a whole lot of sense. There's one spicy scene that was definitely on the romantic side that left me feeling like I needed more moments between them. The magic was interesting, though I definitely feel like we need more information as to what's going on. The reveals that came about? Definitely didn't see them coming.
All in all, I enjoyed this one.
For a romantasy book, this was definitely on the lighter side in terms of in-depth worldbuilding, however I found I rather enjoyed it. Wren has been kept in the woods away from everyone, including her own past, by a witch. She eventually has to go out and find her mother with the help of a knight, Finn. She's got magic hair that she has to keep short for reasons. And when she saves his life with magic, her magic creates a bond between them.
If this isn't a darker version of Rapunzel, then I don't know what is. But, I enjoyed it. I know some people are turned off by instalove, but in this, it made a whole lot of sense. There's one spicy scene that was definitely on the romantic side that left me feeling like I needed more moments between them. The magic was interesting, though I definitely feel like we need more information as to what's going on. The reveals that came about? Definitely didn't see them coming.
All in all, I enjoyed this one.
February 27, 2025
It’s official! I just finished my first ARC!
A Touch of Shadows follows Wren and Finn as they navigate the world of dark magic, evil siblings, and deep secrets. The magic feels very similar to The Shepherd King series, but without the cards. Fitted with a forbidden love romance, this book meets those spicy requirements of any good romantasy!
I wanted so bad to get into this book. I just never felt connected with the characters. I think the author has a really great concept, but the whole thing just felt a bit rushed. I need MORE romance, MORE world building, break this book into 2! Or even, just make it more than 200 pages. Romantasy readers are committed to the story and ready for longer books. I will definitely read more from Jessica Thorne in the future, but I just felt unsatisfied from this one.
⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
A Touch of Shadows follows Wren and Finn as they navigate the world of dark magic, evil siblings, and deep secrets. The magic feels very similar to The Shepherd King series, but without the cards. Fitted with a forbidden love romance, this book meets those spicy requirements of any good romantasy!
I wanted so bad to get into this book. I just never felt connected with the characters. I think the author has a really great concept, but the whole thing just felt a bit rushed. I need MORE romance, MORE world building, break this book into 2! Or even, just make it more than 200 pages. Romantasy readers are committed to the story and ready for longer books. I will definitely read more from Jessica Thorne in the future, but I just felt unsatisfied from this one.
⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
July 29, 2025
Once I started it was hard to put down. Story flowed so effortlessly even though I still have so many questions about it all! It is a series so naturally it can't all be wrapped up in one book.. I am looking forward to the rest!
July 6, 2025
There’s just something special about when the MMC falls first and falls hard for the FMC 😍
The secrets left to uncover in the next book 🤯🤯
The secrets left to uncover in the next book 🤯🤯
September 4, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised by this audiobook. I did look up reviews on goodreads so I didn't have super high expectations but I thought it was entertaining. While I'm usually all about the enemies to lovers and slowburn, the insta love in this book was a fun chance of pace and it was not overly spicy but definitely had a bit. I definitely plan to keep reading this series to see what happens next and I enjoyed the narrators.
September 11, 2025
that was so stupid
July 21, 2024
I want to start by saying that I enjoyed this book.
It was pretty good, but it wasn't groundbreaking. It was a comfortable romantasy read with likeable characters, but it seemed to me that it suffered from a fairly startling "love at first sight" problem that never saw any further relationship development. Make no mistake, I was rooting for the couple in the story, but I wish there would have been more time spent on developing a more organic attraction between them rather than them just experiencing this supernatural pull to each other from the moment they meet. It led them to make MANY poor decisions based on desperation that I had a hard time rationalizing even taking this desperate attraction and Wren's lack of worldliness into account.
I also felt that our main villain was a caricature-like rather than fleshed out in any meaningful capacity. He was given some motivation, but a lot of it boiled down to him being sadistic and evil for the sake of being sadistic and evil.
Overall, while I know a lot of what I've written here is more negative, I loved the ideas here and think this could be a truly amazing story if more time was taken to flesh out characters and their motivations. It had the makings of an engaging plot, but didn't take enough time to fully realize it's relationships and elements of suspense.
I would recommend this book if you're looking for a quick, low-stakes read. It would also be a solid novel for someone looking to get into fantasy but without the desire for a huge cast of characters or a complex magic system.
It was pretty good, but it wasn't groundbreaking. It was a comfortable romantasy read with likeable characters, but it seemed to me that it suffered from a fairly startling "love at first sight" problem that never saw any further relationship development. Make no mistake, I was rooting for the couple in the story, but I wish there would have been more time spent on developing a more organic attraction between them rather than them just experiencing this supernatural pull to each other from the moment they meet. It led them to make MANY poor decisions based on desperation that I had a hard time rationalizing even taking this desperate attraction and Wren's lack of worldliness into account.
I also felt that our main villain was a caricature-like rather than fleshed out in any meaningful capacity. He was given some motivation, but a lot of it boiled down to him being sadistic and evil for the sake of being sadistic and evil.
Overall, while I know a lot of what I've written here is more negative, I loved the ideas here and think this could be a truly amazing story if more time was taken to flesh out characters and their motivations. It had the makings of an engaging plot, but didn't take enough time to fully realize it's relationships and elements of suspense.
I would recommend this book if you're looking for a quick, low-stakes read. It would also be a solid novel for someone looking to get into fantasy but without the desire for a huge cast of characters or a complex magic system.
August 30, 2024
Thank you to Jessica Thorne, Second Sky, and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
This book was a definite easy read without extensive world building and without a complicated magic system and it was pretty short for a fantasy book so it was also a quick read. It is the first book in an incomplete series, and the remaining books have yet to be written or released at this time.
Since this book was short, I do feel like that affected the plot and romance aspects of this story. The romance was very quick, a kind of love at first sight romance story, and it seemed like there was not enough time for the two characters to really form an actual bond and that fell flat to me, especially when this book is marketed as a romantic fantasy. I also wish that some of the characters were explored more. Elide was such a great character and it seemed like she had a lot of depth due to what we saw and I loved her as a character, I just wish we got a little more. I think that this was all due to the short length of the book, and that could have been improved if the story was just a little bit longer. Especially since it is the first book in the series, it is when the readers are first learning about the characters, and it would be the best time to give more details about the characters and their back stories. The rest of the characters, like Wren and Finn, were also great. They had many layers that were peeled back and explored more as the story went on, and it really added to the story as a whole but once again could use with some more exploring.
Speaking of the fantasy aspect, I did like the idea of the dark magic, but I feel like it wasn't as explored as I would have liked. Like I mentioned above, it didn't have a complicated magic system, but the book didn't go that in depth into the magic system, so it may actually be more complicated than was stated in this book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will be looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. I would recommend to any lovers of fantasy books, with a romantic twist, without the unnecessarally long world building.
This book was a definite easy read without extensive world building and without a complicated magic system and it was pretty short for a fantasy book so it was also a quick read. It is the first book in an incomplete series, and the remaining books have yet to be written or released at this time.
Since this book was short, I do feel like that affected the plot and romance aspects of this story. The romance was very quick, a kind of love at first sight romance story, and it seemed like there was not enough time for the two characters to really form an actual bond and that fell flat to me, especially when this book is marketed as a romantic fantasy. I also wish that some of the characters were explored more. Elide was such a great character and it seemed like she had a lot of depth due to what we saw and I loved her as a character, I just wish we got a little more. I think that this was all due to the short length of the book, and that could have been improved if the story was just a little bit longer. Especially since it is the first book in the series, it is when the readers are first learning about the characters, and it would be the best time to give more details about the characters and their back stories. The rest of the characters, like Wren and Finn, were also great. They had many layers that were peeled back and explored more as the story went on, and it really added to the story as a whole but once again could use with some more exploring.
Speaking of the fantasy aspect, I did like the idea of the dark magic, but I feel like it wasn't as explored as I would have liked. Like I mentioned above, it didn't have a complicated magic system, but the book didn't go that in depth into the magic system, so it may actually be more complicated than was stated in this book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will be looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. I would recommend to any lovers of fantasy books, with a romantic twist, without the unnecessarally long world building.
August 16, 2024
This was an ARC from NetGalley. Thank you.
I read up to 35% I honestly couldn't continue. It was all over the place and I just couldn't get into it. I'm a big fantasy fan and this just wasn't what I was looking for in a book.
I read up to 35% I honestly couldn't continue. It was all over the place and I just couldn't get into it. I'm a big fantasy fan and this just wasn't what I was looking for in a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2025
Eh...I wasn't into this one.
August 26, 2024
**I RECEIVED A FREE ARC OF THE AUDIOBOOK FROM NETGALLEY. THANK YOU A TON. THIS HAS NOT IMPACTED MY REVIEW IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM. **
**NO MAJOR SPOILERS WERE HARMED IN THIS MAKING OF THIS REVIEW**
When i started a Touch of Shadows, I did not know exactly what to expect. I sort of went in blind and wow, it was a wild ride. The narrator does an amazing job at enticing and enchanting you to the story. The writing just lends itself to a storytelling perspective. The world slowly unfolds through the eyes of multple characters. At first I was annoyed at the pov switches, but then just got used to it. I was immediately pulled into this magical realm. At first it almost seemed like a darker reverse version of Rapunzel. We got a girl with supposedly magic hair? but it needs to stay cut and she hides in a tower. But then stuff happens and she meets a cute boy andddd, yeah.
Honestly I was surprised at how fast this novel went. I could not believe my ears devoured it in such a short amount of time. For a hot second I was worried that I had primarily zoned out with this novel. To the point where I even replayed several scenes, but no. This book is really just that fast paced. It was a divine ride and I am glad the travel scenes werent long and boring. I dislike travel scenes to begin with. I am unsure if this is a debut novel, but it is still pretty good. It lays the ground work of the series and while there is room for improvement, I thought it was well done.
I will say I had a difficult time connecting to the characters. In all honestly, I think I liked the second mains more than the first. . . but it just may take time to warm up truly to the characters. Their world is lovely, but they themselves...well, obviously you want to admire Wren, she is the heroine of this story. But she definitely has alot of growning up and maturing to do. I know she is hit with some big secrets and stuff, but....well it will be interesting to see who she copes and handles it in the second book.
Finn is the main male and to be honest, I was a little confused by him but I loved his energy and spirit and immense loyalty. I would not want anyone else guarding my back.
The villain is/was intriguing, and a semi mystery? I kept waiting for true natures to reveal themselves and such. My dumbass kinda wanted her to get with the 'villain' , but thats just me, aha. I thought it was a good build up and good 'reveal'.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. I devoured it and I look forward to the next. Remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, read/listen to the book.
**NO MAJOR SPOILERS WERE HARMED IN THIS MAKING OF THIS REVIEW**
When i started a Touch of Shadows, I did not know exactly what to expect. I sort of went in blind and wow, it was a wild ride. The narrator does an amazing job at enticing and enchanting you to the story. The writing just lends itself to a storytelling perspective. The world slowly unfolds through the eyes of multple characters. At first I was annoyed at the pov switches, but then just got used to it. I was immediately pulled into this magical realm. At first it almost seemed like a darker reverse version of Rapunzel. We got a girl with supposedly magic hair? but it needs to stay cut and she hides in a tower. But then stuff happens and she meets a cute boy andddd, yeah.
Honestly I was surprised at how fast this novel went. I could not believe my ears devoured it in such a short amount of time. For a hot second I was worried that I had primarily zoned out with this novel. To the point where I even replayed several scenes, but no. This book is really just that fast paced. It was a divine ride and I am glad the travel scenes werent long and boring. I dislike travel scenes to begin with. I am unsure if this is a debut novel, but it is still pretty good. It lays the ground work of the series and while there is room for improvement, I thought it was well done.
I will say I had a difficult time connecting to the characters. In all honestly, I think I liked the second mains more than the first. . . but it just may take time to warm up truly to the characters. Their world is lovely, but they themselves...well, obviously you want to admire Wren, she is the heroine of this story. But she definitely has alot of growning up and maturing to do. I know she is hit with some big secrets and stuff, but....well it will be interesting to see who she copes and handles it in the second book.
Finn is the main male and to be honest, I was a little confused by him but I loved his energy and spirit and immense loyalty. I would not want anyone else guarding my back.
The villain is/was intriguing, and a semi mystery? I kept waiting for true natures to reveal themselves and such. My dumbass kinda wanted her to get with the 'villain' , but thats just me, aha. I thought it was a good build up and good 'reveal'.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. I devoured it and I look forward to the next. Remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, read/listen to the book.
August 11, 2024
A lost queen’s sacrifice. Two kingdoms at war for centuries. And a spark of passion between hunter and hunted with the power to end everything…
A Touch of Shadows was an unexpected and exciting read. I loved the worldbuilding and magic. This story hit the ground running and continued with a steady pace which is something you don't typically see with fantasy novels. I found myself fascinated by Wren. I enjoyed her feistiness and devotion to those she let close. Yes, I will 100% admit, her romance with Finn was very much instalove. That being said, I thought it worked well and I looked forward to seeing how things would progress between them.
A Touch of Shadows isn't just a love story but is a story filled with intrigue, secrets, and magic. This book was super easy to read and would be a great start for those just getting into the romantasy genre. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and devoured it in just a single sitting.
If you're looking to dive into a fast-paced romantasy with good action, mystery, and spice, you won't want to miss A Touch of Shadows. This book will definitely leave you excited for more and if you're like me, you'll be waiting in anticipation to get your hands on the next book in this series.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
A Touch of Shadows was an unexpected and exciting read. I loved the worldbuilding and magic. This story hit the ground running and continued with a steady pace which is something you don't typically see with fantasy novels. I found myself fascinated by Wren. I enjoyed her feistiness and devotion to those she let close. Yes, I will 100% admit, her romance with Finn was very much instalove. That being said, I thought it worked well and I looked forward to seeing how things would progress between them.
A Touch of Shadows isn't just a love story but is a story filled with intrigue, secrets, and magic. This book was super easy to read and would be a great start for those just getting into the romantasy genre. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and devoured it in just a single sitting.
If you're looking to dive into a fast-paced romantasy with good action, mystery, and spice, you won't want to miss A Touch of Shadows. This book will definitely leave you excited for more and if you're like me, you'll be waiting in anticipation to get your hands on the next book in this series.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
May 1, 2025
secret magic x hidden past x witches
I’m very torn on how I feel about this book. The concept of secret magic and witch hunters was all good but the pacing held back the story. There are also A LOT of povs mixed in with prophesies, history, and other notes which makes it confusing. That being said, I did like the FMC and want to know more about what’s going on with her magic. It ends on a cliffhanger-ish.
Read this is you’re in the mood for…
- secret magic
- hidden past
- witches and witch hunters
- light magic vs shadows
- “the one”
The main reason I kept reading was for their romance. They have almost instant bond they had but I also couldn’t tell if it was a result of magic? Eventually they decided it didn’t matter but it still felt confusing to me. It could have been because of the 3rd POV but I felt a bit unattached to the story in general.
Here are a few of my favorite things…
- he will do ANYTHING for her
- magic connected to her long hair? Love that
I will read the next book because I’m curious if I’ll like it more now that the world building is done. We’ll see!
I’m very torn on how I feel about this book. The concept of secret magic and witch hunters was all good but the pacing held back the story. There are also A LOT of povs mixed in with prophesies, history, and other notes which makes it confusing. That being said, I did like the FMC and want to know more about what’s going on with her magic. It ends on a cliffhanger-ish.
Read this is you’re in the mood for…
- secret magic
- hidden past
- witches and witch hunters
- light magic vs shadows
- “the one”
The main reason I kept reading was for their romance. They have almost instant bond they had but I also couldn’t tell if it was a result of magic? Eventually they decided it didn’t matter but it still felt confusing to me. It could have been because of the 3rd POV but I felt a bit unattached to the story in general.
Here are a few of my favorite things…
- he will do ANYTHING for her
- magic connected to her long hair? Love that
I will read the next book because I’m curious if I’ll like it more now that the world building is done. We’ll see!
August 4, 2024
This was a quick, romantasy read which was ok and enjoyable. To me, it seems like it had a strong start but later on it started to fizzle out. I wasn't bothered by the lack of explicit world-building because it was very well understood, which is always a plus. What didn't help me get into it more was the fact that it felt a bit underdeveloped, like a lot of good elements were there to make it something very good but they weren't fleshed out, like the characters themselves and the relationship between characters. The love-at-first-sight at the beginning maybe didn't help things along as it should have. All in all, it's a very quick read that doesn't confuse you and is pretty straightforward, so go for it if you're looking for something like this.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 21, 2024
I loved the plot of this book. The story is fast paced and captivating. You are instantly immersed into the plot but it does not take away from it. The glossary in the beginning of the book comes in really handy to figure things out. I listened to it on audio and really loved the narrator Helen Keeley, her work to make characters come to life is immaculate in this one.
What did not work for me is the insta-love trope, I find that I do not buy it and prefer more of a slow-burn story. Magic system explanation and world building were a little lacking to my taste.
Overall it is an easy read that I enjoyed, I was still hooked by the story having finished it in two days and after the cliffhanger in the end am very tempted to continue this series.
What did not work for me is the insta-love trope, I find that I do not buy it and prefer more of a slow-burn story. Magic system explanation and world building were a little lacking to my taste.
Overall it is an easy read that I enjoyed, I was still hooked by the story having finished it in two days and after the cliffhanger in the end am very tempted to continue this series.
August 23, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an arc and listen to the audiobook.
I started with the audiobook, which was narrated fantastically and then moved to the book.
A Touch of Shadows was a decent romantasy read that had some unique magical elements and interesting characters. It may be a good starting point for those new to the fantasy genre, however those who are more experienced may find it lacking in originality and depth. The romance felt a bit rushed and could have benefited from more development, and the plot points sometimes felt blunt and fell short.
Overall, while enjoyable, the book didn't quite hit the mark for me in terms of world-building and character connection.
I started with the audiobook, which was narrated fantastically and then moved to the book.
A Touch of Shadows was a decent romantasy read that had some unique magical elements and interesting characters. It may be a good starting point for those new to the fantasy genre, however those who are more experienced may find it lacking in originality and depth. The romance felt a bit rushed and could have benefited from more development, and the plot points sometimes felt blunt and fell short.
Overall, while enjoyable, the book didn't quite hit the mark for me in terms of world-building and character connection.
September 4, 2024
Audiobook review
A Touch of Shadows is a fast-paced romantasy. There was some light world building and likable characters. This would be a good read for someone who is new to the fantasy genre as it had light, non-complex world building. There are some twists and turns, and the plot was interesting.
As far as the audio portion goes, I really enjoyed the narrator, who had a wonderful voice and felt that her pacing was perfect. I enjoyed the way she brought the story to life.
I did feel like there was a bit missing from this book, but I can't put my finger on it. I would be interested in reading the next book to continue the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for early access to this audiobook.
A Touch of Shadows is a fast-paced romantasy. There was some light world building and likable characters. This would be a good read for someone who is new to the fantasy genre as it had light, non-complex world building. There are some twists and turns, and the plot was interesting.
As far as the audio portion goes, I really enjoyed the narrator, who had a wonderful voice and felt that her pacing was perfect. I enjoyed the way she brought the story to life.
I did feel like there was a bit missing from this book, but I can't put my finger on it. I would be interested in reading the next book to continue the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for early access to this audiobook.
September 13, 2024
A Touch Of Shadow’s ( The Lost Queen Book 1 )
Tropes
Hidden Identities
Shadow Magic
Steamy Romance
Multiple POV’s
I found this book is perfect for readers that are new to fantasy/romantasy as the story is easy to follow and the world building is not to heavy. This witchy fantasy follows wren, an apprentice to a local hedge witch Elodie who is also her guardian, but also guarding Wren from the dark magic that lurks within. The same magic that lives in the dark woods. Wren and Elodie live a secluded life on the edge of those very dark woods which call out too Wren as she struggles internally with the Dark magic she has and that Elodie is trying to hide from the world. The pair only interact with outside world when the villagers need help. Wren is a likeable FMC and Thorne does a really good job of drawing you into Wrens character and the story.
Tropes
Hidden Identities
Shadow Magic
Steamy Romance
Multiple POV’s
I found this book is perfect for readers that are new to fantasy/romantasy as the story is easy to follow and the world building is not to heavy. This witchy fantasy follows wren, an apprentice to a local hedge witch Elodie who is also her guardian, but also guarding Wren from the dark magic that lurks within. The same magic that lives in the dark woods. Wren and Elodie live a secluded life on the edge of those very dark woods which call out too Wren as she struggles internally with the Dark magic she has and that Elodie is trying to hide from the world. The pair only interact with outside world when the villagers need help. Wren is a likeable FMC and Thorne does a really good job of drawing you into Wrens character and the story.
March 6, 2025
Elodie, witchkind, healer, lives in the dark wood with Wren, always reaching for the light.
Wren, All she knows is Elodie, an affair with Pol and not to reach for the shadows but they call to her like a beacon of dark light
Finn, touch Wren and die.
It took about 40% for me to really get into this story. There was a lot of Elodie going you can’t do this, don’t do this with no communication. When the story finally started heating up I was entranced.
There is definitely a need to know more because the author only gave you little pieces and there is so much more to figure out about whom and what Wren truly is. I will be reading book 2!
Out now! Sorry for posting late but finished in the midst of traveling and it’s been crazy!
March 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
.5🌶️
I’m not gonna lie, the first half of this book was SLOW. Like REEEEEEALLY SLOOOOOOW. It made me consider even dnf’ing around 35%. But I pushed myself to continue and I’m so glad I did 🥹
Man, the story was just so good. There were so many little mysteries that had me intrigued. Wren’s hair? Eloide’s identity? Finn’s family? Nox? Aurum? So many questions.
This was so interesting though!!!! After that slow beginning, it really held my attention and I couldn’t put it down.
I had so many words to say about this book but none of them are doing it any justice so let me just say that I loved it and I’m ready for book 2 🥹
Thank you so much to Forever for the ARC of this book! 🫶🏻
.5🌶️
I’m not gonna lie, the first half of this book was SLOW. Like REEEEEEALLY SLOOOOOOW. It made me consider even dnf’ing around 35%. But I pushed myself to continue and I’m so glad I did 🥹
Man, the story was just so good. There were so many little mysteries that had me intrigued. Wren’s hair? Eloide’s identity? Finn’s family? Nox? Aurum? So many questions.
This was so interesting though!!!! After that slow beginning, it really held my attention and I couldn’t put it down.
I had so many words to say about this book but none of them are doing it any justice so let me just say that I loved it and I’m ready for book 2 🥹
Thank you so much to Forever for the ARC of this book! 🫶🏻
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