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Shadow Self: A Battle of Light and Shadow in the Realms of Gods
#1 Amazon Bestseller in Asian Myth & Legend eBooks
Darkness is rising—and one girl stands between worlds, chosen by the gods themselves.
When violent possessions sweep through New York City, Raven Guang is pulled into a hidden realm where gods and mortals wage an ancient war. In monasteries guided by monks and nigu, she begins a grueling training to awaken the powers destined for her alone.
At the Mountain of Solitude and the Temple of Immortals, Raven endures trials that test her strength, faith, and spirit. Each challenge reveals echoes of a forgotten history—and a mysterious link to Noor Shen, a demigod erased from sacred scrolls whose silence hides a truth entwined with Raven’s fate.
Among her fellow trainees is Nate, who once saved her from darkness and now trains beside her as their connection deepens into love.
From mist-shrouded temples to bridges suspended between worlds, Raven must confront gods, demons, and her own inner darkness before it consumes both realms.
Darkness is rising—and one girl stands between worlds, chosen by the gods themselves.
When violent possessions sweep through New York City, Raven Guang is pulled into a hidden realm where gods and mortals wage an ancient war. In monasteries guided by monks and nigu, she begins a grueling training to awaken the powers destined for her alone.
At the Mountain of Solitude and the Temple of Immortals, Raven endures trials that test her strength, faith, and spirit. Each challenge reveals echoes of a forgotten history—and a mysterious link to Noor Shen, a demigod erased from sacred scrolls whose silence hides a truth entwined with Raven’s fate.
Among her fellow trainees is Nate, who once saved her from darkness and now trains beside her as their connection deepens into love.
From mist-shrouded temples to bridges suspended between worlds, Raven must confront gods, demons, and her own inner darkness before it consumes both realms.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2024
4 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 15, 2025
Welp I picked it up, started reading , drank two cups of coffee and had some Chinese for dinner but never put it down. Soooo good and now I need the second book like right now . I may need to visit the mountain of solitude and see if it can teach me patience while I wait 🤣
December 8, 2025
300+ Pages of Cinematic Magic
Reading this book, I was transported into a world of martial arts and magic that I never wanted to leave.
Let me explain…
I love martial arts. It’s part of who we are as a family. We study it and read about it. We’ve been to many temples in many different countries, and we’ve even met a few masters ourselves.
So, Raven’s journey from New York to the Mountain of Solitude and later, the Temple of Immortals feels personal. It pulled me in and made me experience her trials and victories as if they were my own.
The story itself is so magical it felt like I was sitting in a bubble between worlds as I devoured page after page.
Raven the protagonist, is likable from the first page. Her journey to realms beyond the mist of time was heartwarming and heart-wrenching at the same time. Her every success was my success and her every battle was my battle.
I rooted for her. I cried and laughed with her. I felt every pain, smelled every aroma, tasted every flavor along with her. I watched her connection with Nate grow and and in the end when she battled against the demons of darkness, I stood beside her, spurring her on.
Ultimately, for me, Shadow Self wasn’t so much a book as it was a cinematic experience. I felt like I was on the screen of Hero (one of my favorite movies), where reality and magic merge in a palette of colors and jaw-dropping imagery, laced with love, honor and spirituality.
Biehl’s world-building is both epic and immersive. Her words are poetic and powerful.
If you want a book that’s more than just words on a page. A book that will take you on a journey of self-discovery. A book that will captivate you and leave you wrapped in a magical cocoon, then Shadow Self is the book for you.
I loved this book so much and I absolutely can’t wait for the next one.
Reading this book, I was transported into a world of martial arts and magic that I never wanted to leave.
Let me explain…
I love martial arts. It’s part of who we are as a family. We study it and read about it. We’ve been to many temples in many different countries, and we’ve even met a few masters ourselves.
So, Raven’s journey from New York to the Mountain of Solitude and later, the Temple of Immortals feels personal. It pulled me in and made me experience her trials and victories as if they were my own.
The story itself is so magical it felt like I was sitting in a bubble between worlds as I devoured page after page.
Raven the protagonist, is likable from the first page. Her journey to realms beyond the mist of time was heartwarming and heart-wrenching at the same time. Her every success was my success and her every battle was my battle.
I rooted for her. I cried and laughed with her. I felt every pain, smelled every aroma, tasted every flavor along with her. I watched her connection with Nate grow and and in the end when she battled against the demons of darkness, I stood beside her, spurring her on.
Ultimately, for me, Shadow Self wasn’t so much a book as it was a cinematic experience. I felt like I was on the screen of Hero (one of my favorite movies), where reality and magic merge in a palette of colors and jaw-dropping imagery, laced with love, honor and spirituality.
Biehl’s world-building is both epic and immersive. Her words are poetic and powerful.
If you want a book that’s more than just words on a page. A book that will take you on a journey of self-discovery. A book that will captivate you and leave you wrapped in a magical cocoon, then Shadow Self is the book for you.
I loved this book so much and I absolutely can’t wait for the next one.
December 31, 2025
I just finished reading this novel, Shadow Self, by H.P. Biehl, and this review is a reflection of my thoughts on her novel.
Shadow Self is a unique blend of genres for me that I do not usually read. The modern main character is drawn into another world, this one being a mythological fantasy filled with ancient gods, warrior monks, and picturesque landscapes.
I was particularly drawn into the world of the Tree of Life, and the world where the monks, nigu, and the gods live. H.P. did a wonderful job of describing the sheer natural beauty of this setting, and more importantly, how it is related to the beliefs, traditions, and values of the monks and gods who are tied to it.
I loved all the mythological tales and especially the lessons H.P. wove into the main character’s journey to become trained to defeat and oppose the forces of darkness and their agents. There is so much wisdom in these lessons and tales, I found it difficult not to be inspired by them!
The modern side of the setting I found enjoyable, and I get to see how Rave grows as a person throughout the book as she continues her training and learning.
Shadow Self is not the action book that I would have assumed it was by looking at the cover, but an introspective delve into the mind and spirit, and how both of these things affect the body.
I definitely took away a lot of wisdom and life lessons after reading this book.
I think one of the greatest features of this book is how well H.P. connects us to the mythology by explaining every name and the origins behind them for every character and place of myth in the book. I love the encyclopedia explaining everything that I did not know about the Chinese terms, foods, and characters, which I would not know out of hand.
I really enjoyed Shadow Self, and look forward to any future sequels that might come afterward!
Shadow Self is a unique blend of genres for me that I do not usually read. The modern main character is drawn into another world, this one being a mythological fantasy filled with ancient gods, warrior monks, and picturesque landscapes.
I was particularly drawn into the world of the Tree of Life, and the world where the monks, nigu, and the gods live. H.P. did a wonderful job of describing the sheer natural beauty of this setting, and more importantly, how it is related to the beliefs, traditions, and values of the monks and gods who are tied to it.
I loved all the mythological tales and especially the lessons H.P. wove into the main character’s journey to become trained to defeat and oppose the forces of darkness and their agents. There is so much wisdom in these lessons and tales, I found it difficult not to be inspired by them!
The modern side of the setting I found enjoyable, and I get to see how Rave grows as a person throughout the book as she continues her training and learning.
Shadow Self is not the action book that I would have assumed it was by looking at the cover, but an introspective delve into the mind and spirit, and how both of these things affect the body.
I definitely took away a lot of wisdom and life lessons after reading this book.
I think one of the greatest features of this book is how well H.P. connects us to the mythology by explaining every name and the origins behind them for every character and place of myth in the book. I love the encyclopedia explaining everything that I did not know about the Chinese terms, foods, and characters, which I would not know out of hand.
I really enjoyed Shadow Self, and look forward to any future sequels that might come afterward!
September 26, 2025
Just Wow.
I stepped out of my comfort zone with this book, and I was not disappointed. It’s action. It’s romance. It’s magic. It’s martial arts. Mythology. Time travel. I mean, there’s so much packed into this book, and it’s all so well done. I couldn’t put it down!
In all honesty, it’s hard to find a book that blends different disparate genres so seamlessly. What I loved best was that the journey wasn’t just about the action- the characters all have excellent development and their arcs are complete and identifiable. Raven is a new favorite heroine for me with her strength and journey, and the way she conquered not just physical battles but internal ones. And I loved how this book opened my eyes to her struggle involving heritage and identity.
The complex world-building, going from New York to a magical realm, took me on a first-class trip to somewhere I never thought I would go. The detailing and imagery were immersive and nothing short of beautiful. I love when a book inspires me to look at something further, deeper, and research it for myself so I can learn more!
Now… When will the second book be released?
I stepped out of my comfort zone with this book, and I was not disappointed. It’s action. It’s romance. It’s magic. It’s martial arts. Mythology. Time travel. I mean, there’s so much packed into this book, and it’s all so well done. I couldn’t put it down!
In all honesty, it’s hard to find a book that blends different disparate genres so seamlessly. What I loved best was that the journey wasn’t just about the action- the characters all have excellent development and their arcs are complete and identifiable. Raven is a new favorite heroine for me with her strength and journey, and the way she conquered not just physical battles but internal ones. And I loved how this book opened my eyes to her struggle involving heritage and identity.
The complex world-building, going from New York to a magical realm, took me on a first-class trip to somewhere I never thought I would go. The detailing and imagery were immersive and nothing short of beautiful. I love when a book inspires me to look at something further, deeper, and research it for myself so I can learn more!
Now… When will the second book be released?
October 23, 2025
I just finished reading Shadow Self, and I have to say: this book is more than just a story – it’s an experience. It’s beautifully written, atmospheric, and layered with meaning in a way that stays with you long after you flip the last page.
This isn’t just a journey through realms of gods and immortals – it’s a journey inward. The writing is poetic and vivid, balancing epic world-building with deeply personal emotion. Raven’s arc of awakening, her struggle between light and shadow, and the spiritual undertones running through it all make for a powerful, resonant read.
What stood out most to me was the feeling thread throughout the entire story. There was this deep sense of mystery, beauty, and quiet danger woven into every chapter. It’s introspective yet full of movement, philosophical but still emotional, and it carries that haunting weight of self-discovery that few fantasy novels manage to capture so well.
If you love books that make you think, feel, and reflect while immersing you in a richly built world of gods, power, and inner reckoning, Shadow Self definitely delivers. It’s haunting, thoughtful, and utterly captivating.
This isn’t just a journey through realms of gods and immortals – it’s a journey inward. The writing is poetic and vivid, balancing epic world-building with deeply personal emotion. Raven’s arc of awakening, her struggle between light and shadow, and the spiritual undertones running through it all make for a powerful, resonant read.
What stood out most to me was the feeling thread throughout the entire story. There was this deep sense of mystery, beauty, and quiet danger woven into every chapter. It’s introspective yet full of movement, philosophical but still emotional, and it carries that haunting weight of self-discovery that few fantasy novels manage to capture so well.
If you love books that make you think, feel, and reflect while immersing you in a richly built world of gods, power, and inner reckoning, Shadow Self definitely delivers. It’s haunting, thoughtful, and utterly captivating.
October 2, 2025
I was excited to delve into Shadow Self, mainly because the cover is beautiful and I knew it was going to be like a C-drama. Boy, am I glad I did because the author delivered! The descriptions in the book are so detailed and intricate that I felt like I was transported from café shops in New York City to the monasteries in the magical realm. Raven, the lead female character, is one of the few chosen to ward off a rising evil taking over the world.
Not only is there adventure, but there are witty puns, twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, a budding love that will make you giggle and blush (you won't know which MC I am referring to until you read it!), and finally a cliffhanger that will make you yearn for book 2. At the heart of this book, there are deep lessons to be learned and though it is a YA book, adults and everyone at any age can appreciate the lessons taught. It is a book for everyone, not just those who like C-dramas or Asian fiction. Highly recommend!
Not only is there adventure, but there are witty puns, twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, a budding love that will make you giggle and blush (you won't know which MC I am referring to until you read it!), and finally a cliffhanger that will make you yearn for book 2. At the heart of this book, there are deep lessons to be learned and though it is a YA book, adults and everyone at any age can appreciate the lessons taught. It is a book for everyone, not just those who like C-dramas or Asian fiction. Highly recommend!
December 12, 2025
A magical mix of urban fantasy and Asian mythology, this was book was so enjoyable. I loved how the reader was dropped right into the New York setting and learned everything with the main characters. The world building was really fun and well planned!
And my absolute favorite part was the connection between Raven and Nate: "We were witnesses to a phenomenon that defied explanation, bound by a common, eerie thread in the tapestry of our lives."
I so appreciate how their connection deepened at just the right pace, allowing the reader to experience all the emotions. Just one line that gave me all the feels: "I studied his face, etching every detail into my memory - his eyes, nose, lips - hoping that even if the trials erased everything, some part of me would remember him."
High stakes and great moments like this. You'll want more by the end, and I'm already looking forward to book 2!
And my absolute favorite part was the connection between Raven and Nate: "We were witnesses to a phenomenon that defied explanation, bound by a common, eerie thread in the tapestry of our lives."
I so appreciate how their connection deepened at just the right pace, allowing the reader to experience all the emotions. Just one line that gave me all the feels: "I studied his face, etching every detail into my memory - his eyes, nose, lips - hoping that even if the trials erased everything, some part of me would remember him."
High stakes and great moments like this. You'll want more by the end, and I'm already looking forward to book 2!
November 22, 2025
A Fascinating Tale of Shadows and Light
I enjoyed reading about Raven’s mysterious journey, intertwining with East Asian culture, gods and lore, along with the fantastical. I was fascinated by the mysterious monk who kept appearing, knowing this story was going somewhere mystical. It didn’t disappoint. The different dimensions Raven visited in her training sessions, were realistic with their detailed descriptions. If you enjoy stories that include the martial arts this book has some interesting scenarios. There’s even a glossary of terms which I absolutely love (I think more authors should add one if their book is filled with intricate details). I very much enjoyed the author’s skillful, beautiful, and detailed writing. Five stars well deserved!
I enjoyed reading about Raven’s mysterious journey, intertwining with East Asian culture, gods and lore, along with the fantastical. I was fascinated by the mysterious monk who kept appearing, knowing this story was going somewhere mystical. It didn’t disappoint. The different dimensions Raven visited in her training sessions, were realistic with their detailed descriptions. If you enjoy stories that include the martial arts this book has some interesting scenarios. There’s even a glossary of terms which I absolutely love (I think more authors should add one if their book is filled with intricate details). I very much enjoyed the author’s skillful, beautiful, and detailed writing. Five stars well deserved!
January 15, 2026
Just beautiful
The protagonist finds herself nestled between the reality of New York City and an ethereal land of divine Chinese gods on a fated journey to help restore harmony between the light and the shadow. There she faces trials and tribulations and develops a better understanding of her world and herself. A beautiful and breathtaking tale of self-discovery in her preparation to fight the darkness. Throughout the novel, the imagery depicted by H.P. Biehl can only be described as… truly spectacular. It’s H.P. Biehl’s writing superpower, for sure. I literally (no joke) dreamt about it. This first book sets up a second and I can’t wait to read it.
The protagonist finds herself nestled between the reality of New York City and an ethereal land of divine Chinese gods on a fated journey to help restore harmony between the light and the shadow. There she faces trials and tribulations and develops a better understanding of her world and herself. A beautiful and breathtaking tale of self-discovery in her preparation to fight the darkness. Throughout the novel, the imagery depicted by H.P. Biehl can only be described as… truly spectacular. It’s H.P. Biehl’s writing superpower, for sure. I literally (no joke) dreamt about it. This first book sets up a second and I can’t wait to read it.
January 7, 2026
When Ancient Gods Meet the Modern World
Shadow Self: A Battle of Light and Shadow in the Realms of Gods
by H.P. Biehl
I recommended this book for its immersive mythology, vivid world-building, and a protagonist whose journey of self-discovery feels both powerful and emotional. Raven’s battles aren’t just against darkness in the world, but within herself, which adds depth and meaning to the story. It’s a thoughtful, engaging fantasy that blends ancient gods with modern life and leaves a lasting impression.
Shadow Self: A Battle of Light and Shadow in the Realms of Gods
by H.P. Biehl
I recommended this book for its immersive mythology, vivid world-building, and a protagonist whose journey of self-discovery feels both powerful and emotional. Raven’s battles aren’t just against darkness in the world, but within herself, which adds depth and meaning to the story. It’s a thoughtful, engaging fantasy that blends ancient gods with modern life and leaves a lasting impression.
January 20, 2026
Urban fantasy meets mystical reality in this fabulously imaginative mythological tale. Gorgeously descriptive, the novel takes you from a beautifully drawn New York City to a mystical realm, where the FMC must train to fight the darkness sweeping through her home. The author does a great job of grounding her main character in real life, before taking her on a transformative journey filled with lessons based around Chinese mythology. It’s a wonderful read and I can’t wait for the next in the series.
December 28, 2025
Empathy is strength
A wild rollercoaster of realization and learning. Beautifully and intricately described scenes, feeling, and senses make it easy to dive into the world within this dark fantasy. My favorite connection was Raven’s eagerness to learn sign language to better communicate with Sophie. Everyone has something they’re battling. Be kind. You may be the reason they persevere.
A wild rollercoaster of realization and learning. Beautifully and intricately described scenes, feeling, and senses make it easy to dive into the world within this dark fantasy. My favorite connection was Raven’s eagerness to learn sign language to better communicate with Sophie. Everyone has something they’re battling. Be kind. You may be the reason they persevere.
January 20, 2026
A Gripping Saga Where Modern Streets Meet Ancient Myths
If you are looking for a story that seamlessly weaves Urban Fantasy with profound mythology, Shadow Self by H.P. Biehl is a must-read. This book is far more than just another novel about the battle between good and evil; it is an emotional journey of self-discovery wrapped in a magical adventure.
If you are looking for a story that seamlessly weaves Urban Fantasy with profound mythology, Shadow Self by H.P. Biehl is a must-read. This book is far more than just another novel about the battle between good and evil; it is an emotional journey of self-discovery wrapped in a magical adventure.
October 22, 2025
This story really captured my imagination! The descriptive scenery brought everything to life and it felt like I was right beside Raven on her adventures. I loved her character! The story ends on a cliffhanger. I can't wait to read the next book and follow Raven on more adventures!
January 16, 2026
a gripping read!
You want to read this book! It will hook you from the very beginning and keep you interested til the end! You will be shocked by the twists and turns along the way, and you will never be prepared for this ending. Book 2 can’t come fast enough!
You want to read this book! It will hook you from the very beginning and keep you interested til the end! You will be shocked by the twists and turns along the way, and you will never be prepared for this ending. Book 2 can’t come fast enough!
February 5, 2026
Beautifully done
A story about endless battle and coexistence between good and bad. Very well detailed work with an interesting and engaging glimpse into East Asian culture. Great read that could teach us a thing or two!
A story about endless battle and coexistence between good and bad. Very well detailed work with an interesting and engaging glimpse into East Asian culture. Great read that could teach us a thing or two!
February 14, 2026
A story about endless battle and coexistence between good and bad. Very well detailed work with an interesting and engaging glimpse into East Asian culture. Great read that could teach us a thing or two!
October 12, 2025
I really enjoyed Shadow Self. The story pulled me in right away and kept surprising me with its mix of New York life, Chinese gods, and magic.
December 13, 2025
Wow what an amazing fantasy book. I would even say this is like urban fantasy mixed with Asian lore fantasy. This has a great mix of humor, romance, action, supernatural elements, and emotional impact. The message in this book is really great and leaves you feeling empowered rather than drained. I think this can be read as a standalone, but likely there will be a book 2 which I am so here for! I love the writing style and this world!!!
☕️But first coffee
🤯World building and realm travel
❤️Romance and blushes and just enough!
🥡Food
🔥Trials
🖤Shadow monsters and gods
🐕hehehehe my fav puppy scene!!!!
☕️But first coffee
🤯World building and realm travel
❤️Romance and blushes and just enough!
🥡Food
🔥Trials
🖤Shadow monsters and gods
🐕hehehehe my fav puppy scene!!!!
November 18, 2025
4.65 stars
Rich, immersive worldbuilding with a mix of Western world and Asian mythology. I liked how Raven's trials tested her inner strength and what truly defines good and evil. I also loved that she was able to reconnect with her heritage while embracing her New York life. The story teaches important, powerful life lessons, and the characters felt so real. It ends with a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
Rich, immersive worldbuilding with a mix of Western world and Asian mythology. I liked how Raven's trials tested her inner strength and what truly defines good and evil. I also loved that she was able to reconnect with her heritage while embracing her New York life. The story teaches important, powerful life lessons, and the characters felt so real. It ends with a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
December 22, 2025
Such a great supernatural fantasy
Raven Huang uncovers something supernatural all while battling dark forces. Such an emotional weighted journey read with elements of romance and adventure and so much action. Such a page turner you won't want to put down. Must read. Such a great supernatural fantasy read.
Merged review:
Such a great supernatural fantasy read. Raven Guang uncovers something supernatural all while battling dark forces. Such an emotional weighted journey read with elements of romance and adventure and so much action. Such a page turner you won’t want to put down. Must read. Such a great supernatural fantasy read.
Raven Huang uncovers something supernatural all while battling dark forces. Such an emotional weighted journey read with elements of romance and adventure and so much action. Such a page turner you won't want to put down. Must read. Such a great supernatural fantasy read.
Merged review:
Such a great supernatural fantasy read. Raven Guang uncovers something supernatural all while battling dark forces. Such an emotional weighted journey read with elements of romance and adventure and so much action. Such a page turner you won’t want to put down. Must read. Such a great supernatural fantasy read.
November 15, 2025
Very well written. I like that it’s an easy read. I enjoyed the Asian culture weaved into the story - mythology, gods, magic. What’s unique about this book are the morals and lessons presented throughout the book.
December 14, 2025
I admit that I rarely wander into the fantasy section. But this time I'm glad I did because of this beautiful book I found.
Raven's journey is immersive. Every tree, temple, and misty bridge is described so beautifully that you have no trouble seeing them in your mind's eye. The mythological elements are woven with care, and the sense of history lurking behind the scenes gives the story a rare richness.
Shadow Self is a mindful book. The narrative isn't just a parade of magical battles and brooding gods or demigods (though there's plenty of both). Instead, there's a thoughtful exploration of faith, strength, and the shadows we carry inside ourselves. It's the kind of book that makes you reflect. This fantasy novel is both epic and intimate, with writing that is both sharp and thoughtful. Whether you're a fantasy sceptic or a seasoned fan, this book is a feast.
Speaking of feasts... don't read this book on an empty stomach. The vivid food scenes will be impossible to endure and will have you raiding your kitchen at midnight. At which point you'll be sorry you don't have some bibimbap in store.
Raven's journey is immersive. Every tree, temple, and misty bridge is described so beautifully that you have no trouble seeing them in your mind's eye. The mythological elements are woven with care, and the sense of history lurking behind the scenes gives the story a rare richness.
Shadow Self is a mindful book. The narrative isn't just a parade of magical battles and brooding gods or demigods (though there's plenty of both). Instead, there's a thoughtful exploration of faith, strength, and the shadows we carry inside ourselves. It's the kind of book that makes you reflect. This fantasy novel is both epic and intimate, with writing that is both sharp and thoughtful. Whether you're a fantasy sceptic or a seasoned fan, this book is a feast.
Speaking of feasts... don't read this book on an empty stomach. The vivid food scenes will be impossible to endure and will have you raiding your kitchen at midnight. At which point you'll be sorry you don't have some bibimbap in store.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews