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Brightless
For lovers of fated mates, plot twists, shadow and light magic, and curses that need to be shattered.
The world is drowning in perpetual darkness, and a dark-heart named Struggle has been working himself to death to care for his family. But when a terrifying turn of events shatters his reality, he is sent to find the only one who can break the curse and save them all. Fighting at her side was never meant to be his fate. After all, his heart overflows with the very darkness they must conquer. Falling for the light bearer? That was never meant to be written in the stars, either. But fall he will. And fail…he cannot.
“The Prophecy Of Dusk & A light unfolds in the darkness, beginning what will have no end.” Nine fantasy romance authors face the task of writing unique heart-stirring stories. Curses will be broken. Plots will be twisted. Each standalone includes interpretations of the same prophecy. Fall in love with the fantasy. In the end, it’s all Of Dusk & Dawn.
The world is drowning in perpetual darkness, and a dark-heart named Struggle has been working himself to death to care for his family. But when a terrifying turn of events shatters his reality, he is sent to find the only one who can break the curse and save them all. Fighting at her side was never meant to be his fate. After all, his heart overflows with the very darkness they must conquer. Falling for the light bearer? That was never meant to be written in the stars, either. But fall he will. And fail…he cannot.
“The Prophecy Of Dusk & A light unfolds in the darkness, beginning what will have no end.” Nine fantasy romance authors face the task of writing unique heart-stirring stories. Curses will be broken. Plots will be twisted. Each standalone includes interpretations of the same prophecy. Fall in love with the fantasy. In the end, it’s all Of Dusk & Dawn.
515 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
55 people are currently reading
492 people want to read
About the author
Teshelle Combs
58 books568 followersTeshelle Combs is the award-winning author of books like The Underglow and the First Collection.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
September 17, 2024
I won't summarize the premise of the book, since the description will do that anyway, but I will dive into what I consider to be the strengths of the book, especially since some of the three star reviews I've seen view what I consider to be Teshelle's strengths as world building weaknesses.
If you like all details handed to you on a platter, you may not love Teshelle's works like some of us do. To me, Teshelle's style of writing brings more of a poetic element to fictional stories. She doesn't hold your hand and spoonfeed you the details and the clues so you can pat yourself on the back at the end of the book and boast you knew what was going to happen all along. Teshelle's work, like poetry, gives glimpses, ideas, impressions, and YOU, the reader, must do the work to derive the meaning of the story. Most of my reviews for Teshelle's books mention how they can be read on so many levels - it just depends on how much work YOU want to do.
I saw a complaint in another review that the world building wasn't well done and that the reader couldn't understand how certain plot points jumped from one to another. I, personally, thought that was kind of the point of the story. We read from Struggle's perspective. Strug lives in darkness. He can only build a visual understanding of the world around him based on what he sees, which is rarely more than a very small diameter around him. He lives in the back of the Line. He has no schooling, other than the small bit his mother, illegally, sneaks in. His understanding of a vast and complex world and it's political/religious structure is severely stunted. The back of the line is for cannon fodder. You move when you are told to move and if you are lucky you survive another day. For a story told in first person, where is the omniscient understanding of how this world works supposed to come from? If Strug doesn't know a thing, we, the readers, can't know it either. Feeling frustrated that you don't understand? Yeah, Strug gets that. Welcome to his shoes.
If you don't like being kept in the dark (pun definitely intended), I'd say absolutely read this book anyway. See, Teshelle does this masterful thing where she gives you these glorious opportunities to embrace a small kernal of something...empathy, maybe,or understanding that garners you a peek into someone else's world. Some of her works look at things like femininity and consumption, for example. This one, to me, at least, painted a dreary picture of what it means to live feeling confined. To be limited. To desperately feel that there's supposed to be more and that some people have it, despite your experiences and your senses telling you that this is it. Strug's inner conflicts, in juxtaposition to Average's, for example, show how there are differences in how people interact and react to limits and confines. Average seeks the small moments, carving out the space she can where she can. They make her want to live. Strug seems to fear such moments, because if he WANTS, surviving is that much harder.
Anyway. Teshelle's books are an experience. Sometimes that experience involves having your heart ripped out of your chest and stomped on (in the best way, though), but if you really take the time to read her stuff, you will be a fan too!
If you like all details handed to you on a platter, you may not love Teshelle's works like some of us do. To me, Teshelle's style of writing brings more of a poetic element to fictional stories. She doesn't hold your hand and spoonfeed you the details and the clues so you can pat yourself on the back at the end of the book and boast you knew what was going to happen all along. Teshelle's work, like poetry, gives glimpses, ideas, impressions, and YOU, the reader, must do the work to derive the meaning of the story. Most of my reviews for Teshelle's books mention how they can be read on so many levels - it just depends on how much work YOU want to do.
I saw a complaint in another review that the world building wasn't well done and that the reader couldn't understand how certain plot points jumped from one to another. I, personally, thought that was kind of the point of the story. We read from Struggle's perspective. Strug lives in darkness. He can only build a visual understanding of the world around him based on what he sees, which is rarely more than a very small diameter around him. He lives in the back of the Line. He has no schooling, other than the small bit his mother, illegally, sneaks in. His understanding of a vast and complex world and it's political/religious structure is severely stunted. The back of the line is for cannon fodder. You move when you are told to move and if you are lucky you survive another day. For a story told in first person, where is the omniscient understanding of how this world works supposed to come from? If Strug doesn't know a thing, we, the readers, can't know it either. Feeling frustrated that you don't understand? Yeah, Strug gets that. Welcome to his shoes.
If you don't like being kept in the dark (pun definitely intended), I'd say absolutely read this book anyway. See, Teshelle does this masterful thing where she gives you these glorious opportunities to embrace a small kernal of something...empathy, maybe,or understanding that garners you a peek into someone else's world. Some of her works look at things like femininity and consumption, for example. This one, to me, at least, painted a dreary picture of what it means to live feeling confined. To be limited. To desperately feel that there's supposed to be more and that some people have it, despite your experiences and your senses telling you that this is it. Strug's inner conflicts, in juxtaposition to Average's, for example, show how there are differences in how people interact and react to limits and confines. Average seeks the small moments, carving out the space she can where she can. They make her want to live. Strug seems to fear such moments, because if he WANTS, surviving is that much harder.
Anyway. Teshelle's books are an experience. Sometimes that experience involves having your heart ripped out of your chest and stomped on (in the best way, though), but if you really take the time to read her stuff, you will be a fan too!
September 25, 2025
Loved this story! So unique and the world that is built is fantastic. The characters are witty and fun and messy and amazing. Everything melded so well!
July 4, 2024
“I shook my head, trying to get the thought to leave. But it was the most real of all my thoughts. The one I kept shoved down. Just like the darkness in my heart.”
A dystopian fantasy story that includes themes of loyalty, friendship, and destiny. I thought that Teshelle really came into her own and her writing improved as the book developed. My favorite quotes from the book came from later on in the story as her writing began to become more elaborate and interesting.
The beginning of the book left much to be desired and it felt underwhelming with the world building and lack of descriptions. I tried to discern if the lack of world building was due to the characters’ inability to actually see their world or if there was just more missing.
Throughout the beginning of the book, most of the sentences and dialogue felt extremely choppy and lack luster. Some of the discordance was explained as people at the Back of the Line don’t have time for words, so sentences are short and clipped.
However, the dialogue structure spilled into a lot of narration which really limited the breadth of the story. Even as Struggle transitioned to the front of the line where the characters were clearly different and spoke with a different cadence, the same structure would sneak in from time to time.
Examples of lack of descriptions include:
The murder of Struggle’s father was described in limited sentences and a nonchalance that doesn’t make sense. Mom exits room, comes back with father’s blood on her hands and explains “dead”.
Once Struggle gets to the Tuck he meets some workers and it’s described as “…young and old, bustles about in dark gray linen clothes, carrying tools for cleaning, repairing, things like that.” - “Things like that” is such a vague description that it could have been easily remedied by either adding other examples or just leaving out that phrase.
Some plot holes that did not make sense:
✨If Shadow was so powerful that she could take down a highly trained LightCarver, how/why did she live in a home where she was regularly beaten?
✨When they went to Castellum, they were able to observe the Lost so clearly from so far away, yet there is no light?
✨When Struggle moved from the Back of the Line to the Front of the Line it took him much longer to get there than it did for the entire group of seven to get back.
✨They said that they placed Iluma and Struggle in the mountains when they were kids to see if they could survive and so they could bond, but there was no mention of them ever meeting in the past at other parts in the book.
I enjoyed the overall plot and overarching themes of the book. It had great bones and I enjoyed watching the character development throughout the story. I enjoyed reading about how a group of people (strangers really) could come together and show such loyalty and dedication to a cause. I enjoyed the connection between Struggle and Illuma, as well as their comrades.
“My lips on hers for just a moment. Soft as moonpetals. Like a secret whispered between long lost friends.”
A dystopian fantasy story that includes themes of loyalty, friendship, and destiny. I thought that Teshelle really came into her own and her writing improved as the book developed. My favorite quotes from the book came from later on in the story as her writing began to become more elaborate and interesting.
The beginning of the book left much to be desired and it felt underwhelming with the world building and lack of descriptions. I tried to discern if the lack of world building was due to the characters’ inability to actually see their world or if there was just more missing.
Throughout the beginning of the book, most of the sentences and dialogue felt extremely choppy and lack luster. Some of the discordance was explained as people at the Back of the Line don’t have time for words, so sentences are short and clipped.
However, the dialogue structure spilled into a lot of narration which really limited the breadth of the story. Even as Struggle transitioned to the front of the line where the characters were clearly different and spoke with a different cadence, the same structure would sneak in from time to time.
Examples of lack of descriptions include:
The murder of Struggle’s father was described in limited sentences and a nonchalance that doesn’t make sense. Mom exits room, comes back with father’s blood on her hands and explains “dead”.
Once Struggle gets to the Tuck he meets some workers and it’s described as “…young and old, bustles about in dark gray linen clothes, carrying tools for cleaning, repairing, things like that.” - “Things like that” is such a vague description that it could have been easily remedied by either adding other examples or just leaving out that phrase.
Some plot holes that did not make sense:
✨If Shadow was so powerful that she could take down a highly trained LightCarver, how/why did she live in a home where she was regularly beaten?
✨When they went to Castellum, they were able to observe the Lost so clearly from so far away, yet there is no light?
✨When Struggle moved from the Back of the Line to the Front of the Line it took him much longer to get there than it did for the entire group of seven to get back.
✨They said that they placed Iluma and Struggle in the mountains when they were kids to see if they could survive and so they could bond, but there was no mention of them ever meeting in the past at other parts in the book.
I enjoyed the overall plot and overarching themes of the book. It had great bones and I enjoyed watching the character development throughout the story. I enjoyed reading about how a group of people (strangers really) could come together and show such loyalty and dedication to a cause. I enjoyed the connection between Struggle and Illuma, as well as their comrades.
“My lips on hers for just a moment. Soft as moonpetals. Like a secret whispered between long lost friends.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and its unique storyline. The world-building was amazing. And the characters were so witty and wonderful. Bravo!!! 💛
July 13, 2024
I received this book as an ARC, and I am so glad I did! I enjoyed this book immensely however, I really wish we could leave half stars because I think I probably would have given this more of a 3.5.
What I liked: This story was incredibly original! I loved the Snowpiercer vibes with the line and the magic system was pretty cool. The first half of the book was so different to anything I had ever read, I did not want to put it down. I loved the names of all the characters and the story sucks you in and keeps you interested the entire time!
What I didn't love: I have never said this before, and I think most books could actually have been better with the opposite, but I really think this story would have benefitted from being a duology. The pacing (primarily from about 40%) was a little too chaotic. I wish it could have been more fleshed out and the later characters developed a bit more. The second half of the book held the majority of the information but so much was happening so fast that it was a little confusing and I just think it could have been that much better if it had slowed down a little. The romance was too insta lovey for me and I just didn't really see why they liked each other.
The ending was beautiful and devastating but with so much information thrown at you in the last couple pages it was a little confusing and the impact wasn't as strong as it could have been.
Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book. It is 100% worth the read and I'm so glad I read it.
What I liked: This story was incredibly original! I loved the Snowpiercer vibes with the line and the magic system was pretty cool. The first half of the book was so different to anything I had ever read, I did not want to put it down. I loved the names of all the characters and the story sucks you in and keeps you interested the entire time!
What I didn't love: I have never said this before, and I think most books could actually have been better with the opposite, but I really think this story would have benefitted from being a duology. The pacing (primarily from about 40%) was a little too chaotic. I wish it could have been more fleshed out and the later characters developed a bit more. The second half of the book held the majority of the information but so much was happening so fast that it was a little confusing and I just think it could have been that much better if it had slowed down a little. The romance was too insta lovey for me and I just didn't really see why they liked each other.
The ending was beautiful and devastating but with so much information thrown at you in the last couple pages it was a little confusing and the impact wasn't as strong as it could have been.
Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book. It is 100% worth the read and I'm so glad I read it.
August 7, 2024
I received this book as an ARC from the author.
“You gonna fucking save me, Brightless, or what?”
This book left me wishing for more while also closing the loop on the questions and mysteries that arose.
This is the first of Teshelle Combs’ books that I’ve read though I’m certain it won’t be the last. The world-building was incredible, even with no light and nothing visible in the distance. The way the Line moves, the many layers between the segments of the Line, the structure in what they eat, how they behave towards each other, and what work they do have so much life to the story.
The personality and camaraderie between the 2 main characters as well as the secondary characters was very well done. Each character had a distinct personality and way of viewing their world that gives the reader different perspectives between how those at the back and the front of the Line see their worlds and how they perceive the others’ experiences.
The relationship that builds between Struggle and Iluma takes several turns before they finally settle into each other and their fates but it’s a beautiful blend of emotions mixed with some well placed sass and sarcasm.
“You gonna fucking save me, Brightless, or what?”
This book left me wishing for more while also closing the loop on the questions and mysteries that arose.
This is the first of Teshelle Combs’ books that I’ve read though I’m certain it won’t be the last. The world-building was incredible, even with no light and nothing visible in the distance. The way the Line moves, the many layers between the segments of the Line, the structure in what they eat, how they behave towards each other, and what work they do have so much life to the story.
The personality and camaraderie between the 2 main characters as well as the secondary characters was very well done. Each character had a distinct personality and way of viewing their world that gives the reader different perspectives between how those at the back and the front of the Line see their worlds and how they perceive the others’ experiences.
The relationship that builds between Struggle and Iluma takes several turns before they finally settle into each other and their fates but it’s a beautiful blend of emotions mixed with some well placed sass and sarcasm.
July 30, 2024
This is a very interesting story and a unique idea for a dystopian. It was fast paced and kept my interest. Those are the good points. The major problem I had with this book was it lacked description. Instead of describing journeys back to camp Struggle is just suddenly there. Fight scenes seem rushed. Even the revelation of the solution at the end is so quickly brushed past that it is covered in just a sentence or two. I need flashbacks and explanations. I need character development and details. I feel like the only thing throughly described was the sex scenes. I won’t even go into how lack luster the ending was. It’s a wonderful concept but it could have been done so much better.
July 25, 2024
Amazing! I'm still in awe. Thank you, Tess, for letting me ARC this incredible book!
This story transports you to a world of survival, where cooperation is key. Strug's journey to find his Illuma is filled with twists and turns, and the challenges he faces afterward are even more daunting. His determination to fight for what he believes is inspiring.
Living in constant movement, Struggle is a character born from darkness. Desperate to protect his family, he finds himself in a world of hope and despair created by Tess. The book gripped me with its intensity.
This story transports you to a world of survival, where cooperation is key. Strug's journey to find his Illuma is filled with twists and turns, and the challenges he faces afterward are even more daunting. His determination to fight for what he believes is inspiring.
Living in constant movement, Struggle is a character born from darkness. Desperate to protect his family, he finds himself in a world of hope and despair created by Tess. The book gripped me with its intensity.
July 31, 2025
THIS is how you write a dystopian novel. <33
This books has:
- Male POV
-Fated Mates
-Dystopian world
- Light/Shadow magic
-Found Family
What I loved:
Creativity/Originality
What a truly original and captivating world! Wow! I was SO impressed with Combs’ creativity. She adapts her characters to the world and creates a specific speaking pattern for them. They spoke to each other with short, blunt phrases, often one or two words (because they didn’t have time for long-winded language given their circumstances). I loved the symbolism in the character’s names, and how different they were from the back of the line to the front. The world is simplistic- job titles of Lifting, Picking, Sorting, etc- yet so compelling.
Stakes (no plot armor)
Combs did not pull her punches. Her characters experienced grief, physical harm, psychological manipulation, and isolation. She did not protect them for the sake of the plot, and it added so much intensity to the story. Every action held weight and had proper consequences.
Excellent Worldbuilding
I love how Combs crafted the work system and the communities in this book. It was so interesting to read how people functioned in the back of the line vs the front. I LOVED the concept of the Line. So cool!
Keeping the reader informed enough to make us want more
I dislike when authors spell everything out for the readers, not letting them come to their own conclusion. Combs did a wonderful job not doing that, and I respect and appreciate her so much for it.
Ramble’s character / disability inclusion
I loved how Combs introduced Ramble. I love his wheelchair (the scene of Struggle asking for the chair was SO good), and how his disability was presented within the book. This made the book well-rounded.
Improvements (sort of):
Writing was choppy at times and hard to understand.
Combs is very good at withholding information for the sake of interest and giving the reader just enough to keep them wondering. I was, however, simply confused at times. Sometimes I didn’t know where the characters were standing, what place they were in, or their positions in comparison to each other. I also had a hard time understanding some choreography in the fight scenes. Perhaps more details in those areas would better ground the reader in the scene.
I also felt as if Struggle wasn’t given valuable information about his powers, plans to break the curse, and overall everything, and at some point, I found myself frustrated with this lack of information. It's extremely important, people’s lives depend on it and so does the state of the world. You need to make time for this information to be communicated.
Romance felt unearned.
Because they are fated mates, their romance was instant and intense. I like their mate bond but instead of automatically accepting it, I would have liked to see them weary or uncertain of it at times because they are complete strangers. Having such strong emotions for a stranger isn’t easy to adapt to, and I would’ve liked to see them work through it, and ultimately come out stronger because of it. Instead, their instant feelings/connection felt unearned.
The pace
Combs is excellent at driving the story forward with energy and movement. This keeps the reader invested and drives out any static feelings. (I love this about her writing.) With that being said, I do feel like there were parts of the story that would have benefited if it was slowed down. I’d like to sit in some scenes or feelings a bit, really absorbing all they have to offer, before jumping right into the next thing. The fast pace kept my attention, but slowing down (strategically, when the story called for it) would’ve grounded me in the world and characters more.
Final thoughts:
I love how this book is not filled with overused tropes, copy-and-paste plots and characters, and cliche language. The originality is very impressive, a wonder to read, and completely immersive. I love the extra effort Combs made in making her characters act in accordance with this world. (i.e. the ointment that helps people’s eyes adjust to the light. What a wonderful, realistic inclusion. And this is not the only way her characters were grounded.)
This books has:
- Male POV
-Fated Mates
-Dystopian world
- Light/Shadow magic
-Found Family
What I loved:
Creativity/Originality
What a truly original and captivating world! Wow! I was SO impressed with Combs’ creativity. She adapts her characters to the world and creates a specific speaking pattern for them. They spoke to each other with short, blunt phrases, often one or two words (because they didn’t have time for long-winded language given their circumstances). I loved the symbolism in the character’s names, and how different they were from the back of the line to the front. The world is simplistic- job titles of Lifting, Picking, Sorting, etc- yet so compelling.
Stakes (no plot armor)
Combs did not pull her punches. Her characters experienced grief, physical harm, psychological manipulation, and isolation. She did not protect them for the sake of the plot, and it added so much intensity to the story. Every action held weight and had proper consequences.
Excellent Worldbuilding
I love how Combs crafted the work system and the communities in this book. It was so interesting to read how people functioned in the back of the line vs the front. I LOVED the concept of the Line. So cool!
Keeping the reader informed enough to make us want more
I dislike when authors spell everything out for the readers, not letting them come to their own conclusion. Combs did a wonderful job not doing that, and I respect and appreciate her so much for it.
Ramble’s character / disability inclusion
I loved how Combs introduced Ramble. I love his wheelchair (the scene of Struggle asking for the chair was SO good), and how his disability was presented within the book. This made the book well-rounded.
Improvements (sort of):
Writing was choppy at times and hard to understand.
Combs is very good at withholding information for the sake of interest and giving the reader just enough to keep them wondering. I was, however, simply confused at times. Sometimes I didn’t know where the characters were standing, what place they were in, or their positions in comparison to each other. I also had a hard time understanding some choreography in the fight scenes. Perhaps more details in those areas would better ground the reader in the scene.
I also felt as if Struggle wasn’t given valuable information about his powers, plans to break the curse, and overall everything, and at some point, I found myself frustrated with this lack of information. It's extremely important, people’s lives depend on it and so does the state of the world. You need to make time for this information to be communicated.
Romance felt unearned.
Because they are fated mates, their romance was instant and intense. I like their mate bond but instead of automatically accepting it, I would have liked to see them weary or uncertain of it at times because they are complete strangers. Having such strong emotions for a stranger isn’t easy to adapt to, and I would’ve liked to see them work through it, and ultimately come out stronger because of it. Instead, their instant feelings/connection felt unearned.
The pace
Combs is excellent at driving the story forward with energy and movement. This keeps the reader invested and drives out any static feelings. (I love this about her writing.) With that being said, I do feel like there were parts of the story that would have benefited if it was slowed down. I’d like to sit in some scenes or feelings a bit, really absorbing all they have to offer, before jumping right into the next thing. The fast pace kept my attention, but slowing down (strategically, when the story called for it) would’ve grounded me in the world and characters more.
Final thoughts:
I love how this book is not filled with overused tropes, copy-and-paste plots and characters, and cliche language. The originality is very impressive, a wonder to read, and completely immersive. I love the extra effort Combs made in making her characters act in accordance with this world. (i.e. the ointment that helps people’s eyes adjust to the light. What a wonderful, realistic inclusion. And this is not the only way her characters were grounded.)
July 28, 2024
Brightless by Teshelle Combs is a different take on a dystopian universe than I’ve ever read before. In this world that is plunged in darkness, you must follow The Line or perish. The Back of the Line is where the most unfortunate live, forced to work for megear earnings. Their life is hard but they continue with the hope to make it up the Line.
Struggle Decson helps take care of his family at the Back of the Line. He realizes that he will eventually die but his goal is to keep his family alive as long as possible. But destiny leads him on a path to the Iluma. A revered person who is able to harness the Light. Together they embark on a quest to end the curse of darkness that plagues them all.
I really enjoyed the characters and plot of the story. The MMC and FMC are wonderful and their bond is adorable. The side characters are also very interesting and I wish I could learn more about their lives. One character is particular you grow to irrevocably love only to lose them in the end. I was heartbroken but it was a great plot twist! I did feel very confused at first but finding out more about life at the Back of the Line it makes some sense. They don’t really know what’s going on either. I do feel like the book was rushed in some places and that it could have done well being a duology filled with more background information and fleshing out the plot more. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and am so glad to have read it!
I received Brightless as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Struggle Decson helps take care of his family at the Back of the Line. He realizes that he will eventually die but his goal is to keep his family alive as long as possible. But destiny leads him on a path to the Iluma. A revered person who is able to harness the Light. Together they embark on a quest to end the curse of darkness that plagues them all.
I really enjoyed the characters and plot of the story. The MMC and FMC are wonderful and their bond is adorable. The side characters are also very interesting and I wish I could learn more about their lives. One character is particular you grow to irrevocably love only to lose them in the end. I was heartbroken but it was a great plot twist! I did feel very confused at first but finding out more about life at the Back of the Line it makes some sense. They don’t really know what’s going on either. I do feel like the book was rushed in some places and that it could have done well being a duology filled with more background information and fleshing out the plot more. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and am so glad to have read it!
I received Brightless as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 17, 2024
It took multiple days after finishing Brightless by Teshelle Combs to write the review because I didn’t want to be truly finished with the book. Brightless only took me two days to read but it will be a book that I reread and have living in my mind for the foreseeable future. Teshelle writes layered characters who are flawed and lovable. The good characters have bad qualities and have done bad things and the bad characters have done good things. It is incredibly easy to the point of inevitably to become attached to the characters. Brightless combines these deep characters with a completely unique world and magical system. Combs doesn’t dump everything all at once and builds the world all through the novel with bits and pieces given along with twists and reveals that left my head spinning. I have always personally preferred books with world building throughout as opposed to all at the beginning. I found several sections of the book emotionally moving to me though I don’t know anyone else would and it was a heartbreakingly cathartic experience reading them. The ending is something I would have never seen or expected in my wildest dreams or worst nightmares. Teshelle’s creativity is otherworldly. After I read the ending I turned back to the beginning of the chapter to reread it because I needed to make sure I understood it certain I had missed something. It was truly brilliant in the most unexpected way. I cannot recommend Brightless and Teshelle Comb’s work.
September 13, 2024
All I can say is wow!
This book literally kept me in a CHOKEHOLD from start to finish! From the unique world building to the characters to the mystery throughout I could not put it down.
If you’re looking for something you’ve never read before (or at least I hadn’t) this is it! Struggle’s journey takes you through the Line meeting a whole cast of characters (who all play an important role in the end) from the poorer Back of the Line to the more wealthy and brighter Front of the Line with danger, magic, romance and friendships growing along the way.
It does have a bit of spice maybe .5 or 1 🌶️, you know it’s happening but not in graphic detail. If you’re looking for a HEA all the way around, Brightless might be a bit of a stretch because it is definitely a heartbreak with a hopeful future.
Overall: for me this was a great, fast paced story with an original storyline and a happily-enough ever after ending and I for sure WILL be getting a copy for my shelf and reading more from Teshelle
This book literally kept me in a CHOKEHOLD from start to finish! From the unique world building to the characters to the mystery throughout I could not put it down.
If you’re looking for something you’ve never read before (or at least I hadn’t) this is it! Struggle’s journey takes you through the Line meeting a whole cast of characters (who all play an important role in the end) from the poorer Back of the Line to the more wealthy and brighter Front of the Line with danger, magic, romance and friendships growing along the way.
It does have a bit of spice maybe .5 or 1 🌶️, you know it’s happening but not in graphic detail. If you’re looking for a HEA all the way around, Brightless might be a bit of a stretch because it is definitely a heartbreak with a hopeful future.
Overall: for me this was a great, fast paced story with an original storyline and a happily-enough ever after ending and I for sure WILL be getting a copy for my shelf and reading more from Teshelle
July 18, 2024
Brightless
Another enjoyable read by this fantastic author! Once again, if she writes it, I will read it. I found myself really wanting to take me time with this read, as I didn't want to finish quickly and then be annoyed that it was over.
From the characters, to the world building, to how everything was explained and described, I didn't want it to be over.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
*I received this as an ARC, and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review*.
Another enjoyable read by this fantastic author! Once again, if she writes it, I will read it. I found myself really wanting to take me time with this read, as I didn't want to finish quickly and then be annoyed that it was over.
From the characters, to the world building, to how everything was explained and described, I didn't want it to be over.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
*I received this as an ARC, and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review*.
July 14, 2024
A beautifully told story with lots of metaphors and rhythmic language. In a world where people fight to gain light in the darkness how can a dark heart and iluma be connected? I dont think there's anything out there like this. You have a curse, dark and light magic, animal companions, etc. The description was so vivid. You knew what people, surroundings, or things looked like.
September 30, 2024
I received this book as an ARC and absolutely loved it. It's beautifully described to where you understand the world, people, and way of life. I could not see myself ever wanting to live in this world, though lol. I love the dark hearts/light hearts storyline, and the "line classes" make for an interesting new fantasy/ending of the world as we know it storyline.
It's one of my favorite reads of September and maybe the year. I can't wait to read the alternate ending.. I'm on the edge of my seat wondering how it ends.
It's one of my favorite reads of September and maybe the year. I can't wait to read the alternate ending.. I'm on the edge of my seat wondering how it ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2024
This was a whirlwind of emotions! I laughed, I swooned, I cried... I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. And that ending... ughhhhh heartbreaking!!!
September 11, 2024
ARC REVIEW:
Brightless by @Tess Combs
4/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
Brightless is a standalone novel within a series that is about a dystopian society that’s been cursed with endless darkness. The only way the world will ever see light again? Break the curse. For generations Brightless and their lightbearers have worked together trying to break the curse, many dying in the process.
This book is definitely a learn as you go type of novel, and the pace is a little slow in the beginning as it shows you the struggle of the average person struggling in the darkness without the protection of the Tuck. But once things start happening, the pace picks up and the race is on to once again try to break the curse. The author has a unique way of telling this story that has me constantly wanting to know more. I thought it was refreshing to see a prophecy that was so vague that it could have been any Brightless and lightbearer to break it, but it didn’t work until…well, you’ll see.
My only issue with Brightless was that it ended abruptly. There are a lot of “side” issues I felt were left unresolved since there is currently no planned sequel. But if the author ever decides to follow up with one, I would be thrilled!
Check trigger warnings before reading!
#fantasy #darkfantasy #fatedmates #dystopian #indieauthor
Brightless by @Tess Combs
4/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
Brightless is a standalone novel within a series that is about a dystopian society that’s been cursed with endless darkness. The only way the world will ever see light again? Break the curse. For generations Brightless and their lightbearers have worked together trying to break the curse, many dying in the process.
This book is definitely a learn as you go type of novel, and the pace is a little slow in the beginning as it shows you the struggle of the average person struggling in the darkness without the protection of the Tuck. But once things start happening, the pace picks up and the race is on to once again try to break the curse. The author has a unique way of telling this story that has me constantly wanting to know more. I thought it was refreshing to see a prophecy that was so vague that it could have been any Brightless and lightbearer to break it, but it didn’t work until…well, you’ll see.
My only issue with Brightless was that it ended abruptly. There are a lot of “side” issues I felt were left unresolved since there is currently no planned sequel. But if the author ever decides to follow up with one, I would be thrilled!
Check trigger warnings before reading!
#fantasy #darkfantasy #fatedmates #dystopian #indieauthor
August 18, 2024
Oh my... this world... these characters.... there is so much love and hate, happiness and sadness, frustration and calm. It's beyond words and yet T.C. did! She's soooooo good at breaking my heart but every journey before is an incredible ride there.
July 30, 2024
Overall, without giving any spoilers or going too much into the storyline, it was a really great adventure story that I could read over and over. would highly recommend picking up this book for a fast paced book that will take you all the way to the end wanting to know more, just to shock you and leave you wishing you didn't know how it ended!
I was definitely not expecting to love the world that Teshelle built as much as I did. Her unique world building is on par with Brandon Sanderson and I could see a whole "universe" with what she's started in this book. Honestly, I'm hoping that she does just that.
All of the characters in this book have...unique (😂) personalities and they're all likeable in their own way because you can relate to each of them in their individuality. Teshelle does a really great job of giving each person you mean their own "voice" and there aren't any characters in the book that feel flat.
I only have two minor "complaints":
There were parts to this book where I felt a little like things moved too fast. I felt like there needed to be a little bit more explanation on what was happening (especially with time passing) but it wasn't enough to take me out of the story.
My only other complaint (and this is going to be a complete non-issue for most), but I felt like the sex scenes could have been left out completely and the book would have been just fine without them. Those scenes are the only thing that would keep me from sharing this book with my teen and I think she'd otherwise love the story.
I was definitely not expecting to love the world that Teshelle built as much as I did. Her unique world building is on par with Brandon Sanderson and I could see a whole "universe" with what she's started in this book. Honestly, I'm hoping that she does just that.
All of the characters in this book have...unique (😂) personalities and they're all likeable in their own way because you can relate to each of them in their individuality. Teshelle does a really great job of giving each person you mean their own "voice" and there aren't any characters in the book that feel flat.
I only have two minor "complaints":
There were parts to this book where I felt a little like things moved too fast. I felt like there needed to be a little bit more explanation on what was happening (especially with time passing) but it wasn't enough to take me out of the story.
My only other complaint (and this is going to be a complete non-issue for most), but I felt like the sex scenes could have been left out completely and the book would have been just fine without them. Those scenes are the only thing that would keep me from sharing this book with my teen and I think she'd otherwise love the story.
August 29, 2024
Okay, so here are my thoughts. At first I couldn't understand what was happening, but I went on. I'm glad I did! Ram made me laugh every single time, and the plots twists made me gasp at each turn! The ending was a bit rushed, but there is an alternate ending in one of the two versions of the hardcovers...? Oh well. This book is also part of a multiple take on one prophecy by several authors. (I haven't read the others).
Favorite quote out of context:
"Whats the stone circle on the floor?" I asked before we left.
"To center us," she said. "And to look nice. Aesthetics are important." ✨
Tropes include:
🌚 Ancient Prophecy
🌝 Touch her and 💀
🌚 Found Family
🌝 Light/Shadow powers
🌚 Cinnamon roll MMC who can actually 💀 you
🌝 Badass FMC who's actually a cinnamon roll
🌚 Hilarious banter and sidekicks (looking at you Ram 👀😂)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 1,5 🌶️ (2 or 3 open door non explicit intimate scenes)
Favorite quote out of context:
"Whats the stone circle on the floor?" I asked before we left.
"To center us," she said. "And to look nice. Aesthetics are important." ✨
Tropes include:
🌚 Ancient Prophecy
🌝 Touch her and 💀
🌚 Found Family
🌝 Light/Shadow powers
🌚 Cinnamon roll MMC who can actually 💀 you
🌝 Badass FMC who's actually a cinnamon roll
🌚 Hilarious banter and sidekicks (looking at you Ram 👀😂)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 1,5 🌶️ (2 or 3 open door non explicit intimate scenes)
September 17, 2024
Wow! What a great read!!! It took me a min to really get going into this book (because kids- potty training- UGH) BUT once I got sucked in I couldn’t put it down! The characters were quite something and I loved them all. From fierce, caring, badass, and absolutely hilarious all these characters stole my heart. JUSTICE for Average Weeperson, I feel she deserved better!! 😭 not going to lie, I liked them together as endgame, but I knew in the end it was what it was supposed to be all along!
The ending was AMAZING though a little rushed I thought I was going to be left on a cliff hanger and I was really going to throw my kindle, but it didn’t 😂 The ending 😭 My heart was crushed at the with all the sacrifice it was honestly such a beautiful story! 🥹 👏 👏👏👏👏👏❤️
The ending was AMAZING though a little rushed I thought I was going to be left on a cliff hanger and I was really going to throw my kindle, but it didn’t 😂 The ending 😭 My heart was crushed at the with all the sacrifice it was honestly such a beautiful story! 🥹 👏 👏👏👏👏👏❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2024
I loved this story! I loved the characters, setting, and plot. It was so unique and definitely not like anything I’ve read before. Plus Teshelle’s writing was fantastic! I have and definitely will continue to recommend this book. This was the first book by Teshelle that I have read but it most certainly won’t be the last. I loved it!
October 15, 2024
Phenomenal book! It clenched my soul from page one. These characters were written with powerful storylines that let me walk with them ~ nearly experiencing their every step, tears, terror, and love.
Heart-rending, soul-searching, a newfound love of mine. You need Struggle, Lluma, Shadow, and the others in your heart, too.
Heart-rending, soul-searching, a newfound love of mine. You need Struggle, Lluma, Shadow, and the others in your heart, too.
July 24, 2025
This book was so good! I absolutely loved it. Now I'm going to have to go find that alternate ending version.
August 1, 2024
Thank you for the ARC of this novel :) Overall for me this book is a 3 star read. I loved the premise of the story, being stuck in a dystopian world void of all light. I found that I needed to keep reminding myself that at the back of the line they are truly in complete darkness, it's hard for my brain to comprehend a world so inky black, but I found that quite interesting. There were also some endearing characters that you meet, particularily later in the novel. However, I felt myself wanting more out of this story.
I am typically a fan of standalone books, however I actually think this story would have benefited from being a duology. There was so much info that needed to be packed into one book that the pacing felt off for me. We don't spend a ton of time getting to know any of the characters, so I felt a lack of attachment to bascically everyone. To me the chemistry between the love interests also felt forced. There was a bit more chemistry between Struggle and Average, as we got a bit of backstory between them and you could see how much Average yearned for Struggle, and Struggle's inner monologue of wanting her but also not wanting to hold her back. But the insta-love between Struggle and Iluma fell flat. Now to be fair, I'm not a fan of insta-love as a trope in general, but when done right I'm okay with it. I just never truly felt any natural connection between those two (even though the connection between them plays a huge roll in the storyline).
I also felt some of the more important moments of the book were glossed over. A big one for me being the death of Struggle's dad. His mom just goes into the backroom with a glass shard, comes back with blood on her hands and says "dead". I kept thinking that must be a fakeout and his dad's not truly dead - especially with some of the foreshadowing earlier on in the book when Struggle and his father are having a private chat - but nope, that was it. There were also moments later in the book with characters like Hatch that didn't make sense for me. When you meet Hatch he's a gruff guy who can't stand Struggle or Ram and wants nothing to do with them; he's also doing some work for the bad guys who are trying to kill Iluma; but when Iluma and the rest of their group show up and ask him to join them to save the world he barely puts up a fight. He just goes along with it and becomes part of their team.
However, there were some characters that I liked, particularily Shadow. She was written very sweetly and I loved the connection that she had with Struggle and wanting to be a part of his family. Similarily to Shadow I really liked the connection between Struggle and his little sister Bitter. You could see the love and protectiveness between them and it felt very real. Ram was also a character I enjoyed, I love the wheelchair representation that I rarely see in books. Plus I did like how the book ended overall, it was a bit too quick (again, could have benefited from being a duology and having better pacing), but I like how it all played out.
Even though it wasn't the perfect book for me, I am happy that I got the chance to read it :)
I am typically a fan of standalone books, however I actually think this story would have benefited from being a duology. There was so much info that needed to be packed into one book that the pacing felt off for me. We don't spend a ton of time getting to know any of the characters, so I felt a lack of attachment to bascically everyone. To me the chemistry between the love interests also felt forced. There was a bit more chemistry between Struggle and Average, as we got a bit of backstory between them and you could see how much Average yearned for Struggle, and Struggle's inner monologue of wanting her but also not wanting to hold her back. But the insta-love between Struggle and Iluma fell flat. Now to be fair, I'm not a fan of insta-love as a trope in general, but when done right I'm okay with it. I just never truly felt any natural connection between those two (even though the connection between them plays a huge roll in the storyline).
I also felt some of the more important moments of the book were glossed over. A big one for me being the death of Struggle's dad. His mom just goes into the backroom with a glass shard, comes back with blood on her hands and says "dead". I kept thinking that must be a fakeout and his dad's not truly dead - especially with some of the foreshadowing earlier on in the book when Struggle and his father are having a private chat - but nope, that was it. There were also moments later in the book with characters like Hatch that didn't make sense for me. When you meet Hatch he's a gruff guy who can't stand Struggle or Ram and wants nothing to do with them; he's also doing some work for the bad guys who are trying to kill Iluma; but when Iluma and the rest of their group show up and ask him to join them to save the world he barely puts up a fight. He just goes along with it and becomes part of their team.
However, there were some characters that I liked, particularily Shadow. She was written very sweetly and I loved the connection that she had with Struggle and wanting to be a part of his family. Similarily to Shadow I really liked the connection between Struggle and his little sister Bitter. You could see the love and protectiveness between them and it felt very real. Ram was also a character I enjoyed, I love the wheelchair representation that I rarely see in books. Plus I did like how the book ended overall, it was a bit too quick (again, could have benefited from being a duology and having better pacing), but I like how it all played out.
Even though it wasn't the perfect book for me, I am happy that I got the chance to read it :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2024
Premise:
-A post-apocalyptic world plunged into eternal darkness due to a mysterious curse.
Civilization has retreated into a linear formation, with the wealthy and powerful at the front and the poor struggling at the back.
-The protagonist, Struggle, is marked by a mysterious woman, Illuma, who is the only hope for humanity to break the curse.
-Key Characters:
Struggle: A lower-class survivor who is marked by Illuma.
Illuma: A mysterious woman with the power to break the curse.
Shadow : a tiny lower-class girl who befriends Struggle on his journey
Ramble : An intelligent grumpy young man who reluctantly befriends Struggle
-Tropes
Found Family
Fated Mates
Slow Burn
Dystopian Fantasy
The beginning of this book had me a little confused and conflicted. The writing style was different from anything I have read before, and at first was off putting with the author using one word sentences and it felt very choppy, but the reason behind that is explained the further you read! So if you are starting this book and feel the same, keep reading!!
Brightless is a story about hope in the face of despair and humans ability to overcome adversity, the power of love and sacrifice and dangers of unchecked power. Struggle is a Dark-Heart who has been working himself to death to care for his family when an unexpected turn of events shatters his reality and he is sent to find the only one who can break their curse. The fate of not only Struggle and Illuma, but their families and all of the hopeless people Struggle met on his way to the front of the line really adds emotional depth to the plot! Exploring the origins of the curse added additional context and intrigue to the story, and really makes you think about what life would be like in total darkness. Not being able to read someone's expressions, or enjoy the beauty of a sunrise or sunset really makes you appreciate the little things. I have seen a few people state they were disappointed with the lack of world building, but I disagree. I feel the author did a really good job of immersing you into a world of darkness with the descriptions of how humanity adapted to their surroundings by using feel and sound to move through the world and continue to survive. The only thing I would change about this book if I could, would be to make it longer! I feel like the beginning and middle of the book keep a steady pace and build up to the climax, but feel as if the ending was a bit rushed. I wish the ending was drawn out a little more to better resolve the plot points and give you a sense of completion.
I received this book as an ARC and this is an open and honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book!
-A post-apocalyptic world plunged into eternal darkness due to a mysterious curse.
Civilization has retreated into a linear formation, with the wealthy and powerful at the front and the poor struggling at the back.
-The protagonist, Struggle, is marked by a mysterious woman, Illuma, who is the only hope for humanity to break the curse.
-Key Characters:
Struggle: A lower-class survivor who is marked by Illuma.
Illuma: A mysterious woman with the power to break the curse.
Shadow : a tiny lower-class girl who befriends Struggle on his journey
Ramble : An intelligent grumpy young man who reluctantly befriends Struggle
-Tropes
Found Family
Fated Mates
Slow Burn
Dystopian Fantasy
The beginning of this book had me a little confused and conflicted. The writing style was different from anything I have read before, and at first was off putting with the author using one word sentences and it felt very choppy, but the reason behind that is explained the further you read! So if you are starting this book and feel the same, keep reading!!
Brightless is a story about hope in the face of despair and humans ability to overcome adversity, the power of love and sacrifice and dangers of unchecked power. Struggle is a Dark-Heart who has been working himself to death to care for his family when an unexpected turn of events shatters his reality and he is sent to find the only one who can break their curse. The fate of not only Struggle and Illuma, but their families and all of the hopeless people Struggle met on his way to the front of the line really adds emotional depth to the plot! Exploring the origins of the curse added additional context and intrigue to the story, and really makes you think about what life would be like in total darkness. Not being able to read someone's expressions, or enjoy the beauty of a sunrise or sunset really makes you appreciate the little things. I have seen a few people state they were disappointed with the lack of world building, but I disagree. I feel the author did a really good job of immersing you into a world of darkness with the descriptions of how humanity adapted to their surroundings by using feel and sound to move through the world and continue to survive. The only thing I would change about this book if I could, would be to make it longer! I feel like the beginning and middle of the book keep a steady pace and build up to the climax, but feel as if the ending was a bit rushed. I wish the ending was drawn out a little more to better resolve the plot points and give you a sense of completion.
I received this book as an ARC and this is an open and honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book!
December 1, 2024
Brightless by Teshelle Combs is a wild ride through a world so dark, it makes your gloomy days look like a walk through a sunflower field. The story follows Struggle, who is literally living in the back of the Line—a place where survival is a full-time job, and the concept of light is basically just a myth. Enter the plot twist—he’s thrust into a destiny that involves the one thing he’s least prepared for: a light bearer named Iluma.
Teshelle’s writing is more of a scavenger hunt where you do the digging. Struggle doesn’t have all the answers, so why should we? He’s stuck in a place of total confusion, surrounded by secrets and darkness, so if you’re feeling a little disoriented at the beginning, congrats—you’re experiencing Strug’s life first-hand. The charm of this book is that the world slowly unravels itself, bit by bit, leaving you piecing it together as you go. And trust me, it's worth it. The journey is disorienting and frustrating, sure, but it's also real. Life doesn’t hand us everything on a silver platter, and neither does Teshelle. You just have to trust her... and maybe a little bit of Strug’s chaotic, heart-thumping, hopelessly romantic fate.
But let’s talk about the characters, because wow—the banter, the tension, the falling in love despite being absolutely convinced it's the worst idea ever... I mean, it’s the stuff dreams (and maybe nightmares) are made of. The side characters are so rich with personality, I found myself wishing for a spinoff just about them. And just when you think you’re ready for a feel-good moment, Teshelle slams you with a plot twist that will have you gasping like you're in an emotional chokehold. This book isn’t just a read—it’s an experience. And one I can’t recommend enough.
Teshelle’s writing is more of a scavenger hunt where you do the digging. Struggle doesn’t have all the answers, so why should we? He’s stuck in a place of total confusion, surrounded by secrets and darkness, so if you’re feeling a little disoriented at the beginning, congrats—you’re experiencing Strug’s life first-hand. The charm of this book is that the world slowly unravels itself, bit by bit, leaving you piecing it together as you go. And trust me, it's worth it. The journey is disorienting and frustrating, sure, but it's also real. Life doesn’t hand us everything on a silver platter, and neither does Teshelle. You just have to trust her... and maybe a little bit of Strug’s chaotic, heart-thumping, hopelessly romantic fate.
But let’s talk about the characters, because wow—the banter, the tension, the falling in love despite being absolutely convinced it's the worst idea ever... I mean, it’s the stuff dreams (and maybe nightmares) are made of. The side characters are so rich with personality, I found myself wishing for a spinoff just about them. And just when you think you’re ready for a feel-good moment, Teshelle slams you with a plot twist that will have you gasping like you're in an emotional chokehold. This book isn’t just a read—it’s an experience. And one I can’t recommend enough.
July 31, 2024
This story definitely kept me reading with action packed chapters, Struggle meeting new challenges everywhere he turned, and with the mystery surrounding the curse. The book gripped me and ended beautifully, and I definitely think it’s worth a read.
My favorite things: the bonds Struggle made with each character and how he would do anything for them. The Iluma being sassy and taking no sh** from anyone. The bioluminescent plants that fed the people and provided light in the cursed world.
The depiction of classism really resonated with me: how the back of the line was given so little, worked harder than anyone for so much less, were forbidden knowledge, and taught sayings to keep them in check. In many ways, hierarchies of class exist in our own un-cursed world, and this just sunk in the injustice of it further.
Some lingering questions: I’m dying to know about Strug’s family at the end!! I want to know more about the hole used for “healing” at the back of the line, because it was such an interesting detail that was never really explained! I wish I could hear the whole tale of the curse and how it began, at least what Strug’s mother knew! I’m curious what Average’s role was in the story… just to establish how Struggle sacrificed for those he loved? Finally, I would have loved to know how people of this cursed Earth were named. It’s clear it’s based on class, but the background for name choice would be beyond intriguing.
My favorite things: the bonds Struggle made with each character and how he would do anything for them. The Iluma being sassy and taking no sh** from anyone. The bioluminescent plants that fed the people and provided light in the cursed world.
The depiction of classism really resonated with me: how the back of the line was given so little, worked harder than anyone for so much less, were forbidden knowledge, and taught sayings to keep them in check. In many ways, hierarchies of class exist in our own un-cursed world, and this just sunk in the injustice of it further.
Some lingering questions: I’m dying to know about Strug’s family at the end!! I want to know more about the hole used for “healing” at the back of the line, because it was such an interesting detail that was never really explained! I wish I could hear the whole tale of the curse and how it began, at least what Strug’s mother knew! I’m curious what Average’s role was in the story… just to establish how Struggle sacrificed for those he loved? Finally, I would have loved to know how people of this cursed Earth were named. It’s clear it’s based on class, but the background for name choice would be beyond intriguing.
August 30, 2024
Love is the “only thing we could never, ever afford to lose”.
What one wouldn’t do for love, Struggle knows this all too well. He, like so many others in the line, has sacrificed for survival. In this dystopian world, Struggle must support his family by working and preparing to work all so that they may have a morsel to eat at night and firelight to ward off the Lost. Day in and day out he lifts at the back of the line, until one day he is caught in a deadly storm. That is when She visits him, his Iluma, now everything will change, now he must bravely trek to the front of the line to save her. He must leave those he loves to fight for the one he will.
Overall rating 5/5
This was my first Teshelle Combs book and it certainly will not be my last. At first I was confused and distracted by the names of the characters. However, the ingeniousness of these “simple” words given to each character was a short glimpse to who they were or their standing within the line. Reminiscent of Hunger Games, this book takes the reader of the MC’s journey through perilous trials and tribulations with the ultimate goal to protect the innocent and bring down the tyrant. The struggle (pun intended) that Struggle must endure for those he has left behind and for those he knows me must protect is surrounded by impeccable world building. I do hope we get a sequel…….
*Thank you to Teshelle Combs for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.
What one wouldn’t do for love, Struggle knows this all too well. He, like so many others in the line, has sacrificed for survival. In this dystopian world, Struggle must support his family by working and preparing to work all so that they may have a morsel to eat at night and firelight to ward off the Lost. Day in and day out he lifts at the back of the line, until one day he is caught in a deadly storm. That is when She visits him, his Iluma, now everything will change, now he must bravely trek to the front of the line to save her. He must leave those he loves to fight for the one he will.
Overall rating 5/5
This was my first Teshelle Combs book and it certainly will not be my last. At first I was confused and distracted by the names of the characters. However, the ingeniousness of these “simple” words given to each character was a short glimpse to who they were or their standing within the line. Reminiscent of Hunger Games, this book takes the reader of the MC’s journey through perilous trials and tribulations with the ultimate goal to protect the innocent and bring down the tyrant. The struggle (pun intended) that Struggle must endure for those he has left behind and for those he knows me must protect is surrounded by impeccable world building. I do hope we get a sequel…….
*Thank you to Teshelle Combs for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.
July 28, 2024
A beautiful dystopian fantasy with a very interesting magic system.
The first half of the book—primarily taking place in the back of the Line where light is scarce and wasted words are wasted time—was reminiscent of Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road” or NK Jemisen’s “The Fifth Season” (with a little less world building). We then progress into the second half, where hordes rule the Tuck in the Front of the Line and seek to destroy the elusive Iluma—the bearer of light. The MMC gathers a ragtag group of friends who, together with the Iluma, are to break the curse that left the world in darkness.
While I genuinely enjoyed this unique world that Combs has built and particularly the interesting use of narrative in the first half of the book, I think there is a bit of room for more world building and character development for all of the characters, especially in the second half of the book. The Seven were all fun characters, but I did not feel as if I really got to know them. The world as well—while I enjoy having pieces of the world revealed, I was still left a bit wanting when I finished the book.
I have rated “Brightless” a 3.5 (4 rounded up) based on my comments above. I would still wholeheartedly recommend this book to any magical dystopian novel lovers!
The first half of the book—primarily taking place in the back of the Line where light is scarce and wasted words are wasted time—was reminiscent of Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road” or NK Jemisen’s “The Fifth Season” (with a little less world building). We then progress into the second half, where hordes rule the Tuck in the Front of the Line and seek to destroy the elusive Iluma—the bearer of light. The MMC gathers a ragtag group of friends who, together with the Iluma, are to break the curse that left the world in darkness.
While I genuinely enjoyed this unique world that Combs has built and particularly the interesting use of narrative in the first half of the book, I think there is a bit of room for more world building and character development for all of the characters, especially in the second half of the book. The Seven were all fun characters, but I did not feel as if I really got to know them. The world as well—while I enjoy having pieces of the world revealed, I was still left a bit wanting when I finished the book.
I have rated “Brightless” a 3.5 (4 rounded up) based on my comments above. I would still wholeheartedly recommend this book to any magical dystopian novel lovers!
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