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Shadow Casters #1
Journey to Torcia
Kaito thought his newly formed order of shadow casters could save the world—until his first mission brought its darkest secrets to light.
After a violent purge, shadow casting—summoning creatures and weapons from hand-formed shadow projections—has only recently been relegalized, and sixteen-year-old Kaito is determined to become the greatest shadow caster Malgar has ever seen. Having earned the first perfect score on his introductory Dawn Trials, he’s certain outperforming his two fellow aspirants in the more advanced Daylight Trials will be just as simple. But his struggles alongside his secret crush Sumi and crafty best friend Nigel prove that shadow casting mastery will require far more than natural talent.
Their rivalry and pursuit of high scores are quickly forgotten when a routine assignment is upended by a rogue shadow caster, whose powers shouldn’t be possible. His emergence exposes deep treachery within their Legion, threatening to unravel everything Kaito and his friends hold dear.
Can Kaito withstand the crucible of his first real test? Or will rekindled prejudices and hidden traitors seal the Legion of Shadow Casters’ demise?
A fast-paced fantasy action-adventure with distinct magic, technological advancements, and dueling creature companions that reads like a manga in novel form.
Experience the betrayals, mysteries, and creature summoning action of Shadow Casters Book 1: Journey to Torcia today!
After a violent purge, shadow casting—summoning creatures and weapons from hand-formed shadow projections—has only recently been relegalized, and sixteen-year-old Kaito is determined to become the greatest shadow caster Malgar has ever seen. Having earned the first perfect score on his introductory Dawn Trials, he’s certain outperforming his two fellow aspirants in the more advanced Daylight Trials will be just as simple. But his struggles alongside his secret crush Sumi and crafty best friend Nigel prove that shadow casting mastery will require far more than natural talent.
Their rivalry and pursuit of high scores are quickly forgotten when a routine assignment is upended by a rogue shadow caster, whose powers shouldn’t be possible. His emergence exposes deep treachery within their Legion, threatening to unravel everything Kaito and his friends hold dear.
Can Kaito withstand the crucible of his first real test? Or will rekindled prejudices and hidden traitors seal the Legion of Shadow Casters’ demise?
A fast-paced fantasy action-adventure with distinct magic, technological advancements, and dueling creature companions that reads like a manga in novel form.
Experience the betrayals, mysteries, and creature summoning action of Shadow Casters Book 1: Journey to Torcia today!
420 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2024
37 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Jared Woodcox
4 books17 followersJared Woodcox has always been obsessed with creating. Whether it’s writing songs, making up games, drawing up plays for youth sports teams he’s coaching, or telling stories, his greatest joy comes from bringing something to life that didn’t exist before.
Of these endeavors, none is more fulfilling than writing books such as his first published series Shadow Casters.
When not writing or dreaming up new fantasy or science fiction stories, Jared can be found spending time with his wife, son, and dog, playing guitar, or enjoying the outdoors across Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming.
Of these endeavors, none is more fulfilling than writing books such as his first published series Shadow Casters.
When not writing or dreaming up new fantasy or science fiction stories, Jared can be found spending time with his wife, son, and dog, playing guitar, or enjoying the outdoors across Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 3, 2024
Jared Woodcox transports readers to the fascinating yet dangerous planet of Malgar in “Journey to Torcia,” the first book in the Shadow Casters Series. Here, a ruthless purge motivated by prejudice and fear threatens to eradicate the age-old practice of shadow casting, which was once a sign of harmony. Three young trainees—Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel—are at the heart of the story; they stand out as rays of optimism in a distrusted world.
Each character is expertly developed by Woodcox, who gives them unique difficulties and motives. As they negotiate the challenges of their duties within the recently reinstituted Legion of Shadow Casters, Kaito’s steadfast confidence, Sumi’s fiery drive, and Nigel’s search for belonging form a dynamic trio. The novel acquires complexity from the author’s depiction of their battles to establish their value in the face of social criticism, which makes readers want them to succeed.
The stakes are enormous because the aspiring casters must contend with both internal misgivings and external machinations. By skillfully incorporating tension into the story, Woodcox presents a world in which the shadows that formerly shielded them are now a source of terror. The environment is dangerous since the three must face not only outside enemies but also the repercussions of the purge and the ghosts of their own pasts.
“Journey to Torcia” transforms into a story of resiliency and hope as they struggle with the legacy of their trade. In addition to examining themes of acceptance, identity, and the precarious equilibrium between fear and trust, Woodcox’s world-building is rich and compelling, enabling readers to feel the weight of the characters’ hardships. Readers are excited for the next phase of the Shadow Casters’ journey after reading this novel, which sets the stage for an exciting series.
Each character is expertly developed by Woodcox, who gives them unique difficulties and motives. As they negotiate the challenges of their duties within the recently reinstituted Legion of Shadow Casters, Kaito’s steadfast confidence, Sumi’s fiery drive, and Nigel’s search for belonging form a dynamic trio. The novel acquires complexity from the author’s depiction of their battles to establish their value in the face of social criticism, which makes readers want them to succeed.
The stakes are enormous because the aspiring casters must contend with both internal misgivings and external machinations. By skillfully incorporating tension into the story, Woodcox presents a world in which the shadows that formerly shielded them are now a source of terror. The environment is dangerous since the three must face not only outside enemies but also the repercussions of the purge and the ghosts of their own pasts.
“Journey to Torcia” transforms into a story of resiliency and hope as they struggle with the legacy of their trade. In addition to examining themes of acceptance, identity, and the precarious equilibrium between fear and trust, Woodcox’s world-building is rich and compelling, enabling readers to feel the weight of the characters’ hardships. Readers are excited for the next phase of the Shadow Casters’ journey after reading this novel, which sets the stage for an exciting series.
May 19, 2025
Jared Woodcox does a phenomenal job of introducing his completely new fantasy world in an informative and detailed way. This first book has a good amount of exposition (which is to be expected for Book 1 of a series) framed mostly as lessons taught to our amazing trio of shadowcasters. Even minor characters are given a good amount of background and development with so many interconnecting subplots to explore. Already starting Book 2!
November 6, 2025
This unique and engaging book was a joy to read! My son and I slowly moved through the packed and wonderfully thought out world that Woodcox created and found ourselves completely immersed in the adventure. This first book has a lot of set up, taking its time really letting us get to know our main characters, the world they live in, with its dense and violent history, its shaky political present and its mysterious future. And this is done in a way that allows us to learn the information and experience it as if we were cadets, just like our three main characters. The majority of the book begins with them undergoing a massive trial to enter into the ranks of the Shadow Casters, and there is a slight dark academia feel to some of the proceedings. Here, we get to see the intricacies of each personality, with Kaito's impulsive arrogance wrapped in a likable and playful character, Sumi's superior abilities shining over a painful and mysterious past and Nigel's academic obsession mixed with insecurities and self worth issues. The three characters interact with each other well, with all of the tension and fun that comes from teenage friend groups. There are crush's developing, personality's clashing and mixing and all of that is under the cover of a richly developed world and magic system full of intrigue and danger. And that is where the book really shines. The shadowcasting idea is absolutely brilliant. Casting shadows that manifest as actual creatures and weapons AND creating specific bonds with these creatures to use in battle, as companions, and as helpers is so cool. It definitely has Pokemon' vibes in that regard and every new creature that appeared was a joy to imagine and read about. And this magic system will allow our young MC's to continue to grow and get better and better and that will be fun to experience. The action is a little more limited, since the majority of the book happens in a controlled environment, but when we finally see shadowcasting unleashed toward the end, it will definitely get you pumped up for the next book. In the midst of all of this is mystery, false identities, corrupt officials, and more. And while the book doesn't move our MC's very far, it establishes them in such a way that you are beyond excited to dive into book two to keep the suspense, action, and wonder going. And my son loved it!
November 1, 2024
Book Review: Journey to Torcia (Shadow Casters Series Book 1)
by
Jared Woodcox
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Prepare to be transported into the mystical land of Malgar, where shadows hold secrets, power, and danger. In Journey to Torcia, Jared Woodcox crafts a thrilling tale of courage, friendship, and the fine line between fear and acceptance. 🌌✨
👉The story follows three young shadow casters—Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel—who train within the newly reinstated Legion of Shadow Casters. Once protectors of peace, these skilled casters summon creatures and weapons from shadows, wielding a unique power that once united their world. But in Malgar, shadow casters are feared as much as they’re needed. A purge nearly wiped them out in the past, and though they’ve returned, deep-rooted suspicion and prejudice against their kind still linger like a dark cloud over society. 🌑🕊️
👉Each character brings something special to the narrative, making the story both engaging and emotionally resonant. Kaito, with his confident leadership, serves as a symbol of hope; Sumi’s determination is unbreakable as she fights for the future of shadow casting; and Nigel, seeking belonging and purpose, reveals the deep internal conflicts that resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. Together, they must navigate an intricate web of alliances and betrayals, proving their loyalty to a world that still fears their abilities. 🌠🔥
👉What I loved most about Journey to Torcia is Woodcox’s exceptional world-building. Malgar is a living, breathing entity, with its complex past and societal fractures shaping every page. The history of the Shadow Caster Purge looms like a ghost over the characters, making the story as much about societal healing as it is about personal growth. The plot is immersive and fast-paced, pulling you deeper into the story with every twist and layer of intrigue. The book also beautifully examines the struggle between tradition and progress, as the trio must decide how to preserve their legacy while navigating the new complexities of their world. ⚔️💫
Highly recommended book
Happy reading 😁 😁
#bookreview
by
Jared Woodcox
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Prepare to be transported into the mystical land of Malgar, where shadows hold secrets, power, and danger. In Journey to Torcia, Jared Woodcox crafts a thrilling tale of courage, friendship, and the fine line between fear and acceptance. 🌌✨
👉The story follows three young shadow casters—Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel—who train within the newly reinstated Legion of Shadow Casters. Once protectors of peace, these skilled casters summon creatures and weapons from shadows, wielding a unique power that once united their world. But in Malgar, shadow casters are feared as much as they’re needed. A purge nearly wiped them out in the past, and though they’ve returned, deep-rooted suspicion and prejudice against their kind still linger like a dark cloud over society. 🌑🕊️
👉Each character brings something special to the narrative, making the story both engaging and emotionally resonant. Kaito, with his confident leadership, serves as a symbol of hope; Sumi’s determination is unbreakable as she fights for the future of shadow casting; and Nigel, seeking belonging and purpose, reveals the deep internal conflicts that resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. Together, they must navigate an intricate web of alliances and betrayals, proving their loyalty to a world that still fears their abilities. 🌠🔥
👉What I loved most about Journey to Torcia is Woodcox’s exceptional world-building. Malgar is a living, breathing entity, with its complex past and societal fractures shaping every page. The history of the Shadow Caster Purge looms like a ghost over the characters, making the story as much about societal healing as it is about personal growth. The plot is immersive and fast-paced, pulling you deeper into the story with every twist and layer of intrigue. The book also beautifully examines the struggle between tradition and progress, as the trio must decide how to preserve their legacy while navigating the new complexities of their world. ⚔️💫
Highly recommended book
Happy reading 😁 😁
#bookreview
May 3, 2025
This book takes its readers on an exciting adventure in the land of Malgar. The story revolves around three young shadow casters—Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel—who are training to become powerful protectors of their world. In Malgar, shadow casters have the unique ability to summon creatures and weapons from shadows, but their art has been threatened by fear and prejudice. The book explores their journey as they strive to restore balance in a society that has turned against them.
The world of Malgar is rich and vibrant, filled with magic and danger. The author does a great job of creating a setting where the essence of balance is crucial to life. All the characters are well developed and the way they solve their challenges is mind-blowing.
Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel each have their own personal struggles, but together they learn the importance of standing united. Their growth throughout the book is inspiring, and it highlights the strength that comes from working together in difficult times. The author effectively portrays the tension between tradition and innovation, making the characters' journey more compelling.
The pacing of the book is engaging, with a mix of action, suspense, and emotional moments. The author skillfully builds tension as the characters encounter various obstacles. The stakes are high, and readers will find themselves rooting for Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel as they work to prove their worth and mend the fractures in their world. The writing style is accessible, making it easy for readers of all ages to immerse themselves in the story.
What I loved the most apart from the characters is the exploration of themes such as friendship, courage, and the fight against prejudice. The characters’ growth throughout the book is inspiring, and their journey serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity.
Overall this is a captivating book. I absolutely loved it and I can't wait to read more books from the series
The world of Malgar is rich and vibrant, filled with magic and danger. The author does a great job of creating a setting where the essence of balance is crucial to life. All the characters are well developed and the way they solve their challenges is mind-blowing.
Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel each have their own personal struggles, but together they learn the importance of standing united. Their growth throughout the book is inspiring, and it highlights the strength that comes from working together in difficult times. The author effectively portrays the tension between tradition and innovation, making the characters' journey more compelling.
The pacing of the book is engaging, with a mix of action, suspense, and emotional moments. The author skillfully builds tension as the characters encounter various obstacles. The stakes are high, and readers will find themselves rooting for Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel as they work to prove their worth and mend the fractures in their world. The writing style is accessible, making it easy for readers of all ages to immerse themselves in the story.
What I loved the most apart from the characters is the exploration of themes such as friendship, courage, and the fight against prejudice. The characters’ growth throughout the book is inspiring, and their journey serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity.
Overall this is a captivating book. I absolutely loved it and I can't wait to read more books from the series
April 9, 2025
Book Review: Journey to Torcia (Shadow Casters Series Book 1) by Jared Woodcox
Journey to Torcia is a riveting debut in Jared Woodcox’s Shadow Casters Series—a high-stakes fantasy adventure brimming with magic, mystery, and moral complexity. Set in the richly imagined world of Malgar, where shadow casting was once revered and is now viewed with suspicion, the story deftly explores themes of identity, redemption, and the cost of power.
At the heart of the tale are three compelling young protagonists—Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel—each with distinct voices and inner conflicts that drive their journey. Their training within the newly reinstated Legion of Shadow Casters becomes a crucible, forcing them to confront both internal doubts and external threats in a land still haunted by the scars of a brutal purge.
Woodcox’s prose balances lyrical world-building with cinematic action, and the lore of the shadow casters is both original and intriguing. The creatures and weapons they summon from the shadows add an immersive magical layer, while the political tension and anti-caster prejudice give the narrative real-world emotional resonance.
What elevates Journey to Torcia beyond a typical coming-of-age fantasy is its exploration of legacy and prejudice. The cast must not only master their craft, but also carry the burden of a tainted past, making their victories feel hard-won and deeply personal.
With twists, betrayals, and an undercurrent of mystery, this is a story that keeps you turning pages. Perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson, Tamora Pierce, or Leigh Bardugo, Journey to Torcia is a promising start to what’s sure to be an epic saga.
Verdict: A compelling, character-driven fantasy full of magic, heart, and shadowy intrigue. Woodcox casts a spell that will leave readers eager for the next installment.
Journey to Torcia is a riveting debut in Jared Woodcox’s Shadow Casters Series—a high-stakes fantasy adventure brimming with magic, mystery, and moral complexity. Set in the richly imagined world of Malgar, where shadow casting was once revered and is now viewed with suspicion, the story deftly explores themes of identity, redemption, and the cost of power.
At the heart of the tale are three compelling young protagonists—Kaito, Sumi, and Nigel—each with distinct voices and inner conflicts that drive their journey. Their training within the newly reinstated Legion of Shadow Casters becomes a crucible, forcing them to confront both internal doubts and external threats in a land still haunted by the scars of a brutal purge.
Woodcox’s prose balances lyrical world-building with cinematic action, and the lore of the shadow casters is both original and intriguing. The creatures and weapons they summon from the shadows add an immersive magical layer, while the political tension and anti-caster prejudice give the narrative real-world emotional resonance.
What elevates Journey to Torcia beyond a typical coming-of-age fantasy is its exploration of legacy and prejudice. The cast must not only master their craft, but also carry the burden of a tainted past, making their victories feel hard-won and deeply personal.
With twists, betrayals, and an undercurrent of mystery, this is a story that keeps you turning pages. Perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson, Tamora Pierce, or Leigh Bardugo, Journey to Torcia is a promising start to what’s sure to be an epic saga.
Verdict: A compelling, character-driven fantasy full of magic, heart, and shadowy intrigue. Woodcox casts a spell that will leave readers eager for the next installment.
June 17, 2025
The story begins in a world where shadow casting was once a common thing, it had been made illegal in the past where all shadow casters were eliminated and anyone who could cast hid or cast in secret. After the great Purge of shadow casters, the quality of life in Malgar plummeted. As time went on, more and more Malgarians spoke out in wanting shadow casting to return to society. The Legion of Shadow Casters was formed to be defenders in certain towns.
We first find Kaito, Nigel, and Katasumi preparing to take their Daylight Trials test in order to obtain their certification to be LoSC officers. Once they pass there trials they are sent on their very first commission that will prove to the LoSC how much they have learned in their training.
The shodow casting reminded me a lot Pokemon. As Shadow Casters they can cast shadows and pull defense animals or weapons into the tangible realm to help them fight opponents. This book explores themes of overcoming your insecurities and gaining confidence in your own abilities, jealousy, and competition, suspicion. Character development is strong as we learn about each of their families along with what they mean to each other and how they are a team first and foremost.
This was not a page turner for me. It seemed slow and just when I thought it was picking up, it would turn slow again. The fight scenes are drawn out and I am already not a fan of fight scenes since in book form I lose track of who is doing what. Not a major cliffhanger at the end but there are many lingering questions that will make for an interesting book 2.
I received an advance review copy for free and leaving this review voluntarily.
We first find Kaito, Nigel, and Katasumi preparing to take their Daylight Trials test in order to obtain their certification to be LoSC officers. Once they pass there trials they are sent on their very first commission that will prove to the LoSC how much they have learned in their training.
The shodow casting reminded me a lot Pokemon. As Shadow Casters they can cast shadows and pull defense animals or weapons into the tangible realm to help them fight opponents. This book explores themes of overcoming your insecurities and gaining confidence in your own abilities, jealousy, and competition, suspicion. Character development is strong as we learn about each of their families along with what they mean to each other and how they are a team first and foremost.
This was not a page turner for me. It seemed slow and just when I thought it was picking up, it would turn slow again. The fight scenes are drawn out and I am already not a fan of fight scenes since in book form I lose track of who is doing what. Not a major cliffhanger at the end but there are many lingering questions that will make for an interesting book 2.
I received an advance review copy for free and leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
I really enjoyed this YA coming of age story that follows three friends stepping into their roles as shadow casters in a world still recovering from the Shadow Caster Purge. Kaito comes in a little too sure of himself after a perfect trial score, but you really see his arc as he learns that strength without humility can be dangerous when power carries weight. Sumi, the orphan girl with the biggest heart, is curious, loyal, and always striving to grow, and Nigel is that quietly determined, book smart friend who keeps trying even when things don’t go quite right the first time. Their dynamics feel real, supportive, and sometimes messy in the way friendships are when everyone is growing at their own pace.
The magical system of shadow casting is beautiful and layered, and the story weaves in political tensions, old fears, and the question of how to rebuild trust in a world still split on whether shadow casters should exist at all. There are betrayals, shifting alliances, and moments that make you stop and think about responsibility, identity, and what it means to stand firm in who you are. The audiobook performance by Aaron Smith was genuinely well done. The voices, tone, and emotional pacing made the journey feel immersive and easy to sink into. I already know I’ll be thinking about these characters for a while and look forward to listening to the next books in the series.
The magical system of shadow casting is beautiful and layered, and the story weaves in political tensions, old fears, and the question of how to rebuild trust in a world still split on whether shadow casters should exist at all. There are betrayals, shifting alliances, and moments that make you stop and think about responsibility, identity, and what it means to stand firm in who you are. The audiobook performance by Aaron Smith was genuinely well done. The voices, tone, and emotional pacing made the journey feel immersive and easy to sink into. I already know I’ll be thinking about these characters for a while and look forward to listening to the next books in the series.
September 14, 2025
Three friends. One shared goal. To become officers in the Legion of Shadow Casters. The trial awaiting them will be more challenging than any of them could have imagined. It will test every bit of skill and knowledge each of them has. But it will also serve as further lesson that will grant them everything they need for not just immediate success, but continuing growth along the way.
Jared Woodcox beautifully introduces us to a magical world reminiscent of the Potterverse with a hint of Pokémon, or maybe even Yugioh. The dynamic shared between the three main characters--Nigel, Kaito and Sumi--is a stunning representation of chosen family. And the world building? CHEF'S KISS BRILLIANT.
Everything is described so clearly that even I, with my annoying-at-times aphantasia (look it up, it's a thing), could picture it all in my own special way.
I highly recommend this story, and I'm thrilled to give it a shining four stars!!
Ravenheart Rating: 8/10 only because my neurospicy brain was a little overwhelmed with all the details you'd expect out of book one.
Spice Factor: Level 0
Jared Woodcox beautifully introduces us to a magical world reminiscent of the Potterverse with a hint of Pokémon, or maybe even Yugioh. The dynamic shared between the three main characters--Nigel, Kaito and Sumi--is a stunning representation of chosen family. And the world building? CHEF'S KISS BRILLIANT.
Everything is described so clearly that even I, with my annoying-at-times aphantasia (look it up, it's a thing), could picture it all in my own special way.
I highly recommend this story, and I'm thrilled to give it a shining four stars!!
Ravenheart Rating: 8/10 only because my neurospicy brain was a little overwhelmed with all the details you'd expect out of book one.
Spice Factor: Level 0
January 13, 2026
I’m sorry, but this was a DNF at about halfway through. It has an interesting prologue with a general (?) attacking a city (?) and then a “three weeks earlier” at the start of the first chapter. Weird, but okay, I’m familiar with how Ice Monster Prologues work.
This also felt like Pokémon. For those who like Pokémon that’s probably a plus, but the mechanics of the magic system didn’t make sense to me as someone very unfamiliar with Pokémon. The fights were clunky with the protagonists standing off to the side. There were some clever bits, I’ll admit, but the characters weren’t likable enough to make forcing my way through the magic system worth it. There was also a lot of “tell not show” that made the exposition a little dull.
The biggest deterrent was the pacing. I got all the way to chapter 19, and an entire *quarter* of the book was the main characters’ final exam. Sure it explored the magic system, but over *ten chapters* of a final exam is way too much.
Anyway. Other people might like it, but it wasn’t for me.
This also felt like Pokémon. For those who like Pokémon that’s probably a plus, but the mechanics of the magic system didn’t make sense to me as someone very unfamiliar with Pokémon. The fights were clunky with the protagonists standing off to the side. There were some clever bits, I’ll admit, but the characters weren’t likable enough to make forcing my way through the magic system worth it. There was also a lot of “tell not show” that made the exposition a little dull.
The biggest deterrent was the pacing. I got all the way to chapter 19, and an entire *quarter* of the book was the main characters’ final exam. Sure it explored the magic system, but over *ten chapters* of a final exam is way too much.
Anyway. Other people might like it, but it wasn’t for me.
September 14, 2025
Ok! I am not one to usually leave reviews, but I LOVED this book so much! It is just so creatively done. The world that Jared Woodcox created here is just brilliant...and it was one of those page-turners that- as I approached the end of the story, I wanted to somehow make it last longer. Luckily, I didn't have to wait too painfully long for the next book in the series to come out. The second Shadow Caster Book, Defense at Huo Quiana- was just as fun and made for a wonderful summer read. I am impatiently awaiting the next release and will be pre-ordering as soon as I have the option. Jared was generous, however, in that he did release a shorter novella to tide us fans over until that happens. Thank you so much for such a delightful reading experience! Truly, a joy to delve into the world of Shadow Casting, especially in the midst of what seems to be an EXTRA intense time in the US and the World. May continued success be yours! You've got a fan in me!
June 27, 2025
This is an imaginative concept for a fantasy - Harry Potter meets Pokemon. I loved the idea of the shadow creatures and the shadow weapons. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The world building and the detail involved in the development of this aspect of the work was phenomenal. I loved all the factoids about the different creatures' abilities. It added so much to the work. Another great feature of the book is the drawing of the characters. Most are well developed with clear flaws and clear strengths (except maybe for Sumi, who is a bit of a Mary Sue for some reason, but she was more of a side character). I loved their eccentricities that made them unique. The book is gripping enough that it kept me reading. There are lots of pulse pounding moments where you're on the edge of your seat. I enjoyed spending time with the characters.
February 22, 2025
Audiobook: This was my first experience with this author's work, and I enjoyed it a lot. I appreciated all the worldbuilding. I was amazed by the complex properties of the magical system and the history of shadow casting. I enjoyed the varied shadow creatures. I liked the three trainee shadow casters and their friendships. I was intrigued by the machinations of those who wanted to suppress the power of the shadow casters. I was entertained by Aaron Smith's narration as his performance was a joy to listen to and easy to follow. I was given a copy of the audiobook through Spotify. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
January 3, 2025
I want to start by talking about some of the things that I liked about this book. I thought the idea of shadow puppets coming to life was very interesting. The world is exciting and fun to get lost in.
The pacing of this book was difficult. It started very slow. Just when I thought it was about to pick up we got a history lesson of Shadow Casters. Then it would pick up and slow down and pick up and slow down with a mediocre climax and a drawn out ending without much of a cliffhanger. There are certainly some unanswered questions for the sequel so that gives some incentive to stick with the series.
The pacing of this book was difficult. It started very slow. Just when I thought it was about to pick up we got a history lesson of Shadow Casters. Then it would pick up and slow down and pick up and slow down with a mediocre climax and a drawn out ending without much of a cliffhanger. There are certainly some unanswered questions for the sequel so that gives some incentive to stick with the series.
May 23, 2025
this was a strong start to this series, it had that element that I was looking for from the description. It was written well and had that world development that I was looking for and enjoyed the overall concept. It had a strong plot and had that character development that I was looking for. Jared Woodcox has a strong writing style and can't wait for more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 23, 2025
I love the overall concept of this book and there is enough intrigue in this story to make me excited to keep reading. However, sometimes the sentence structure and overall pacing can take me somewhat out of what I’m reading. And the ending felt somewhat abrupt, although not a cliff hanger, so I’m curious to see how book 2 starts off! That being said, the foundation is really solid, the narrator is fantastic, and I can’t wait to read the next book.
March 25, 2025
This book is very entertaining. Once I started it i could not put it down. I will definitely read the second one in the series! 100% recommend. This is coming from somebody who doesn’t like fantasy books but I absolutely loved this one. Jared Woodcox did a great job. I ment him at a book store and he seemed like he really cared about his book, so you should too!
June 18, 2025
If you're looking for a fantasy that's more than just adventure, check this out! It's a story about prejudice, finding trust, and the choices people make. The world is rich and the characters feel real. It's a gripping read, with moments that will definitely make you think. Highly recommend! Thank you to for this Advanced copy for my honest review.
September 23, 2024
A Dark Journey Toward Redemption
This compelling fantasy follows three young casters navigating a world on the edge of collapse. Rich in world-building and moral complexity, it explores themes of prejudice, trust, and the balance between light and shadow. Gripping and immersive.
This compelling fantasy follows three young casters navigating a world on the edge of collapse. Rich in world-building and moral complexity, it explores themes of prejudice, trust, and the balance between light and shadow. Gripping and immersive.
October 24, 2024
It takes readers on a journey where shadows harbor secrets and power. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the beginning of Nigel, Sumi, and Kaito's odyssey within the Legion of Shadow Casters. I can't wait to see what unfolds next for this powerful trio.
March 22, 2025
What a great YA read. Great characters, plot setting, and all that. My only complaint was that sometimes it read a little simplistic for an older reader, and then I remembered that it is for YA. Thus, perfect.
October 22, 2025
This book is amazing. I love the world the book takes place in and the idea of shadow casting. The bond between the three Shadow Casters creates a fun and special place in my heart and I love the character development of the main characters. I’m so excited to read more.
December 14, 2025
Great start to a promising series! It's tough to find an original voice in fantasy, but I think this author totally nailed it. He took inspiration from other works and gave it his own twist. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
May 16, 2025
I enjoyed the premise and the overall plot. This could have been much better had it been edited down. It was much too detailed, especially in the beginning.
December 21, 2025
Exceptional story telling! Highly recommended if you enjoy fantasy reads. I enjoyed following along on the journey with Kaito, Sumi, Nigel and Ranger.
January 14, 2026
Really unique story and magic system. Great read.
September 22, 2025
5/5 STARS! What a fun & fantastic fantasy adventure this is. I loved the friendship between the 3 main characters & how the story unfolded. It’s action packed from start to finish & I can’t wait to continue the series. The magic is creative & the world building is perfect. Definitely a solid read! Audiobook narration is on point with excellent voice acting.
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December 11, 2025This book blew me away!
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