Devotion's Dawn: A Shadow Casters Short Story

by Jared Woodcox

He believed shadow casters were extinct. Now he’s sworn to protect them.Cylos dreams of the old days from his father’s stories, when the legendary shadow casters defended the world. But it’s been over twenty-five years since the Purge, and he’s convinced casters are little more than fairy tales… and without their protection, Malgar is descending into chaos.

But after he strikes an unlikely friendship with an old hermit in the mountains above his village, Cylos makes a shocking shadow casters are still alive. Scattered and hunted because of their powers, their magical art threatens to fade into obscurity.

Desperate to preserve the few remaining casters and end their persecution, Cylos vows to help them–but as he’s plunged into a murky and dangerous world of ambivalence and terror, his resolve will be pushed to the breaking point as he’s forced to decide where his loyalties truly lie.

Will Cylos have the fortitude to stand between the shadow casters and annihilation? Can he uphold his oath when it means risking everything?

Discover this epic standalone prequel adventure in the Shadow Casters series! With deep worldbuilding and high-octane action, Devotion’s Dawn is a must-read for existing fans of the series and new readers alike.

162 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 29, 2024

About the author

Jared 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.

Reviews

[T.N. Traynor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engrossing read

This is a prequel and I look forward to reading book 1 of the Shadow Caster Series.
I will admit I was attracted to the cover, very atmospheric and I could tell at a glance this would be my cup of tea. I wasn't disappointed!
When young Cylos learns that the new mountain hermit is a Caster he is surprised but not shocked as his parents always regaled him with how wonderful life had been when Casters were admired and respected, unlike now, when they are hunted.
He learns a lot from Belza but ultimately finds he must face his fears alone.
The shadow creations are very well described and unique, a great fantasy aspect.
This story has a lot of depth and heart.
It is not fast paced but an engrossing read that kept me turning pages.
I look forward to more books.

[Tace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very fast-paced, easy read! I had the chance to meet this author at Dragonsteel in 2025 and I’m excited to delve more into his books!

While I have a few minor thoughts on some of the stylistic writing choices, overall I enjoyed the plot and characters in this story. I read the novella first, so now I’m excited to dig into more of the world in the next books. Cannot wait to see where the future of the shadowcasters goes!

[Kirstin Dobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Shadow Carters books, and this prequel just adds to the whole series. It gives a delightful setup to later storylines and overall Shadow Caster world.

[Ultimate World · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Devotion's Dawn: A Shadow Casters Short Story by Jared Woodcox

In Devotion's Dawn, Jared Woodcox delivers a powerful and action-packed prequel to the Shadow Casters series, offering both longtime fans and new readers an emotionally gripping entry point into the rich world of Malgar. This standalone short story is a masterclass in compact storytelling, combining vivid worldbuilding, heart-pounding tension, and a deeply personal journey of truth, courage, and sacrifice.

The story follows Cylos, a young man raised on fading legends of the once-revered shadow casters—now thought extinct after the Purge. Disillusioned by a world unraveling into chaos, Cylos’s world shifts dramatically when he befriends an old hermit and uncovers a staggering truth: the casters still exist, scattered and hunted. What begins as curiosity quickly spirals into a mission with life-altering stakes as Cylos is forced to choose between comfort and conviction, loyalty and justice.

Woodcox excels at immersing readers in a world where magic and myth blur into political tension and moral complexity. The pacing is sharp, the stakes high, and the emotional arc of Cylos is both compelling and relatable. Through him, we see the weight of legacy, the courage of resistance, and the cost of devotion.

Devotion’s Dawn is more than a fantasy adventure—it’s a story about standing up for what’s right when the world looks the other way. With its immersive setting, dynamic characters, and resonant themes, this short story proves that even in a novella-length tale, Woodcox can cast a powerful spell.

A must-read prequel that adds depth to the Shadow Casters universe and leaves you eager for more.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: I enjoyed this story a lot. I admired the worldbuilding and the creative idea of shadow creatures. I was amazed by the variety and unusual capabilities of these creatures. I liked Cylos and his relationship with the hermit. There were times when I was on the edge of my seat. I appreciated the twists and the flashes of humor which added to my enjoyment of the tale. I thought Aaron Smith's narration was brilliant, and I enjoyed his performance from the beginning until the end. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.

[Yomi Akinode · Rating 4 out of 5]

soul shadow -
It is a fantasy where Cylos Phetos, a major character, is growing amidst challenges. He is surprised to learn about the existence of a group of magical entities, the shadow casters, and wishes to join them. But is he ready and capable?
The youthful protagonist is engaging, the setting feels real, and the prepping for the series is well set up—a good read.

[Amy Nielsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't looked up anything else about this book like if any books spin off of this but I thoroughly enjoyed this short little book about magic, dreaming, hopes, and doing the right thing. Such a great message. For such a short book, the world building was great. And so many unanswered questions could really lead to a great series.

[Audrey Harty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great prequel book! I’d already read the first book in the Woodcox’s series and Devotion’s Dawn was a fun way to see into the world’s past and learn of places and people who haven’t otherwise been in the series so far.

[Gable Roth · Rating 4 out of 5]

OK wow! This book was a lot more engaging than the original Shadow Casters book. It is only a short story and there isn't nearly as much casting in it but it was very exciting! I hope that the future books are more like this one!

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written and surprisingly satisfying read.

[Miranda Summerset · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 STARS! Prequels can be really good or really unnecessary, but this one was fantastic fun. I listened to the audiobook & it had great narration & was super immersive. This was a really entertaining & magical adventure. The setting is one you could feel & I loved Cylos. He was a very well written protagonist who you rooted for. This is a unique journey, & a really creative plot. Definitely recommend!
FTC: I received a free audiobook copy in exchange for a review by the author.