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Shades and Shadows
Corrupted doesn't always mean wicked.
After Ari Jones overhears a nurse forbidding roses, she's determined to rid herself of anxiety-induced hallucinations. That means burying her panic attacks on the compost heap. But Samael Lowood—a ghost with a smile like winter—refuses to cooperate.
When a demonic mailman appears in Ari's bedroom and offers a deal—the return of her father in exchange for a long-lost Nanorian—Sam opens a doorway to an afterlife for corrupted souls. There, surrounded by snow-dusted roses and eternal night, he tells Ari about the Nanorian: a demon's heart stolen over a hundred years ago.
With Sam's help, Ari sets out to find the Nanorian and rescue her father. But even gentlemanly ghosts have agendas. When Ari learns the Nanorian grants the innermost desire of whomever knots it around their neck, she realizes the wrong choice could be as devastating as a killing frost. Though Sam claims he wants the Nanorian destroyed, his story feels off. Either he's lying, or he's believed a lie for over a century.
After Ari Jones overhears a nurse forbidding roses, she's determined to rid herself of anxiety-induced hallucinations. That means burying her panic attacks on the compost heap. But Samael Lowood—a ghost with a smile like winter—refuses to cooperate.
When a demonic mailman appears in Ari's bedroom and offers a deal—the return of her father in exchange for a long-lost Nanorian—Sam opens a doorway to an afterlife for corrupted souls. There, surrounded by snow-dusted roses and eternal night, he tells Ari about the Nanorian: a demon's heart stolen over a hundred years ago.
With Sam's help, Ari sets out to find the Nanorian and rescue her father. But even gentlemanly ghosts have agendas. When Ari learns the Nanorian grants the innermost desire of whomever knots it around their neck, she realizes the wrong choice could be as devastating as a killing frost. Though Sam claims he wants the Nanorian destroyed, his story feels off. Either he's lying, or he's believed a lie for over a century.
- GenresFantasy
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2025
1 person is currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
In this book, we follow Ari, who struggles with anxiety-induced hallucinations, on a mission to save her dad with the help of a ghost named Sam. This is the first book in the Darklands Series.
I liked this book, but it didn’t grab my attention as much as I wanted. Sometimes, it struggled to keep my attention, making it difficult to get through. I also don’t love pop culture references within books, and for a book that is considered YA, some of the references seemed too old for the target audience.
I did like the angels and demons aspect of the paranormal world. I also really liked the urban fantasy setting. I loved Sam and his banter with Ari; his personality was so fun. I also loved Ceph. He was just a fun character and not what I had expected from an angel.
🌹Paranormal
🌹Winter After Life
🌹Demon Summoning
🌹Ghosts
🌹Angel in a Cardigan
🌹Cute banter
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
In this book, we follow Ari, who struggles with anxiety-induced hallucinations, on a mission to save her dad with the help of a ghost named Sam. This is the first book in the Darklands Series.
I liked this book, but it didn’t grab my attention as much as I wanted. Sometimes, it struggled to keep my attention, making it difficult to get through. I also don’t love pop culture references within books, and for a book that is considered YA, some of the references seemed too old for the target audience.
I did like the angels and demons aspect of the paranormal world. I also really liked the urban fantasy setting. I loved Sam and his banter with Ari; his personality was so fun. I also loved Ceph. He was just a fun character and not what I had expected from an angel.
🌹Paranormal
🌹Winter After Life
🌹Demon Summoning
🌹Ghosts
🌹Angel in a Cardigan
🌹Cute banter
February 4, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC copy of this book.
There was just something missing but I don’t know what it was.
The book started promising, the plot line was something I was interested in. But it just missed the mark, at times it was a struggle to get through and it lacked the thing that makes you want to keep reading and not put down the book.
I did enjoy the characters but I didn’t feel any connection and there could’ve been same more world building. An okay read overall.
There was just something missing but I don’t know what it was.
The book started promising, the plot line was something I was interested in. But it just missed the mark, at times it was a struggle to get through and it lacked the thing that makes you want to keep reading and not put down the book.
I did enjoy the characters but I didn’t feel any connection and there could’ve been same more world building. An okay read overall.
February 9, 2025
My first 5 star read this year!!! I had so much fun reading this book! It felt like a cross between Percy Jackson & Supernatural that kept me on my toes every second. The character development was chefs kiss and I WISH I had the next book already because I NEED to know what’s going to happen!!
***”Welcome to the Darklands”***
I hope everyone has a much fun reading as I did - will be recommending to everyone I know!!!
***”Welcome to the Darklands”***
I hope everyone has a much fun reading as I did - will be recommending to everyone I know!!!
February 24, 2025
Rating-
DNF 13%
Genre-
Paranormal
Thoughts/Would I Recommend This?-
I just didn’t love this, and maybe I just wasn’t in the right place to read this or something, but I just didn’t enjoy reading this and could barely get this far in tbh… But I bet other people would really enjoy this if they are wanting to read a paranormal romance rn!
(Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
DNF 13%
Genre-
Paranormal
Thoughts/Would I Recommend This?-
I just didn’t love this, and maybe I just wasn’t in the right place to read this or something, but I just didn’t enjoy reading this and could barely get this far in tbh… But I bet other people would really enjoy this if they are wanting to read a paranormal romance rn!
(Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
August 6, 2025
Book Summary:
Ari Jones pretty much just had her entire life uprooted. She and her mom are moving to a tiny town in what feels like the middle of nowhere. It’s supposed to be a fresh start, but it really isn’t. For starters, Ari’s hallucinations are still very much present.
The only difference is that Ari now has reason to question whether they’re hallucinations or reality. That’s perhaps not the best news, because if they’re real, then her dad is really in danger, and she’s the only one who can help free him.
My Review:
I’m not ashamed to admit the two primary reasons why I wanted to give Shades and Shadows a try. First, that cover! It’s stunning. Second, the comps sounded compelling: Supernatural meets The Mortal Instruments. It’s kind of hard for me to pass that up. I would like to add one more comp to the list, as many parts of this book reminded me of the setting for Coraline (the house, the mysterious landlady who knows more about the property, etc).
Overall, I’d say that Shades and Shadows is a lighter foray into the world of fantasy and the paranormal. While it does deal with death and other more permanent stakes, it never feels overly dark. The banter between Ari and Sam probably helps there.
The world itself is probably the highlight of the story, as Ashley Lester can certainly describe a scene! I was less attached to her characters than I would have liked, but the worldbuilding really got me hooked. On that note, I do think the character development could have been pushed a bit more, which would have also helped encourage reader attachment, so it’s a win-win.
Shades and Shadows is a quick and fun read. The worldbuilding is phenomenal, and the inclusion of biblically accurate demons and angels made me smile. It’s full of lore and references, and thus is a great starting point for newer fantasy lovers.
Highlights:
Paranormal Fantasy
Mental Health/Anxiety
Ghosts, Angels, and Demons
Coraline Vibes
Urban Fantasy (and a cat!)
Thanks to Ashley Laster and #Reedsy for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
You Can Also Find Me On:
Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks | Quirky Cat's Comics | Monkeys Fighting Robots | Storygraph | Bookhype | Bookstagram | Tumblr | Reedsy | CBR | Storylace
Ari Jones pretty much just had her entire life uprooted. She and her mom are moving to a tiny town in what feels like the middle of nowhere. It’s supposed to be a fresh start, but it really isn’t. For starters, Ari’s hallucinations are still very much present.
The only difference is that Ari now has reason to question whether they’re hallucinations or reality. That’s perhaps not the best news, because if they’re real, then her dad is really in danger, and she’s the only one who can help free him.
My Review:
I’m not ashamed to admit the two primary reasons why I wanted to give Shades and Shadows a try. First, that cover! It’s stunning. Second, the comps sounded compelling: Supernatural meets The Mortal Instruments. It’s kind of hard for me to pass that up. I would like to add one more comp to the list, as many parts of this book reminded me of the setting for Coraline (the house, the mysterious landlady who knows more about the property, etc).
Overall, I’d say that Shades and Shadows is a lighter foray into the world of fantasy and the paranormal. While it does deal with death and other more permanent stakes, it never feels overly dark. The banter between Ari and Sam probably helps there.
The world itself is probably the highlight of the story, as Ashley Lester can certainly describe a scene! I was less attached to her characters than I would have liked, but the worldbuilding really got me hooked. On that note, I do think the character development could have been pushed a bit more, which would have also helped encourage reader attachment, so it’s a win-win.
Shades and Shadows is a quick and fun read. The worldbuilding is phenomenal, and the inclusion of biblically accurate demons and angels made me smile. It’s full of lore and references, and thus is a great starting point for newer fantasy lovers.
Highlights:
Paranormal Fantasy
Mental Health/Anxiety
Ghosts, Angels, and Demons
Coraline Vibes
Urban Fantasy (and a cat!)
Thanks to Ashley Laster and #Reedsy for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
You Can Also Find Me On:
Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks | Quirky Cat's Comics | Monkeys Fighting Robots | Storygraph | Bookhype | Bookstagram | Tumblr | Reedsy | CBR | Storylace
February 16, 2025
🌹❄️
It was a great book, dark and cozy in the same time. Good-written and easy to read. Each page was so full of fun or wise quotes, I wanted ro highlight everything everywhere.
Love that each chapter had a number and it's unique name. I missed some of them while being too involved in the plot, but the ones I've noticed were both interesting and spoiler-free.
The plot falls over us too sudden from the start of the book, most of the events feel rushed, although it makes sense since we get the main character's feelings about all the things overwhelming her out of the sudden. It workes perfectly for the immersion. There were several interesting twists, I thought I knew exectly what was what, but was so surprised how it all turned out to be.
Atmospheric town and the other dimension we visit at times allow to fully immerse into the story. It has original worldbuilding, introducing many beings and their kinds, as well as unique magic and a version of heaven and hell's order. I with there was more atmosphere of events and magic - I'm more of a fan of witchy/demon powers being dark and creepy, but I guess here is a more appropriate for the younger audience version.
The characters are distinguishable and fun. The story gives enough for us to see and feel the motives of the fmc, although she can annoy the littlest bit at times - most of the time everything around her lays out as the she needs (even when she faces some troubles). She quite easily succeeds in what she decides to do. I guess I wanted things to be a bit more complicated. Her friends though are a lovely combination of characters. Adorable Sam, unearthy Ceph (gave the vibes of Castiel from Supernatural), brave Charlie, and not so brave, but still sunshiny Mai. I'd love to have more than one pow, but that might've steal the lightness of the book and it wouldn't be so easy to read.
I absolutely recommend this book, but to the younger audience. Definitely will read the other books in the series - it's so addicting!
Upd: My thoughts keep coming back to this story, I already want to reread it!
- - -
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing me with this free eARC in exchange for my honest review!
It was a great book, dark and cozy in the same time. Good-written and easy to read. Each page was so full of fun or wise quotes, I wanted ro highlight everything everywhere.
Love that each chapter had a number and it's unique name. I missed some of them while being too involved in the plot, but the ones I've noticed were both interesting and spoiler-free.
The plot falls over us too sudden from the start of the book, most of the events feel rushed, although it makes sense since we get the main character's feelings about all the things overwhelming her out of the sudden. It workes perfectly for the immersion. There were several interesting twists, I thought I knew exectly what was what, but was so surprised how it all turned out to be.
Atmospheric town and the other dimension we visit at times allow to fully immerse into the story. It has original worldbuilding, introducing many beings and their kinds, as well as unique magic and a version of heaven and hell's order. I with there was more atmosphere of events and magic - I'm more of a fan of witchy/demon powers being dark and creepy, but I guess here is a more appropriate for the younger audience version.
The characters are distinguishable and fun. The story gives enough for us to see and feel the motives of the fmc, although she can annoy the littlest bit at times - most of the time everything around her lays out as the she needs (even when she faces some troubles). She quite easily succeeds in what she decides to do. I guess I wanted things to be a bit more complicated. Her friends though are a lovely combination of characters. Adorable Sam, unearthy Ceph (gave the vibes of Castiel from Supernatural), brave Charlie, and not so brave, but still sunshiny Mai. I'd love to have more than one pow, but that might've steal the lightness of the book and it wouldn't be so easy to read.
I absolutely recommend this book, but to the younger audience. Definitely will read the other books in the series - it's so addicting!
Upd: My thoughts keep coming back to this story, I already want to reread it!
- - -
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing me with this free eARC in exchange for my honest review!
February 28, 2025
This urban fantasy novel will captivate readers with its thrilling paranormal adventures and exploration of complex moralities. The story delves into the blurred lines between good and evil, offering a nuanced perspective on redemption and the potential for change within even the most unlikely characters. Fans of morally gray protagonists and intricate magical systems will be drawn to this book's exploration of modern magic and its consequences.
The narrative unfolds through a suspenseful rescue mission that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. As the protagonists navigate a world where the supernatural and the mundane collide, they must confront their own beliefs and make difficult choices that will have far-reaching implications. The fast-paced plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, ensuring that readers will remain engaged until the very end.
With its richly imagined world, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of urban fantasy and paranormal fiction. It is a story that will linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned, prompting reflection on the nature of good and evil, the power of redemption, and the enduring allure of magic in the modern world.
The narrative unfolds through a suspenseful rescue mission that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. As the protagonists navigate a world where the supernatural and the mundane collide, they must confront their own beliefs and make difficult choices that will have far-reaching implications. The fast-paced plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, ensuring that readers will remain engaged until the very end.
With its richly imagined world, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of urban fantasy and paranormal fiction. It is a story that will linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned, prompting reflection on the nature of good and evil, the power of redemption, and the enduring allure of magic in the modern world.
February 10, 2025
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐬
𝐛𝐲 𝐀𝐬𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
- - -
Read this book if you like:
□ paranormal
□ demons
□ angels
□ witches
□ Supernatural meets The Mortal Instruments
It's been a while since I read a book that includes ghosts, angels, and demons. After reading the blurb, I thought this book sounds like a fantastic read.
It is a good read, but I felt something was missing? Maybe I expected it to be more gripping, more tension? There was less action and more dialogues. I wasn't really attached to this book. However, I loved the world-building. Especially the afterlife and its wintry scenery.
The minor characters in this book really stood out. I loved the friendships and the bond they all had together. Who knew a demon and an angel could be friends?
Overall, it was a great read. I loved the friendship between the different species. The storyline was good. I just wished there was more action. The kind of action that makes your heart beat faster.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐬
𝐛𝐲 𝐀𝐬𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
- - -
Read this book if you like:
□ paranormal
□ demons
□ angels
□ witches
□ Supernatural meets The Mortal Instruments
It's been a while since I read a book that includes ghosts, angels, and demons. After reading the blurb, I thought this book sounds like a fantastic read.
It is a good read, but I felt something was missing? Maybe I expected it to be more gripping, more tension? There was less action and more dialogues. I wasn't really attached to this book. However, I loved the world-building. Especially the afterlife and its wintry scenery.
The minor characters in this book really stood out. I loved the friendships and the bond they all had together. Who knew a demon and an angel could be friends?
Overall, it was a great read. I loved the friendship between the different species. The storyline was good. I just wished there was more action. The kind of action that makes your heart beat faster.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
February 3, 2025
e-ARC recieved but all thoughts and opinions are my own
I really enjoyed the world on this one! It felt like a combination of paranormal/urban fantasy and the more biblical demons/angels urban fantasy. It launches us into a complex world that we only see parts of through the perspective of the mc, who isn’t particularly focused on the world. Her focus is rescuing her dad which means that the world and all the details have been woven in on a ‘ari needs to know’ basis which keeps the pace rapid throughout the different worlds.
I struggled to identify with the mc in some spots but the supporting characters were always spot on personally - having their own struggles going on and also interacting with the mc.
It was a fun read and I will definitely read more of this author!
I really enjoyed the world on this one! It felt like a combination of paranormal/urban fantasy and the more biblical demons/angels urban fantasy. It launches us into a complex world that we only see parts of through the perspective of the mc, who isn’t particularly focused on the world. Her focus is rescuing her dad which means that the world and all the details have been woven in on a ‘ari needs to know’ basis which keeps the pace rapid throughout the different worlds.
I struggled to identify with the mc in some spots but the supporting characters were always spot on personally - having their own struggles going on and also interacting with the mc.
It was a fun read and I will definitely read more of this author!
March 27, 2025
An enjoyable weekend read - under 300 pages means a quick but nice read for the weekend. This book had great promise, I mean the blurb really reeled me in. However, the book seemed to be lacking something - not terrible, just like the feeling of needing more. More about the characters, more about the world, more....just more. I couldn't put my finger on exactly what I thought was lacking but it remained a niggling feeling in the back of my mind that it was just falling short. Despite this I still liked the book, and I would certainly read more from this author. The writing style is good and the characters are excellent - I loved seeing how they bonded together and learning more about them. Overall this is an enjoyable read.
May 27, 2025
Still deciding on rating, I think 3.5 stars? Maybe 4?
Shades and Shadows is the first in a YA series, and definitely sets up for the series very well. The last half of the book was my favorite: things were moving, I liked the characters and interactions... it really made me think of Supernatural x Mortal Instruments so extra points there!
It was a great quick weekend read, but what kept it from being a full 5 stars for me personally was I had a little bit of a struggle staying hooked for the first few chapters and kept getting pulled out of the story at first. But once I got into, I finished it in one night!
I would recommend for YA readers that like: demon vs angel, urban fantasy, paranormal, ghost suitor, Supernatural teenager vibes.
Shades and Shadows is the first in a YA series, and definitely sets up for the series very well. The last half of the book was my favorite: things were moving, I liked the characters and interactions... it really made me think of Supernatural x Mortal Instruments so extra points there!
It was a great quick weekend read, but what kept it from being a full 5 stars for me personally was I had a little bit of a struggle staying hooked for the first few chapters and kept getting pulled out of the story at first. But once I got into, I finished it in one night!
I would recommend for YA readers that like: demon vs angel, urban fantasy, paranormal, ghost suitor, Supernatural teenager vibes.
February 18, 2025
“Don’t get lost.” Ari gave a laugh. “Mom, please. In this town?”
Ari was lost.
While it took me a few days to actually read this it wasn't because of the book. That was due to work. If anything the fact it took me longer only made things worse because once I got into it I didn't like putting the book down. The plot and the characters are well developed and the story keeps you guessing where its headed. Usually I can work out that part pretty quicky. Reading books and watching shows and movies will do that to you. But not here. And that was my favorite part of the book. I couldn't predict it. And all that made me love it more.
Ari was lost.
While it took me a few days to actually read this it wasn't because of the book. That was due to work. If anything the fact it took me longer only made things worse because once I got into it I didn't like putting the book down. The plot and the characters are well developed and the story keeps you guessing where its headed. Usually I can work out that part pretty quicky. Reading books and watching shows and movies will do that to you. But not here. And that was my favorite part of the book. I couldn't predict it. And all that made me love it more.
February 18, 2025
read this book as an arc.....
this book was ok. nice story, fun characters , cool magic, and lil bit of romance. like the other comments i found it lacking a bit more depth and description for my taste i like very detailed characters and world building but apart from that was an enjoyable read i do however think Sam carried the book for me, without his sense of humor and comments . 3.5 stars for me
this book was ok. nice story, fun characters , cool magic, and lil bit of romance. like the other comments i found it lacking a bit more depth and description for my taste i like very detailed characters and world building but apart from that was an enjoyable read i do however think Sam carried the book for me, without his sense of humor and comments . 3.5 stars for me
August 31, 2025
Shades and Shadows has a beautifully haunting premise with ghosts, demons, and a surreal afterlife, but the execution didn’t quite land for me. The writing lacked emotional depth, the pacing dragged at times, and key plot points felt underdeveloped. The inclusion of modern meds like Xanax pulled me out of the otherwise magical world. While the concept was creative, it just missed the mark in delivering the immersive, compelling fantasy I was hoping for.
February 26, 2025
YA isn’t my #1 genre, but with the paranormal/modern magic aspect, I was very intrigued and wanted to give it a try! I think middle and high school me would have LOVED this book, but adult me still enjoyed it. I would absolutely be interested in reading the next book in the series, as it left us at a point where so many things can be explored going forward.
𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
• The wide variety of characters! There are witches, ghosts, different kinds of demons, and angels.
• The friends that the FMC makes along the way are so unique and have their own lovable personalities and quirks.
• Loads of humor and good banter between characters. I giggled A LOT during my read.
• The representation of anxiety in teens (younger me would have appreciated this a lot).
• The fact that the author wrote this book based off her own hometown and she even includes folklore from other areas in the world (i.e. The Black Church in Brasov, Romania).
• LOTS of descriptive writing! Although sometimes it was a little too much description and ended up having a clunky feel to it.
• There were a few plot twists that I definitely didn’t see coming and lord knows I love a good “omg, no way” moment.
• How the story challenges the way you traditionally think of good vs evil / demons vs angels.
𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
• I had to Google the definition of quite a few words and it almost felt like they didn’t flow with the overall writing. It had me pulling myself out of the story just to find out that “garrulous” means “talkative”. Although.. since this is YA, it could push kids to broaden their vocabulary so I really shouldn’t complain.
• Even with how descriptive the writing was, I still felt very confused on who was doing what and what exactly was happening. Maybe this has to do with lack of world-building and how quickly events were taking place??
𝙁𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙦𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙨:
• “The stars incline us, they do not bind us.”
• “The moon doesn't fear the dark; she speaks the language of stars.”
• “‘He unleashed against them his hot anger, his wrath, indignation and hostility-a band of destroying angels! Psalm 78:49’ — People forget angels are merciless soldiers."
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡: 🫑 (has a little bit of potential romance, but mainly plot focused, only 1 kiss between 2 characters and some funny/suggestive comments)
* 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐮𝐧𝐛𝐢𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰.
𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
• The wide variety of characters! There are witches, ghosts, different kinds of demons, and angels.
• The friends that the FMC makes along the way are so unique and have their own lovable personalities and quirks.
• Loads of humor and good banter between characters. I giggled A LOT during my read.
• The representation of anxiety in teens (younger me would have appreciated this a lot).
• The fact that the author wrote this book based off her own hometown and she even includes folklore from other areas in the world (i.e. The Black Church in Brasov, Romania).
• LOTS of descriptive writing! Although sometimes it was a little too much description and ended up having a clunky feel to it.
• There were a few plot twists that I definitely didn’t see coming and lord knows I love a good “omg, no way” moment.
• How the story challenges the way you traditionally think of good vs evil / demons vs angels.
𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
• I had to Google the definition of quite a few words and it almost felt like they didn’t flow with the overall writing. It had me pulling myself out of the story just to find out that “garrulous” means “talkative”. Although.. since this is YA, it could push kids to broaden their vocabulary so I really shouldn’t complain.
• Even with how descriptive the writing was, I still felt very confused on who was doing what and what exactly was happening. Maybe this has to do with lack of world-building and how quickly events were taking place??
𝙁𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙦𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙨:
• “The stars incline us, they do not bind us.”
• “The moon doesn't fear the dark; she speaks the language of stars.”
• “‘He unleashed against them his hot anger, his wrath, indignation and hostility-a band of destroying angels! Psalm 78:49’ — People forget angels are merciless soldiers."
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡: 🫑 (has a little bit of potential romance, but mainly plot focused, only 1 kiss between 2 characters and some funny/suggestive comments)
* 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐮𝐧𝐛𝐢𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰.
February 11, 2025
It was a quick-paced ride and quite an enjoyable read. I enjoyed reading Ari's story and her adventure with her found family especially Sam and Ceph. Love the little romantic undertone too! Jealous ghost best friend is so cute haha. It was lighter than I expected, given the title and description. I enjoyed reading this book :))
May 4, 2025
Mix supernatural and Nancy drew then pepper in some charmed! I need the next book now! Follow Ari jones and her rag tag band of angels,ghosts witches and shades as they save the world! I loved this book I feel the characters were all so relatable. Charlie is my favorite character, her spunk and witchy vibe made me an instant fan!
February 16, 2025
Ashley Laster's Shades and Shadow is an entertaining, action-packed novel with amazing world-building and an engaging plot.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
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