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Cruel is the Light #1
Cruel is the Light
An epic new fantasy about a demon hunter and a foot soldier thrown together in a centuries-old war… and the forbidden love that could change the course of history.
A bloody war between demons and the Vatican has waged for more than a century, with two elite soldiers now at its center: Selene Alleva, a high-ranking exorcist running from a dark family legacy, and orphan Jules Lacroix, recruited by the Vatican and unrivalled on the battlefield.
When their paths cross over a series of unprecedented demon attacks, the distrust–and unwelcome attraction–they have for each other is immediate. But to get to the bottom of the breaches they strike an uneasy alliance to avoid suspicion. With Jules posing as Selene’s estranged fiance, they head to the Vatican in search of answers. But even as Selene questions who her most dangerous enemy is, Jules has begun to suspect that it’s him.
Now Jules’ very existence challenges every truth Selene thought she knew, and suggests a terrible conspiracy at the heart of the Vatican. Unable to ignore their growing feelings, the two must make an impossible choice between love and duty.
They say love conquers all – but can it win in a war between demons and exorcists? Or will it tear them apart…
A bloody war between demons and the Vatican has waged for more than a century, with two elite soldiers now at its center: Selene Alleva, a high-ranking exorcist running from a dark family legacy, and orphan Jules Lacroix, recruited by the Vatican and unrivalled on the battlefield.
When their paths cross over a series of unprecedented demon attacks, the distrust–and unwelcome attraction–they have for each other is immediate. But to get to the bottom of the breaches they strike an uneasy alliance to avoid suspicion. With Jules posing as Selene’s estranged fiance, they head to the Vatican in search of answers. But even as Selene questions who her most dangerous enemy is, Jules has begun to suspect that it’s him.
Now Jules’ very existence challenges every truth Selene thought she knew, and suggests a terrible conspiracy at the heart of the Vatican. Unable to ignore their growing feelings, the two must make an impossible choice between love and duty.
They say love conquers all – but can it win in a war between demons and exorcists? Or will it tear them apart…
496 pages, Paperback
First published January 21, 2025
627 people are currently reading
26858 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Clark
2 books231 followersSophie Clark likes to say she writes fantasy featuring wounded girls with sharp edges and charming boys who fall for them anyway, sinister mysteries, twisted gods, and other unholy things.
She holds a masters degree in international relations from the University of Melbourne, and worked for the Australian Senate before leaving politics for good. When not writing, she is almost invariably reading; when not reading, she’s lavishing affection on her border collie, Indy.
You can find her on instagram and (less frequently) twitter @thesophclark.
She holds a masters degree in international relations from the University of Melbourne, and worked for the Australian Senate before leaving politics for good. When not writing, she is almost invariably reading; when not reading, she’s lavishing affection on her border collie, Indy.
You can find her on instagram and (less frequently) twitter @thesophclark.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,359 reviews
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January 15, 2025The cover is giving so much of Cardan and Jude, it's insane. I want this book rn. 🫣
January 27, 2025
Romantasy is clearly not for me anymore. Perhaps I've outgrown it, but this book was incredibly challenging to get through. The writing style is bizarre and creates confusion, particularly in the action scenes.
There's a serious pacing issue. A war is supposedly raging, yet the characters act as if they have all the time in the world. The plot is disjointed and has no clear path that you can follow.
The dialogue felt so immature that it reminded me of elementary school kids.
I struggled to connect with any of the characters; they were utterly irritating. Selene is portrayed as a powerful, high-ranking exorcist, yet we seldom see her in action, and her personality is inconsistent and erratic.
Jules was especially obnoxious—I can't even pinpoint why, but his presence made me want to punch him every time he opened his mouth.
The only redeeming quality of this book was the world the author crafted, which is why I reluctantly gave it two stars. I wish the author had prioritized worldbuilding to create coherence. Even the magic was intriguing but poorly developed. The romance fell flat and lacked any chemistry, making it a total miss for me.
And let’s not overlook the clichéd Insta attraction; of course, he was the most beautiful man she had ever seen.
There's a serious pacing issue. A war is supposedly raging, yet the characters act as if they have all the time in the world. The plot is disjointed and has no clear path that you can follow.
The dialogue felt so immature that it reminded me of elementary school kids.
I struggled to connect with any of the characters; they were utterly irritating. Selene is portrayed as a powerful, high-ranking exorcist, yet we seldom see her in action, and her personality is inconsistent and erratic.
Jules was especially obnoxious—I can't even pinpoint why, but his presence made me want to punch him every time he opened his mouth.
The only redeeming quality of this book was the world the author crafted, which is why I reluctantly gave it two stars. I wish the author had prioritized worldbuilding to create coherence. Even the magic was intriguing but poorly developed. The romance fell flat and lacked any chemistry, making it a total miss for me.
And let’s not overlook the clichéd Insta attraction; of course, he was the most beautiful man she had ever seen.
June 7, 2025
2 stars: ★★☆☆☆
Huge thanks to Random House Children’s / Knopf Books for Young Readers for the eARC via NetGalley 💌
i really need to stop requesting books based on their cover.
this one? seduced me with the cover & the promise of demon wars, forbidden love, fake engagement... and then handed me ✨confusion✨
Cruel Is the Light by Sophie Clark was… well, cruel 😭
i tried. i really did.
i squinted at the pages like i was deciphering ancient code, hoping things would click eventually—but the whole time i was just like: “what is going on fr.”
✦ the writing? chaotic.
not ✨mysterious✨ chaotic. just… “why is this written like a dream sequence but on caffeine” chaotic.
third person dual POV should’ve been a win but somehow it made things worse. i was constantly backtracking like wait… who’s thinking? who just said that? what dimension are we in?
✦ the pacing? criminal.
there’s allegedly a war happening?? but they’re out here slow-dancing through cathedrals, dropping banter mid-crisis, and monologuing like they're on a drama stage.
it was giving “i should care but i simply do not.”
✦ characters? not it.
Selene is introduced like some legendary Vatican-trained exorcist™ but most of the time she’s just… confused. moody. saying “what?” every five minutes.
(girl pls. you’re the main character. why do you know nothing.)
and Jules?? oh my god. every time he opened his mouth i felt my soul leave my body 💀
the banter wasn’t sizzling—it was forced. their chemistry? non-existent. at one point i swear Jules had more tension with a side character than he did with Selene. and yes, i was lowkey shipping that instead.
✦ romance? they tried.
fake engagement + enemies to lovers = a recipe for spice, angst, TENSION. except this one turned the oven off mid-bake 😭
i kept waiting for the spark… instead i got "you're beautiful." "no YOU’RE beautiful."
chemistry was on vacation. possibly never coming back.
✦ the world? kinda cool ngl.
i’ll give credit where it’s due: the world had potential. exorcists, Vatican secrets, demon mythology—there’s a rich, gothic vibe here that could’ve carried.
but everything was so rushed, disjointed, and underdeveloped.
magic system? confusing.
demon lore? underexplained.
worldbuilding? barely there.
they told me it was epic, but forgot to show me.
✦ bonus L’s:
✧ side characters dying five seconds after being introduced?? r u serious?? let me breathe
✧ plot twists that hit like a feather, not a punch
✧ vibes > actual substance
✦ tropes:
🔮 Demon Wars
🥀 Forbidden Love
🔮 Fake Engagement
🥀 Enemies-to-Lovers
🔮 Dual POV (Third-Person)
🥀 Gothic / Vatican Secrets
✦ final thoughts:
this had the aesthetic. it had the tropes. it looked like a win.
but under all the pretty was a confusing mess with zero payoff.
was i rooting for this book? yes.
did it make sense? no.
will i read book two? absolutely not.
🖇️ summary if ur skimming:
cool premise, messy execution. romance didn’t hiit. worldbuilding half-baked.
writing = headache.
proceed with caution if you're not a fan of confusion disguised as plot.
Huge thanks to Random House Children’s / Knopf Books for Young Readers for the eARC via NetGalley 💌
i really need to stop requesting books based on their cover.
this one? seduced me with the cover & the promise of demon wars, forbidden love, fake engagement... and then handed me ✨confusion✨
Cruel Is the Light by Sophie Clark was… well, cruel 😭
i tried. i really did.
i squinted at the pages like i was deciphering ancient code, hoping things would click eventually—but the whole time i was just like: “what is going on fr.”
✦ the writing? chaotic.
not ✨mysterious✨ chaotic. just… “why is this written like a dream sequence but on caffeine” chaotic.
third person dual POV should’ve been a win but somehow it made things worse. i was constantly backtracking like wait… who’s thinking? who just said that? what dimension are we in?
✦ the pacing? criminal.
there’s allegedly a war happening?? but they’re out here slow-dancing through cathedrals, dropping banter mid-crisis, and monologuing like they're on a drama stage.
it was giving “i should care but i simply do not.”
✦ characters? not it.
Selene is introduced like some legendary Vatican-trained exorcist™ but most of the time she’s just… confused. moody. saying “what?” every five minutes.
(girl pls. you’re the main character. why do you know nothing.)
and Jules?? oh my god. every time he opened his mouth i felt my soul leave my body 💀
the banter wasn’t sizzling—it was forced. their chemistry? non-existent. at one point i swear Jules had more tension with a side character than he did with Selene. and yes, i was lowkey shipping that instead.
✦ romance? they tried.
fake engagement + enemies to lovers = a recipe for spice, angst, TENSION. except this one turned the oven off mid-bake 😭
i kept waiting for the spark… instead i got "you're beautiful." "no YOU’RE beautiful."
chemistry was on vacation. possibly never coming back.
✦ the world? kinda cool ngl.
i’ll give credit where it’s due: the world had potential. exorcists, Vatican secrets, demon mythology—there’s a rich, gothic vibe here that could’ve carried.
but everything was so rushed, disjointed, and underdeveloped.
magic system? confusing.
demon lore? underexplained.
worldbuilding? barely there.
they told me it was epic, but forgot to show me.
✦ bonus L’s:
✧ side characters dying five seconds after being introduced?? r u serious?? let me breathe
✧ plot twists that hit like a feather, not a punch
✧ vibes > actual substance
✦ tropes:
🔮 Demon Wars
🥀 Forbidden Love
🔮 Fake Engagement
🥀 Enemies-to-Lovers
🔮 Dual POV (Third-Person)
🥀 Gothic / Vatican Secrets
✦ final thoughts:
this had the aesthetic. it had the tropes. it looked like a win.
but under all the pretty was a confusing mess with zero payoff.
was i rooting for this book? yes.
did it make sense? no.
will i read book two? absolutely not.
🖇️ summary if ur skimming:
cool premise, messy execution. romance didn’t hiit. worldbuilding half-baked.
writing = headache.
proceed with caution if you're not a fan of confusion disguised as plot.
January 19, 2025
3 ★'s
what to expect:
⟡ humans vs demons
⟡ demon hunter X foot soldier
⟡ fake engagement
⟡ enemies to lovers
⟡ dislike to love
⟡ forbidden romance
⟡ reverse grumpy X sunshine
⟡ knife to throat
⟡ one bed
[if you don't want to hear my yapping there's a quick summary at the bottom]
this was one of my anticipated releases for 2025 and i'm sad i didn't love this as much as i wanted. from the gorgeous cover, artwork, tropes and synopsis i thought this was going to be a new favorite read but unfortunately i was left slightly disappointed. i appreciate that this isn't your typical romantasy and the author had a unique and interesting concept but this book needed refining in my opinion. for me the characters and romance carried but plot and worldbuilding were severely lacking.
worldbuilding:
one of the main issues for me was the underdeveloped world building and magic system which made it difficult for me to immerse myself. i often found my self confused and spent a lot of time trying to work out what was even happening which took me out of the story.
you are thrown into action right at the start with many characters introduced and although the author provided a glossary at the beginning i still found it difficult to keep up. while i liked the european and roman vatican setting, there was lots of terminology used which i had trouble understanding and pronouncing.
magic system was interesting but not fully fleshed out. again there was too many elements not properly explained and information missing making it confusing. (i know i keep saying the word confusing 😭 but that's the best way to describe everything. even now after finishing this book i'm still lost about a lot of things)
writing:
this book is 3rd person with dual POVs but it's not indicated clearly who you're following which made it confusing. dialogues became a problem and i often had to go back and reread sections to try and figure out who was talking - this caused it to not flow smoothly and feel clunky at times.
characters:
i liked both main characters and if i'm being completely honest they probably saved this book for me. selene was a strong female protagonist who's fierce and powerful. jules gave golden retriever vibes and i loved his energy. i will say selene and jules were very mature for their age and didn't behave 18/19 (another reason why i liked them) which brings me onto my next point; this is listed as children's fiction/teens & YA but reads like adult/NA fantasy. lots of smoking, cursing, drinking, open door spice. this didn’t bother me but i feel people should be aware incase they plan to buy for a young reader.
romance:
this is advertised as enemies to lovers which i don't think is accurate - it's more dislike/reluctant allies to lovers. that being said i still liked the romance but i wish there was a bit more tension to build up the chemistry. there was still some cute moments (my favorite scene was when selene was shaving jules) and good banter. i liked the reverse grumpy X sunshine trope and it made the dynamic better.
overall thoughts:
it's frustrating because this has lots of potential. i think if the author can make some adjustments to the writing style and focus on developing the plot/worldbuilding going forward this could be great. i did enjoy some aspects of the book and i think for a debut it was pretty good. i will still continue the series because i'm interested to see what the author will do next with book 2.
TL;DR great concept but poorly executed
p.s. this is still one of the most beautiful covers i've seen!!
︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶
start date 13/01 - end date 17/01
ARC read
what to expect:
⟡ humans vs demons
⟡ demon hunter X foot soldier
⟡ fake engagement
⟡ enemies to lovers
⟡ dislike to love
⟡ forbidden romance
⟡ reverse grumpy X sunshine
⟡ knife to throat
⟡ one bed
[if you don't want to hear my yapping there's a quick summary at the bottom]
this was one of my anticipated releases for 2025 and i'm sad i didn't love this as much as i wanted. from the gorgeous cover, artwork, tropes and synopsis i thought this was going to be a new favorite read but unfortunately i was left slightly disappointed. i appreciate that this isn't your typical romantasy and the author had a unique and interesting concept but this book needed refining in my opinion. for me the characters and romance carried but plot and worldbuilding were severely lacking.
worldbuilding:
one of the main issues for me was the underdeveloped world building and magic system which made it difficult for me to immerse myself. i often found my self confused and spent a lot of time trying to work out what was even happening which took me out of the story.
you are thrown into action right at the start with many characters introduced and although the author provided a glossary at the beginning i still found it difficult to keep up. while i liked the european and roman vatican setting, there was lots of terminology used which i had trouble understanding and pronouncing.
magic system was interesting but not fully fleshed out. again there was too many elements not properly explained and information missing making it confusing. (i know i keep saying the word confusing 😭 but that's the best way to describe everything. even now after finishing this book i'm still lost about a lot of things)
writing:
this book is 3rd person with dual POVs but it's not indicated clearly who you're following which made it confusing. dialogues became a problem and i often had to go back and reread sections to try and figure out who was talking - this caused it to not flow smoothly and feel clunky at times.
characters:
i liked both main characters and if i'm being completely honest they probably saved this book for me. selene was a strong female protagonist who's fierce and powerful. jules gave golden retriever vibes and i loved his energy. i will say selene and jules were very mature for their age and didn't behave 18/19 (another reason why i liked them) which brings me onto my next point; this is listed as children's fiction/teens & YA but reads like adult/NA fantasy. lots of smoking, cursing, drinking, open door spice. this didn’t bother me but i feel people should be aware incase they plan to buy for a young reader.
romance:
this is advertised as enemies to lovers which i don't think is accurate - it's more dislike/reluctant allies to lovers. that being said i still liked the romance but i wish there was a bit more tension to build up the chemistry. there was still some cute moments (my favorite scene was when selene was shaving jules) and good banter. i liked the reverse grumpy X sunshine trope and it made the dynamic better.
overall thoughts:
it's frustrating because this has lots of potential. i think if the author can make some adjustments to the writing style and focus on developing the plot/worldbuilding going forward this could be great. i did enjoy some aspects of the book and i think for a debut it was pretty good. i will still continue the series because i'm interested to see what the author will do next with book 2.
TL;DR great concept but poorly executed
p.s. this is still one of the most beautiful covers i've seen!!
︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶
start date 13/01 - end date 17/01
ARC read
January 30, 2025
I judged a book by its cover, and this time the book said to me “Never judge a book by its cover, but you did, so here is your punishment.” 😭😭
I’m sorry, but where was the plot? I guess when demons attacked humans, they accidentally attacked the plot too. 🫥
This book is written in a double POV but from a third-person perspective, which made it quite difficult to understand who was who. 😭 I’m sorry (again), but the writing style felt pretty odd to me.
Where was the chemistry between the MMC and FMC? I think it must be on vacation! 😃😃 (A long vacation.) And now, chemistry is refusing to return.
So many characters were introduced without enough detail in the first seven chapters, and then they died in an instant. Excuse me? Am I not allowed to care about any side characters? 😭 The side characters I was starting to love were gone just like that, even their deaths lacked detail. TwT. So many characters were introduced but they died immediately (like it was their job).
I don’t know what to say about the MMC and FMC; I’m feeling so disappointed. ☹️ Selene (FMC) is badass, and Jules (MMC) is funny and intriguing to me, but their connection was missing.
I feel like I’m repeating myself, and yes, that’s kind of how the author wrote the introduction (repetitive) to make the details longer, I guess.
Lastly, the writing was complicated and mostly confusing to read, and the book started with so many deaths. While that was interesting at first, I ultimately need a plot. It lacks both plot and chemistry. The concept was good, but the basics were missing. I feel so bad because the cover was gorgeous, but what’s inside was disappointing. 😞
I’m sorry, but where was the plot? I guess when demons attacked humans, they accidentally attacked the plot too. 🫥
This book is written in a double POV but from a third-person perspective, which made it quite difficult to understand who was who. 😭 I’m sorry (again), but the writing style felt pretty odd to me.
Where was the chemistry between the MMC and FMC? I think it must be on vacation! 😃😃 (A long vacation.) And now, chemistry is refusing to return.
So many characters were introduced without enough detail in the first seven chapters, and then they died in an instant. Excuse me? Am I not allowed to care about any side characters? 😭 The side characters I was starting to love were gone just like that, even their deaths lacked detail. TwT. So many characters were introduced but they died immediately (like it was their job).
I don’t know what to say about the MMC and FMC; I’m feeling so disappointed. ☹️ Selene (FMC) is badass, and Jules (MMC) is funny and intriguing to me, but their connection was missing.
I feel like I’m repeating myself, and yes, that’s kind of how the author wrote the introduction (repetitive) to make the details longer, I guess.
Lastly, the writing was complicated and mostly confusing to read, and the book started with so many deaths. While that was interesting at first, I ultimately need a plot. It lacks both plot and chemistry. The concept was good, but the basics were missing. I feel so bad because the cover was gorgeous, but what’s inside was disappointing. 😞
January 25, 2025
2.75★
main thoughts:
Honestly I'm not even sure what to think about this book, I finished this book and pretty much just felt confused and also am wondering what I even read😭 I feel like at first I was mostly enjoying this book besides some of the dialogue and stuff, but then I got like 70% in and just didn’t care what was happening anymore and the lack of world building was confusing me🫣 like either I'm dumb or I barely comprehended what I was reading at the end because I wanted to be done with this book so bad.
⤷ I sound like a hater, but I was really enjoying it at first the premise was nice and I liked the demon aspect but the execution was a bit weak and I really felt like nothing happened.
characters:
Selene: I liked her I think, she was strong willed and a badass at times and has power I would like to learn more about.
Jules: I didn't hate him some of the stuff he said was funny and I liked his personality other then that I don't feel much about him🤷♀️
romance:
Another thing I'm not sure about, I see the potential but then again they also feel quite random to me😭 I feel like I needed to see more chemistry or something but I did like some scenes between them🫣they definitely need more development though.
extra:
Honestly if I had more patience with this book, especially at the end there would have been a chance that I liked it more, but right now I just don’t really care. I wouldn’t refuse to read it just because of my review because maybe I’m the only one confused and I should have paid better attention, but maybe you guys will like it more than I did.
thank you netgalley for providing me with a e-arc of this book in exchange for a honest review!!
pre review:
╰┈➤ finished on january fifteenth,2025
honestly I didn’t really enjoy this like I was hoping😭 rtc
📎pre read:👿
╰┈➤ started on january fourteenth, 2025
I saw this arc on netgalley and randomly requested, but the cover and the premise looks really good so hopefully I enjoy🤞🏻
main thoughts:
Honestly I'm not even sure what to think about this book, I finished this book and pretty much just felt confused and also am wondering what I even read😭 I feel like at first I was mostly enjoying this book besides some of the dialogue and stuff, but then I got like 70% in and just didn’t care what was happening anymore and the lack of world building was confusing me🫣 like either I'm dumb or I barely comprehended what I was reading at the end because I wanted to be done with this book so bad.
⤷ I sound like a hater, but I was really enjoying it at first the premise was nice and I liked the demon aspect but the execution was a bit weak and I really felt like nothing happened.
characters:
Selene: I liked her I think, she was strong willed and a badass at times and has power I would like to learn more about.
Jules: I didn't hate him some of the stuff he said was funny and I liked his personality other then that I don't feel much about him🤷♀️
romance:
Another thing I'm not sure about, I see the potential but then again they also feel quite random to me😭 I feel like I needed to see more chemistry or something but I did like some scenes between them🫣they definitely need more development though.
extra:
Honestly if I had more patience with this book, especially at the end there would have been a chance that I liked it more, but right now I just don’t really care. I wouldn’t refuse to read it just because of my review because maybe I’m the only one confused and I should have paid better attention, but maybe you guys will like it more than I did.
thank you netgalley for providing me with a e-arc of this book in exchange for a honest review!!
pre review:
╰┈➤ finished on january fifteenth,2025
honestly I didn’t really enjoy this like I was hoping😭 rtc
📎pre read:👿
╰┈➤ started on january fourteenth, 2025
I saw this arc on netgalley and randomly requested, but the cover and the premise looks really good so hopefully I enjoy🤞🏻
April 26, 2025
2.5 stars . ⊹ ･ﾟ𖥔 ₊ ˑ
⤷ Kind of sad because I really thought I would love this. It had many great things that made for a gripping and unique YA fantasy book. A brutal war across Europe between humans and demons, an interesting magic system from the exorcists to the weaponry to the different types of demons, and lots of political intrigue. It is the execution that fell flat for me.
I really liked Jules' character. Selene was okay. She was known as the Butcher of Rome. Supposedly feared and one of the best exorcists but we hardly saw why. Jules was so fun to read though! He was charming and brave and I loved his POV. Their relationship developed great at the start. I liked the whole fake engagement and the reverse grumpy sunshine dynamic but tbh throughout the book they had no real stand out moments for me. I didn't really feel much chemistry or build up between them at all (except when they were on the train). Jules had more chemistry with Sparrow lbr
Unfortunately it did not pull me in like I hoped it would. First sign was that it took me so long to read, I found myself not really wanting to pick it up. Something about the writing made it hard for me to follow along but idk if that was just me. It just felt a little all over the place and some chapters ended so abruptly. Could be because I had an arc copy idk.
But I really think with some tweaking this could have been great and a real stand out book. I loved the side characters, the banter, the twists, the demons we got at the start of the book (wish there was more), and isn't that just the most perfect cover! This book definitely had the foundation to be really great, but I honestly just didn't enjoy it as much as I was hoping I would.
⤷ Kind of sad because I really thought I would love this. It had many great things that made for a gripping and unique YA fantasy book. A brutal war across Europe between humans and demons, an interesting magic system from the exorcists to the weaponry to the different types of demons, and lots of political intrigue. It is the execution that fell flat for me.
I really liked Jules' character. Selene was okay. She was known as the Butcher of Rome. Supposedly feared and one of the best exorcists but we hardly saw why. Jules was so fun to read though! He was charming and brave and I loved his POV. Their relationship developed great at the start. I liked the whole fake engagement and the reverse grumpy sunshine dynamic but tbh throughout the book they had no real stand out moments for me. I didn't really feel much chemistry or build up between them at all (except when they were on the train). Jules had more chemistry with Sparrow lbr
Unfortunately it did not pull me in like I hoped it would. First sign was that it took me so long to read, I found myself not really wanting to pick it up. Something about the writing made it hard for me to follow along but idk if that was just me. It just felt a little all over the place and some chapters ended so abruptly. Could be because I had an arc copy idk.
But I really think with some tweaking this could have been great and a real stand out book. I loved the side characters, the banter, the twists, the demons we got at the start of the book (wish there was more), and isn't that just the most perfect cover! This book definitely had the foundation to be really great, but I honestly just didn't enjoy it as much as I was hoping I would.
November 13, 2025
— 5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"She was a Roman exorcist. Protector of humanity. And sometimes that meant forgoing hers."
📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 512 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Sophie Clark
⏳ 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡: Duology
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Penguin Books
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 23 January 2025
What you can expect:
— Young Adult Crossover Romantasy
— Third Person X Dual POV
— Enemies-To-Lovers
— Fake Engagement
— Demon Hunter X Foot Soldier
— Humans X Demons At War
— Forced Proximity
— Only One Bed
— Knife To Throat
— Forbidden Love
— Good Vs. Evil
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: descriptive elements of a war setting, blood & mild gore, injury, adult language, self-harm for magical intent, family loss (discussed), sexual content (mildly descriptive).
𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Debut author Sophie Clark has delivered on our newest Romantasy obsession to devour in 2025 with the first instalment in the Cruel is the Light duology. I was immediately enraptured from the very first page as we are thrust into a centuries-old bloodthirsty war between humanity and the demons who wish to smother it. The action-packed beginning had my mind whirring with the well-developed world building so I definitely recommend taking the first 10-15% of the book slowly to better absorb its contents. After this the plot was smooth sailing with its well paced and descriptive writing which mentally transported me into an entirely new world. I'm a visual reader that often will pause at the end of a chapter to run through the events that I just read in my mind, and I thoroughly enjoyed the emotional journey that this book took me on. Many secrets are unveiled where foes may find themselves as allies, and allies may become foes... so you absolutely don't want to miss this spellbinding first instalment to the Cruel is the Light duology. The ending was satisfactory whilst leaving enough intrigue to leave you feeling eager for book two, so it's safe to say that I'm utterly obsessed and will be counting down the months in 2025 as I await news on the conclusion to this epic tale.
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭:
The steady building plot found within Cruel is the Light felt purposeful and well utilised with the space that it was given to grow whilst leaving enough left unsaid to leave you vying for more. I was immediately intrigued by the version of Rome that has been plagued by a war between humans and demons for centuries, and I had the best experience watching the truth unravel over time. The world felt entirely unique whilst sprinkled with a hint of reality with its locations that made it a much smoother reading experience. I was constantly trying to distinguish between what was sold as fact in comparison to the underlying truth as Jules and Selene desperately tried to discover Jules's origins and what makes him so important to the demons. Despite my best efforts I was left in a constant state of shock and awe at the never-ending revelations and plot twists that span across the entire story. I was fully immersed into the reading experience to the point where I struggled with putting the book down and heading off to fulfil my adult responsibilities, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that I knew I'd discovered a new immediate favourite within the first 100 pages. Clark's vivid writing brought the world and its ongoing plot to life before my very eyes, and after that jaw-dropping ending I'm very eager to see this world expand and evolve with its plot in the sequel to this unputdownable duology.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
Selene Alleva is a memorising, contradictory and multi-layered main character to follow on this action packed journey full of personal challenge, pain and hard truths. Known for her reputation as the Butcher of Rome, Selene is a young woman who inspires more fear and awe in her mere seventeen years of life than most hope to achieve within their lifetime. Her skills and innate talent as an exorcist is widely known... as is her shut-off exterior and lack of personal connections. Selene's sole purpose in life is to act in defence of Rome and its human inhabitants, and to loyally serve the Vatican and their fallen God. Fear is an ever present theme that is explored during Cruel is the Light and I loved getting to see the softer exteriors deeply hidden under Selene's protective layers. Not even the fearless can exist without the presence of fear, and Selene Alleva is the perfect example of that. Selene isn't a character who immediately jumps into feelings of compassion and empathy. She is wholly misunderstood character who has been forced to carry too much death and responsibilities on her shoulders from such a young age, and we are faced with the realities of her life as a result. I enjoyed getting to explore her underlying vulnerabilities and subtle growths from beginning to end, however there's no doubt that her fierce and resilient nature are what made me fall in love with her. Selene is like a feral creature who is unapologetic in who she is and I loved that for her. Selene knows her own power and recognises that she quite simply is better than most, and it's not something she seeks to flaunt or boast about. Selene simply is and refuses to diminish her own potential for the comfort of others. She regards a challenge as a simple part of life and didn't quake under pressure as the events in her life continue to become more severe. Selene is a fiercely loyal character who has never truly been faced with another to consider an equal, however those that she does care for are cherished and fought for. Despite having been rigid in her beliefs and faith, Selene's ability to adapt and learn was admirable and I cannot wait to see where her story will lead in book two.
Jules Lacroix is a mystery that Selene Alleva is determined to solve. Soldier. Orphan. Deserter. Those are the titles that have followed Jules during periods of his short life and he is committed to finding much needed answers in a world that is intent on keeping him in the shadows. When a high-ranking demon begins to show up in every place that shares a connection to him, it's more important than ever for Jules to find the answers he desperately seeks before more lives are lost. I absolutely adored Jules as a main character and love interest. Despite being surrounded by the scent of death and living with the environment of a brutal war Jules has not allowed his circumstances to cloud his heart, nor darken his sunshine personality. Having faced more loss than anybody else he knows, Jules has gotten used to the life as a lonely soldier who isn't promised the next day. Seeing him grip tight onto the few friendships that he had broke my heart as it was clear that Jules still had a lot of love and loyalty to give. As a fierce opponent on the battlefield and a gentle-natured friend, lover and companion... Jules is the ultimate book boyfriend who I constantly wanted to hug and reassure. His budding relationship with Selene was hilarious as he regarded her with equal part respect and equal part fear, and their dynamic constantly left me wheezing with laughter. He's openly vulnerable when his trust is earned and I loved seeing him flourish the more the plot continued to progress. Many revelations were made about his character to it's safe to say that I'm very eager to see where his storyline will lead in the conclusion to this duology.
Sparrow quickly became a favourite side character of mine with his imposing and alluring presence, and his unique companionship with Selene. His character is shrouded in mystery and I suspect there is much to be discovered about his history and what lead him to the circumstances in which we find him in. It needs to be said that if it had been me being propositioned against the wall by Sparrow....well, I certainly wouldn't have been able to refuse him. I’ll gladly step in and take that spot. I suspect (and hope) that he will have a much larger role to play in the upcoming events in book two and his character seems like the perfect introduction to (hopefully) explore in his own book. I was mesmerised by Sparrow's on-page presence and I honestly wish that we have gotten even more of him in Cruel is the Light. But then again... maybe I'm just being selfish. His acquaintance with Selene was a hilarious and sometimes volatile dynamic to follow as they struggled to find a common ground to stand on. Sparrow views Selene as a self-righteous girl who has no regard for anybody but herself, and he seemed to take great enjoyment in ruffling her feathers. There is definitely an opening for further development between the pair and I'm very curious to see if Selene and Sparrow will make it to the other side as either friend or foe...
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
Smooth is the last word that you could use to describe the relationship development between Jules Lacroix and Selene Alleva.. Tumultuous? Yes. Volatile? At times. The chemistry and tension between the pair was palpable and I found myself constantly grinning like a creepy person after every single one of their interactions. Seeing Jules and Selene trying to navigate their fake engagement in an environment that would cut them down and separate them at every given chance was a lot of fun considering they’re two strangers pretending to be in-love whilst knowing very little information about the other person’s character and life history. Their ability to work as a team was anything but seamless... and yet the pair were determined to make it work in their desperate bid for answers. Jules possesses a sunny exterior which served as the perfect opposite to Selene’s broodiness and I loved watching them grow and development independently and as a team. Jules in particular challenged Selene and often forced her to look outside of the sheltered wall that she had been raised within. To look over that wall and see what mysteries and answers could be solved on the other side. I was forever sitting in anticipation for that "will they, won't they moment?" and I was squealing with excitement when that moment finally arrived. Jules and Selene's development wasn't linear and faced many setbacks and complications, but ultimately their trust and longing affection for the other would come out on top. It was the ultimate slow-burn romance that felt purposeful and well developed, however their story is not yet over and it's safe to say that I'm feeling nervous for what comes next. Also... the jealously written between Jules and Selene? Swoon. Immediate swoon. Their stubbornness to accept their mutual attraction was in-turn fed back to the reader with those delicious, tension-filled moments of jealously. Jules and Selene have become a new favourite couple of mine and I cannot wait to see where their journey will lead in the sequel.
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
To say I'm obsessed with Cruel is the Light is an understatement. I didn't want to put this book down and I was absolutely gutted when I reached the end, and I'm going to need to join an emotional support group in the wait for book two. My only thing to note is to emphasis that this book is a Young Adult Crossover Romantasy. What this means is whilst it is being published primarily as YA in the book market, it does contain crossover Adult elements. To me that would mean that this book is ‘upper’ YA or even New Adult, however I just wanted to include this clarification for unsuspecting readers. Cruel is the Light does contain a (mild) descriptive and brief scene with sexual intent which is in no way as overly graphic as you would see in a Adult book, however there is no denying that it is sexual content so I'm merely flagging this for those unaware so that you can make the right decision for you prior to reading. I'm so excited for book two and I'm internally crying that the earliest this will be released is 2026, so I'll be re-reading to fill that void as I eagerly await on news.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"She was a Roman exorcist. Protector of humanity. And sometimes that meant forgoing hers."
📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 512 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Sophie Clark
⏳ 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡: Duology
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Penguin Books
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 23 January 2025
What you can expect:
— Young Adult Crossover Romantasy
— Third Person X Dual POV
— Enemies-To-Lovers
— Fake Engagement
— Demon Hunter X Foot Soldier
— Humans X Demons At War
— Forced Proximity
— Only One Bed
— Knife To Throat
— Forbidden Love
— Good Vs. Evil
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: descriptive elements of a war setting, blood & mild gore, injury, adult language, self-harm for magical intent, family loss (discussed), sexual content (mildly descriptive).
𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Debut author Sophie Clark has delivered on our newest Romantasy obsession to devour in 2025 with the first instalment in the Cruel is the Light duology. I was immediately enraptured from the very first page as we are thrust into a centuries-old bloodthirsty war between humanity and the demons who wish to smother it. The action-packed beginning had my mind whirring with the well-developed world building so I definitely recommend taking the first 10-15% of the book slowly to better absorb its contents. After this the plot was smooth sailing with its well paced and descriptive writing which mentally transported me into an entirely new world. I'm a visual reader that often will pause at the end of a chapter to run through the events that I just read in my mind, and I thoroughly enjoyed the emotional journey that this book took me on. Many secrets are unveiled where foes may find themselves as allies, and allies may become foes... so you absolutely don't want to miss this spellbinding first instalment to the Cruel is the Light duology. The ending was satisfactory whilst leaving enough intrigue to leave you feeling eager for book two, so it's safe to say that I'm utterly obsessed and will be counting down the months in 2025 as I await news on the conclusion to this epic tale.
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭:
The steady building plot found within Cruel is the Light felt purposeful and well utilised with the space that it was given to grow whilst leaving enough left unsaid to leave you vying for more. I was immediately intrigued by the version of Rome that has been plagued by a war between humans and demons for centuries, and I had the best experience watching the truth unravel over time. The world felt entirely unique whilst sprinkled with a hint of reality with its locations that made it a much smoother reading experience. I was constantly trying to distinguish between what was sold as fact in comparison to the underlying truth as Jules and Selene desperately tried to discover Jules's origins and what makes him so important to the demons. Despite my best efforts I was left in a constant state of shock and awe at the never-ending revelations and plot twists that span across the entire story. I was fully immersed into the reading experience to the point where I struggled with putting the book down and heading off to fulfil my adult responsibilities, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that I knew I'd discovered a new immediate favourite within the first 100 pages. Clark's vivid writing brought the world and its ongoing plot to life before my very eyes, and after that jaw-dropping ending I'm very eager to see this world expand and evolve with its plot in the sequel to this unputdownable duology.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
Selene Alleva is a memorising, contradictory and multi-layered main character to follow on this action packed journey full of personal challenge, pain and hard truths. Known for her reputation as the Butcher of Rome, Selene is a young woman who inspires more fear and awe in her mere seventeen years of life than most hope to achieve within their lifetime. Her skills and innate talent as an exorcist is widely known... as is her shut-off exterior and lack of personal connections. Selene's sole purpose in life is to act in defence of Rome and its human inhabitants, and to loyally serve the Vatican and their fallen God. Fear is an ever present theme that is explored during Cruel is the Light and I loved getting to see the softer exteriors deeply hidden under Selene's protective layers. Not even the fearless can exist without the presence of fear, and Selene Alleva is the perfect example of that. Selene isn't a character who immediately jumps into feelings of compassion and empathy. She is wholly misunderstood character who has been forced to carry too much death and responsibilities on her shoulders from such a young age, and we are faced with the realities of her life as a result. I enjoyed getting to explore her underlying vulnerabilities and subtle growths from beginning to end, however there's no doubt that her fierce and resilient nature are what made me fall in love with her. Selene is like a feral creature who is unapologetic in who she is and I loved that for her. Selene knows her own power and recognises that she quite simply is better than most, and it's not something she seeks to flaunt or boast about. Selene simply is and refuses to diminish her own potential for the comfort of others. She regards a challenge as a simple part of life and didn't quake under pressure as the events in her life continue to become more severe. Selene is a fiercely loyal character who has never truly been faced with another to consider an equal, however those that she does care for are cherished and fought for. Despite having been rigid in her beliefs and faith, Selene's ability to adapt and learn was admirable and I cannot wait to see where her story will lead in book two.
Jules Lacroix is a mystery that Selene Alleva is determined to solve. Soldier. Orphan. Deserter. Those are the titles that have followed Jules during periods of his short life and he is committed to finding much needed answers in a world that is intent on keeping him in the shadows. When a high-ranking demon begins to show up in every place that shares a connection to him, it's more important than ever for Jules to find the answers he desperately seeks before more lives are lost. I absolutely adored Jules as a main character and love interest. Despite being surrounded by the scent of death and living with the environment of a brutal war Jules has not allowed his circumstances to cloud his heart, nor darken his sunshine personality. Having faced more loss than anybody else he knows, Jules has gotten used to the life as a lonely soldier who isn't promised the next day. Seeing him grip tight onto the few friendships that he had broke my heart as it was clear that Jules still had a lot of love and loyalty to give. As a fierce opponent on the battlefield and a gentle-natured friend, lover and companion... Jules is the ultimate book boyfriend who I constantly wanted to hug and reassure. His budding relationship with Selene was hilarious as he regarded her with equal part respect and equal part fear, and their dynamic constantly left me wheezing with laughter. He's openly vulnerable when his trust is earned and I loved seeing him flourish the more the plot continued to progress. Many revelations were made about his character to it's safe to say that I'm very eager to see where his storyline will lead in the conclusion to this duology.
Sparrow quickly became a favourite side character of mine with his imposing and alluring presence, and his unique companionship with Selene. His character is shrouded in mystery and I suspect there is much to be discovered about his history and what lead him to the circumstances in which we find him in. It needs to be said that if it had been me being propositioned against the wall by Sparrow....well, I certainly wouldn't have been able to refuse him. I’ll gladly step in and take that spot. I suspect (and hope) that he will have a much larger role to play in the upcoming events in book two and his character seems like the perfect introduction to (hopefully) explore in his own book. I was mesmerised by Sparrow's on-page presence and I honestly wish that we have gotten even more of him in Cruel is the Light. But then again... maybe I'm just being selfish. His acquaintance with Selene was a hilarious and sometimes volatile dynamic to follow as they struggled to find a common ground to stand on. Sparrow views Selene as a self-righteous girl who has no regard for anybody but herself, and he seemed to take great enjoyment in ruffling her feathers. There is definitely an opening for further development between the pair and I'm very curious to see if Selene and Sparrow will make it to the other side as either friend or foe...
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
Smooth is the last word that you could use to describe the relationship development between Jules Lacroix and Selene Alleva.. Tumultuous? Yes. Volatile? At times. The chemistry and tension between the pair was palpable and I found myself constantly grinning like a creepy person after every single one of their interactions. Seeing Jules and Selene trying to navigate their fake engagement in an environment that would cut them down and separate them at every given chance was a lot of fun considering they’re two strangers pretending to be in-love whilst knowing very little information about the other person’s character and life history. Their ability to work as a team was anything but seamless... and yet the pair were determined to make it work in their desperate bid for answers. Jules possesses a sunny exterior which served as the perfect opposite to Selene’s broodiness and I loved watching them grow and development independently and as a team. Jules in particular challenged Selene and often forced her to look outside of the sheltered wall that she had been raised within. To look over that wall and see what mysteries and answers could be solved on the other side. I was forever sitting in anticipation for that "will they, won't they moment?" and I was squealing with excitement when that moment finally arrived. Jules and Selene's development wasn't linear and faced many setbacks and complications, but ultimately their trust and longing affection for the other would come out on top. It was the ultimate slow-burn romance that felt purposeful and well developed, however their story is not yet over and it's safe to say that I'm feeling nervous for what comes next. Also... the jealously written between Jules and Selene? Swoon. Immediate swoon. Their stubbornness to accept their mutual attraction was in-turn fed back to the reader with those delicious, tension-filled moments of jealously. Jules and Selene have become a new favourite couple of mine and I cannot wait to see where their journey will lead in the sequel.
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
To say I'm obsessed with Cruel is the Light is an understatement. I didn't want to put this book down and I was absolutely gutted when I reached the end, and I'm going to need to join an emotional support group in the wait for book two. My only thing to note is to emphasis that this book is a Young Adult Crossover Romantasy. What this means is whilst it is being published primarily as YA in the book market, it does contain crossover Adult elements. To me that would mean that this book is ‘upper’ YA or even New Adult, however I just wanted to include this clarification for unsuspecting readers. Cruel is the Light does contain a (mild) descriptive and brief scene with sexual intent which is in no way as overly graphic as you would see in a Adult book, however there is no denying that it is sexual content so I'm merely flagging this for those unaware so that you can make the right decision for you prior to reading. I'm so excited for book two and I'm internally crying that the earliest this will be released is 2026, so I'll be re-reading to fill that void as I eagerly await on news.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲.
August 22, 2024
Looking for your next Fantasy book obsession? Look no further, Sophie Clark has you covered with 'Cruel is the Light' ⚔️✨
You are quite literally thrown into exciting, non-stop action from the first page with this one. Intense fight sequences with stunning prose will keep you turning the pages well into the night. As a slow reader, it's not very often I finish a book this quickly, but I couldn't put it down. I refused!
The characters hooked me into the story just as much as the incredible world building did. We follow a multiple POV story, specifically Jules and Selene and we get to join them on such an exciting adventure whilst they bicker endlessly and fight the angsty attraction that's clearly beginning to bloom. Every character had a great development arc that I loved learning about and I can safely say I'll be thinking about these characters on a daily basis for the foreseeable.
Especially Sparrow.
Oh I will be thinking about Sparrow a lot, he is without a doubt a new favourite character and one to keep an eye on.
Allow me to present ✨the tropes✨;
- Enemies to Lovers (Hate to Love)
- Forbidden Love
- Grumpy x Sunshine (The guy is the Sunshine)
- Fake Engagement
- Knife to Throat...and other places...
- Forced Proximity
- Only One Bed
Whilst pitched as a YA, I'd definitely say it reads more upper YA/New Adult.
I would happily re-read this book over and over again, to stay in this world with these characters (especially Sparrow).
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Publishing: January 2025
Format: ARC provided by publisher
You are quite literally thrown into exciting, non-stop action from the first page with this one. Intense fight sequences with stunning prose will keep you turning the pages well into the night. As a slow reader, it's not very often I finish a book this quickly, but I couldn't put it down. I refused!
The characters hooked me into the story just as much as the incredible world building did. We follow a multiple POV story, specifically Jules and Selene and we get to join them on such an exciting adventure whilst they bicker endlessly and fight the angsty attraction that's clearly beginning to bloom. Every character had a great development arc that I loved learning about and I can safely say I'll be thinking about these characters on a daily basis for the foreseeable.
Especially Sparrow.
Oh I will be thinking about Sparrow a lot, he is without a doubt a new favourite character and one to keep an eye on.
Allow me to present ✨the tropes✨;
- Enemies to Lovers (Hate to Love)
- Forbidden Love
- Grumpy x Sunshine (The guy is the Sunshine)
- Fake Engagement
- Knife to Throat...and other places...
- Forced Proximity
- Only One Bed
Whilst pitched as a YA, I'd definitely say it reads more upper YA/New Adult.
I would happily re-read this book over and over again, to stay in this world with these characters (especially Sparrow).
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Publishing: January 2025
Format: ARC provided by publisher
September 30, 2025
5/5
Zawsze interesowałam się tajemnicami Watykanu, motywami religijnymi oraz demonami, nie ma co ukrywać, ale dodając moją obsesję na punkcie Kpopowych Łowczyń Demonów, przepadłam na punkcie Bezlitosnego Światła.
Selena jest najlepszą egzorcystką - zabójczynią demonów. Gdy do Watykanu zmierza potężny demon, to Selena ma go wytropić i zabić zanim ten dopuści się zniszczenia barier ochraniających miasto. Podczas zadania napotyka tajemniczego Jules'a, który zdezerterował, starając się odkryć prawdę o swojej przeszłości.
Sophie Clark oczarowała mnie swoim pomysłem. Uwielbiam jak do naszego świata przenikają elementy fantastyczne, a autorka miała tu sporo pomysłów jak nawiązać do religii, wierzeń i tajemnic sakralnych, wplatając w to wszystko wojny z demonami oraz tajemnice Watykanu.
Relacja między bohaterami była dla mnie cudowna! Ich energia była idealnie wyważona - gburowata Selena i zabawny Jules wielokrotnie wywołali uśmiech na mojej twarzy jak i delikatny rumieniec. Motyw fałszywych zaręczyn umiejętnie się tu wpasował, dając tej dwójce pole do popisu w pełnych napięcia (i śmiechu) scen. Chichotałam jak głupia uśmiechając się do książki.
Selena i Jules to bohaterowie, którzy posiadają maski: okrutnej i wywołującej strach wojowniczki oraz sarkastycznego żołnierza, który rzuca flirtem na prawo i lewo. Pod tymi powłokami, kryją się jednak zupełnie inne postacie. Pełne mroku, tajemnic i bólu, które wychodzą na światło dziennie, gdy ci dwoje zdzierają z siebie nawzajem fałszywe powłoki.
Mam też tu swoją ulubioną postać poboczną, której będę przypatrywać się bliżej w drugim tomie.
Choć jest to młodzieżówka, światotwórstwo może momentami przytłaczać - w książce znajdziecie słowniczek pojęć jak i spis postaci, więc nawet gdy się zgubicie, można do niego zerknąć.
Zawsze interesowałam się tajemnicami Watykanu, motywami religijnymi oraz demonami, nie ma co ukrywać, ale dodając moją obsesję na punkcie Kpopowych Łowczyń Demonów, przepadłam na punkcie Bezlitosnego Światła.
Selena jest najlepszą egzorcystką - zabójczynią demonów. Gdy do Watykanu zmierza potężny demon, to Selena ma go wytropić i zabić zanim ten dopuści się zniszczenia barier ochraniających miasto. Podczas zadania napotyka tajemniczego Jules'a, który zdezerterował, starając się odkryć prawdę o swojej przeszłości.
Sophie Clark oczarowała mnie swoim pomysłem. Uwielbiam jak do naszego świata przenikają elementy fantastyczne, a autorka miała tu sporo pomysłów jak nawiązać do religii, wierzeń i tajemnic sakralnych, wplatając w to wszystko wojny z demonami oraz tajemnice Watykanu.
Relacja między bohaterami była dla mnie cudowna! Ich energia była idealnie wyważona - gburowata Selena i zabawny Jules wielokrotnie wywołali uśmiech na mojej twarzy jak i delikatny rumieniec. Motyw fałszywych zaręczyn umiejętnie się tu wpasował, dając tej dwójce pole do popisu w pełnych napięcia (i śmiechu) scen. Chichotałam jak głupia uśmiechając się do książki.
Selena i Jules to bohaterowie, którzy posiadają maski: okrutnej i wywołującej strach wojowniczki oraz sarkastycznego żołnierza, który rzuca flirtem na prawo i lewo. Pod tymi powłokami, kryją się jednak zupełnie inne postacie. Pełne mroku, tajemnic i bólu, które wychodzą na światło dziennie, gdy ci dwoje zdzierają z siebie nawzajem fałszywe powłoki.
Mam też tu swoją ulubioną postać poboczną, której będę przypatrywać się bliżej w drugim tomie.
Choć jest to młodzieżówka, światotwórstwo może momentami przytłaczać - w książce znajdziecie słowniczek pojęć jak i spis postaci, więc nawet gdy się zgubicie, można do niego zerknąć.
July 12, 2025
Woooo me ha gustado mucho el mundo creado y como se desarrolla la guerra entre los exorcistas y los demonios. A pesar de que muchos de los descubrimientos ya los vi venir me ha mantenido igualmente atrapada capítulo tras capítulo. Me ha encantado la evolución y como va creciendo la relación de los protagonistas.
¡Que se va a publicar en español! El 10 de julio.
¡Que se va a publicar en español! El 10 de julio.
August 21, 2024
‼️ ATTENTION ROMANTASY READERS!! I present to you your next obsession ‼️
I loved everything about this book, from the world building and politics, to the lead and side characters, the tension, the simping… ugh so good 😍 5⭐️
Jules, Selene and Sparrow have made it onto my favourite characters of all time list! The foot soldier, the loyal exorcist and …. I’ll let Sparrow introduce himself to you😉
The book is written from a multiple POV perspective and it fits the story so well! Keeps you on your toes especially in the 2nd half of the book. You’re literally thrown into action from page one and it gets better and better as you go!
I believe this book is listed as YA, but it reads as a NA! It’s definitely the mature side of YA, and although I want to live in that world, I know I’d be dead in a second 😂 especially if I try to get close to Jules and find a dagger thrown at my face from a jealous Selene!
If you like these tropes, then you should definitely read this one:
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Forbidden Love
✨ Fake Engagement
✨ A hint of Enemies To Lovers
✨ Did I mention the Tension??🫠
✨ Knife To Throat (and knife to another area…)
I was lucky enough to win an out of this world proof copy at BookFest, so thank you to the publisher for giving me yet another 5⭐️ book 🫶🏻
I loved everything about this book, from the world building and politics, to the lead and side characters, the tension, the simping… ugh so good 😍 5⭐️
Jules, Selene and Sparrow have made it onto my favourite characters of all time list! The foot soldier, the loyal exorcist and …. I’ll let Sparrow introduce himself to you😉
The book is written from a multiple POV perspective and it fits the story so well! Keeps you on your toes especially in the 2nd half of the book. You’re literally thrown into action from page one and it gets better and better as you go!
I believe this book is listed as YA, but it reads as a NA! It’s definitely the mature side of YA, and although I want to live in that world, I know I’d be dead in a second 😂 especially if I try to get close to Jules and find a dagger thrown at my face from a jealous Selene!
If you like these tropes, then you should definitely read this one:
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Forbidden Love
✨ Fake Engagement
✨ A hint of Enemies To Lovers
✨ Did I mention the Tension??🫠
✨ Knife To Throat (and knife to another area…)
I was lucky enough to win an out of this world proof copy at BookFest, so thank you to the publisher for giving me yet another 5⭐️ book 🫶🏻
October 20, 2025
3,75
Bardzo podobał mi się początek, Watykan, egzorcyści, demony, podobało mi się też środek, ale końcówka poszła w jakąś strasznie dziwną i zagmatwaną stronę
Bardzo podobał mi się początek, Watykan, egzorcyści, demony, podobało mi się też środek, ale końcówka poszła w jakąś strasznie dziwną i zagmatwaną stronę
December 21, 2024
Demon-hunters, magic, mysteries, romance!
Jules is a corporal in the Vatican Empire’s army who has the most kills under his name, surviving when no one else does. Orphaned, he has no idea who he was or is.
Selene is the Butcher of Rome, an Exorcist Second Class and captain within the Vatican’s demon-hunting military arm.
Selene loathes mysteries. Particularly mysteries in the gorgeous packaging of a young French soldier. And Jules is the only link to the newly emerged Duke of Briars, first and greatest of the twelve known demon dukes. And the most terrible.
I went into this with tepid expectations. Romantasy recently has let me down. I was also worried about the setting of the Roman Vatican being overstated, but this was pulled off so well!
‘You … you have no idea how much you test me, do you? When you yell, when you get hurt … everything you bloody do.’
Jules is charming, witty, and doesn’t know what authority means. Selene is cold, reserved, and untrusting. Their dynamic was very fun to observe! The back and forth, the disguised identity troupe leading to… situations.
This read so easily! It was fast-paced and the romance never overtook the plot (my main complaint of romantasy). The world-building was there but looser than I would have liked.
‘You live to torment me.’ ‘You, personally,’ she said waspishly. He laughed more, tears springing to his eyes. ‘Well, fuck my life, I guess.’
I saw all the big twists, and I mean all of them which is always kind of disappointing, but I think this will cause a lot of excitement in the Booktok community!
High recommended three stars 🌟
Arc gifted by in Penguin Random House UK Children.
Bookstagram
Jules is a corporal in the Vatican Empire’s army who has the most kills under his name, surviving when no one else does. Orphaned, he has no idea who he was or is.
Selene is the Butcher of Rome, an Exorcist Second Class and captain within the Vatican’s demon-hunting military arm.
Selene loathes mysteries. Particularly mysteries in the gorgeous packaging of a young French soldier. And Jules is the only link to the newly emerged Duke of Briars, first and greatest of the twelve known demon dukes. And the most terrible.
I went into this with tepid expectations. Romantasy recently has let me down. I was also worried about the setting of the Roman Vatican being overstated, but this was pulled off so well!
‘You … you have no idea how much you test me, do you? When you yell, when you get hurt … everything you bloody do.’
Jules is charming, witty, and doesn’t know what authority means. Selene is cold, reserved, and untrusting. Their dynamic was very fun to observe! The back and forth, the disguised identity troupe leading to… situations.
This read so easily! It was fast-paced and the romance never overtook the plot (my main complaint of romantasy). The world-building was there but looser than I would have liked.
‘You live to torment me.’ ‘You, personally,’ she said waspishly. He laughed more, tears springing to his eyes. ‘Well, fuck my life, I guess.’
I saw all the big twists, and I mean all of them which is always kind of disappointing, but I think this will cause a lot of excitement in the Booktok community!
High recommended three stars 🌟
Arc gifted by in Penguin Random House UK Children.
Bookstagram
February 20, 2025
DNF 38%, the light is not cruel, this book is.
July 13, 2025
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
4.5 stars — kicking myself for not reading this sooner because this was so original and intriguingly action-packed!
i believe this is the first time i’ve ever read a YA fantasy novel revolving around the vatican, and cruel is the light takes catholicism as those familiar with it and spins it on its head.
cruel is the light is full of secrets and betrayal from religious leaders and family, demonic magic, and perhaps my favorite trope enemies to lovers (exorcist vs demon)
i’m excited for book two!!
not to mention my fairyloot edition is gorgina
4.5 stars — kicking myself for not reading this sooner because this was so original and intriguingly action-packed!
i believe this is the first time i’ve ever read a YA fantasy novel revolving around the vatican, and cruel is the light takes catholicism as those familiar with it and spins it on its head.
cruel is the light is full of secrets and betrayal from religious leaders and family, demonic magic, and perhaps my favorite trope enemies to lovers (exorcist vs demon)
i’m excited for book two!!
not to mention my fairyloot edition is gorgina
Want to read
October 24, 2024the moment i get my hands on the arc the way i'm gonna drop everything to read it 😌
I'm o b s e s s e d with them
need this religiously
I'm o b s e s s e d with them
need this religiously
December 18, 2024
Demons vs exorcists, protecting Vatican City, a fake dating situation that is filled with banter
A fun and refreshing upper-YA fantasy that crosses over with paranormal elements I really loved. This gave me White Hot Kiss by Jennifer L Armentrout vibes mixed with Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin.
I was invested in the characters, but occasionally I found some scenes hard to follow. Immediately from the get go we spawn into the middle of an action scene, which was great for hitting the ground running, but I also felt like I didn't have enough information to keep up with what was happening. I wish there was more explored with the magic system and the demons. I would of loved some kind of demon guide at the beginning of the book for the different levels/types of demons.
Looking forward to picking up book 2! The way Sophie Clark writes banter between her characters and builds chemistry is delicious.
A fun and refreshing upper-YA fantasy that crosses over with paranormal elements I really loved. This gave me White Hot Kiss by Jennifer L Armentrout vibes mixed with Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin.
I was invested in the characters, but occasionally I found some scenes hard to follow. Immediately from the get go we spawn into the middle of an action scene, which was great for hitting the ground running, but I also felt like I didn't have enough information to keep up with what was happening. I wish there was more explored with the magic system and the demons. I would of loved some kind of demon guide at the beginning of the book for the different levels/types of demons.
Looking forward to picking up book 2! The way Sophie Clark writes banter between her characters and builds chemistry is delicious.
November 6, 2025
DNF@56%
Conceptually, I found the story to be interesting and fresh. However the execution was a bit off for me, including inconsistent pacing, confusing world-building and a lack of depth to the characters. I also found the writing to be a bit clunky.
I certainly don’t think it is a bad book - but is not keeping my attention enough to get over the smoking/cigarettes. At the 56% mark cigarettes have been mentioned at least 20 times. 33 total times within the book according to a search.
I think there is a time and place where smoking in a YA book serves a purpose. However in a fantasy novel like this, its feels like its only purpose is to make the characters seem edgy. In the end it feels like glorifying something that kills 8 million people annually (according to WHO).
I'm fully aware that this is probably a non-issue for most people but for me it's reason enough to DNF.
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Conceptually, I found the story to be interesting and fresh. However the execution was a bit off for me, including inconsistent pacing, confusing world-building and a lack of depth to the characters. I also found the writing to be a bit clunky.
I certainly don’t think it is a bad book - but is not keeping my attention enough to get over the smoking/cigarettes. At the 56% mark cigarettes have been mentioned at least 20 times. 33 total times within the book according to a search.
I think there is a time and place where smoking in a YA book serves a purpose. However in a fantasy novel like this, its feels like its only purpose is to make the characters seem edgy. In the end it feels like glorifying something that kills 8 million people annually (according to WHO).
I'm fully aware that this is probably a non-issue for most people but for me it's reason enough to DNF.
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
May 27, 2025
1 star
To quote another review, "The light isn't cruel, this book is."
This book actually started off as a 3 star, but after the main characters met it free falled to the lower rating I could give. All of that repetitive banter is unearned because the writer never established chemistry between Jules and Selene. Jules actually has more chemistry with everyone and a cardboard box than with Selene. His interactions with Sparrow were oddly sensual and romantically (ish) charged. I thought that scene was well done and am super confused as to why the author didn't bring that energy for Selene since she's the main girl and presumably Jules' love interest.
Selene is the biggest problem in Cruel is the Light. She's all style and no substance, much like the entirety of the book. She started off as this brooding badass and admittedly the first few chapters were much better than the rest. The book chooses to describe her in all manner of badassery without backing it up with action (not actual action like with swords, I mean character motivation action). While other characters talking about Selene is a way to characterize her, all of it falls flat because Selene herself is just shell in the shape of a hot girl. I was frequently frustrated that the book wanted to make me believe she was hyper competent, but her character got in the way of the plot so often with her stupidity that I don't care that she can swing a sword or not! GET OUT THE WAY. She's not deep, she's just annoying. Feels like she didn't have a proper character arc because all the characters besides Jules arguably don't have one.
Also, Selene is not the only person guilty of this crime, but she is the biggest offender: why the fuck does Selene ask "What?" *SO* OFTEN??? I KNOW YOU'RE STUPID, don't remind me that you don't know anything and need to ask what every damn page. Huffs. The book could have shaved off 200 pages of dialogue leading up to Selene asking "what". I don't know, you're the main character, so answer things for me???
Then we get to Jules. He's got a bit more depth than Selene, but again the needless banter between those two gets in the way of the actual story and feels so out of place. It's not even funny. He gets a 23 and me surprise maybe 60% of the way in, but his whole fake lovers plot with Selene was painful to get through, so when we actually got to church conspiracy time I was hate skimming. I liked his relationship with Kian. He's definitely more fleshed out of the two mains, but his attraction to Selene was so forced. I had half the mind to cheer for him and Sparrow because those interactions felt much more organic. Bisexual Jules agenda is real.
The plot is all over the place and almost nonexistent. Poorly paced, widely disorganized. Honestly, difficult to parse anything out from this. I'm not even sure what we're supposed to be doing half the time because Selene is not good at her job or being a cute tsundere. Jules is at least trying to solve a mystery and is driven to question things.
Overall, there is a severe lack of interiority for the main character Selene. On paper, there are some things the author could have built on, but the writing focused more on telling us that Selene is such a badass and broody because of her family circumstances, but never bothers to develop that. She has all the charm of wet cardboard, and the power of YA romance told us that yeah, Jules would still hit that. Sounds fake and I'm not convinced at all. Jules has a bit more going on internally, but he can't have too much synaptic activity because he has to deal with Selene on a page-by-page basis.
Anyway, don't waste your time on this. There are many better books out there.
---
Pre-review/live reactions:
20%: I like the vibes and the world, but like the information we're supposed to be getting is fragmented and confusingly communicated. Like I legit thought Eliot was Selene's brother in the first flashback where he's mentioned, but it turns out he's her fiance. I also thought Selene's mom was dead, but she was just exiled and left her family. It's not an infodump per se, more like giving the reader fragmented is trying to build intrigue but only frusrates and wastes time instead.
I also feel like the book is trying too hard to make Selene angsty. She was a badass in her introduction, no doubt. Paired with the confusing info drip about her backstory and the equally confusing way the lore is written, the introspective morality angst is not doing her any favors with me right now.
I appreciate Clark isn't afraid to kill characters off, but the stylistic choices regarding how the reader is given info are really jarring so far.
50% Selene needs to stop asking "what?" on every other page. There's so much chemistry they try to allude to but isn't actually on the page because the girly who knows everything is also the person who keeps asking WHAT all the fucking time...
To quote another review, "The light isn't cruel, this book is."
This book actually started off as a 3 star, but after the main characters met it free falled to the lower rating I could give. All of that repetitive banter is unearned because the writer never established chemistry between Jules and Selene. Jules actually has more chemistry with everyone and a cardboard box than with Selene. His interactions with Sparrow were oddly sensual and romantically (ish) charged. I thought that scene was well done and am super confused as to why the author didn't bring that energy for Selene since she's the main girl and presumably Jules' love interest.
Selene is the biggest problem in Cruel is the Light. She's all style and no substance, much like the entirety of the book. She started off as this brooding badass and admittedly the first few chapters were much better than the rest. The book chooses to describe her in all manner of badassery without backing it up with action (not actual action like with swords, I mean character motivation action). While other characters talking about Selene is a way to characterize her, all of it falls flat because Selene herself is just shell in the shape of a hot girl. I was frequently frustrated that the book wanted to make me believe she was hyper competent, but her character got in the way of the plot so often with her stupidity that I don't care that she can swing a sword or not! GET OUT THE WAY. She's not deep, she's just annoying. Feels like she didn't have a proper character arc because all the characters besides Jules arguably don't have one.
Also, Selene is not the only person guilty of this crime, but she is the biggest offender: why the fuck does Selene ask "What?" *SO* OFTEN??? I KNOW YOU'RE STUPID, don't remind me that you don't know anything and need to ask what every damn page. Huffs. The book could have shaved off 200 pages of dialogue leading up to Selene asking "what". I don't know, you're the main character, so answer things for me???
Then we get to Jules. He's got a bit more depth than Selene, but again the needless banter between those two gets in the way of the actual story and feels so out of place. It's not even funny. He gets a 23 and me surprise maybe 60% of the way in, but his whole fake lovers plot with Selene was painful to get through, so when we actually got to church conspiracy time I was hate skimming. I liked his relationship with Kian. He's definitely more fleshed out of the two mains, but his attraction to Selene was so forced. I had half the mind to cheer for him and Sparrow because those interactions felt much more organic. Bisexual Jules agenda is real.
The plot is all over the place and almost nonexistent. Poorly paced, widely disorganized. Honestly, difficult to parse anything out from this. I'm not even sure what we're supposed to be doing half the time because Selene is not good at her job or being a cute tsundere. Jules is at least trying to solve a mystery and is driven to question things.
Overall, there is a severe lack of interiority for the main character Selene. On paper, there are some things the author could have built on, but the writing focused more on telling us that Selene is such a badass and broody because of her family circumstances, but never bothers to develop that. She has all the charm of wet cardboard, and the power of YA romance told us that yeah, Jules would still hit that. Sounds fake and I'm not convinced at all. Jules has a bit more going on internally, but he can't have too much synaptic activity because he has to deal with Selene on a page-by-page basis.
Anyway, don't waste your time on this. There are many better books out there.
---
Pre-review/live reactions:
20%: I like the vibes and the world, but like the information we're supposed to be getting is fragmented and confusingly communicated. Like I legit thought Eliot was Selene's brother in the first flashback where he's mentioned, but it turns out he's her fiance. I also thought Selene's mom was dead, but she was just exiled and left her family. It's not an infodump per se, more like giving the reader fragmented is trying to build intrigue but only frusrates and wastes time instead.
I also feel like the book is trying too hard to make Selene angsty. She was a badass in her introduction, no doubt. Paired with the confusing info drip about her backstory and the equally confusing way the lore is written, the introspective morality angst is not doing her any favors with me right now.
I appreciate Clark isn't afraid to kill characters off, but the stylistic choices regarding how the reader is given info are really jarring so far.
50% Selene needs to stop asking "what?" on every other page. There's so much chemistry they try to allude to but isn't actually on the page because the girly who knows everything is also the person who keeps asking WHAT all the fucking time...
November 30, 2024
thank you so much to sophie, netgalley, and the publishers for an e-copy! also i was lucky enough to win a proof at YALC and i'll forever be grateful!
cruel is the light is a debut romantasy read that follows Selene Alleva, a powerful exorcist, and Jules Lacroix, a foot soldier.
for over a century, a war between demons and humans has been raging across europe. as Selene and Jules cross paths, it seems that there is a secret that could change everything and forces them to question everything and everyone.
this book was honestly everything i needed and more. it was perfectly paced and i loved the world building from beginning to end and how it was all given in nice increments, instead of simply getting info dumped. i may be bias as i am from Rome, but i loved the Rome setting and how Sophie created her world around it. the magic system was so interesting and i couldn't help but tab every time we got to learn about it more simply because i loved it that much!! i mean as soon as we start, we are thrust into this world and are instantly given a taste of what to expect with the action, and let me tell you, IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! Sophie has such an amazing writing style that allowed me to truly immerse myself and picture each fighting sequence as a movie. (this would be a perfect anime js).
now onto my wife and hubby...
Selene is the perfect FMC and someone i'd follow anywhere. my girl is known as the Butcher of Rome, and is seen as someone to be feared but she is so much more than that. she is a determined, caring, and loyal person. though she may not seem that caring on the outside as she is not one to really show compassion or empathy, i think it's simply because she feels too much. she is carrying such a heavy burden and her need to save everyone.
Jules is so AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
my man is funny, my man is witty, and my man is such a sweetheart i want to curl up and cry. he has honestly been through so much and i just want him to be so happy. he is so protective of everyone, and just wants to do the right thing like i might just cry again. he is the book bf of the year because he may be soft and cuddly (imo) but he can also kill you in 0.2 seconds so.... win win?
also an honourable mention goes to my other man Sparrow. i will fight tooth and nail to have 5 seconds with him. he is literally what hope would be if it was a person. he such a fun character and i cannot wait to see more.
the romance had me on the FLOOR!!! the banter, the bickering, the TENSION. it was everything i wanted and more. i just loved Selene and Jules's dynamic more than anything and i miss them so much already. i need book 2 like yesterday (yes i know book 1 isn't out yet but still).
what to expect:
- YA romantasy
- dual pov in third person
- demons vs humans
- political intrigue
- enemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- fake engagement
- knife to throat
- only one bed
- forbidden love
- tension and banter for days
read if you like:
- uncanny counter (kdrama)
- supernatural (tv show)
- the cruel prince (book)
- fourth wing (book)
cruel is the light is a debut romantasy read that follows Selene Alleva, a powerful exorcist, and Jules Lacroix, a foot soldier.
for over a century, a war between demons and humans has been raging across europe. as Selene and Jules cross paths, it seems that there is a secret that could change everything and forces them to question everything and everyone.
this book was honestly everything i needed and more. it was perfectly paced and i loved the world building from beginning to end and how it was all given in nice increments, instead of simply getting info dumped. i may be bias as i am from Rome, but i loved the Rome setting and how Sophie created her world around it. the magic system was so interesting and i couldn't help but tab every time we got to learn about it more simply because i loved it that much!! i mean as soon as we start, we are thrust into this world and are instantly given a taste of what to expect with the action, and let me tell you, IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! Sophie has such an amazing writing style that allowed me to truly immerse myself and picture each fighting sequence as a movie. (this would be a perfect anime js).
now onto my wife and hubby...
Selene is the perfect FMC and someone i'd follow anywhere. my girl is known as the Butcher of Rome, and is seen as someone to be feared but she is so much more than that. she is a determined, caring, and loyal person. though she may not seem that caring on the outside as she is not one to really show compassion or empathy, i think it's simply because she feels too much. she is carrying such a heavy burden and her need to save everyone.
Jules is so AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
my man is funny, my man is witty, and my man is such a sweetheart i want to curl up and cry. he has honestly been through so much and i just want him to be so happy. he is so protective of everyone, and just wants to do the right thing like i might just cry again. he is the book bf of the year because he may be soft and cuddly (imo) but he can also kill you in 0.2 seconds so.... win win?
also an honourable mention goes to my other man Sparrow. i will fight tooth and nail to have 5 seconds with him. he is literally what hope would be if it was a person. he such a fun character and i cannot wait to see more.
the romance had me on the FLOOR!!! the banter, the bickering, the TENSION. it was everything i wanted and more. i just loved Selene and Jules's dynamic more than anything and i miss them so much already. i need book 2 like yesterday (yes i know book 1 isn't out yet but still).
what to expect:
- YA romantasy
- dual pov in third person
- demons vs humans
- political intrigue
- enemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- fake engagement
- knife to throat
- only one bed
- forbidden love
- tension and banter for days
read if you like:
- uncanny counter (kdrama)
- supernatural (tv show)
- the cruel prince (book)
- fourth wing (book)
October 1, 2024
Seriously look at this cover!!!
I was gifted an ARC (Thank you!!!) and read this quite slowly but man I loved it.
Its really refreshing to read about a world thats close to your own but throw in some demons!
I loved Selene and Jules sooooo much!! I really appeciated the author taking the time to introduce the characters and build up there interactions together.
Okay I just need to add that the twist is written to perfection and I need Jules to marry me.
This is deffo gonna be a best seller come Jan 2025!!!!
I was gifted an ARC (Thank you!!!) and read this quite slowly but man I loved it.
Its really refreshing to read about a world thats close to your own but throw in some demons!
I loved Selene and Jules sooooo much!! I really appeciated the author taking the time to introduce the characters and build up there interactions together.
Okay I just need to add that the twist is written to perfection and I need Jules to marry me.
This is deffo gonna be a best seller come Jan 2025!!!!
October 8, 2025
⭐2.5/5
Bezlitosne Światło to książka rozpoczynająca się krwawą i okupioną ofiarami bitwą. Początek tej historii od razu złapał moją uwagę. Konflikt, który zostawia po sobie setki ofiar, żądne krwi demony oraz egzorcyści, którzy w Watykanie szkolą się na wojowników, aby przy pomocy magii bronić dobra przed złem. Brzmi genialnie i faktycznie było świetnie przez pierwszych 100 stron. Potem niestety fabuła zeszła na drugi plan, bo autorka skupiła się na rozwinięciu wątku romantycznego, który u mnie powodował głównie przewracanie oczami. 🥲
Bohaterowie znają się od kilku dni, ale ich relacja pędzi na łeb na szyję. Jules mówi, że od zawsze uważał Selenę za piękną (znają się 5 dni), jeden z największych wrogów zbliża się do Watykanu, ale Selenę rozpraszają niesamowite rzęsy głównego bohatera... Szkoda, że autorka skupiła się tak bardzo na budowaniu uczuć między bohaterami, bo w mojej opinii wyszło jej to kiepsko.
Opisy są momentami powtarzalne (dosłownie całe zdania powtórzone kilka stron później) i mocno konfundujące. Szczególnie sceny walki czasami powodowały, że nie wiedziałam, kto znajduje się gdzie lub kiedy przeszedł z jednego miejsca na drugie. Podobnie z dialogami. Czasami musiałam do nich wrócić, bo nie do końca było jasne, kto bierze udział w rozmowie. Trochę wybijało mnie to z rytmu i finalnie książkę uważam za bardzo chaotyczną.
Wielka szkoda, bo pomysł był naprawdę super, ale niestety wykonanie nie przypadło mi do gustu. Jak zwykle jednak zachęcam do spróbowania lektury na własnej skórze, bo wszyscy wiemy, że to, co jednej osobie może kompletnie nie przypaść do gustu, drugiej może się bardzo spodobać.
Reklama @wydawnictwojaguar
Bezlitosne Światło to książka rozpoczynająca się krwawą i okupioną ofiarami bitwą. Początek tej historii od razu złapał moją uwagę. Konflikt, który zostawia po sobie setki ofiar, żądne krwi demony oraz egzorcyści, którzy w Watykanie szkolą się na wojowników, aby przy pomocy magii bronić dobra przed złem. Brzmi genialnie i faktycznie było świetnie przez pierwszych 100 stron. Potem niestety fabuła zeszła na drugi plan, bo autorka skupiła się na rozwinięciu wątku romantycznego, który u mnie powodował głównie przewracanie oczami. 🥲
Bohaterowie znają się od kilku dni, ale ich relacja pędzi na łeb na szyję. Jules mówi, że od zawsze uważał Selenę za piękną (znają się 5 dni), jeden z największych wrogów zbliża się do Watykanu, ale Selenę rozpraszają niesamowite rzęsy głównego bohatera... Szkoda, że autorka skupiła się tak bardzo na budowaniu uczuć między bohaterami, bo w mojej opinii wyszło jej to kiepsko.
Opisy są momentami powtarzalne (dosłownie całe zdania powtórzone kilka stron później) i mocno konfundujące. Szczególnie sceny walki czasami powodowały, że nie wiedziałam, kto znajduje się gdzie lub kiedy przeszedł z jednego miejsca na drugie. Podobnie z dialogami. Czasami musiałam do nich wrócić, bo nie do końca było jasne, kto bierze udział w rozmowie. Trochę wybijało mnie to z rytmu i finalnie książkę uważam za bardzo chaotyczną.
Wielka szkoda, bo pomysł był naprawdę super, ale niestety wykonanie nie przypadło mi do gustu. Jak zwykle jednak zachęcam do spróbowania lektury na własnej skórze, bo wszyscy wiemy, że to, co jednej osobie może kompletnie nie przypaść do gustu, drugiej może się bardzo spodobać.
Reklama @wydawnictwojaguar
January 23, 2025
The moment I started this book it completely consumed me and I didn’t want it to end. It’s been a long time that a book has entranced me as much as this one has it is a fantastic YA/NA Romantasy and my new obsession, I will never stop recommending this book!
It has everything I have ever wanted in a book, enemies to lovers, fake engagement, the most beautiful slow burn romance between a exorcist and soldier in a time of war who have to work together while at the same time fight the growing feelings between them, fantasy, magic, demons and twists and turns that you honestly are not prepared for. The turmoil that both Selene and Jules go through as they find themselves trying to navigate and learn secrets and truths when the world that they are living in would separate them is captured within the beautiful way it is written, as is the development of their relationship it was so well done and I loved that we had the reverse grumpy/sunshine with them. Added in with one of the most enchanting side characters in Sparrow that you can’t help but love..this book is every fantasy lovers dream.
The writing is so exceptional and engaging with amazing worldbuilding that is vivid and descriptive. The pacing was great, the plot development as well as the magic were so good. I honestly am just so obsessed with the characters, world and the writing and just everything about this book.
There is just something I would like to mention there is a mild descriptive and brief scene with Sexual content that isn’t as graphic as you might find in an Adult fantasy but still feel the need to make any unsuspecting readers aware of this before they decide to read.
I honestly can’t recommend this book enough it is brilliant and an amazing debut, if you’re looking for a fantasy with all the vibes then please add this book!
It has everything I have ever wanted in a book, enemies to lovers, fake engagement, the most beautiful slow burn romance between a exorcist and soldier in a time of war who have to work together while at the same time fight the growing feelings between them, fantasy, magic, demons and twists and turns that you honestly are not prepared for. The turmoil that both Selene and Jules go through as they find themselves trying to navigate and learn secrets and truths when the world that they are living in would separate them is captured within the beautiful way it is written, as is the development of their relationship it was so well done and I loved that we had the reverse grumpy/sunshine with them. Added in with one of the most enchanting side characters in Sparrow that you can’t help but love..this book is every fantasy lovers dream.
The writing is so exceptional and engaging with amazing worldbuilding that is vivid and descriptive. The pacing was great, the plot development as well as the magic were so good. I honestly am just so obsessed with the characters, world and the writing and just everything about this book.
There is just something I would like to mention there is a mild descriptive and brief scene with Sexual content that isn’t as graphic as you might find in an Adult fantasy but still feel the need to make any unsuspecting readers aware of this before they decide to read.
I honestly can’t recommend this book enough it is brilliant and an amazing debut, if you’re looking for a fantasy with all the vibes then please add this book!
May 31, 2025
3.5
2025 reads: 136/300
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
for more than a hundred years, war has waged between demons and the vatican. selene alleva and jules lacroix have both been thrust into the center of this war, one with a family legacy behind her and the other an orphan with no family history. to learn about the recent unprecedented demon attacks, and jules’s own past, the two work together, jules posing as selene’s fiancé. as they learn more, realizing they’ve both been lied to, they must decide between love and duty.
i thought this book had an interesting concept, and i do tend to enjoy stories about demon hunters. i think the world building could have been a bit more in depth, but maybe some of the questions i had about it will be answered in book two. the writing style wasn’t my favorite, as i felt that many scenes ended awkwardly or progressed in ways that didn’t quite make sense to me. with that said, i did enjoy this book overall, especially the moments between selene and jules. i loved their romance and how drawn-out it was. i’m looking forward to book two.
2025 reads: 136/300
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
for more than a hundred years, war has waged between demons and the vatican. selene alleva and jules lacroix have both been thrust into the center of this war, one with a family legacy behind her and the other an orphan with no family history. to learn about the recent unprecedented demon attacks, and jules’s own past, the two work together, jules posing as selene’s fiancé. as they learn more, realizing they’ve both been lied to, they must decide between love and duty.
i thought this book had an interesting concept, and i do tend to enjoy stories about demon hunters. i think the world building could have been a bit more in depth, but maybe some of the questions i had about it will be answered in book two. the writing style wasn’t my favorite, as i felt that many scenes ended awkwardly or progressed in ways that didn’t quite make sense to me. with that said, i did enjoy this book overall, especially the moments between selene and jules. i loved their romance and how drawn-out it was. i’m looking forward to book two.
October 15, 2024
I was so lucky to win this ARC at the Waterstones Book Fest in London and I have never been so excited for an ARC, especially one this gorgeous😱😍
This was everything I hoped it would be and more: enemies to lovers, fake engagement, magic, demons, war, and an exorcist and a soldier being forced to work together as they fight growing feelings between them🫶🏻
There are so many characters that I loved, Selene and Jules being the two most prominent, however a special shoutout to Sparrow and Kian🖤 they have my heart at the moment🫶🏻 I will be obsessed with them for a long time yet! Sophie please be nice to them🙏🏻🥹
I will be recommending this to everyone I know, especially if you’ve loved shadow hunters or divine rivals!!
I can’t wait to have a finished hardback copy in my hands too🙏🏻🙌🏻💙
This was everything I hoped it would be and more: enemies to lovers, fake engagement, magic, demons, war, and an exorcist and a soldier being forced to work together as they fight growing feelings between them🫶🏻
There are so many characters that I loved, Selene and Jules being the two most prominent, however a special shoutout to Sparrow and Kian🖤 they have my heart at the moment🫶🏻 I will be obsessed with them for a long time yet! Sophie please be nice to them🙏🏻🥹
I will be recommending this to everyone I know, especially if you’ve loved shadow hunters or divine rivals!!
I can’t wait to have a finished hardback copy in my hands too🙏🏻🙌🏻💙
March 30, 2025
DNF @ 66%
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a bit of a disappointment. It makes me so sad because I genuinely liked the premise. The demons vs demon hunter, fake dating, set in the Vatican City and Rome. It was incredibly unique and very promising. Unfortunately, the execution fell flat. The book was quite chaotic and confusing, the magic systems were difficult to follow and there was an extreme lack of world building to the point that i couldn’t picture anything i was reading. I would go from not understanding what i was reading, to finally getting it, to then being confused a few chapters later. Overall i just continued to feel so lost at times that a DNF was inevitable.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a bit of a disappointment. It makes me so sad because I genuinely liked the premise. The demons vs demon hunter, fake dating, set in the Vatican City and Rome. It was incredibly unique and very promising. Unfortunately, the execution fell flat. The book was quite chaotic and confusing, the magic systems were difficult to follow and there was an extreme lack of world building to the point that i couldn’t picture anything i was reading. I would go from not understanding what i was reading, to finally getting it, to then being confused a few chapters later. Overall i just continued to feel so lost at times that a DNF was inevitable.
October 4, 2025
Skończyłam i faktycznie spodziewałam się czegoś zupełnie innego od tej książki ALE to co dostałam też było fajne.
Liczyłam na większy motyw enemies to lovers i zakazanej relacji a to było mocno średnie 🥲 No i z racji że wszystko opierało się na tych demonach to oczekiwałam więcej zła i ich dużego udziału w tej książce, a no nie było tyle ile się spodziewałam.
Jednak to co wyszło, to jak się rozwinęło, to zaufanie które powstało między bohaterami i ta końcówka która ma potencjał na naprawdę super kolejną część? I love it!
Więc podsumowując oczekiwałam czegoś innego ale podobało mi się to co dostałam! Czekam na drugi tom 🫣
Liczyłam na większy motyw enemies to lovers i zakazanej relacji a to było mocno średnie 🥲 No i z racji że wszystko opierało się na tych demonach to oczekiwałam więcej zła i ich dużego udziału w tej książce, a no nie było tyle ile się spodziewałam.
Jednak to co wyszło, to jak się rozwinęło, to zaufanie które powstało między bohaterami i ta końcówka która ma potencjał na naprawdę super kolejną część? I love it!
Więc podsumowując oczekiwałam czegoś innego ale podobało mi się to co dostałam! Czekam na drugi tom 🫣
October 9, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I ja mam teraz czekać na kolejny tom…? 💔
Jestem absolutnie zakochana i w tym momencie chciałabym poznać dalsze losy bohaterów…
Ostatnie sto stron wbiło mnie w fotel, to był szok, ale wszystko uzupełniło się tak idealnie-
Jestem absolutnie zakochana i w tym momencie chciałabym poznać dalsze losy bohaterów…
Ostatnie sto stron wbiło mnie w fotel, to był szok, ale wszystko uzupełniło się tak idealnie-
November 25, 2025
✨🗡️3.3🗡️✨
Spodziewałam się po tym o wiele więcej, to miało taki potencjał a było zrobione mam wrażenie po macoszemu. Nie wiem czy to wina naszego wydania czy stylu pisania, ale to było tak chaotyczne, że ja często nie wiedziałam co się dzieje i kto ze sobą rozmawia albo słucha rozmowy. Dosłownie bohaterowie rozmawiają, ja już mam reakcję, że czemu oni to mówią przy tej co ma tego nie wiedzieć po czym się okazuje, że jej już przy nich nie było. Dzięki za info jakby xd. Między głównymi bohaterami uważam, że można było zrobić o wiele większą i lepsze chemię bo jakoś tak to meh wypadło. Jestem lekko zawiedziona.
Spodziewałam się po tym o wiele więcej, to miało taki potencjał a było zrobione mam wrażenie po macoszemu. Nie wiem czy to wina naszego wydania czy stylu pisania, ale to było tak chaotyczne, że ja często nie wiedziałam co się dzieje i kto ze sobą rozmawia albo słucha rozmowy. Dosłownie bohaterowie rozmawiają, ja już mam reakcję, że czemu oni to mówią przy tej co ma tego nie wiedzieć po czym się okazuje, że jej już przy nich nie było. Dzięki za info jakby xd. Między głównymi bohaterami uważam, że można było zrobić o wiele większą i lepsze chemię bo jakoś tak to meh wypadło. Jestem lekko zawiedziona.
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