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Without Light
In the fractured dystopia of Sandric, unity is an illusion, and deception thrives beneath the surface. Survival comes at a cost, and the system controls the most vital resource: light.
Levity is no hero. As a reluctant representative thrust into The Sanctioning-a brutal, mind-bending trial designed to break her-she must rise above the system's cruelty to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Betta, a confident and calculating Sanctioned leader nearing the end of her term, has spent years navigating the regime's lies. But when she uncovers secrets that threaten their world, she must decide whether to expose the truth or remain a pawn in the system's game.
Bound by an unbreakable connection, Levity and Betta face shifting alliances, treacherous betrayals, and impossible choices, while the fate of Sandric-and the hope for something better-rests on their shoulders.
Levity is no hero. As a reluctant representative thrust into The Sanctioning-a brutal, mind-bending trial designed to break her-she must rise above the system's cruelty to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Betta, a confident and calculating Sanctioned leader nearing the end of her term, has spent years navigating the regime's lies. But when she uncovers secrets that threaten their world, she must decide whether to expose the truth or remain a pawn in the system's game.
Bound by an unbreakable connection, Levity and Betta face shifting alliances, treacherous betrayals, and impossible choices, while the fate of Sandric-and the hope for something better-rests on their shoulders.
376 pages, Paperback
Published May 13, 2025
11 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 27, 2025
This dystopian thriller is dense, political, and uncompromising.
Add to your TBR if you love:
💡 Political Intrigue
💡 Survival
💡 Trials
💡 Conspiracy at the Top
💡 Romantic Subplot
This book never holds your hand and doesn't coddle its readers for a second. It threads a dozen sharp ideas into a narrative that snaps together in a finale that hits, while clearly setting the stage for even greater heights. I loved how ambitious this was. It’s unapologetically complex, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. The world-building is fascinating, the characters are compelling in their layers, and the atmosphere is exactly what I want in a gritty adult dystopian story.
That said, this isn’t a fast read. The pacing slows often, especially with the world-building interludes that feel more like textbook inserts until you realize what they ARE later in the story. They did pull me out of the flow often, but also made the world feel chillingly real as it outlines how they got where they were and makes things seem so plausible. Dystopians should be a cautionary tale and mirror our own world and this is no exception. This is very much the first book in a series, so it spends a lot of time laying groundwork.
It’s slower and more cerebral, but it sets the stage for a world I suspect will really pop off in the next installments. It's one of those stories where you have to trust the process. I cannot wait to see the world expand and these characters tear apart the corruption at the heart of everything. If you’re in the mood for something gritty, cerebral, and patient in its storytelling, this delivers in spades. Just know going in: it asks a lot of its reader, but it also rewards that investment. Highly recommended for fans of Silo and other dystopias that focus on slow-burn resistance and the rot behind carefully constructed systems.
Thank you so much to the author and R&R Booktours for the complimentary copy and opportunity to read and review. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Add to your TBR if you love:
💡 Political Intrigue
💡 Survival
💡 Trials
💡 Conspiracy at the Top
💡 Romantic Subplot
This book never holds your hand and doesn't coddle its readers for a second. It threads a dozen sharp ideas into a narrative that snaps together in a finale that hits, while clearly setting the stage for even greater heights. I loved how ambitious this was. It’s unapologetically complex, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. The world-building is fascinating, the characters are compelling in their layers, and the atmosphere is exactly what I want in a gritty adult dystopian story.
That said, this isn’t a fast read. The pacing slows often, especially with the world-building interludes that feel more like textbook inserts until you realize what they ARE later in the story. They did pull me out of the flow often, but also made the world feel chillingly real as it outlines how they got where they were and makes things seem so plausible. Dystopians should be a cautionary tale and mirror our own world and this is no exception. This is very much the first book in a series, so it spends a lot of time laying groundwork.
It’s slower and more cerebral, but it sets the stage for a world I suspect will really pop off in the next installments. It's one of those stories where you have to trust the process. I cannot wait to see the world expand and these characters tear apart the corruption at the heart of everything. If you’re in the mood for something gritty, cerebral, and patient in its storytelling, this delivers in spades. Just know going in: it asks a lot of its reader, but it also rewards that investment. Highly recommended for fans of Silo and other dystopias that focus on slow-burn resistance and the rot behind carefully constructed systems.
Thank you so much to the author and R&R Booktours for the complimentary copy and opportunity to read and review. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
February 20, 2025
So beyond thrilled to receive this ARC from the author! I really want to leave a review without spoilers since this isn’t out yet but I most likely will come and update this with spoilers once it’s released bc it’s bonkers and I can’t wait to talk about it 😂
Without Light is a high stake, heavily political dystopian thriller by debut author Megan A. Rockwell. I thought this was brilliant not just for a debut but for a novel in general. If you loved the Divergent series but wanted just a little more politics, this is for you! It had a Divergent/Hunger Games/Red Rising feel to it with even a teeeeny bit of Matrix thrown in.
As a first book in a new series, there is definitely some info dumping in the beginning but don’t let that deter you from getting through it. I am what I like to call a dumb fantasy reader in that most of the times, I am constantly flipping back to a glossary or a map to help me keep things straight. So I did spend a little bit of time confused while I was learning all the systems. But the author does a really good job of writing in a way that gives the reader breaks to decompress the info given.
There are “trials” if that’s your thing but if it’s not your thing, the trials in here don’t really feel like typical trials (again, more like the simulations in Divergent). There’s also lovely written romance sub plots that I can only imagine will explode in the next book, which I honestly can’t wait for. It has a GREAT cliffhanger ending as well. All in all, I can’t believe this was a debut. I had a blast reading it and can’t wait for the next installment to come!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Without Light is a high stake, heavily political dystopian thriller by debut author Megan A. Rockwell. I thought this was brilliant not just for a debut but for a novel in general. If you loved the Divergent series but wanted just a little more politics, this is for you! It had a Divergent/Hunger Games/Red Rising feel to it with even a teeeeny bit of Matrix thrown in.
As a first book in a new series, there is definitely some info dumping in the beginning but don’t let that deter you from getting through it. I am what I like to call a dumb fantasy reader in that most of the times, I am constantly flipping back to a glossary or a map to help me keep things straight. So I did spend a little bit of time confused while I was learning all the systems. But the author does a really good job of writing in a way that gives the reader breaks to decompress the info given.
There are “trials” if that’s your thing but if it’s not your thing, the trials in here don’t really feel like typical trials (again, more like the simulations in Divergent). There’s also lovely written romance sub plots that I can only imagine will explode in the next book, which I honestly can’t wait for. It has a GREAT cliffhanger ending as well. All in all, I can’t believe this was a debut. I had a blast reading it and can’t wait for the next installment to come!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 4, 2025
Welcome to Sandric! I’m not one to pick up a dystopian story but this was original and fresh. There are some really beautifully written, thought provoking moments that strike a cord in today’s government climate.
I did see the twist coming but still very much enjoyed the ride. Looking forward to the rest of the story.
I did see the twist coming but still very much enjoyed the ride. Looking forward to the rest of the story.
February 25, 2025
This was the first ARC I’ve ever read and it did not disappoint. There story is beautifully crafted and executed. The way the author sets up this story to continue is just *chef’s kiss*.
There is a dual POV, trials, a teensy bit of romance, and tons of twists and turns as the story develops. I got some Hunger Games vibes, but this still felt original and fresh.
I can’t wait for Megan to continue this story!
There is a dual POV, trials, a teensy bit of romance, and tons of twists and turns as the story develops. I got some Hunger Games vibes, but this still felt original and fresh.
I can’t wait for Megan to continue this story!
July 22, 2025
A critical reflection of our society wrapped in an immersive dystopian story.
Without Light follows the two main female characters:
Levity, a reluctant contender in a brutal competition designed to break even the strongest minds, and Betta, a seasoned leader burdened with dark secrets that could topple a sinister regime.
The world-building radiates dystopian vibes.
It's a world wherein cutting-edge technology and traditional environment collide. This is also a crucial question for the reader to reflect on. The world felt expansive. We get a description of the five territories in Sandric, which were very promising and original, but I would've loved it if we followed the characters navigating these landscapes.
The story is remarkable: with electricity as the main source, which equals power; a mental trial called the Sanctioning; and various roles such as The Noble Warrior, The Perpetual Sense, and The Surviving Aide, which make up the system.
In between the shifting pov's from Levity and Betta, there are journal entries in which discussion prompts and critical questions are being asked on society, the world, and existing power structures. This was definitely my favourite part as someone very interested in topics like these.
The cast of characters is well-written.
While they could've been written a bit more in-depth, they didn't feel too flat. The same applies to their relationship and chemistry with one another. In their rebellious act to overthrow the system, their time to develop a strong character/relations felt short. However, their personalities and passions are well-thought-out. As is evident on the author's website, which you should definitely give a look so enhance your reading experience.
Overall, I'd highly recommend it to everyone longing for the golden age of dystopian (The Hunger Games, The Maze Runner, Divergent, etc.)
Finally, I loved how this story sparked interesting discussion points that can be applied to today's society.
Thank you, R&R Book Tours and Megan A. Rockwell for this e-ARC.
Without Light follows the two main female characters:
Levity, a reluctant contender in a brutal competition designed to break even the strongest minds, and Betta, a seasoned leader burdened with dark secrets that could topple a sinister regime.
The world-building radiates dystopian vibes.
It's a world wherein cutting-edge technology and traditional environment collide. This is also a crucial question for the reader to reflect on. The world felt expansive. We get a description of the five territories in Sandric, which were very promising and original, but I would've loved it if we followed the characters navigating these landscapes.
The story is remarkable: with electricity as the main source, which equals power; a mental trial called the Sanctioning; and various roles such as The Noble Warrior, The Perpetual Sense, and The Surviving Aide, which make up the system.
In between the shifting pov's from Levity and Betta, there are journal entries in which discussion prompts and critical questions are being asked on society, the world, and existing power structures. This was definitely my favourite part as someone very interested in topics like these.
The cast of characters is well-written.
While they could've been written a bit more in-depth, they didn't feel too flat. The same applies to their relationship and chemistry with one another. In their rebellious act to overthrow the system, their time to develop a strong character/relations felt short. However, their personalities and passions are well-thought-out. As is evident on the author's website, which you should definitely give a look so enhance your reading experience.
Overall, I'd highly recommend it to everyone longing for the golden age of dystopian (The Hunger Games, The Maze Runner, Divergent, etc.)
Finally, I loved how this story sparked interesting discussion points that can be applied to today's society.
Thank you, R&R Book Tours and Megan A. Rockwell for this e-ARC.
May 10, 2025
This is an Advanced Reader Copy review.
Man, what a book. The first few pages had me hooked. First we're introduced to Betta, one of the three leaders of the five territories. Betta's internal struggle is prominent.
Then we're introduced to Levity, a 19 year old entrusted with the care of her four younger siblings. Doing everything to just get by, Levity shows a quiet strength few people do at any age.
We're given the POV of both Betta and Levity as the story progresses. The three leaders of the five territories hold their positions for five years. Towards the end of the five year term elections are held to elect new leaders. Each territory sends three representatives to Mass (think of it and a pseudo capitol) for the Sanctioning.The Sanctioning winnows out the representatives until only three remain. The other representatives get separated into small councils and serve five years, as well.
Levity gets elected to be one of the representatives of her territory. She has to leave her siblings behind to begin her five year term as either a leader or someone on the small councils.
I really liked the world building of this story. Throughout the storytelling, you learn about the five territories and their strengths and weaknesses. You also learn how energy is the currency of the realm.
At first, there is little known about the Sanctioning, as its workings are a state's secret. Even the leaders cannot discuss what happens during the Sanctioning, for fear of serious consequences.
I think anyone who enjoys a futuristic dystopian story will really dig this book. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
Man, what a book. The first few pages had me hooked. First we're introduced to Betta, one of the three leaders of the five territories. Betta's internal struggle is prominent.
Then we're introduced to Levity, a 19 year old entrusted with the care of her four younger siblings. Doing everything to just get by, Levity shows a quiet strength few people do at any age.
We're given the POV of both Betta and Levity as the story progresses. The three leaders of the five territories hold their positions for five years. Towards the end of the five year term elections are held to elect new leaders. Each territory sends three representatives to Mass (think of it and a pseudo capitol) for the Sanctioning.The Sanctioning winnows out the representatives until only three remain. The other representatives get separated into small councils and serve five years, as well.
Levity gets elected to be one of the representatives of her territory. She has to leave her siblings behind to begin her five year term as either a leader or someone on the small councils.
I really liked the world building of this story. Throughout the storytelling, you learn about the five territories and their strengths and weaknesses. You also learn how energy is the currency of the realm.
At first, there is little known about the Sanctioning, as its workings are a state's secret. Even the leaders cannot discuss what happens during the Sanctioning, for fear of serious consequences.
I think anyone who enjoys a futuristic dystopian story will really dig this book. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
May 20, 2025
I was absolutely shocked to find out that this was Rockwell's debut book. The detail and the specifics in this are on point. It was giving me Hunger Games meets Divergent vibes all while being completely original. There was a lot of information given at the beginning. At about 30% in I could not put the book down. I would get frustrated reading the letters between chapters because I was so invested in the story but the importance of the letters comes together so perfectly so make sure you really read those! The way the book was written and her world building made me able to picture this perfectly in my head. I loved the characters, even the bad ones. I felt like I was a part of this dystopian world. I had to wait to do this review because I wasn't sure how to articulate this book. It is so graphic and pulls you in, I swear the last 70% I devoured.
Levity is a force to be reckoned with. She is such a phenomenal character. Her strength is so admirable, she is wise beyond her years. She has suffered tragedy, yet seems to prevail. I cannot wait to read more of her. Her family dynamic is beautiful even for such a young lady. Bring on Book 2!
꧁𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼꧂
🌏 𝙄𝙣 𝙖 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙, 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙨 𝙬𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙨, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙪𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩.
☯️ 𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝, 𝙢𝙮 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙛𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣. 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧.
‼️ 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥.
Levity is a force to be reckoned with. She is such a phenomenal character. Her strength is so admirable, she is wise beyond her years. She has suffered tragedy, yet seems to prevail. I cannot wait to read more of her. Her family dynamic is beautiful even for such a young lady. Bring on Book 2!
꧁𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼꧂
🌏 𝙄𝙣 𝙖 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙, 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙨 𝙬𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙨, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙪𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩.
☯️ 𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝, 𝙢𝙮 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙛𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣. 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧.
‼️ 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥.
March 10, 2025
This is my first ever dystopian read!! I have legitimately zero experience reading any works in the genre such as Hunger games, maze runner, divergent, etc., however I have watched HG & MR. I think my opinion will be as unbiased as it gets probably, regarding my literature experience of the genre.
Without Light features multiple antagonist characters that each have a role to play surrounding the plot and somewhat of a connection to the protagonist/FMC. The setting is primarily a dystopian world but not completely removed from our early and modern day agricultural practices. Some of the visual descriptions made me think of Times Square in NYC and concepts in HG the movie, but the writing work does not make me think they (without light & HG) are at all alike.
While I was not blown away by the novel to give it 5 stars, I did feel a very deep relation to the experience of the multifaceted oppression method by the government to the citizens of Sandric. It was almost like reading many of my own thoughts about the reality of what’s happening in America and how much history is twisted and changed to keep from telling the truth.
This was honestly a brilliant read and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds!
Without Light features multiple antagonist characters that each have a role to play surrounding the plot and somewhat of a connection to the protagonist/FMC. The setting is primarily a dystopian world but not completely removed from our early and modern day agricultural practices. Some of the visual descriptions made me think of Times Square in NYC and concepts in HG the movie, but the writing work does not make me think they (without light & HG) are at all alike.
While I was not blown away by the novel to give it 5 stars, I did feel a very deep relation to the experience of the multifaceted oppression method by the government to the citizens of Sandric. It was almost like reading many of my own thoughts about the reality of what’s happening in America and how much history is twisted and changed to keep from telling the truth.
This was honestly a brilliant read and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds!
March 26, 2025
I had the great honor of receiving this book as an ARC, and I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy once this book is FINALLY released!!
This was one of my first dystopian reads—not a typical genre for me—but I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The world was well thought out, with political intrigue and suspense that kept me guessing and needing to know more. Each character had a unique and interesting story, leaving me very eager to see how each of their paths will develop and continue throughout this series.
I really enjoyed the alternating POVs of the strong female protagonists who guided the reader through this adventure and introduced them to this world. Each had her unique strengths and journey, but my favorite was Levity. I loved the heartwarming relationship with her siblings, the details that went into the description of her family and backstory, and especially, her bravery and resilience. She is stuck in my head and my heart!
Another favorite aspect to this book was the notes before every chapter. They added a wonderful layer of depth, progressing nicely with the plot and building suspense. Also, it just made this story feel so smart!
This was an amazing debut, and I’m so excited to see what Megan has in store for book two :).
This was one of my first dystopian reads—not a typical genre for me—but I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The world was well thought out, with political intrigue and suspense that kept me guessing and needing to know more. Each character had a unique and interesting story, leaving me very eager to see how each of their paths will develop and continue throughout this series.
I really enjoyed the alternating POVs of the strong female protagonists who guided the reader through this adventure and introduced them to this world. Each had her unique strengths and journey, but my favorite was Levity. I loved the heartwarming relationship with her siblings, the details that went into the description of her family and backstory, and especially, her bravery and resilience. She is stuck in my head and my heart!
Another favorite aspect to this book was the notes before every chapter. They added a wonderful layer of depth, progressing nicely with the plot and building suspense. Also, it just made this story feel so smart!
This was an amazing debut, and I’m so excited to see what Megan has in store for book two :).
April 9, 2025
I just finished Without Light by Megan A Rockwell, and I absolutely loved it. The world-building was so immersive—layered with political intrigue, secrets, and just enough suspense to keep me turning the pages late into the night.
What really stood out to me were the two strong female leads, Levity and Bretta. I love that we get to experience this world through their alternating perspectives—it gave the story so much emotional depth and balance. Their voices are distinct, compelling, and grounded in strength, making them such memorable protagonists.
The journal notes at the beginning of each chapter were such a clever touch, adding intrigue and tension in just the right way. It felt like piecing together a mystery with every page, and I was all in.
This was an incredible debut. I’m definitely looking forward to what happens in book two—and to having a shelf trophy for this one. It deserves a spotlight!
Thank you to Megan A Rockwell for the early digital ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Publication Date: May 13, 2025
What really stood out to me were the two strong female leads, Levity and Bretta. I love that we get to experience this world through their alternating perspectives—it gave the story so much emotional depth and balance. Their voices are distinct, compelling, and grounded in strength, making them such memorable protagonists.
The journal notes at the beginning of each chapter were such a clever touch, adding intrigue and tension in just the right way. It felt like piecing together a mystery with every page, and I was all in.
This was an incredible debut. I’m definitely looking forward to what happens in book two—and to having a shelf trophy for this one. It deserves a spotlight!
Thank you to Megan A Rockwell for the early digital ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Publication Date: May 13, 2025
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March 10, 2025This book was so beautifully written. The world building was perfect and I could see everything that was being described. I loved the characters as well, and seeing everything through their eyes, as well as their thought provoking ideas and observations. I enjoyed the relationships and the world of Sandric as well. The Sanctioning was such an interesting and original idea and was constantly wanting to see how it went for everyone.
This did take a little bit for me to get into though, which I understand is normal for a new book with heavy world building, and don't fault it for that. I will say, I feel like some of the relationships came out of nowhere and took me by surprise. And while I loved an appreciated the world building, I wish we could have gotten out of the characters heads a little more and had some additional dialogue.
This is a great start to what will surely be an exciting journey.
This did take a little bit for me to get into though, which I understand is normal for a new book with heavy world building, and don't fault it for that. I will say, I feel like some of the relationships came out of nowhere and took me by surprise. And while I loved an appreciated the world building, I wish we could have gotten out of the characters heads a little more and had some additional dialogue.
This is a great start to what will surely be an exciting journey.
August 3, 2025
Such an interesting dystopian society! Currency is in wattage, like as in light! 💡
In a world torn apart, they are united by governmental bodies called The Sanctioned. Elected people from all different areas of the world go to the capital call Maas where they partake in trials called The Sanctioning. Those who emerge victorious joined The Sanctioned. Only, there are some people who believe the trials a rigged, and dangerous.
There is so much political unrest and intrigue. There are twists and lies and ulterior motives. And among all of this there are two women, Betta and Levity, finding who they are and maybe the men deserving of their love?
Trust is gained and easily lost, and then very difficult to give by the end.
A must read if you loved The Hunger Games and Divergent 😍
In a world torn apart, they are united by governmental bodies called The Sanctioned. Elected people from all different areas of the world go to the capital call Maas where they partake in trials called The Sanctioning. Those who emerge victorious joined The Sanctioned. Only, there are some people who believe the trials a rigged, and dangerous.
There is so much political unrest and intrigue. There are twists and lies and ulterior motives. And among all of this there are two women, Betta and Levity, finding who they are and maybe the men deserving of their love?
Trust is gained and easily lost, and then very difficult to give by the end.
A must read if you loved The Hunger Games and Divergent 😍
March 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this story! While it was hard for me to get into, at about the halfway point I was hooked! The ending also was wild and set it up for a sequel nicely. I had so many questions that I was frustrated about not knowing, but because there are so many secrets in their world, it makes sense that a lot of info would be unknown at the moment. The world building was great and I loved the characters of Levity, Thomas, and Garon. There was some humor, a touch of romance, and a lot of political scheming and secrecy. I would recommend this if you like dystopian fantasy, factions fighting for power, trials, and themes of betrayal, loss, and struggle.
March 20, 2025
This was a really solid 4.5 for me! I felt the story developed well. I liked the characters, and cannot wait to see where the next book goes so that I feel even more attached to them. The inserts from the journal were a great way to see the world build throughout the story without feeling overwhelming. This was refreshing for me after a long line of more fantasy books. I loved that this did NOT feel like a familiar story with new twists. I cannot wait to find out who our "real" villains are and how deep the treachery runs 🤔 Bravo, Megan! Cannot wait to see where your beautifulind takes this!!
April 21, 2025
Where to start with this baby?!?! The characters still live in my head. The scenes still play like a movie. I’m pretty sure real sea breeze blew my hair about while reading about the beach.
Plus the tension and setup? Killer.
This world is completely fleshed out with incredible detail and disturbing parallels to our own.
I loved the dual FMC point of views, especially because they were so different from each other. Two badass characters each in their own way.
As a romance reader, I got a total kick out of the romantic subplot, and one particular kiss made it into my top five.
And the writing? Award worthy.
P.S. not sure about your copy, but mine has glow-in-the-dark edges. 🔦
Plus the tension and setup? Killer.
This world is completely fleshed out with incredible detail and disturbing parallels to our own.
I loved the dual FMC point of views, especially because they were so different from each other. Two badass characters each in their own way.
As a romance reader, I got a total kick out of the romantic subplot, and one particular kiss made it into my top five.
And the writing? Award worthy.
P.S. not sure about your copy, but mine has glow-in-the-dark edges. 🔦
July 22, 2025
The world building, similar to Fourth Wing, with excerpts between each chapter, is both fascinating and suspenseful! Megan definitely has a way of giving you detail into the world while also making you want to dive in further...
Levity & Betta are both such strong characters and are risking it all to try to topple an oppressive government conspiracy.
The spice and tension between
characters is so addicting, and the twists and turns throughout this book raise so much suspicion, it's hard to know who to trust. Without light reminded me why I love dystopians so much! If you liked The Hunger Games & Divergent, but want some spice added to it, this is the book for you!
Levity & Betta are both such strong characters and are risking it all to try to topple an oppressive government conspiracy.
The spice and tension between
characters is so addicting, and the twists and turns throughout this book raise so much suspicion, it's hard to know who to trust. Without light reminded me why I love dystopians so much! If you liked The Hunger Games & Divergent, but want some spice added to it, this is the book for you!
July 25, 2025
I could not put this one down. There were trials, betrayals, and twists I did not see coming. In the beginning of the book, you're rooting for a certain someone, and by the end, you can't believe what just happened.
I love that they trials were a mind f for the people in them, and they had to fight for themselves instead of them fighting each other.
You dont know who you can trust. The people you thought you could trust, you can't, and the people you thought you were against, you aren't.
I cant wait to find out what happens next because that ending... 🤯🤯
Thank you Megan Rockwell and RRBookTours for this gifted copy. It was amazing!
I love that they trials were a mind f for the people in them, and they had to fight for themselves instead of them fighting each other.
You dont know who you can trust. The people you thought you could trust, you can't, and the people you thought you were against, you aren't.
I cant wait to find out what happens next because that ending... 🤯🤯
Thank you Megan Rockwell and RRBookTours for this gifted copy. It was amazing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2025
Just finished Without Light and I loved it. It was written beautifully in a way that was easy to read and follow, which is really important since I don't feel like tripping over complicated sentences when I read. I felt connected to the characters even though I wasn't always certain what they were up to (in a good way). They were complex and I liked that they all have different motivations, all seeming to root from the same distrust in their society, but their motivations are leading them down different paths. I'm excited for the next one, especially to see what Betta and Levity do!
April 25, 2025
The world in this book is absolutely incredible. The culture behind it, the territories, the description of each territory and their primary export and how it creates the interdependence was awesome. I loved it. I think my absolute favorite aspects were the journal notes from Hophsted and that reveal!!!!!! I audibly gasped. I really enjoyed this book and I do recommend for individuals who enjoy dystopians, alternate universes, and slow burn romances. Was it just me or did everyone picture Jason Momoa as Draven?? 🤭
February 22, 2025
4.25⭐️ this book was so much fun! sometimes i find that authors overcomplicate dystopian government hierarchies, but this one was super easy to understand but also very different from anything i’ve read previously. throughout the whole book, i was side-eyeing almost all of the characters because i felt like they could betray each other at any point which definitely kept me hooked. i’m very intrigued to see where this story goes in the next book because that cliffhanger had me like 😨!
February 22, 2025
I was so excited to receive this ARC, and it did not disappoint! With politics, high stakes, conspiracies, tests of survival, and rebellions, the story kept me on the edge of my seat. The dual POV was perfect, it kept me wanting more and made it hard to put the book down. It gave me Hunger Games and Divergent vibes, but honestly, it’s so much more than that! Definitely recommend! Can’t wait for the story to continue!
May 9, 2025
I love this book!! I was so into this book, I got jump scared in Starbucks from someone moving a chair (LOL). In all seriousness, there were so many strong main characters and side characters! The detail in this book was beyond beautiful, and I am seriously on the edge of my seat for the next book! Truly a work of art! Definitely recommend to my fellow Hunger Games loving girlies and it you want to get so pulled into this world!
May 26, 2025
This was a true dystopian story. Incredibly high political writing, but with a backdrop of family connections and reasons to fight a corrupt system.
It was mainly all politics, from two different POVs. It was surprising and sad, and it had a mix of naive idealism with the reality of wisdom of people who know the truth of the system.
I really hope there's a sequel so we can see what happens from that ending!
It was mainly all politics, from two different POVs. It was surprising and sad, and it had a mix of naive idealism with the reality of wisdom of people who know the truth of the system.
I really hope there's a sequel so we can see what happens from that ending!
March 9, 2025
Mind. Freaking. Blown. 🤯🤯🤯
I don’t think I’ve read a dystopian book this good since The Hunger Games. Without Light completely took me by surprise! The world-building, the characters, the writing—every aspect was just phenomenal. Since this is the first book in the series, there’s a lot of information to take in, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it. And that cliffhanger? I’m not-so-patiently waiting for book two!
I don’t think I’ve read a dystopian book this good since The Hunger Games. Without Light completely took me by surprise! The world-building, the characters, the writing—every aspect was just phenomenal. Since this is the first book in the series, there’s a lot of information to take in, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it. And that cliffhanger? I’m not-so-patiently waiting for book two!
April 4, 2025
I was so excited to be one of the arc readers picked for this dystopian story.
With a dual POV centered around Levity and Betta, it has a wonderful focus on strong female characters in a climate of overreaching governance.
Intriguing world building, with an electronically atmoshpheric setting set upon old world foundations.
With a dual POV centered around Levity and Betta, it has a wonderful focus on strong female characters in a climate of overreaching governance.
Intriguing world building, with an electronically atmoshpheric setting set upon old world foundations.
July 11, 2025
Well, I have to say that the plot is quite similar to a "Panem" story, yet the world building is interesting, in general. Nevertheless, some parts were too "rushed" and the reasons for the state of this world are not fully provided..
The character development has potential..
As it's gonna be a trilogy, let's wait and see..
The character development has potential..
As it's gonna be a trilogy, let's wait and see..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2025
There was so much to love about this! It gave a little bit of Hunger Games, a little romance and a lot of life lessons while providing a fresh twist on a dystopian society. You can glean so many thoughts on resilience throughout with both of our FMCs. The political intrigue is so well done that you don’t know where or who is going to be the good, bad or ugly.
March 7, 2025
The only bad thing about reading this early is that I have to wait even longer for Book 2! Dystopian novels are my favorite. I love that there's so much to explore in the world of Sandric, and this book explains the setting and structure while also moving the plot along. Loved it!
September 29, 2025
While it took awhile to get sucked into the story, Megan was right, by the end I was cursing her for not having the 2nd book out yet.
The twists twisted and turned and this book kept me on my toes, never quite sure what was coming next.
The twists twisted and turned and this book kept me on my toes, never quite sure what was coming next.
February 5, 2025
#teamgaron all day!
Stay tuned for full review xo
Stay tuned for full review xo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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