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Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light
Humans are considered the lowest beings in the Six Realms. They have short lives, weak bodies and are only useful as servants. And they certainly aren't worthy of learning the magical arts.
But that all changes when a human servant named Kye helps to save the life of an elven maister named Arden. In return, Arden offers to take Kye on as his apprentice, teaching him the craft and making him the first ever human acolyte. His appointment, however, is not easily accepted by other mages.
As Arden and Kye face opposition from allies, disdain from other races, and a dangerous necromancer spreading chaos through the Six Realms, Kye is determined to prove to all who doubt it: humans are not the weak creatures they were thought to be.
But that all changes when a human servant named Kye helps to save the life of an elven maister named Arden. In return, Arden offers to take Kye on as his apprentice, teaching him the craft and making him the first ever human acolyte. His appointment, however, is not easily accepted by other mages.
As Arden and Kye face opposition from allies, disdain from other races, and a dangerous necromancer spreading chaos through the Six Realms, Kye is determined to prove to all who doubt it: humans are not the weak creatures they were thought to be.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2025
10 people are currently reading
5810 people want to read
About the author
Stacey Bureker
1 book38 followersStacey Bureker supports artists, NOT AI. She is a fan of sci-fi and fantasy and has had a passion for writing books since she was 17. So when she isn't hanging out with her husband, chasing two kiddos, or working, you will probably find her writing (in the wee hours when she should be sleeping).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 8, 2025
This book has single handedly reinspired my love for the fantasy genre.
I ate this UP, and I will be thinking about it for… a while. Or at least until the next book comes out. (I will definitely be begging for the opportunity to review that one early as well.)
This is very “Lord of the Rings” coded. It has a very similar vibe to Tolkien’s work. Honestly though? I liked this so much more.
It is not often that I come across heavy fantasy that is easy to read and actually keeps my wandering mind engaged- but this provided!
In this world, humans are of the lowest status. They are often looked down on and used as slaves or servants to higher species. Kye is one of these human slaves. Overworked and mistreated, with no hope of a better future.
Until- he saves the life of an elven mage, Arden.
Despite everyone’s disapproval, Arden takes Kye under his wing as his acolyte, determined to teach him magic and allow him to become the first human mage.
Kye must now learn to wield magic, navigate the discrimination he faces as a human, combat darker forces at work.
Where do I start? This was too good.
There was tension.
There was drama.
There was action.
There was potentially a little romance brewing?
I mean, what else can you really ask for?
I love the characters. Kye and Arden are really giving wholesome father/son duo here.
ALSO, the way Arden talks is so hilarious to me?! A high elven maister that kind of talks super casually, despite everyone else being so proper- I found that so entertaining.
Celeste is also such a cute addition to this story! She is a side character, but I love her energy. She is radiating positivity and warmth.
Really adorable!
The writing is also great.
It isn’t confusing or difficult to read, and does not contain a lot of very complex language.
I also thought it was a really good length.
Fantasy books can often tend to be a bit long, which makes me shy away from them. This however, was a very appropriate length. Not too short to where the story is rushed, but not too long to where things feel like they are dragging.
There is only one thing I would change about this book, and it has nothing to do with the writing/story itself.
There are abrupt scene changes between the Kye/Arden parts and the Umbree/Orin parts. I think it would be slightly easier to read if there was some separation on the page, so you know you’re transitioning from one to the other.
With this being said- it is not really a huge deal, and it did not impact my enjoyment of the story at all! It just took my brain a second to adjust.
Overall, this was definitely for me. I loved it. I would give it more than 5 stars if I were able. I will be patiently awaiting the second installment of this masterpiece.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and publisher/author Stacey Bureker for providing me with the eARC of “Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light”, in exchange for my honest review!
publication date: August 29th, 2025
I ate this UP, and I will be thinking about it for… a while. Or at least until the next book comes out. (I will definitely be begging for the opportunity to review that one early as well.)
This is very “Lord of the Rings” coded. It has a very similar vibe to Tolkien’s work. Honestly though? I liked this so much more.
It is not often that I come across heavy fantasy that is easy to read and actually keeps my wandering mind engaged- but this provided!
In this world, humans are of the lowest status. They are often looked down on and used as slaves or servants to higher species. Kye is one of these human slaves. Overworked and mistreated, with no hope of a better future.
Until- he saves the life of an elven mage, Arden.
Despite everyone’s disapproval, Arden takes Kye under his wing as his acolyte, determined to teach him magic and allow him to become the first human mage.
Kye must now learn to wield magic, navigate the discrimination he faces as a human, combat darker forces at work.
Where do I start? This was too good.
There was tension.
There was drama.
There was action.
There was potentially a little romance brewing?
I mean, what else can you really ask for?
I love the characters. Kye and Arden are really giving wholesome father/son duo here.
ALSO, the way Arden talks is so hilarious to me?! A high elven maister that kind of talks super casually, despite everyone else being so proper- I found that so entertaining.
Celeste is also such a cute addition to this story! She is a side character, but I love her energy. She is radiating positivity and warmth.
Really adorable!
The writing is also great.
It isn’t confusing or difficult to read, and does not contain a lot of very complex language.
I also thought it was a really good length.
Fantasy books can often tend to be a bit long, which makes me shy away from them. This however, was a very appropriate length. Not too short to where the story is rushed, but not too long to where things feel like they are dragging.
There is only one thing I would change about this book, and it has nothing to do with the writing/story itself.
There are abrupt scene changes between the Kye/Arden parts and the Umbree/Orin parts. I think it would be slightly easier to read if there was some separation on the page, so you know you’re transitioning from one to the other.
With this being said- it is not really a huge deal, and it did not impact my enjoyment of the story at all! It just took my brain a second to adjust.
Overall, this was definitely for me. I loved it. I would give it more than 5 stars if I were able. I will be patiently awaiting the second installment of this masterpiece.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and publisher/author Stacey Bureker for providing me with the eARC of “Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light”, in exchange for my honest review!
publication date: August 29th, 2025
August 15, 2025
If you like Lord of the Rings, fantasy, and (sort of?) ya style writing then you will love this book!
Started off strong with good backstory and world building. It was really interesting from the beginning. We went right into action in the first few chapters, which of course I love, and then are introduced with more characters and plot lines. I have to say I really enjoyed how lots of little details you think aren’t going to be important tend to pop up later, and it works great!
The book just got better and better as it went on! I could tell the author got more comfortable with writing as the story progressed.
The ending was so strong, and I will 100% be reading book 2 when it comes out! Such a cliffhanger and leaves you wanting more and more from this amazing fantasy world.
Also- such a unique plot line. Humans at the bottom of species hierarchy, being born into slavery and looked down upon. I always love stories about the breaking of social norms so this was great hahha.
“ ‘Idiots are everywhere. I find it best to pay them no mind or risk becoming one of them yourself.’ “
Thank you so much to Net Galley and the publisher/author for giving me an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!!!
4/5⭐️
Started off strong with good backstory and world building. It was really interesting from the beginning. We went right into action in the first few chapters, which of course I love, and then are introduced with more characters and plot lines. I have to say I really enjoyed how lots of little details you think aren’t going to be important tend to pop up later, and it works great!
The book just got better and better as it went on! I could tell the author got more comfortable with writing as the story progressed.
The ending was so strong, and I will 100% be reading book 2 when it comes out! Such a cliffhanger and leaves you wanting more and more from this amazing fantasy world.
Also- such a unique plot line. Humans at the bottom of species hierarchy, being born into slavery and looked down upon. I always love stories about the breaking of social norms so this was great hahha.
“ ‘Idiots are everywhere. I find it best to pay them no mind or risk becoming one of them yourself.’ “
Thank you so much to Net Galley and the publisher/author for giving me an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!!!
4/5⭐️
October 8, 2025
An enjoyable high fantasy story about Kye, a human slave, who rescues and is rescued in turn by Arden, an Elven Mage. We have many of the the classic fantasy races (plus shifters, I welcome this addition) and animosity between them which creates the backdrop for the machinations of an evil necromancer. Plot ensues.
The writing style is direct and vivid and I was immersed in the story throughout. The supporting characters were interesting in their own right, and mattered to the plot. The magic system is well-described (though not at length) and I particularly appreciated that Kye's training takes time -- he's not immediately amazing, nor does he become too powerful for the story.
I'd recommend this to avid readers of fantasy wanting a traditional-setting story with little/no romance (perhaps book 2 leans that way, but I rather hope not).
This review is based upon a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher.
The writing style is direct and vivid and I was immersed in the story throughout. The supporting characters were interesting in their own right, and mattered to the plot. The magic system is well-described (though not at length) and I particularly appreciated that Kye's training takes time -- he's not immediately amazing, nor does he become too powerful for the story.
I'd recommend this to avid readers of fantasy wanting a traditional-setting story with little/no romance (perhaps book 2 leans that way, but I rather hope not).
This review is based upon a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher.
August 8, 2025
I enjoyed this debut fantasy and I'm glad I spent my time reading it. It's plot-driven with static character arcs. It is the first book of a series to come. The book does not resolve all the conflicts, but one major conflict is resolved, so I would not consider the ending to be a cliffhanger. I would say the major theme was prejudice and the most major literary trope is found family. I think it is slightly similar to a lot of academic magic school works because the majority of the book is the main character learning to use magic. However, the plot is not confined to just that aspect, so it doesn't fit neatly into that trope. I will be interested to read more from this author in the future. Thanks to the author for the digital ARC.
August 13, 2025
I'd like to thank the author and NetGalley for providing me with this eARC :)
I was very pleasantly surprised by this book! We had some rainy summer days this past week, and I have to say, this story couldn't have been more perfect for the occasion! Literally couldn't put it down! The pacing was very enjoyable, not too fast, nor too slow. It has a high fantasy plot with a cozy touch to it, which made it easier to digest than some of the popular books it reminded me of such as The Name of the Wind and The Lord of the Rings. It's a story about hope, determination, and friendship. I recommend this book to all the fantasy lovers who want a breath of fresh air in between their dense 1000p epic fantasies.
Plot:
We follow Kye, a human, who has been a slave to a powerful mage since he was a kid. Kye, fortunately, ends up in an unfortunate situation where he betrays his master in order to save an elven mage. Arden, the elven whose life he saved, in turn, saves Kye by making him his acolyte and teaching him how to become a mage as well. We see how Kye deals with the hardships of being the first ever human acolyte, which isn't very well-received by the Magi Council and fellow acolytes, while also anticipating his previous master's return to settle unfinished business.
Characters:
Kye is a very charismatic MC, he's easy to like and relate to. The development of Kye and Arden's relationship is very entertaining to witness. Arden comes off as very "je m'en fous", but is actually very deeply caring and protective over the ones he loves. It's nice to see Kye slowly warm up to his new master/teacher and friends, in contrast to the timid boy he was when he was enslaved. Although the main characters are solid and well-written, the side characters are what made this book whole for me. Not only the enjoyable side characters like Celeste, Mireen, and the dwarves, but also the annoying ones. I feel like a well-written bad guy should piss you off, and the ones in this book definitely did that!
World building and magic system:
The story takes place in the Six Realms, where humans are seen as lowlives and are supposed spend their lives serving all other magical beings. Amongst those magical beings, some are mages. This world very much reminded me of Tolkien's Middle Earth with the orcs, dwarves, elves, wizards, lost magical artefacts,... Mages can travel through realms via portals, opened by the Magi Council when needed. Overall, the world building wasn't very extensive, especially if you compare it to other fantasy books, but it was enough to envision the setting. The magic system is nothing too complicated. It's easy to understand and follow along with.
Writing:
Very simple writing, which can be either a good or a bad thing, depending on your preference. In this instance, I found it to be a rather good thing. There aren't many fantasy books out there (that aren't romantasy) that are this easy to digest, so it was refreshing to experience the contrary for once! The length of the book, combined with the not overly descriptive language made it a fast-paced and easy read. There's no ambiguity, which made it a bit predictable at times, but thrilling nonetheless. It was nice to have different chapters or parts following different people, which really added a certain suspense factor that was very enjoyable. My only remark on the writing is that "Kye said, Arden said, he said, she said,..." became a little repetitive, and I wish the author was a bit more creative in expressing the character's dialogue.
I can't wait to see what happens next in Kye and Arden's story!
I was very pleasantly surprised by this book! We had some rainy summer days this past week, and I have to say, this story couldn't have been more perfect for the occasion! Literally couldn't put it down! The pacing was very enjoyable, not too fast, nor too slow. It has a high fantasy plot with a cozy touch to it, which made it easier to digest than some of the popular books it reminded me of such as The Name of the Wind and The Lord of the Rings. It's a story about hope, determination, and friendship. I recommend this book to all the fantasy lovers who want a breath of fresh air in between their dense 1000p epic fantasies.
Plot:
We follow Kye, a human, who has been a slave to a powerful mage since he was a kid. Kye, fortunately, ends up in an unfortunate situation where he betrays his master in order to save an elven mage. Arden, the elven whose life he saved, in turn, saves Kye by making him his acolyte and teaching him how to become a mage as well. We see how Kye deals with the hardships of being the first ever human acolyte, which isn't very well-received by the Magi Council and fellow acolytes, while also anticipating his previous master's return to settle unfinished business.
Characters:
Kye is a very charismatic MC, he's easy to like and relate to. The development of Kye and Arden's relationship is very entertaining to witness. Arden comes off as very "je m'en fous", but is actually very deeply caring and protective over the ones he loves. It's nice to see Kye slowly warm up to his new master/teacher and friends, in contrast to the timid boy he was when he was enslaved. Although the main characters are solid and well-written, the side characters are what made this book whole for me. Not only the enjoyable side characters like Celeste, Mireen, and the dwarves, but also the annoying ones. I feel like a well-written bad guy should piss you off, and the ones in this book definitely did that!
World building and magic system:
The story takes place in the Six Realms, where humans are seen as lowlives and are supposed spend their lives serving all other magical beings. Amongst those magical beings, some are mages. This world very much reminded me of Tolkien's Middle Earth with the orcs, dwarves, elves, wizards, lost magical artefacts,... Mages can travel through realms via portals, opened by the Magi Council when needed. Overall, the world building wasn't very extensive, especially if you compare it to other fantasy books, but it was enough to envision the setting. The magic system is nothing too complicated. It's easy to understand and follow along with.
Writing:
Very simple writing, which can be either a good or a bad thing, depending on your preference. In this instance, I found it to be a rather good thing. There aren't many fantasy books out there (that aren't romantasy) that are this easy to digest, so it was refreshing to experience the contrary for once! The length of the book, combined with the not overly descriptive language made it a fast-paced and easy read. There's no ambiguity, which made it a bit predictable at times, but thrilling nonetheless. It was nice to have different chapters or parts following different people, which really added a certain suspense factor that was very enjoyable. My only remark on the writing is that "Kye said, Arden said, he said, she said,..." became a little repetitive, and I wish the author was a bit more creative in expressing the character's dialogue.
I can't wait to see what happens next in Kye and Arden's story!
August 12, 2025
This book was a very, very fun read. Very character driven, which I personally am a huge fan of. I agree with other reviewers calling this Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit like, it absolutely is! I liked how atmospheric and descriptive the writing was. The plot-point of humans being the lesser beings in a magical world makes this book stand out in the crowd of tropes within fantasy. There are a very fun multitude of creatures to read about in this universe, such as orcs, goblins and elves. It felt very much like those old school punchy fantasy books. I throughly enjoyed the dialogue, it felt very natural and fun to read between characters, especially between Arden and Kye. My major complaint would that the pacing had me either tearing through the text or struggling to stay interested. Regardless, a good solid read, especially in today’s fantasy genre, and that I’ll definitely keep in mind to check out the next future release!
Thank you to NetGalley & Stacey Bureker for an ARC in exchange for an honest review! :)
Thank you to NetGalley & Stacey Bureker for an ARC in exchange for an honest review! :)
August 30, 2025
Really great fantasy/action book. I loved that it was clean, but not boring or slow in any way.
The book starts with Kye, a downtrodden human slave. He accepts his life as the slave to a goblin master who treats him badly all the time. But one day things kinda fall apart. He realized that his master has a “stone” that is quite important and powerful to the elves. But one day, there is a big dinner thrown and a special guest, Arden is invited. There are plans to give the stone, actually a magic imbued gem to Arden. However Kye finds out that Umbee, his master is actually planning to kill Arden so he can keep the gem. When Kye hears those plans, he heads to Arden to warn him. Things move quickly at that point, by Kye knows a secret way out of Umbree’s castle basement. When Kye becomes seriously injured in the escape,Arden saves him.
When they return to the elven world, neither one is welcomed with open arms. However, there is a healer than saves Kye’s life. Arden decides he will take Kye under his wing and teach him magic, something forbidden to humans— as inferior beings. Kye is pulled into a new way of life that he could never imagine himself. Buckle up because it is a fantastic ride. I received a digital ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. This doesn’t affect my honest, freely given review.
The book starts with Kye, a downtrodden human slave. He accepts his life as the slave to a goblin master who treats him badly all the time. But one day things kinda fall apart. He realized that his master has a “stone” that is quite important and powerful to the elves. But one day, there is a big dinner thrown and a special guest, Arden is invited. There are plans to give the stone, actually a magic imbued gem to Arden. However Kye finds out that Umbee, his master is actually planning to kill Arden so he can keep the gem. When Kye hears those plans, he heads to Arden to warn him. Things move quickly at that point, by Kye knows a secret way out of Umbree’s castle basement. When Kye becomes seriously injured in the escape,Arden saves him.
When they return to the elven world, neither one is welcomed with open arms. However, there is a healer than saves Kye’s life. Arden decides he will take Kye under his wing and teach him magic, something forbidden to humans— as inferior beings. Kye is pulled into a new way of life that he could never imagine himself. Buckle up because it is a fantastic ride. I received a digital ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. This doesn’t affect my honest, freely given review.
August 16, 2025
This book gave Lord of the Rings meets Harry Potter type vibes. A little different than my normal spicy trope, this one was a fun magical non-romance. It was an easy read, so maybe recommend it to YA who are wanting a fun book full of magic and friendship in an academic setting. Maybe a bit simple for heavy fantasy readers, but it was a fun adventure non the less.
Thank you NetGalley and Stacey Bureker for the advanced copy of this book!
Thank you NetGalley and Stacey Bureker for the advanced copy of this book!
August 6, 2025
Thank you NetGalley & Stacey Bureker for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed this book!
One of the only issues I had was with the dialogue. Kye and Saiyah speak like they’re straight out of Pride and Prejudice—flowery, formal, and old-fashioned—but it randomly drops off at times. It was especially odd because Kye, despite having grown up enslaved, speaks as if he were privately tutored, while Maister Arden, a figure of authority, speaks in a more modern and straightforward tone. It was a strange stylistic choice, and I personally think the story would’ve flowed better if everyone spoke more plainly and consistently.
One moment that really stood out to me was when the Council discussed the events that took place at Umbrees. The way certain characters twisted the story genuinely frustrated me—in a good way. It was a perfect example of how people reshape events to fit their own narrative. That scene was one of the strongest in the book and really pulled me in, making me want to keep reading to see how everything would unfold.
The pacing felt a bit off in places, and I started to lose focus about a third of the way through. Some of the magic Kye uses is genuinely cool, but the story doesn’t really explore how he learned it. A lot of things are brushed over with a “tell” rather than “show” approach, and I would’ve appreciated more depth and detail in those areas.
The dream where Kye is charmed and sees his mother was much darker than I expected. At first, it felt a little out of place—but looking back, the tone of the book does gradually darken, and I’m curious to see if that continues in future installments.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. The characters felt distinct, and I’m reeeally curious about what’s going on with Orin and how the stones work. I’ll definitely be looking out for the next book in the series!
4/5 stars
I really enjoyed this book!
One of the only issues I had was with the dialogue. Kye and Saiyah speak like they’re straight out of Pride and Prejudice—flowery, formal, and old-fashioned—but it randomly drops off at times. It was especially odd because Kye, despite having grown up enslaved, speaks as if he were privately tutored, while Maister Arden, a figure of authority, speaks in a more modern and straightforward tone. It was a strange stylistic choice, and I personally think the story would’ve flowed better if everyone spoke more plainly and consistently.
One moment that really stood out to me was when the Council discussed the events that took place at Umbrees. The way certain characters twisted the story genuinely frustrated me—in a good way. It was a perfect example of how people reshape events to fit their own narrative. That scene was one of the strongest in the book and really pulled me in, making me want to keep reading to see how everything would unfold.
The pacing felt a bit off in places, and I started to lose focus about a third of the way through. Some of the magic Kye uses is genuinely cool, but the story doesn’t really explore how he learned it. A lot of things are brushed over with a “tell” rather than “show” approach, and I would’ve appreciated more depth and detail in those areas.
The dream where Kye is charmed and sees his mother was much darker than I expected. At first, it felt a little out of place—but looking back, the tone of the book does gradually darken, and I’m curious to see if that continues in future installments.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. The characters felt distinct, and I’m reeeally curious about what’s going on with Orin and how the stones work. I’ll definitely be looking out for the next book in the series!
4/5 stars
August 21, 2025
First part of the book provides the backstory and world building, then it gets more into the development of the plot and the action.
The world building is really good and the plot is engaging and interesting. It was easy to read, and had a hint of potential romance and some humour.
The plot and characters seem to have a good scope to develop further in future books. I want to learn more about the characters back stories, as well as see how the story ends
I believe this is the first in a trilogy and would read the next one.
The world building is really good and the plot is engaging and interesting. It was easy to read, and had a hint of potential romance and some humour.
The plot and characters seem to have a good scope to develop further in future books. I want to learn more about the characters back stories, as well as see how the story ends
I believe this is the first in a trilogy and would read the next one.
September 30, 2025
I agree with a lot of the other reviews - this has a magic school vibe tied with higher stakes. This novel was a bit more set up for the overarching plot of the series, but it has great character introductions and leaves a mystery/desire as to what is happening next in the overarching plot.
I enjoyed the two main characters, Arden and Kye, and there mentor/mentor dynamic. I found the magic system to be interesting and far more detailed than other fantasies.
Overall, an enjoyable book!
Thank you NetGalley and Stacey Bureker for the opportunity to read this book.
I enjoyed the two main characters, Arden and Kye, and there mentor/mentor dynamic. I found the magic system to be interesting and far more detailed than other fantasies.
Overall, an enjoyable book!
Thank you NetGalley and Stacey Bureker for the opportunity to read this book.
August 24, 2025
3.75⭐️
thank you to netgalley & stacey bureker for providing this ARC!
“fear could be a sword or a crutch depending on how it was wielded.”
i honestly don’t have too much to say on this one. all in all i enjoyed it! i have in fact been in the worst reading slump of my life these past two months, but when i was actually sat down and reading this i was having a good time.
it was definitely not what i was expecting going into this, and i was pleasantly surprised by the direction of the story.
definitely agree that it kind of felt like if lord of the rings/the hobbit meets harry potter.
the pacing of the story was good, and the writing was simple & easy - there were some inconsistencies with the dialogue (mainly the tone in which they spoke), but nothing major and not something hugely bothersome, so do with that what you will.
i enjoyed kye as a main character, and i loved seeing him gradually stand up for himself after years of being belittled and treated like (pardon my french) absolute crap. arden was also such a fun character, the sass!! i was laughing every time he spoke.
if you like a good character driven YA fantasy, i definitely think you should give this one a go. it was a fun time! i don’t think it’ll stick with me much going forward, but i enjoyed it and would consider picking up the next book in the series.
(also if i’m not mistaken, this was a debut novel? 👏)
thank you to netgalley & stacey bureker for providing this ARC!
“fear could be a sword or a crutch depending on how it was wielded.”
i honestly don’t have too much to say on this one. all in all i enjoyed it! i have in fact been in the worst reading slump of my life these past two months, but when i was actually sat down and reading this i was having a good time.
it was definitely not what i was expecting going into this, and i was pleasantly surprised by the direction of the story.
definitely agree that it kind of felt like if lord of the rings/the hobbit meets harry potter.
the pacing of the story was good, and the writing was simple & easy - there were some inconsistencies with the dialogue (mainly the tone in which they spoke), but nothing major and not something hugely bothersome, so do with that what you will.
i enjoyed kye as a main character, and i loved seeing him gradually stand up for himself after years of being belittled and treated like (pardon my french) absolute crap. arden was also such a fun character, the sass!! i was laughing every time he spoke.
if you like a good character driven YA fantasy, i definitely think you should give this one a go. it was a fun time! i don’t think it’ll stick with me much going forward, but i enjoyed it and would consider picking up the next book in the series.
(also if i’m not mistaken, this was a debut novel? 👏)
September 19, 2025
Why does every frikin' novel have some asshole named Kai? WTF is this? I really do not understand why authors continue to use this fuking name. Only this time it is Kye. Really? I already want to bury this novel deep in the ground with a dead racoon.
Oh but I really cannot do that as this was so freakin' good otherwise. Great character development, quests, believable magic/progression and all the women are hotter than lava fartin' steam. If the point is to have a good time while reading, which translates into the grande escape, then count me in on this series.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
4.8/5
Oh but I really cannot do that as this was so freakin' good otherwise. Great character development, quests, believable magic/progression and all the women are hotter than lava fartin' steam. If the point is to have a good time while reading, which translates into the grande escape, then count me in on this series.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
4.8/5
September 26, 2025
This was a fun read! Kye starts out as a human servant who nobody really takes seriously, but everything changes when he saves Arden, an elven maister with a sharp tongue and a sense of humor that keeps things interesting. The two of them make a great pair as they figure each other out, and I liked seeing how their bond grew while the bigger story of magic and politics unfolded. It moves at a good pace, has a nice mix of adventure and character moments, and left me curious about where their story will go next.
Thank you NetGalley and Stacey Bureker for the eARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Stacey Bureker for the eARC.
September 14, 2025
This was a 3.5 for me. It was a fun read with interesting world building. At times it felt like a paint-by-numbers fantasy novel that hit a lot of the beats that have become standard in fantasy (downtrodden MC is rescued by powerful magic user, goes to a magic school, can’t do the magic at first until they can, discovers unique power…) but I appreciated that it focused more on the political drama than on romance. It seems there will probably be a het romance in later books, but i tend to prefer when the romance is a side plot rather than the whole pot. The characters were good and seemed like distinct people and the ending was satisfying even if it was a bit of a cliffhanger. One of the most egregious things in my opinion is the title. It’s too long and I can’t see a publisher letting it go to print with a title like that. All in all while I don’t think this will become one of my favorite books, it was entertaining enough, it got me through a bit of a slump, and I will definitely pick up the next one.
September 5, 2025
Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light by Stacey Bureker
First I would like to thank the Author, Publisher, and Netgalley for sending me an ARC.
I loved that it had a difference in suppression of humans, while holding the other creatures (Goblins, Elves, Dwarves, and exc.) to a higher standers. Also I loved learning of the world through the eyes of our main character Kye, along with the magic.
First I would like to thank the Author, Publisher, and Netgalley for sending me an ARC.
I loved that it had a difference in suppression of humans, while holding the other creatures (Goblins, Elves, Dwarves, and exc.) to a higher standers. Also I loved learning of the world through the eyes of our main character Kye, along with the magic.
August 24, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC! This will be releasing later on this week, on Aug 29
I had such a fun time while reading this. Bureker creates a fantasy world that manages to feel both familiar and new. The common tropes applied to fantasy things like mages, elves, dwarves and the like are all familiar enough to just roll with it without further explanation, which allows for more time to focus on the magic system explanations and the plot at hand. The characters were another high point here, I liked Kye, Arden, and Saiyah a lot. In addition, I liked Kye’s openness to learning new things and his interactions with the new (amicable) characters he was meeting. I did find some of the side characters to be more one-note, but this is book 1 in a series so they may be fleshed out in a later book. Specifically, some of the other elven mages who Kye has some issues with don’t feel like they have anything else going on beyond not liking humans. The biggest complaint I do have with this is that Arden’s dialog doesn’t really mesh with everyone else’s. It’s far more casual and almost modern both in tone and word choice, where almost every other character sounds more ye olde times. I think this walks the line between young adult and new adult very nicely, not necessarily in terms of content but more the way we see through the character’s eyes. This is definitely something I’d recommend for people who like older fantasy novels but with a modern style to them
I had such a fun time while reading this. Bureker creates a fantasy world that manages to feel both familiar and new. The common tropes applied to fantasy things like mages, elves, dwarves and the like are all familiar enough to just roll with it without further explanation, which allows for more time to focus on the magic system explanations and the plot at hand. The characters were another high point here, I liked Kye, Arden, and Saiyah a lot. In addition, I liked Kye’s openness to learning new things and his interactions with the new (amicable) characters he was meeting. I did find some of the side characters to be more one-note, but this is book 1 in a series so they may be fleshed out in a later book. Specifically, some of the other elven mages who Kye has some issues with don’t feel like they have anything else going on beyond not liking humans. The biggest complaint I do have with this is that Arden’s dialog doesn’t really mesh with everyone else’s. It’s far more casual and almost modern both in tone and word choice, where almost every other character sounds more ye olde times. I think this walks the line between young adult and new adult very nicely, not necessarily in terms of content but more the way we see through the character’s eyes. This is definitely something I’d recommend for people who like older fantasy novels but with a modern style to them
August 24, 2025
I truly enjoyed the premises of this book! It had elfs, magic, and kind of a academic environment.
The main character is likable and I truly enjoyed seeing him grow. however as it is written in third person I felt like we didn't get as deep into the character as i would have liked to.
The book did feel perhaps quite predictable and young, so as an adult reader I was perhaps finding myself wanting more depth to the story but feel like this would be perfect for a bit of a younger audience or someone who is just now getting into fantasy.
The magic system was interesting and relatively easy to understand. I would have loved to see more about the relationship between characters but perhaps we are getting more of that in book 2.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an arc! All thoughts are my own.
The main character is likable and I truly enjoyed seeing him grow. however as it is written in third person I felt like we didn't get as deep into the character as i would have liked to.
The book did feel perhaps quite predictable and young, so as an adult reader I was perhaps finding myself wanting more depth to the story but feel like this would be perfect for a bit of a younger audience or someone who is just now getting into fantasy.
The magic system was interesting and relatively easy to understand. I would have loved to see more about the relationship between characters but perhaps we are getting more of that in book 2.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an arc! All thoughts are my own.
September 26, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Stacey Bureker for the eARC!
This was absolutely a 5 out of 5 book for me!.
Kye is a human who is enslaved to work for Umbree, a high-ranking goblin. Arden is a Maister with the High Council and is often considered one of the strongest mages. Kye learns of a plan to take Maister Arden's life and Kye decides to risk himself to warn the Maister. This decision throws Kye's life upside down as he is introduced to the High Council itself.
Arden is incredibly sassy and is not afraid to tell others how he feels about them or a situation. Some of my favorite quotes from Arden are:
"The Council can sit, stand, or roll the **** over for all I care."
"This council and I tend to disagree on a fairly regular basis. The only difference in this particular instance is that the council's opinions are of no consequence."
"Well I thought the statement rather straightforward, Luell. Or do you require smaller words?"
Those quotes, and others, had me laughing and rooting against the people who were unlucky enough to upset Arden.
Kye is a very easy protagonist to like. He's willing to put in the work to change his life for the better and isn't afraid to stand up for himself, even if it means that his life is in danger.
This book went by too quickly for me and I truly didn't want to put it down. I have been recommending this to multiple people in my life and I will be buying a physical copy very soon.
I am eagerly awaiting the second installment.
This was absolutely a 5 out of 5 book for me!.
Kye is a human who is enslaved to work for Umbree, a high-ranking goblin. Arden is a Maister with the High Council and is often considered one of the strongest mages. Kye learns of a plan to take Maister Arden's life and Kye decides to risk himself to warn the Maister. This decision throws Kye's life upside down as he is introduced to the High Council itself.
Arden is incredibly sassy and is not afraid to tell others how he feels about them or a situation. Some of my favorite quotes from Arden are:
"The Council can sit, stand, or roll the **** over for all I care."
"This council and I tend to disagree on a fairly regular basis. The only difference in this particular instance is that the council's opinions are of no consequence."
"Well I thought the statement rather straightforward, Luell. Or do you require smaller words?"
Those quotes, and others, had me laughing and rooting against the people who were unlucky enough to upset Arden.
Kye is a very easy protagonist to like. He's willing to put in the work to change his life for the better and isn't afraid to stand up for himself, even if it means that his life is in danger.
This book went by too quickly for me and I truly didn't want to put it down. I have been recommending this to multiple people in my life and I will be buying a physical copy very soon.
I am eagerly awaiting the second installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2025
This book was phenomenal, the writing was so good!
It takes place in the Six Realms, a fantasy universe where the more fantasy creatures are seen as higher than the humans, who aren't particularly good as much as other races in things, and more frail. They tend to be more commonly used as slaves or servants in this universe. Our main character Kye is one such human, who serves a goblin lord and desperately wants to escape his servitude. He ends up saving a current Maister on the Magi Council, Arden, from death at his master's hands and ends up going to the realm of the elves with Arden. He ultimately ends up as Arden's student, his acolyte and one day possible successor, after Arden discovers he has a gift for utilizing magic, something humans have not done before. But there's more at hand than just the other races having to handle Kye as a fellow acolyte, for there's an evil lurking about, wanting to hunt down some elemental stones that Arden and Kye happen to have one of, and will stop at seemingly nothing to get his hands on it..
I like Kye as a character, Arden is a fun maister who bends the norms of the Magi Council. The plot was fast paced and explained things as we went, which kept things moving and not stale. Saiyah is a great character who sees past the races of others, when the other acolytes failed to see past Kye as his race.
I'll be interested in seeing what happens in the next book!
It takes place in the Six Realms, a fantasy universe where the more fantasy creatures are seen as higher than the humans, who aren't particularly good as much as other races in things, and more frail. They tend to be more commonly used as slaves or servants in this universe. Our main character Kye is one such human, who serves a goblin lord and desperately wants to escape his servitude. He ends up saving a current Maister on the Magi Council, Arden, from death at his master's hands and ends up going to the realm of the elves with Arden. He ultimately ends up as Arden's student, his acolyte and one day possible successor, after Arden discovers he has a gift for utilizing magic, something humans have not done before. But there's more at hand than just the other races having to handle Kye as a fellow acolyte, for there's an evil lurking about, wanting to hunt down some elemental stones that Arden and Kye happen to have one of, and will stop at seemingly nothing to get his hands on it..
I like Kye as a character, Arden is a fun maister who bends the norms of the Magi Council. The plot was fast paced and explained things as we went, which kept things moving and not stale. Saiyah is a great character who sees past the races of others, when the other acolytes failed to see past Kye as his race.
I'll be interested in seeing what happens in the next book!
August 7, 2025
I fancied reading a book more focused on fantasy than romance, and it did not dissapoint ✨️
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy cosy fantasy (magic-focused) with a touch of politics, a *very* minor romantic subplot (which I expect will develop in subsequent books) and plenty of action!
I found the characters well developed and unique. I particularly liked Ardens sassy, take-no-sh*t attitude and seeing the development of Kye's confidence, both personally and as a mage. The found family element added a welcomed, cosy vibe.
Although this is the first book in a new series, I am pleased to say that it did not end on a major cliffhanger. The plot line was interesting with the right amount of action to keep the story moving. There were mysteries unsolved and questions unanswered but nothing that leaves you dreading the wait for the sequel. I would have liked more information about Kye's training and magic development, the other realms and characters backgrounds BUT I expect this was at least partially intentional and that the author has saved further details for the subsequent books. I can imagine too much more detail would have been overwhelming for some readers.
It was a quick read for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading what will happen next in Kye's journey and finding out more about their world.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this eARC ✨️
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy cosy fantasy (magic-focused) with a touch of politics, a *very* minor romantic subplot (which I expect will develop in subsequent books) and plenty of action!
I found the characters well developed and unique. I particularly liked Ardens sassy, take-no-sh*t attitude and seeing the development of Kye's confidence, both personally and as a mage. The found family element added a welcomed, cosy vibe.
Although this is the first book in a new series, I am pleased to say that it did not end on a major cliffhanger. The plot line was interesting with the right amount of action to keep the story moving. There were mysteries unsolved and questions unanswered but nothing that leaves you dreading the wait for the sequel. I would have liked more information about Kye's training and magic development, the other realms and characters backgrounds BUT I expect this was at least partially intentional and that the author has saved further details for the subsequent books. I can imagine too much more detail would have been overwhelming for some readers.
It was a quick read for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading what will happen next in Kye's journey and finding out more about their world.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this eARC ✨️
January 13, 2026
I'll post the review first in English (using Google Translate) and then in Spanish.
(This is the final review, edited because I finally finished the book!).
I'm so grateful for the opportunity to read it. Seriously. I was able to resolve the issue with the app and finish it in one day, and as I mentioned in the previous review, I had gotten stuck around chapter 4. Now that I could finally pick it up again, I devoured it in one sitting (in my hospital chair, if I may add).
As I mentioned before, the story starts slowly; the author presents the world from the perspective of Kye, our protagonist, a boy who has suffered greatly simply for being human in a high fantasy world where the superior races are, well, all the others, and humans are enslaved. Despite everything, Kye has a heart of gold and overwhelming resilience throughout the story. Arden's arrival in his life completely changes his course, setting him on a path that seems almost predetermined. Much of this story draws on familiar concepts: stones of creation, racial differences, and a vast world that never seems to be fully encompassed. This story definitely needs a map.
I feel like it's 251 pages where we see Kye struggle time and again with his lot in life, being just a young human in a world full of magic and wonder, but also of hatred and hidden horrors. His heart and mind make him an interesting character, as does his increasingly well-developed personality, as if he were freeing himself from his own limitations.
Arden, for me, is a cliché: a master with presence and power, intelligent and respected, who hadn't taken an apprentice until he met Kye and was touched by his kindness.
The shifts in point of view seemed odd to me, because I didn't find much separation between the paragraphs from Sayja's perspective and then back to Kye's. But there weren't many, just like a few minor spelling mistakes. I'm very particular about that, anyway.
As I mentioned, the narrative is slow but takes its time to develop, and the author's writing is beautifully crafted, detailed enough to transport you to the Six Kingdoms. For me, it's classic fantasy, with enough humor and magic to make me feel like I'm at a Dungeons & Dragons table. So, I'm giving it 5 stars; it's my top read of 2026, and I'm very happy about it. Thank you.
******
Ahora en español.
(Esta es la reseña final, editada porque ¡Por fin pude terminar el libro!).
Estoy muy agradecida por la oportunidad de leerlo. En serio. Pude resolver el problema con la app y terminar de leerlo en un día, y como ya había mencionado en la anterior reseña había quedado estancada alrededor del capítulo 4, y ahora cuando por fin pude retomarlo me lo devoré de una sentada (en mi silla de hospital, si puedo añadir).
Como ya había mencionado, la historia inicia lento; la autora nos presenta el mundo desde la perspectiva de Kye, nuestro protagonista, quién es un chico que ha sufrido bastante sólo por ser humano en un mundo de alta fantasía donde las razas superiores son, bueno, todas las demás, y la humana es la esclavizada. Kye, a pesar de todo, tiene un corazón de hora y una resiliencia avasalladora a lo largo de la historia. La entrada de Arden en su vida cambia su rumbo por completo, poniéndolo en un camino casi destinado. Mucho de esta historia bebe de conceptos ya familiares: piedras de la creación, diferencias entre razas, y un mundo gigantezco que no termina de ser abarcado. Esta historia definitivamente necesita un mapa.
Siento que son 251 páginas donde vemos a Kye luchar una y otra vez con lo que le toca, al ser sólo un joven humano en un mundo lleno de magia y maravillas, pero también de odio y horrores ocultos. Su corazón y su mente hacen de él un personaje interesante, al igual que su carácter cada vez mejor desarrollado a lo largo de las páginas, como si se liberara a si mismo.
Arden, para mí, es un cliché; un maestro con presencia y poder, inteligente y respetado, que no había tomado aprendiz hasta conocer a Kye y ser conmovido por su amabilidad.
Los cambias de puntos de vista me parecieron extraños, porque no encontré gran separación entre los párrafos desde la perspectiva de Sayja y luego de vuelta a Kye. Pero no fueron muchos, igual que algunas pequeñas faltas de ortografía. Soy muy detallista sobre eso, en todo caso.
Como ya mencioné, la narrativa es lenta pero se toma su tiempo para desarrollarse, al igual que la pluma de la autora está bellamente escrita, lo suficientemente detallada como para teletransportarte a los Seis reinos. Para mí, es una fantasía clásica, con toques de humor y magia suficientes como para sentirme en una mesa jugando Dungeons & Dragons. Así que, le doy 5 estrellas, es mi primero mejor lectura de este 2026 y estoy muy feliz por ello. Gracias.
(This is the final review, edited because I finally finished the book!).
I'm so grateful for the opportunity to read it. Seriously. I was able to resolve the issue with the app and finish it in one day, and as I mentioned in the previous review, I had gotten stuck around chapter 4. Now that I could finally pick it up again, I devoured it in one sitting (in my hospital chair, if I may add).
As I mentioned before, the story starts slowly; the author presents the world from the perspective of Kye, our protagonist, a boy who has suffered greatly simply for being human in a high fantasy world where the superior races are, well, all the others, and humans are enslaved. Despite everything, Kye has a heart of gold and overwhelming resilience throughout the story. Arden's arrival in his life completely changes his course, setting him on a path that seems almost predetermined. Much of this story draws on familiar concepts: stones of creation, racial differences, and a vast world that never seems to be fully encompassed. This story definitely needs a map.
I feel like it's 251 pages where we see Kye struggle time and again with his lot in life, being just a young human in a world full of magic and wonder, but also of hatred and hidden horrors. His heart and mind make him an interesting character, as does his increasingly well-developed personality, as if he were freeing himself from his own limitations.
Arden, for me, is a cliché: a master with presence and power, intelligent and respected, who hadn't taken an apprentice until he met Kye and was touched by his kindness.
The shifts in point of view seemed odd to me, because I didn't find much separation between the paragraphs from Sayja's perspective and then back to Kye's. But there weren't many, just like a few minor spelling mistakes. I'm very particular about that, anyway.
As I mentioned, the narrative is slow but takes its time to develop, and the author's writing is beautifully crafted, detailed enough to transport you to the Six Kingdoms. For me, it's classic fantasy, with enough humor and magic to make me feel like I'm at a Dungeons & Dragons table. So, I'm giving it 5 stars; it's my top read of 2026, and I'm very happy about it. Thank you.
******
Ahora en español.
(Esta es la reseña final, editada porque ¡Por fin pude terminar el libro!).
Estoy muy agradecida por la oportunidad de leerlo. En serio. Pude resolver el problema con la app y terminar de leerlo en un día, y como ya había mencionado en la anterior reseña había quedado estancada alrededor del capítulo 4, y ahora cuando por fin pude retomarlo me lo devoré de una sentada (en mi silla de hospital, si puedo añadir).
Como ya había mencionado, la historia inicia lento; la autora nos presenta el mundo desde la perspectiva de Kye, nuestro protagonista, quién es un chico que ha sufrido bastante sólo por ser humano en un mundo de alta fantasía donde las razas superiores son, bueno, todas las demás, y la humana es la esclavizada. Kye, a pesar de todo, tiene un corazón de hora y una resiliencia avasalladora a lo largo de la historia. La entrada de Arden en su vida cambia su rumbo por completo, poniéndolo en un camino casi destinado. Mucho de esta historia bebe de conceptos ya familiares: piedras de la creación, diferencias entre razas, y un mundo gigantezco que no termina de ser abarcado. Esta historia definitivamente necesita un mapa.
Siento que son 251 páginas donde vemos a Kye luchar una y otra vez con lo que le toca, al ser sólo un joven humano en un mundo lleno de magia y maravillas, pero también de odio y horrores ocultos. Su corazón y su mente hacen de él un personaje interesante, al igual que su carácter cada vez mejor desarrollado a lo largo de las páginas, como si se liberara a si mismo.
Arden, para mí, es un cliché; un maestro con presencia y poder, inteligente y respetado, que no había tomado aprendiz hasta conocer a Kye y ser conmovido por su amabilidad.
Los cambias de puntos de vista me parecieron extraños, porque no encontré gran separación entre los párrafos desde la perspectiva de Sayja y luego de vuelta a Kye. Pero no fueron muchos, igual que algunas pequeñas faltas de ortografía. Soy muy detallista sobre eso, en todo caso.
Como ya mencioné, la narrativa es lenta pero se toma su tiempo para desarrollarse, al igual que la pluma de la autora está bellamente escrita, lo suficientemente detallada como para teletransportarte a los Seis reinos. Para mí, es una fantasía clásica, con toques de humor y magia suficientes como para sentirme en una mesa jugando Dungeons & Dragons. Así que, le doy 5 estrellas, es mi primero mejor lectura de este 2026 y estoy muy feliz por ello. Gracias.
January 12, 2026
Some fantasy stories sweep you up with sprawling battles and intricate magic systems. Others quietly unfold, focusing on heart, perseverance, and the long road toward belonging. Beyond the Cobbled Road by Stacey Bureker firmly belongs to the latter camp — a character-driven fantasy that leans into hope, resilience, and the power of being seen.
A Journey That Begins in the Shadows
Set in a world where humans occupy the lowest rung of society, Beyond the Cobbled Road follows Kye, a young human servant who has known little beyond hardship and quiet endurance. In the Six Realms, magic and power belong to others — elves, mages, and rulers — while humans are expected to stay invisible.
That fragile balance is disrupted when Kye saves the life of Arden, an elven Maister of the Magi Council. What follows is not just an escape from servitude, but the beginning of something unprecedented: Kye is taken on as an apprentice, becoming the first human ever offered the chance to learn magic.
From there, the story unfolds gradually rather than in a sudden leap. This is a fantasy that understands growth as something earned — through patience, mistakes, and moments of quiet courage.
Character at the Heart of the Story
The emotional core of the novel lies in the mentor-apprentice relationship between Kye and Arden. Their bond feels sincere and thoughtfully developed, balancing guidance with trust. Arden is not a flawless savior figure, and Kye is not an instantly gifted prodigy. Instead, their dynamic is built on mutual respect, vulnerability, and the slow dismantling of long-held prejudices.
Kye’s journey is especially compelling because it’s rooted in self-worth. His challenges aren’t only magical; they’re deeply social and internal. Being accepted into a world that has always dismissed him carries emotional weight, and the book takes time to explore that tension rather than rushing past it.
Worldbuilding and Themes
Bureker’s worldbuilding is approachable and familiar in the best way. Elves, dwarves, magic councils, and ancient threats provide a recognizable fantasy framework, while the rigid class structure adds a layer of social commentary. Themes of inequality, prejudice, and chosen family are woven throughout the narrative, giving the story a thoughtful undercurrent without becoming heavy-handed.
The writing style is straightforward and accessible, making this a comfortable read for both newer fantasy readers and those looking for something character-focused rather than lore-dense.
A Gentle, Promising Start
As the first installment in a series, Beyond the Cobbled Road sets the stage more than it seeks to overwhelm. The stakes build steadily, and while the plot doesn’t reinvent the genre, it delivers a satisfying emotional arc that leaves room for future growth. Readers who enjoy quieter fantasy, underdog stories, and slow-burn character development will find a lot to love here.
Final Thoughts
Beyond the Cobbled Road is a hopeful fantasy about stepping beyond the limits others place on you — and the courage it takes to believe you deserve more. With its heartfelt characters and steady pacing, it’s a promising beginning to a series that feels grounded in empathy and resilience.
Recommended for readers who enjoy:
* Underdog protagonists
* Mentor-apprentice dynamics
* Classic fantasy races and magic
Themes of prejudice, belonging, and self-discovery
A Journey That Begins in the Shadows
Set in a world where humans occupy the lowest rung of society, Beyond the Cobbled Road follows Kye, a young human servant who has known little beyond hardship and quiet endurance. In the Six Realms, magic and power belong to others — elves, mages, and rulers — while humans are expected to stay invisible.
That fragile balance is disrupted when Kye saves the life of Arden, an elven Maister of the Magi Council. What follows is not just an escape from servitude, but the beginning of something unprecedented: Kye is taken on as an apprentice, becoming the first human ever offered the chance to learn magic.
From there, the story unfolds gradually rather than in a sudden leap. This is a fantasy that understands growth as something earned — through patience, mistakes, and moments of quiet courage.
Character at the Heart of the Story
The emotional core of the novel lies in the mentor-apprentice relationship between Kye and Arden. Their bond feels sincere and thoughtfully developed, balancing guidance with trust. Arden is not a flawless savior figure, and Kye is not an instantly gifted prodigy. Instead, their dynamic is built on mutual respect, vulnerability, and the slow dismantling of long-held prejudices.
Kye’s journey is especially compelling because it’s rooted in self-worth. His challenges aren’t only magical; they’re deeply social and internal. Being accepted into a world that has always dismissed him carries emotional weight, and the book takes time to explore that tension rather than rushing past it.
Worldbuilding and Themes
Bureker’s worldbuilding is approachable and familiar in the best way. Elves, dwarves, magic councils, and ancient threats provide a recognizable fantasy framework, while the rigid class structure adds a layer of social commentary. Themes of inequality, prejudice, and chosen family are woven throughout the narrative, giving the story a thoughtful undercurrent without becoming heavy-handed.
The writing style is straightforward and accessible, making this a comfortable read for both newer fantasy readers and those looking for something character-focused rather than lore-dense.
A Gentle, Promising Start
As the first installment in a series, Beyond the Cobbled Road sets the stage more than it seeks to overwhelm. The stakes build steadily, and while the plot doesn’t reinvent the genre, it delivers a satisfying emotional arc that leaves room for future growth. Readers who enjoy quieter fantasy, underdog stories, and slow-burn character development will find a lot to love here.
Final Thoughts
Beyond the Cobbled Road is a hopeful fantasy about stepping beyond the limits others place on you — and the courage it takes to believe you deserve more. With its heartfelt characters and steady pacing, it’s a promising beginning to a series that feels grounded in empathy and resilience.
Recommended for readers who enjoy:
* Underdog protagonists
* Mentor-apprentice dynamics
* Classic fantasy races and magic
Themes of prejudice, belonging, and self-discovery
October 5, 2025
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 💫 ARC kindly provided by author Stacey Bureker through NetGalley — thank you so much for entrusting me with your story.
Beyond the Cobbled Road – Fading Light is an absolute gem of a debut — the kind of story that rekindles your love for fantasy and reminds you of its timeless magic.
At its heart lies Kye, a 17-year-old human slave who dares to defy the fate imposed on his kind. When he saves Lord Arden, a powerful elven mage and member of the High Council, from an assassination attempt, Arden recognizes in him something rare — courage, kindness, and an unbreakable spirit — and chooses him as his first ever acolyte. The decision stirs the entire Council, as no human has ever been permitted to pursue magic or become a mage.
From that moment on, Kye’s journey of resilience and self-discovery begins. We follow his training within the grand halls of the mage citadel, among hundreds of other acolytes, where prejudice and politics shape every interaction. The story balances moments of friendship, laughter, and mentorship with action-packed sequences and real emotional depth.
What I loved most was the bond between Arden and Kye — a mixture of mentorship, protection, and found family. Arden’s sarcastic wit and unshakable trust contrast perfectly with Kye’s kindness and quiet strength. Their connection feels powerful, built on mutual respect and hope.
The world itself — filled with elves, dwarves, orcs, goblins, and echoes of ancient magic — is rich without ever feeling overwhelming. The pacing is steady and engaging, leading to an epic combat and a satisfying resolution that leaves the door open for more in books 2 and 3.
The mysterious stones that set this journey in motion remain shrouded in partial mystery for now — a deliberate choice, I believe, to heighten the intrigue for what’s to come. I’m eager to see how their true nature will unfold in Book 2 – Darkness Falls.
The ending brings a clear promise that greater darkness awaits in the next installment. I, for one, cannot wait to walk that road again!
For a first novel, this is an impressive and deeply moving achievement. Congratulations to Stacey Bureker for creating such a vivid and heartfelt world. 🌒
Quote from the book’s poem
“There was never meant to be, a cobbled road for me,
But this barely beaten path will lead me home”
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Overall
My ratings:
- Emotional Impact: 5/5 – Uplifting and heartfelt
- Character Connection: 4.5/5 – Strong mentor–apprentice bond
- Worldbuilding: 4.5/5 – Detailed yet balanced
- Plot & Pacing: 5/5 – Epic rhythm with heart
- Writing Style: 5/5 – Fluid, elegant, immersive
- Bonds: 5/5 – Found family and emotional mentors
Tropes & Themes:
🧙 Mentor–Apprentice
🛡️ Found Family
⚔️ Epic Quest
🌌 Light vs Darkness
🩶 Chosen One
🪄 Magic Training Academy
💬 Sarcastic Elf Mentor
🕊️ Resilience & Hope
Beyond the Cobbled Road – Fading Light is an absolute gem of a debut — the kind of story that rekindles your love for fantasy and reminds you of its timeless magic.
At its heart lies Kye, a 17-year-old human slave who dares to defy the fate imposed on his kind. When he saves Lord Arden, a powerful elven mage and member of the High Council, from an assassination attempt, Arden recognizes in him something rare — courage, kindness, and an unbreakable spirit — and chooses him as his first ever acolyte. The decision stirs the entire Council, as no human has ever been permitted to pursue magic or become a mage.
From that moment on, Kye’s journey of resilience and self-discovery begins. We follow his training within the grand halls of the mage citadel, among hundreds of other acolytes, where prejudice and politics shape every interaction. The story balances moments of friendship, laughter, and mentorship with action-packed sequences and real emotional depth.
What I loved most was the bond between Arden and Kye — a mixture of mentorship, protection, and found family. Arden’s sarcastic wit and unshakable trust contrast perfectly with Kye’s kindness and quiet strength. Their connection feels powerful, built on mutual respect and hope.
The world itself — filled with elves, dwarves, orcs, goblins, and echoes of ancient magic — is rich without ever feeling overwhelming. The pacing is steady and engaging, leading to an epic combat and a satisfying resolution that leaves the door open for more in books 2 and 3.
The mysterious stones that set this journey in motion remain shrouded in partial mystery for now — a deliberate choice, I believe, to heighten the intrigue for what’s to come. I’m eager to see how their true nature will unfold in Book 2 – Darkness Falls.
The ending brings a clear promise that greater darkness awaits in the next installment. I, for one, cannot wait to walk that road again!
For a first novel, this is an impressive and deeply moving achievement. Congratulations to Stacey Bureker for creating such a vivid and heartfelt world. 🌒
Quote from the book’s poem
“There was never meant to be, a cobbled road for me,
But this barely beaten path will lead me home”
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Overall
My ratings:
- Emotional Impact: 5/5 – Uplifting and heartfelt
- Character Connection: 4.5/5 – Strong mentor–apprentice bond
- Worldbuilding: 4.5/5 – Detailed yet balanced
- Plot & Pacing: 5/5 – Epic rhythm with heart
- Writing Style: 5/5 – Fluid, elegant, immersive
- Bonds: 5/5 – Found family and emotional mentors
Tropes & Themes:
🧙 Mentor–Apprentice
🛡️ Found Family
⚔️ Epic Quest
🌌 Light vs Darkness
🩶 Chosen One
🪄 Magic Training Academy
💬 Sarcastic Elf Mentor
🕊️ Resilience & Hope
August 22, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
“There was never meant to be, a cobbled road for me, A straight and even path to wander by.”
my ARC review of Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light by Stacey Bureker, the first in its series (though for the life of me I can’t figure out what the series is called 😅).
“You must first admit your weaknesses in order to realize your strengths.”
this book is a really beautiful diamond in the rough. there are so many elements to it that stood out so much & so well. the MC Kye is well fleshed out, easily lovable, & a rare character archetype in this day & age: quiet, soft spoken, gentle, warm & humble & kind, but with a spine of steel and a penchant for selflessness. the world building is top tier. I could absolutely see and feel this world & wanted to dive into it (though maybe not as a human). the underdog aspects are like catnip to me, & the magic system was simple but fun.
the only things I struggled with were the shifting POVs with no warning, the juvenile/immature writing (it’s a YA, yes, but the writing was still often clunky & awkward, even for a YA), & the modern speech in a high fantasy novel (threw me out of the story every. single. time.).
“Don’t disregard fear, it can be a sword or a crutch, depending on how it’s wielded. The trick is to allow it to sharpen you without allowing it to cripple you.”
as rough as this diamond may be (just a little!), it is still a diamond & imo definitely worth the read (it releases on KU on 8/29!). I’ll just hold out hope that the author grows & develops as a writer because she really has a lot of promise, talent, & imagination and I cannot WAIT for the second book ❤️❤️
🌕 high fantasy YA
📚 underdog
🌕 humans are the weakest link
📚 third person, multiple POVs (it kind of switches at random, which can be a little bit jarring)
🌕 very YA- feeling vibes/writing
📚 found family of misfits
🌕 elemental magic system
📚 the writing style is engaging in its simplicity
🌕 slave to mage acolyte pipeline
📚 academia
🌕 spells & potions & species-ism, oh my
📚 maybe the littlest bit of a love story (although I kind of hope not, tbh. I like the platonic friendship/found family aspect)
thank you to the author & Netgalley for the ebook in exchange for an honest review!
“There was never meant to be, a cobbled road for me, A straight and even path to wander by.”
my ARC review of Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light by Stacey Bureker, the first in its series (though for the life of me I can’t figure out what the series is called 😅).
“You must first admit your weaknesses in order to realize your strengths.”
this book is a really beautiful diamond in the rough. there are so many elements to it that stood out so much & so well. the MC Kye is well fleshed out, easily lovable, & a rare character archetype in this day & age: quiet, soft spoken, gentle, warm & humble & kind, but with a spine of steel and a penchant for selflessness. the world building is top tier. I could absolutely see and feel this world & wanted to dive into it (though maybe not as a human). the underdog aspects are like catnip to me, & the magic system was simple but fun.
the only things I struggled with were the shifting POVs with no warning, the juvenile/immature writing (it’s a YA, yes, but the writing was still often clunky & awkward, even for a YA), & the modern speech in a high fantasy novel (threw me out of the story every. single. time.).
“Don’t disregard fear, it can be a sword or a crutch, depending on how it’s wielded. The trick is to allow it to sharpen you without allowing it to cripple you.”
as rough as this diamond may be (just a little!), it is still a diamond & imo definitely worth the read (it releases on KU on 8/29!). I’ll just hold out hope that the author grows & develops as a writer because she really has a lot of promise, talent, & imagination and I cannot WAIT for the second book ❤️❤️
🌕 high fantasy YA
📚 underdog
🌕 humans are the weakest link
📚 third person, multiple POVs (it kind of switches at random, which can be a little bit jarring)
🌕 very YA- feeling vibes/writing
📚 found family of misfits
🌕 elemental magic system
📚 the writing style is engaging in its simplicity
🌕 slave to mage acolyte pipeline
📚 academia
🌕 spells & potions & species-ism, oh my
📚 maybe the littlest bit of a love story (although I kind of hope not, tbh. I like the platonic friendship/found family aspect)
thank you to the author & Netgalley for the ebook in exchange for an honest review!
November 24, 2025
📚Beyond the Cobbled Road:Fading Light
✍🏻Stacey Bureker
Blurb:
Humans are considered the lowest beings in the Six Realms. They have short lives, weak bodies and are only useful as servants. And they certainly aren't worthy of learning the magical arts.
But that all changes when a human servant named Kye helps to save the life of an elven maister named Arden. In return, Arden offers to take Kye on as his apprentice, teaching him the craft and making him the first ever human acolyte. His appointment, however, is not easily accepted by other mages.
As Arden and Kye face opposition from allies, disdain from other races, and a dangerous necromancer spreading chaos through the Six Realms, Kye is determined to prove to all who doubt it: humans are not the weak creatures they were thought to be.
My Thoughts:
An enjoyable high fantasy story about Kye, a human slave, who rescues and is rescued in turn by Arden, an Elven Mage. We have many of the the classic fantasy races (plus shifters, I welcome this addition) and animosity between them which creates the backdrop for the machinations of an evil necromancer. Plot ensues.
I enjoyed the two main characters, Arden and Kye, and there mentor/mentor dynamic. I found the magic system to be interesting and far more detailed than other fantasies. The book did feel perhaps quite predictable and young, so as an adult reader I was perhaps finding myself wanting more depth to the story but feel like this would be perfect for a bit of a younger audience or someone who is just now getting into fantasy.
Thanks NetGalley, Author and Publisher Stacey Bureker for the advanced copy of "Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#StaceyBureker
#BeyondtheCobbledRoad:FadingLight
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Stacey Bureker
Blurb:
Humans are considered the lowest beings in the Six Realms. They have short lives, weak bodies and are only useful as servants. And they certainly aren't worthy of learning the magical arts.
But that all changes when a human servant named Kye helps to save the life of an elven maister named Arden. In return, Arden offers to take Kye on as his apprentice, teaching him the craft and making him the first ever human acolyte. His appointment, however, is not easily accepted by other mages.
As Arden and Kye face opposition from allies, disdain from other races, and a dangerous necromancer spreading chaos through the Six Realms, Kye is determined to prove to all who doubt it: humans are not the weak creatures they were thought to be.
My Thoughts:
An enjoyable high fantasy story about Kye, a human slave, who rescues and is rescued in turn by Arden, an Elven Mage. We have many of the the classic fantasy races (plus shifters, I welcome this addition) and animosity between them which creates the backdrop for the machinations of an evil necromancer. Plot ensues.
I enjoyed the two main characters, Arden and Kye, and there mentor/mentor dynamic. I found the magic system to be interesting and far more detailed than other fantasies. The book did feel perhaps quite predictable and young, so as an adult reader I was perhaps finding myself wanting more depth to the story but feel like this would be perfect for a bit of a younger audience or someone who is just now getting into fantasy.
Thanks NetGalley, Author and Publisher Stacey Bureker for the advanced copy of "Beyond the Cobbled Road: Fading Light" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#StaceyBureker
#BeyondtheCobbledRoad:FadingLight
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 21, 2025
This debut fantasy is written to perfection! I had really high expectations based on the blurb and cover, and it surpassed them all. The book started with a bang and ended with a bang with not a single dull moment in between. The entire time I kept wondering what would happen next, and I quickly realised there was no point in trying to guess because there would be a twist that I wouldn't have seen coming.
The characters were beautifully crafted with a lot of details regarding their physical attributes, nature, motivations and abilities. Their interactions seemed natural, and their conversations flowed smoothly. I loved Arden's wit and sharp tongue. His no-nonsense attitude and one-liners, especially when verbally sparring with the Council were highly entertaining. I snort-laughed a few times while reading, and then imagined myself saying that to someone who annoyed me.
Arden's relationship with Kye warmed my heart. They were like a father-son duo, and Arden's protectiveness and faith in Kye got me emotional. It's the first time I'm reading a fantasy where the focus is not on a couple. The supporting characters and the villains were equally well written.
The plot was well thought-out and executed. I could picture the scenes in my mind, and I felt all the emotions that the characters did, to the extent that I wanted to protect some of them and slap a few others.
The world-building was absolutely stunning! It was complex and intricate but not confusing at all. The twists and mysteries regarding the stones, Orin's powers, his motives, Aine and her connection to Kye and so many other things are going to give me a few sleepless nights.
I have a book hangover, and I'm eagerly waiting for the sequel. Readers who love epic fantasies with mysterious quests, unique powers and great world-building should definitely pick this up.
The characters were beautifully crafted with a lot of details regarding their physical attributes, nature, motivations and abilities. Their interactions seemed natural, and their conversations flowed smoothly. I loved Arden's wit and sharp tongue. His no-nonsense attitude and one-liners, especially when verbally sparring with the Council were highly entertaining. I snort-laughed a few times while reading, and then imagined myself saying that to someone who annoyed me.
Arden's relationship with Kye warmed my heart. They were like a father-son duo, and Arden's protectiveness and faith in Kye got me emotional. It's the first time I'm reading a fantasy where the focus is not on a couple. The supporting characters and the villains were equally well written.
The plot was well thought-out and executed. I could picture the scenes in my mind, and I felt all the emotions that the characters did, to the extent that I wanted to protect some of them and slap a few others.
The world-building was absolutely stunning! It was complex and intricate but not confusing at all. The twists and mysteries regarding the stones, Orin's powers, his motives, Aine and her connection to Kye and so many other things are going to give me a few sleepless nights.
I have a book hangover, and I'm eagerly waiting for the sequel. Readers who love epic fantasies with mysterious quests, unique powers and great world-building should definitely pick this up.
January 14, 2026
Kye knows his lowly place as a human in the Six Realms; enslaved, beaten, starved, and insulted from the moment he wakes up, Kye no longer dreams of escaping his abusive troll master, because there's nowhere for him. He's invisible and useless. That is until he saves the high elf Arden from a murderous plot by his master, proving there's more to him than to be expected.
To return the favour, Arden takes Kye on as his apprentice in his realm, where so many creatures study and hone their magical abilities. Feeling like a fish out of water, Kye discovers he does have magic power, never before seen. He'll have to work hard to perfect it because his master is out for revenge and he's working on behalf of a greater, more terrible enemy...
Adventurous, charming and effortlessly humorous from the start, Beyond the Cobbled Road Book 1 was an engaging read and kept me invested in Kye and Arden's journey together. The narrative followed the typical fantasy archetype, but it stands out by humanising all the characters. Kye, the only human, proves his mettle and that his empathy hasn't been destroyed by a life of misery, while the high and mighty elves are shown to be flawed and close minded, with only a few working to be less bigoted.
Its narrative and dialogue were simple to follow yet delightfully whimsical throughout (though it may not be appropriate for children under 12 due to some swearing), still subtly dealing with real world issues in a fantasy setting. BTCR transported me to a new world without me having to leave my blanket burrito. Eyes already firmly locked on book 2 release!
Thank you NetGalley and Stacy Bureker for early ARC access!
To return the favour, Arden takes Kye on as his apprentice in his realm, where so many creatures study and hone their magical abilities. Feeling like a fish out of water, Kye discovers he does have magic power, never before seen. He'll have to work hard to perfect it because his master is out for revenge and he's working on behalf of a greater, more terrible enemy...
Adventurous, charming and effortlessly humorous from the start, Beyond the Cobbled Road Book 1 was an engaging read and kept me invested in Kye and Arden's journey together. The narrative followed the typical fantasy archetype, but it stands out by humanising all the characters. Kye, the only human, proves his mettle and that his empathy hasn't been destroyed by a life of misery, while the high and mighty elves are shown to be flawed and close minded, with only a few working to be less bigoted.
Its narrative and dialogue were simple to follow yet delightfully whimsical throughout (though it may not be appropriate for children under 12 due to some swearing), still subtly dealing with real world issues in a fantasy setting. BTCR transported me to a new world without me having to leave my blanket burrito. Eyes already firmly locked on book 2 release!
Thank you NetGalley and Stacy Bureker for early ARC access!
September 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this story!
There is a natural build up of tension but it's tempered by some light hearted moments that really balance the mood. We are treated to some great characters, both good and evil. Kye is our main character, being human, he doesn't have the best life as a slave to a brutal corrupt mage. When that mage has a dinner party for another mage, all hell breaks loose. Kye does something that changes his life and sets him on a path he couldn't imagine for himself.
The mage he saves is Ardan...a smart mouthed powerful maister, who happens to see something in Kye so takes him on as his acolyte. A human learning magic is unheard of in the realm of Elves and so things do not go well. That is until he manages to befriend a single elf, Saiyah. Along with Saiyah comes Riley, who may be my favourite! Their found family moments are so sweet and cement their friendship, which comes in handy in the darker chapters.
I think the world building is very good and the magic system is interesting with the different affinities.
The bad guys are pretty bad, but I don't think we've touched yet on the true darkness to come. I hope we get more action and challenge to Kye, Ardan and their friends. I suspect we will in book 2!
My rating is 4.25 rounded for GR
Thank you to the author and #NetGalley for this advance review copy.
There is a natural build up of tension but it's tempered by some light hearted moments that really balance the mood. We are treated to some great characters, both good and evil. Kye is our main character, being human, he doesn't have the best life as a slave to a brutal corrupt mage. When that mage has a dinner party for another mage, all hell breaks loose. Kye does something that changes his life and sets him on a path he couldn't imagine for himself.
The mage he saves is Ardan...a smart mouthed powerful maister, who happens to see something in Kye so takes him on as his acolyte. A human learning magic is unheard of in the realm of Elves and so things do not go well. That is until he manages to befriend a single elf, Saiyah. Along with Saiyah comes Riley, who may be my favourite! Their found family moments are so sweet and cement their friendship, which comes in handy in the darker chapters.
I think the world building is very good and the magic system is interesting with the different affinities.
The bad guys are pretty bad, but I don't think we've touched yet on the true darkness to come. I hope we get more action and challenge to Kye, Ardan and their friends. I suspect we will in book 2!
My rating is 4.25 rounded for GR
Thank you to the author and #NetGalley for this advance review copy.
October 21, 2025
So this isn’t usually my usual type of read. I’m deep into thriller/horror/dark romance type books. Friends, when I tell you I was captivated by Beyond the Cobbled Road within the first few pages…I could not put the book down!
Kye is one of those characters that is instantly relatable and lovable. Hard working, unassuming, good natured (despite his lot in life)…and he maintains those qualities throughout the story despite having the type of character growth needed to enter his new world. Also, can I be besties with Riley please? The carefree, sarcastic, funny side character always ends up as my favorite!
I also enjoyed the fact that there aren’t an overwhelming amount of characters. There are a lot, enough to keep you interested and engaged, but not so many you can’t keep track of everyone. And the way she writes her characters makes them instantly likable or, in some cases, instantly hatable, so that they’re stuck in your memory throughout the book.
I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried Beyond the Cobbled Road. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in what hopefully will be a many book series!
Kye is one of those characters that is instantly relatable and lovable. Hard working, unassuming, good natured (despite his lot in life)…and he maintains those qualities throughout the story despite having the type of character growth needed to enter his new world. Also, can I be besties with Riley please? The carefree, sarcastic, funny side character always ends up as my favorite!
I also enjoyed the fact that there aren’t an overwhelming amount of characters. There are a lot, enough to keep you interested and engaged, but not so many you can’t keep track of everyone. And the way she writes her characters makes them instantly likable or, in some cases, instantly hatable, so that they’re stuck in your memory throughout the book.
I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried Beyond the Cobbled Road. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in what hopefully will be a many book series!
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