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Mountain Shade
Miles' life takes a dark turn when his parents are brutally murdered. Driven by grief and his desire to make things right, he dedicates his life to training for the challenge ahead. In Deagros, the gods offer trials to determine who is worthy of their aid. Six years later, Miles is ready to take them on, scale their mountain, and demand his wish from the king of the gods himself.
As Miles attempts to bring his parents back to life, the next generation of leaders begin to face the consequences handed down to them by their parents. Unexpected consequences to righteous actions leave the world's fate in the hands of a few good souls. Where cruel men, devious gods, and unjust fate meet, a tragic adventure is about to unfold.
Fans of Coming of Age Fantasy, with dark twist and tones, set in a medieval magical world will enjoy following this hero's journey through it's epic lore, deep world building, and emotional shocks.
As Miles attempts to bring his parents back to life, the next generation of leaders begin to face the consequences handed down to them by their parents. Unexpected consequences to righteous actions leave the world's fate in the hands of a few good souls. Where cruel men, devious gods, and unjust fate meet, a tragic adventure is about to unfold.
Fans of Coming of Age Fantasy, with dark twist and tones, set in a medieval magical world will enjoy following this hero's journey through it's epic lore, deep world building, and emotional shocks.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 18, 2025
This is a story about what we do with pain. What we sacrifice for love. And what happens when you finally get what you've wished for... only to realize the gods were listening too closely.
The writing itself is lyrical when it wants to be, and sharp when it needs to cut. The imagery is vivid and the dialogue feels grounded even in the throws of chaos. The character of Dalia is a strong standout fierce, loyal, and a moral compass when Miles begins to fall apart. Their relationship feels real , not just a plot point.
By the final chapters, the book stops being a coming-of-age fantasy and starts feeling like the beginning of a myth. Not a happy one. But maybe an important one.
If you like fantasy that dares to be tragic, that treats gods like volatile forces of nature, and that explores the high cost of love, then you need to read this. Just… be ready. Your heart might not come out whole.
The writing itself is lyrical when it wants to be, and sharp when it needs to cut. The imagery is vivid and the dialogue feels grounded even in the throws of chaos. The character of Dalia is a strong standout fierce, loyal, and a moral compass when Miles begins to fall apart. Their relationship feels real , not just a plot point.
By the final chapters, the book stops being a coming-of-age fantasy and starts feeling like the beginning of a myth. Not a happy one. But maybe an important one.
If you like fantasy that dares to be tragic, that treats gods like volatile forces of nature, and that explores the high cost of love, then you need to read this. Just… be ready. Your heart might not come out whole.
August 26, 2025
I absolutely loved Mountain Shade. The author promised a great read, and the book truly delivered. From start to finish, it was a delight to dive into this new series, and I can already see the potential for it to grow into a full universe maybe even a screen adaptation one day..
As a first book, it was impressively smooth, with an easy flow that kept me hooked. The world-building is rich with depth, and the characters come with strong backstories. There were a few moments where I felt there could have been a little more detail, but that’s understandable for the start of a series and only adds to my anticipation for what’s to come.
The ending was especially well done!!! the plot cliffhanger left me eager to get my hands on Book 2 as soon as possible.
My Ratings:
World-building: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Overall: 9.5/10
As a first book, it was impressively smooth, with an easy flow that kept me hooked. The world-building is rich with depth, and the characters come with strong backstories. There were a few moments where I felt there could have been a little more detail, but that’s understandable for the start of a series and only adds to my anticipation for what’s to come.
The ending was especially well done!!! the plot cliffhanger left me eager to get my hands on Book 2 as soon as possible.
My Ratings:
World-building: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Overall: 9.5/10
March 13, 2026
Mountain Shade delivers a gripping fantasy adventure centered around the legendary Mountain Trials, where mortals risk everything for a chance to have a wish granted by the gods. The premise alone creates immediate tension, and the author builds an intriguing world filled with kingdoms, myths, and dangerous ambitions.
Miles Ravensborne is a compelling protagonist whose motivations are deeply personal. His quest to undo the tragedy of losing his parents pushes him into the brutal trials, but the consequences of his wish reveal a darker side of divine power.
The novel blends emotional storytelling with epic fantasy elements, making it an engaging read for fans of myth-driven adventures and character-focused journeys.
Miles Ravensborne is a compelling protagonist whose motivations are deeply personal. His quest to undo the tragedy of losing his parents pushes him into the brutal trials, but the consequences of his wish reveal a darker side of divine power.
The novel blends emotional storytelling with epic fantasy elements, making it an engaging read for fans of myth-driven adventures and character-focused journeys.
August 1, 2025
Great Fantasy Book
I have always loved the fantasy genre as these books transport me into a world full of mystery and magic. “The Mountain Shade” definitely did not disappoint. The world is full of lore and intricate politics, complete with an intriguing magic system and captivating plot. The main character, Miles will keep you hooked from the beginning and you can easily get lost in this richly detailed fantasy world. Eagerly waiting for the next book please.
I have always loved the fantasy genre as these books transport me into a world full of mystery and magic. “The Mountain Shade” definitely did not disappoint. The world is full of lore and intricate politics, complete with an intriguing magic system and captivating plot. The main character, Miles will keep you hooked from the beginning and you can easily get lost in this richly detailed fantasy world. Eagerly waiting for the next book please.
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August 1, 2025Powerful Coming-of-Age Tale
This one really surprised me. It’s not packed with twists or big drama, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s the kind of story that slowly gets under your skin. The main character’s journey felt so real, like watching someone quietly figure out who they are after life throws them off course. I like the way nature plays such a big role in the story. It’s heartfelt, raw in a subtle way, and kind of beautiful in its stillness
This one really surprised me. It’s not packed with twists or big drama, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s the kind of story that slowly gets under your skin. The main character’s journey felt so real, like watching someone quietly figure out who they are after life throws them off course. I like the way nature plays such a big role in the story. It’s heartfelt, raw in a subtle way, and kind of beautiful in its stillness
September 2, 2025
I enjoyed this book very much. The characters were well developed. Loved the story and the moral undertones.
July 22, 2025
Epic and emotional! Mountain Shade pulled me in from the first page—gods, trials, and a boy chasing the impossible. If you like fantasy with heart and high stakes, you’ll love this.
March 13, 2026
Mountain Shade is an ambitious epic fantasy that dives deep into the timeless question of fate whether it is something we must accept or something that can be challenged and rewritten. At the center of the story are the Mountain Trials, a series of dangerous tests created by the gods themselves. This concept adds a compelling mythological dimension to the narrative, giving the world a sense of ancient power and mystery while constantly raising the stakes for those brave or desperate enough to attempt the trials.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is how it handles the theme of consequences. Miles enters the trials with determination and a clear purpose, believing that if he can survive the challenges, he can change his destiny. However, what makes the story truly engaging is the way his wish does not unfold as expected. Instead of bringing simple resolution, it opens the door to forces far darker and more dangerous than he ever imagined. This shift adds tension and complexity, transforming the narrative from a straightforward quest into something more layered and unpredictable.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is how it handles the theme of consequences. Miles enters the trials with determination and a clear purpose, believing that if he can survive the challenges, he can change his destiny. However, what makes the story truly engaging is the way his wish does not unfold as expected. Instead of bringing simple resolution, it opens the door to forces far darker and more dangerous than he ever imagined. This shift adds tension and complexity, transforming the narrative from a straightforward quest into something more layered and unpredictable.
July 26, 2025
Mountain Shade tells the story of Miles, a young man whose life is forever changed after his parents are brutally murdered. Driven by grief and a fierce desire to set things right, he prepares to face the gods’ trials in the land of Deagros. The book weaves together mythology, adventure, and the complex consequences of choices made by one generation and passed to the next.
One quote that stayed with me:
“As the sunrise brought forth colorful skies, a raven haired father and son began their hike south from the rocky mountain village of Stonehaven. It was a beautiful day as the cool breeze brushed against their black leather clothes.”
I appreciated how the story balances intense themes with rich world-building and moral questions. It’s a tragic yet compelling adventure that explores justice, fate, and resilience.
One quote that stayed with me:
“As the sunrise brought forth colorful skies, a raven haired father and son began their hike south from the rocky mountain village of Stonehaven. It was a beautiful day as the cool breeze brushed against their black leather clothes.”
I appreciated how the story balances intense themes with rich world-building and moral questions. It’s a tragic yet compelling adventure that explores justice, fate, and resilience.
August 8, 2025
Quiet at First, Then It Hits Hard
Mountain Shade starts off quiet and reflective, guiding you through themes of nature, memory, and self-discovery with a calm, thoughtful pace. But once the story shifts to Miles' journey from a grieving boy to a warrior, it becomes something much deeper and darker. The world of Deagros is intense and unforgiving, and the emotional weight behind every decision hits hard.
It’s beautifully written, sometimes gentle, sometimes brutal. If you’re into slow-burn stories that get heavier as they unfold, with real emotion and high stakes, this one’s definitely worth your time.
Mountain Shade starts off quiet and reflective, guiding you through themes of nature, memory, and self-discovery with a calm, thoughtful pace. But once the story shifts to Miles' journey from a grieving boy to a warrior, it becomes something much deeper and darker. The world of Deagros is intense and unforgiving, and the emotional weight behind every decision hits hard.
It’s beautifully written, sometimes gentle, sometimes brutal. If you’re into slow-burn stories that get heavier as they unfold, with real emotion and high stakes, this one’s definitely worth your time.
June 1, 2026
This multi POV comming of age/new adult fantasy is a story that build and builds. It doesn't have many twists and turns, but it doesn't need them to leave a lasting impression.
The story is straight forward, it's about love, danger, adventure and gods. Even though there are many POV characters, it's easy to keep track of where we are and what is happening. There are time jumps and while I'm not the biggest fan of them, they are done well.
I recived a review copy of the book trough BookSirens.
The story is straight forward, it's about love, danger, adventure and gods. Even though there are many POV characters, it's easy to keep track of where we are and what is happening. There are time jumps and while I'm not the biggest fan of them, they are done well.
I recived a review copy of the book trough BookSirens.
July 27, 2025
Calm and reflective. Mountain Shade is a quiet, thoughtful story that draws you in with its peaceful setting and emotional depth. The writing has a gentle rhythm, making it a soothing and meaningful read. Perfect for those who enjoy stories with heart and quiet beauty.
August 18, 2025
I just finished Mountain Shade and really enjoyed it. The characters stood out the most—Miles especially, because of his personality. The plot kept me guessing, and there was a twist halfway through that completely caught me off guard. Everything escalated so quickly.
July 31, 2025
Good book!!!
August 17, 2025
This dark and emotional coming-of-age fantasy delivers epic world-building, gripping trials, and a hero’s journey that will leave readers breathless with every twist.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
A powerful, emotionally driven story. Young Miles’s world shatters in tragedy - and his journey through loss, vengeance, and truth grabbed me from the first page. By the end, I was rooting for him with all my heart. Vincent Cilenti blends raw emotion and gritty realism in a new‑adult tale that's impossible to put down.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews