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The Deception of Light
Reeling from the aftermath of tangling with the rebels and saving their friends, Lydia and Reese are left alone in an increasingly hostile galaxy. Lydia is the ship’s unwilling new captain, haunted by the Federation’s injustices and desperate to make a difference. The resistance ramps up its brazen acts of defiance and terrorism, uncaring of those caught in its path. Reese, harboring secrets of his own, is determined to stay out of it and keep Lydia safe.
When an insidious new disease begins ravaging the galaxy, Reese and Lydia are once again caught in the middle of a raging conflict. Compelled to help, they’re dragged into a rebel plot with their lives on the line. Chased around the galaxy by ghosts of the past and monsters of the present, they are forced to reckon with the ugly truth: there might not be any good left in the galaxy, no matter how hard they look for it.
When an insidious new disease begins ravaging the galaxy, Reese and Lydia are once again caught in the middle of a raging conflict. Compelled to help, they’re dragged into a rebel plot with their lives on the line. Chased around the galaxy by ghosts of the past and monsters of the present, they are forced to reckon with the ugly truth: there might not be any good left in the galaxy, no matter how hard they look for it.
- GenresScience Fiction
429 pages, Paperback
Published August 11, 2025
4 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Crafton
2 books27 followersA.M. Crafton is a science fiction author who loves enemies-to-lovers, Lord of the Rings, and her day job of teaching English as a foreign language. She is currently a graduate student who travels frequently and lives abroad. You can connect with her @a.m.craftonwrites
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 21, 2025
4.25 stars!!! Wow, wow, wow I’ve been so curious about Lydia and Reese’s story ever since I finished the nature of darkness over a year ago, but this surpassed all of my expectations!!
✩ Reluctant friends to Lovers
✩ Grumpy x sunshine
✩ PTSD Rep
✩ Found family
What truly made the story shine was the characters. Both Lydia and Reese have such deep backstory even beyond just the previous book. As someone that is fascinated by psychology, I absolutely loved watching the characters grapple with their long ago past and the way the end of the last book affected both of them individually. This was the best grumpy x sunshine romance, trope I’ve ever read because while on the surface, it appeared very traditional, I loved how Reese, the grumpy one, realizes that his grumpiness almost cost him the person that he cares so much about. I loved how the two of them went from being so stuck in their own world to realizing the only person they could lean on with each other and how they both grew to care about each other so deeply. Though it takes them a while to realize they both can be such a safe place for the other and it was beautiful to watch them learn how to be a good team.
The plot was incredible. There was a mysterious plague, lots of dangerous missions, past traumas catching up with the characters, and though the focus felt more on the characters the plot was ever fast paced!!!
Overall I’d definitely would recommend to anyone looking for a sci-fi romance that gives the vibes of Star Wars but with no magic and where both the government and the rebels aren’t good! I think this can absolutely be read without reading book one but it will spoil the ending of the first book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content: One character deals with addiction to sleeping pills which is shown as bad and does have an improvement through the course of the story. PTSD has quite a presence in the story as a whole. One character suffers panic attacks.
Romance: Semi-descriptive kissing scenes, but not steamy or touchy. Two characters share a bed but nothing happens.
Language: 22 sh*t, 3 asshole, 2 b*tch, 1 d*ck, 90 gods, 22 damn
Some of my favorite quotes!!!
“He pretended like he didn't see her exhaustion, but they were both crumbling under the weight of Jace's absence. He didn't have the faintest clue what to do. How did you help someone when you were barely staying afloat yourself?”
“Lydia had always hidden pain well, but their departure and near-death had ripped a hole in her that she wasn't sure how to repair. The old, upbeat, bubbly version of herself felt like a specter of the past, impossibly out of reach.”
“How did she explain to a programmed system the way the past ripped her apart and made her afraid to sleep? The way it made her feel like a stranger in her own body?”
“Some days, he wasn't too different from the rest of the Odyssey's ghosts. Sometimes, it was like Reese wasn't there at all. And it made her want to scream.”
"Thank you for running to my rescue. Very brave, saving me from an overgrown housecat."
“She wondered if she looked as weathered as he did. If someone held up a mirror to their souls, would the damage match? Whose insides were more broken and corroded?”
“Now the ship felt like a burden forced upon her. No longer were the long nights satisfying despite the sleeplessness. She could slowly sense her insides scraping hollow, grinding down to dust, burning out like a dying star.”
“The choice he'd made to stay was perhaps the kindest thing anyone had ever done for her. No one stayed, and she was waiting with bated breath to see when his grace period ended. Did he regret it? When would he change his mind? Doubts were always more suffocating than mere fears. Lydia was never very successful at holding back the wall of guilt that accompanied these doubts. She was selfish for allowing him to stay with her when she knew her family would find her eventually. She'd put Reese in terrible danger, and she didn't think she could hide forever. She wasn't smart enough for this—she could not code a solution into existence.”
"You're doing it now," she spat. "Leaving me by trying to send me away. It's the same thing. Abandoning me, just like—"
“He'd deliberately not brought Lydia into the utter mess of his past, but unspeakable loneliness shadowed the decision. Loneliness, and a longing for her to understand somehow-if he could ever get the nerve.”
“The problems of a cat were so much smaller than hers. Cats didn't even understand the concept of blackmail, though Reese would probably disagree.”
“She could take care of herself, but that didn't mean he wanted her to.”
“He'd known long ago that his freedom was worth less than Lydia's safety; admitting it was harder, but the truth was there. He would hand himself over willingly if she got to go free. Still, he hoped that wasn't a choice either of them had to make.”
✩ Reluctant friends to Lovers
✩ Grumpy x sunshine
✩ PTSD Rep
✩ Found family
What truly made the story shine was the characters. Both Lydia and Reese have such deep backstory even beyond just the previous book. As someone that is fascinated by psychology, I absolutely loved watching the characters grapple with their long ago past and the way the end of the last book affected both of them individually. This was the best grumpy x sunshine romance, trope I’ve ever read because while on the surface, it appeared very traditional, I loved how Reese, the grumpy one, realizes that his grumpiness almost cost him the person that he cares so much about. I loved how the two of them went from being so stuck in their own world to realizing the only person they could lean on with each other and how they both grew to care about each other so deeply. Though it takes them a while to realize they both can be such a safe place for the other and it was beautiful to watch them learn how to be a good team.
The plot was incredible. There was a mysterious plague, lots of dangerous missions, past traumas catching up with the characters, and though the focus felt more on the characters the plot was ever fast paced!!!
Overall I’d definitely would recommend to anyone looking for a sci-fi romance that gives the vibes of Star Wars but with no magic and where both the government and the rebels aren’t good! I think this can absolutely be read without reading book one but it will spoil the ending of the first book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content: One character deals with addiction to sleeping pills which is shown as bad and does have an improvement through the course of the story. PTSD has quite a presence in the story as a whole. One character suffers panic attacks.
Romance: Semi-descriptive kissing scenes, but not steamy or touchy. Two characters share a bed but nothing happens.
Language: 22 sh*t, 3 asshole, 2 b*tch, 1 d*ck, 90 gods, 22 damn
Some of my favorite quotes!!!
“He pretended like he didn't see her exhaustion, but they were both crumbling under the weight of Jace's absence. He didn't have the faintest clue what to do. How did you help someone when you were barely staying afloat yourself?”
“Lydia had always hidden pain well, but their departure and near-death had ripped a hole in her that she wasn't sure how to repair. The old, upbeat, bubbly version of herself felt like a specter of the past, impossibly out of reach.”
“How did she explain to a programmed system the way the past ripped her apart and made her afraid to sleep? The way it made her feel like a stranger in her own body?”
“Some days, he wasn't too different from the rest of the Odyssey's ghosts. Sometimes, it was like Reese wasn't there at all. And it made her want to scream.”
"Thank you for running to my rescue. Very brave, saving me from an overgrown housecat."
“She wondered if she looked as weathered as he did. If someone held up a mirror to their souls, would the damage match? Whose insides were more broken and corroded?”
“Now the ship felt like a burden forced upon her. No longer were the long nights satisfying despite the sleeplessness. She could slowly sense her insides scraping hollow, grinding down to dust, burning out like a dying star.”
“The choice he'd made to stay was perhaps the kindest thing anyone had ever done for her. No one stayed, and she was waiting with bated breath to see when his grace period ended. Did he regret it? When would he change his mind? Doubts were always more suffocating than mere fears. Lydia was never very successful at holding back the wall of guilt that accompanied these doubts. She was selfish for allowing him to stay with her when she knew her family would find her eventually. She'd put Reese in terrible danger, and she didn't think she could hide forever. She wasn't smart enough for this—she could not code a solution into existence.”
"You're doing it now," she spat. "Leaving me by trying to send me away. It's the same thing. Abandoning me, just like—"
“He'd deliberately not brought Lydia into the utter mess of his past, but unspeakable loneliness shadowed the decision. Loneliness, and a longing for her to understand somehow-if he could ever get the nerve.”
“The problems of a cat were so much smaller than hers. Cats didn't even understand the concept of blackmail, though Reese would probably disagree.”
“She could take care of herself, but that didn't mean he wanted her to.”
“He'd known long ago that his freedom was worth less than Lydia's safety; admitting it was harder, but the truth was there. He would hand himself over willingly if she got to go free. Still, he hoped that wasn't a choice either of them had to make.”
August 9, 2025
I cannot say enough good things about this book. What a fantastic follow up to THE NATURE OF DARKNESS! In THE DECEPTION OF LIGHT, we follow two of the side characters from the first book, and I was impressed by the way Crafton created such deeply fleshed out characters. You definitely want to root for them. And the romance was *chefs kiss*. I highly recommend this book for fans of sci-fi romance who yearn for a unique world with tons of angst and action and characters you can't help but love.
May 17, 2025
The Deception of Light is the PERFECT sequel to The Nature of Darkness!! It’s got awesome characters, a huge galaxy with so many cool planets and politics, an exciting story that doesn’t slow down for a second, stressful situations that keep you reading, and the sweetest romance with the most meant-for-each-other couple ever 😆
I was so excited when I found out this book would focus on Lydia and Reese, and it did not disappoint! Lydia may have been a secondary character in The Nature of Darkness but I freaking loved her so I was highly anticipating this book!!
The story itself (no spoilers here, don’t worry!) was a wild ride. The opening starts off with a bang and never slows down, and the pacing felt absolutely perfect. Nothing felt rushed or too slow, and there wasn’t a single chapter that felt laggy or boring. The worldbuilding is so good and perfectly weaved throughout. Basically what I’m trying to say is this book is a total blast to read! ALSO, Lydia and Reese are the most adorable couple ever and I LOVE them 😭
Crafton has such a talent for writing a big universe with all the fun space opera elements you know and love while still managing to keep the story focused on the key characters and plot lines. I just want more of this universe and these characters, I love everything about it so much!!
Do yourself a favor and read this series!!!
I was so excited when I found out this book would focus on Lydia and Reese, and it did not disappoint! Lydia may have been a secondary character in The Nature of Darkness but I freaking loved her so I was highly anticipating this book!!
The story itself (no spoilers here, don’t worry!) was a wild ride. The opening starts off with a bang and never slows down, and the pacing felt absolutely perfect. Nothing felt rushed or too slow, and there wasn’t a single chapter that felt laggy or boring. The worldbuilding is so good and perfectly weaved throughout. Basically what I’m trying to say is this book is a total blast to read! ALSO, Lydia and Reese are the most adorable couple ever and I LOVE them 😭
Crafton has such a talent for writing a big universe with all the fun space opera elements you know and love while still managing to keep the story focused on the key characters and plot lines. I just want more of this universe and these characters, I love everything about it so much!!
Do yourself a favor and read this series!!!
August 10, 2025
This was such a great sequel! I loved getting to dive deeper into this world and see more of Lydia and Reese, as I loved them in Athena and Jace's story. So excited to see what else comes from this author!
August 1, 2025
A.M. Crafton is SO UNDERRATED ITS NOT EVEN FAIR!!!!
Absolutely obsessed with the book! Annie has done a fantastic job creating a story that plays like a movie in my head.
Every world/enviroment building scene came to life in my head & I felt like I was there with them every sentence.
Action scenes grasped me by the head and wouldn’t let go (in the BEST way). My heart was racing & I was sitting on the edge of my seat engaged heavily in what was going to happen next & genuinely worried about Reese & Lydia!
The writing is captivating, thrilling, page turning, and beautiful. Annie, I am obsessed with your works and talent!
Our characters Reese and Lydia go through some insane adventures and have some really thrilling run ins with… not so friendly people
This was a book I was highly anticipating since it was first announced and it is now my Roman Empire.
I do miss IO so much..….. :’|
The last few chapters of the book had my in a chokehold crying but it was such a BEAUTIFUL ending :’)
You absolutely need to read this series. It. Is. Seriously. So. Good.
*********SLIGHT SPOILER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!********
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I would have loved to maybe get a little more closure about Reese and his father since there was a run in towards the end of the book. Just to maybe know what his father was doing after the interaction since the father discovered his son was alive. I know it wasn’t necessary since they escaped and moved to a completely different area… but I was really curious about him and even Lydias dad. But that is not affecting my rating at all because this book is seriously SO GOOD!
Absolutely obsessed with the book! Annie has done a fantastic job creating a story that plays like a movie in my head.
Every world/enviroment building scene came to life in my head & I felt like I was there with them every sentence.
Action scenes grasped me by the head and wouldn’t let go (in the BEST way). My heart was racing & I was sitting on the edge of my seat engaged heavily in what was going to happen next & genuinely worried about Reese & Lydia!
The writing is captivating, thrilling, page turning, and beautiful. Annie, I am obsessed with your works and talent!
Our characters Reese and Lydia go through some insane adventures and have some really thrilling run ins with… not so friendly people
This was a book I was highly anticipating since it was first announced and it is now my Roman Empire.
I do miss IO so much..….. :’|
The last few chapters of the book had my in a chokehold crying but it was such a BEAUTIFUL ending :’)
You absolutely need to read this series. It. Is. Seriously. So. Good.
*********SLIGHT SPOILER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!********
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
I would have loved to maybe get a little more closure about Reese and his father since there was a run in towards the end of the book. Just to maybe know what his father was doing after the interaction since the father discovered his son was alive. I know it wasn’t necessary since they escaped and moved to a completely different area… but I was really curious about him and even Lydias dad. But that is not affecting my rating at all because this book is seriously SO GOOD!
September 2, 2025
This book mated to the first book very well, like a comfy bed.
It is such an easy book to read, it flows so well, no issues with the timelines and the ups and downs between the two MCs for this book and assorted contacts were totally believable and well-paced.
The emotional contacts between the two MC’s took their time to come to fruition, and the crashes were deliciously frustrating, but absolutely perfect for the story line.
The main theme of the story regarding the plague and where it came from was so well put together and had me guessing for a long time, as well as the story about the vials they were carrying! And that was such a surprise too.
The political story in this book was as important as the love story that was running its frustratingly brilliant course. It all got so wonderfully woven together as the truth played out.
Now my only niggle was the ending. I thought that there were two possible endings, one which would keep readers and critics completely on one side, and one that was a little risky for a writer. It may or may not have kept everyone on side with the ending of the story line.
Now that was being picky, because the ending chosen was a very satisfying conclusion to this story and left so many options open. You read and make your own mind up.
It is a sensational book and so so well worth a read.
It is such an easy book to read, it flows so well, no issues with the timelines and the ups and downs between the two MCs for this book and assorted contacts were totally believable and well-paced.
The emotional contacts between the two MC’s took their time to come to fruition, and the crashes were deliciously frustrating, but absolutely perfect for the story line.
The main theme of the story regarding the plague and where it came from was so well put together and had me guessing for a long time, as well as the story about the vials they were carrying! And that was such a surprise too.
The political story in this book was as important as the love story that was running its frustratingly brilliant course. It all got so wonderfully woven together as the truth played out.
Now my only niggle was the ending. I thought that there were two possible endings, one which would keep readers and critics completely on one side, and one that was a little risky for a writer. It may or may not have kept everyone on side with the ending of the story line.
Now that was being picky, because the ending chosen was a very satisfying conclusion to this story and left so many options open. You read and make your own mind up.
It is a sensational book and so so well worth a read.
August 17, 2025
For the life of me, I cannot understand why these books aren't read by more people.
Somehow, Ms. Crafton has written an even better book than the first one. The "modern" references are somewhat toned down while having the same mix of Star Wars and Firefly (and like...a million RPGs like Traveller), but with broken characters in a broken universe. This isn't about good guys vs. bad guys. The good guys are regular people, broken but not beaten, where the universe itself seems to be against them. I absolutely loved both Lydia and Reese - maybe more than Jace and Athena from the prior book. The stakes are simultaneously high and low. The pain is real. The emotions are real. My favorite subtrope ("You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that.") is real. Does the universe entirely make sense? Quiet! Star Wars and Firefly don't either. Just buckle in and enjoy the ride.
I have no idea where the author is going next. I hope there are more stories to tell here. Because the writing here scratches an itch I didn't know I had. 5 unreserved stars. Go. Read. This.
Thank you for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. "The Deception of Light" is out NOW - this review is LATE. GO BUY IT. NOW.
Somehow, Ms. Crafton has written an even better book than the first one. The "modern" references are somewhat toned down while having the same mix of Star Wars and Firefly (and like...a million RPGs like Traveller), but with broken characters in a broken universe. This isn't about good guys vs. bad guys. The good guys are regular people, broken but not beaten, where the universe itself seems to be against them. I absolutely loved both Lydia and Reese - maybe more than Jace and Athena from the prior book. The stakes are simultaneously high and low. The pain is real. The emotions are real. My favorite subtrope ("You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that.") is real. Does the universe entirely make sense? Quiet! Star Wars and Firefly don't either. Just buckle in and enjoy the ride.
I have no idea where the author is going next. I hope there are more stories to tell here. Because the writing here scratches an itch I didn't know I had. 5 unreserved stars. Go. Read. This.
Thank you for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. "The Deception of Light" is out NOW - this review is LATE. GO BUY IT. NOW.
August 10, 2025
When it comes to fantasy and sci-fi series I tend to be nervous about the sequels and if an author can navigate taking a standalone novel to a whole world in a series but A.M. Crafton did not disappoint.
Book 2 follows Lydia and Reese allowing both characters to having their own arc and development in the world. The book grabs you right away as it opens with a small chaos that unfolds throughout the book. From the actions scenes that keep you captive to the slow burn between two broken and hurt friends, the pacing and development felt perfect. I also loved learning more of both Lydia and Reese’s back stories and seeing how well they complement each other.
For such a big world, book 2 makes it feel like the Galaxy has been around all along. Each planet and system was so unique and it felt like you could see and feel every moment as the story unraveled. Can’t wait to read more from Crafton!
Book 2 follows Lydia and Reese allowing both characters to having their own arc and development in the world. The book grabs you right away as it opens with a small chaos that unfolds throughout the book. From the actions scenes that keep you captive to the slow burn between two broken and hurt friends, the pacing and development felt perfect. I also loved learning more of both Lydia and Reese’s back stories and seeing how well they complement each other.
For such a big world, book 2 makes it feel like the Galaxy has been around all along. Each planet and system was so unique and it felt like you could see and feel every moment as the story unraveled. Can’t wait to read more from Crafton!
August 26, 2025
The follow up to the Nature of Darkness was the perfect sequel. For readers who enjoyed the first of the series, The Deception of Light included all the things that made the The Nature of Darkness an enjoyable read: tropes, quick paced action, and mystery. I did appreciate that the references to the "Old World" were fewer and felt less forced.
In Book 2 Reece and Lydia's characters and backstories were fleshed out in a way that added depth to their love story and the plot overall. The slow burn romance between them was well paced and not rushed. To avoid spoilers, I will simply say that the plot regarding the virus was surprising and took some unexpected turns before resolving in the happy ending we all hoped for! Even with the happy ending, Crafton also left enough room in the plot for the reader to wonder, "what happens next?" and look forward to more in the World of Andromeda.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In Book 2 Reece and Lydia's characters and backstories were fleshed out in a way that added depth to their love story and the plot overall. The slow burn romance between them was well paced and not rushed. To avoid spoilers, I will simply say that the plot regarding the virus was surprising and took some unexpected turns before resolving in the happy ending we all hoped for! Even with the happy ending, Crafton also left enough room in the plot for the reader to wonder, "what happens next?" and look forward to more in the World of Andromeda.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2025
The Deception of Light is book two in the Andromeda North series, and this time centers on leads Lydia and Reese who readers met in the first book.
Another outstanding adventure of injustice, defiance, secrets and a threat of galaxy defying proportions that will have life on the brink of destruction.
Though Lydia and Reese happen to be struggling with their own personal relationship difficulties they soon find themselves entangled in this newest nightmare.
Fueled by a danger filled past paced plot, excellent writing, family dynamics, emotion, intrigue, suspense, and passion this is a wonderful Sci-Fi adventure for those readers who also love a little spicy romance thrown in for a some added flavor.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another outstanding adventure of injustice, defiance, secrets and a threat of galaxy defying proportions that will have life on the brink of destruction.
Though Lydia and Reese happen to be struggling with their own personal relationship difficulties they soon find themselves entangled in this newest nightmare.
Fueled by a danger filled past paced plot, excellent writing, family dynamics, emotion, intrigue, suspense, and passion this is a wonderful Sci-Fi adventure for those readers who also love a little spicy romance thrown in for a some added flavor.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2025
I don't know if it's luck or if the literature gods smile upon me, but not only did this book release days after I had finished reading the first (thank you to the powers that be, oh thank you!) but it was SO. GOOD. Crafton defies the stars with this book and series, and oh how happy I am to have found a new author I think I'll love reading. So.... please release more. Please!
October 25, 2025
This book was more predictable and a bit repetitive but I enjoyed Lydia and Resse. The second half of the book had me on the edge of my seat and I flew through it. It was a great follow up to the first book and I really enjoyed being able to dabble in space opera more as I start to get back into reading and find new genres.
June 16, 2025
I loved book two! The story of Lydia and Reese flowed perfectly, following Jace and Athena's story in book one. This action-packed book kept me wanting more. It's a must-read this summer!
August 11, 2025
Reese and Lydia's story (and my second novel) is officially here! I hope you love them as much as I do, and welcome back to Andromeda North! We missed you :)
August 18, 2025
This book was an absolute masterpiece!! Like, WHAT did i just read????
A.M. Crafton did everything beautifully in this one. The characters are so distinctly themselves and so lovable. Their relationship is everything. The plot is SO invigorating. There are so many twists and turns and chaos comes for them everywhere, and the last couple chapters almost killed my soul. The ending was beautiful and the entire book is SO satisfying to those who read Book 1!
All in all, this is one of my favorite series as of now and I would ABSOLUTELY recommend this duo to everyone I meet. The worldbuilding is great, too, and as a Star Wars and Greek mythology nerd, it was amazing.
Go read it, and when you tell me you loved it, I’ll say “i told you so” !!
*Thank you to BookSirens and A.M. Crafton for an ARC, in exchange for an honest review.*
A.M. Crafton did everything beautifully in this one. The characters are so distinctly themselves and so lovable. Their relationship is everything. The plot is SO invigorating. There are so many twists and turns and chaos comes for them everywhere, and the last couple chapters almost killed my soul. The ending was beautiful and the entire book is SO satisfying to those who read Book 1!
All in all, this is one of my favorite series as of now and I would ABSOLUTELY recommend this duo to everyone I meet. The worldbuilding is great, too, and as a Star Wars and Greek mythology nerd, it was amazing.
Go read it, and when you tell me you loved it, I’ll say “i told you so” !!
*Thank you to BookSirens and A.M. Crafton for an ARC, in exchange for an honest review.*
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews