The Shadowless

by R.J. Garcia

Modern Faerie Tale Meets Murder

Mae Dawson returns to her family’s cabin in a mysterious forest to search for her missing sister. One night, she goes to sleep in her bed only to awaken in the depths of the woods surrounded by eerie and indiscernible voices that lead her to her sister’s grave.

A year has passed. Mae has pieced her life back together. She has a supportive boyfriend and is completing her first semester in college. However, everything begins to unravel when strange late-night calls come from the beyond, and a malevolent force begins to invade her friends.

Adding to her unease is the presence of a mysterious stranger, Brandon Sills, who seems to lurk in the shadows, watching her every move. Despite the warning bells ringing in her mind, Mae feels an inexplicable attraction to him.

As mortal and magical forces conspire against them, Mae must trust Brandon to uncover the secrets of the fae. Secrets that will change her life forever, that is, if she even survives.

The Shadowless is the first book in a romantic dark fantasy trilogy.

Genres: Romance, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy

ebook

Published November 26, 2025

About the author

R.J. Garcia is a wife, proud mom, and writer. Her first two novels, Nocturnal Meetings of the Misplaced and Call of Death, were Amazon and Kobo best sellers. She writes dark and twisty tales with heart. If you would like to learn more about R.J.'s novels, go to: https://www.facebook.com/writerr.j.ga...

Reviews

[Candace Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book by R.J. Garcia! It was gripping, twisty, and utterly addictive! I can’t wait to see where the second book leads us!

[Red Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank You to R&R Book Tours and the author, R.J. Garcia, for this free digital read in exchange for my honest review of The Shadowless.
The cover drew me in and I was hooked from the start. This is the first book in the series At The Corner of Eden And Darkness and I can't wait to read the second one. In this read nothing is what it seems in this twisty and gripping read. What happens when Mae ends up entwined with the fantasy world that had helped her find her sister's resting place? Well something else decided to follow out of the woods and it's not there to help. The author wrote this well and I enjoyed every character in this one. This is one fantasy read that is addictive with the suspense, action and more. I loved this read a lot and can't wait to see what happens with the second book. I would recommend this to any reader, especially to those who love dark fantasy with romance.

[Heather Saizar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book pulled me in immediately; the cover was stunning, but the darkness and mystery just in the first chapter alone had me completely enthralled and invested in Mae’s story. The depth of emotion it evoked was genuinely surprising, and I absolutely loved the paranormal elements and the seamless way they were woven into the narrative.

The magic, the darkness, and the twists all blended together so well, creating a truly unforgettable vibe that you don't get from a lot of books. Every character stood out, but I especially loved how real Mae felt. Her intricate layers and humanity when it came to her sister and Benji just added something extra and heartbreakingly beautiful.

🖤Modern faery tale vs real-life suspense
🥀 White and black magic
🖤 Family dysfunction
🥀 Hidden realms
🖤 He falls first
🥀 Twists and turns

If you want something dark, twisty, and magical with deep emotional ties, this one is everything! It had every element I look for and was a quick read. Under 300 pages and fast paced - making it easy to binge!

• Dark & atmospheric
• Paranormal suspense
• Emotional depth
•
Thank you so much r&rbooktours and RJ Garcia for my gifted copy!!

[lizface · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I pulled myself out of a dream and glared with a pirate eye at my buzzing phone. Then I caught sight of Emmie’s name flashing on the screen. There would be nothing unusual about it except, of course, it’s the middle of the night and my sister’s dead.”

“In that moment, there was nothing I needed, nothing I wanted but Brandon.”

A wonderful mix of fantasy romance and murder mystery!!!
There are some darker elements, such as SA (not on page) more of read between the lines type. But still present in the story.

Imagine you’re hanging out with your younger sibling, and they borrow your car to go grab some snacks at the store 5 minutes away. And they taken from the end of your driveway. Well that’s what happened to Mae and her sister Emmie. As Mae continues to look for her sister and any clues on what may have really happened, she begins to learn that her dreams may not just be dreams. And that magic is real.

If you love books with tropes like
✨ urban fantasy
🪄 white & black magic
💖 he falls first
🔪 mũrd3r mystery
🚪 hidden realms
Then I recommend you read this!!!

Thank you RJ Garcia and R&R Book Tours for my eARC 🫶🏼

[chelle_reads_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It ends on a cliffhanger that has me needing book two ASAP! The Garden sounds like such a truly magical and relaxing place. Most of the characters that are introduced in this have lived such a difficult life up to this point. I want to see them all grow to their full potential and save the ones they love. I also love that Emmie is still so herself after everything that has happened. I have a feeling Mae and Brandon are going to be a force to be reckoned with in book two. This was a five star read for me!

[Calina Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the short story “Stolen Child,” I was excited to dive headfirst into “The Shadowless,” which continues the story. It exceeded my expectations times ten.

This story is utterly original, romantic, and suspenseful.

What I liked best about “The Shadowless “ is the growing relationship between Brandon and Mae. It feels like a blend of “Twilight” and “Peter Pan.” Loved it!

[Nelly]

WOOOAAh what a beautiful cover!!! I NEED THIS ON MY TBR ASAP.

[Susan (Purplegalaxyreads94) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Huge thank you to RR Tours for the gifted eARC copy in exchange for my honest review. Now on to my thoughts!

This is a new author for me so I was definitely excited to read this one especially when the cover of the book looks like that. Absolutely stunning and completely drew my attention in to what I was about to read.

This book was filled with so many different tropes such as paranormal aspects, light versus dark magic, suspense, plot twists and sadness. Following the story of Mae and Emmie, I immediately felt such an overwhelming feeling of sadness when it came to Mae. Not only are the two girls running from their abuser, soon enough Mae ends up losing her younger sister Emmie in the most tragic of ways. Seeing how everything weighed Mae down, especially when it came to her subconscious and how she battled with her internal thoughts and emotions during the search of her sister really struck a nerve in my heart. Even when Mae felt guilty for liking Benji all because her younger sister liked him too..it all just felt too real which made these book even more likeable and relatable.

Then you add in the paranormal and magic aspects and it creates a very interesting world. The creepy phone calls and the suspense of what is exactly lurking around for Mae definitely made me feel a bit on edge the entire time. I don’t want to say too much as I know it will give it away so I feel like I need to stop here in order to allow other readers the chance to witness this amazing book. I really want to read more about these characters and this world so I’m excited for the next book to come!

[Robin.Bookish.Escape · Rating 5 out of 5]

This dark romantic fantasy thriller has Twilight vibes but on a whole different level. Packed with suspense and action, twists and turns, dark and light magic, family dysfunction and adventure, the paranormal and hidden realms, mixed with a healthy dose of angst and heartache. What a delightful read that will have you running for book 2. Please check triggers and some of the themes present in this book can be heavy.

This story follows Mae, who along with her sister Emmie, flees an abuser to the woods that surround their family home. In doing so, they find a friend in the most unlikely of places. When her sister goes missing, Mae finds herself in the same mysterious woods being led to her sisters resting place by a dark whisper. Flash forward to years later when Mae is starting college and she has finally moved on, that is until the cryptic and haunting phone calls start and the shadows begin to force their way from the recesses of her memories into threatening real time. When a stranger appears, Mae is forced to trust him in order to face the darkness that threatens to change their lives.

This book was a great read. I really enjoyed the writing and the gripping story that was unlike any other that I have read. The sadness and sorrow leaps from the page in a way that is captivating, from abuse to loss, hopes for magical escapes and an ever-looming darkness are beautifully manifested.

[Akku · Rating 4 out of 5]

✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨

✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - November 26, 2025

✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• missing sister
• dark fantasy
• fairies folklore
• small town secrets
• he falls first
• human monsters
• bittersweet ending
• cabin in the woods,

(Trigger Warnings: Some violence and cursing, mention of child abuse)

✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
The Shadowless follows Mae Dawson, a girl drowning in grief after her younger sister goes missing near a forest that hides more than just trees. As Mae searches for answers, reality starts blending with fairy lore, childhood memories, and terrifying human truths. This story slowly peels back layers of loss, guilt, and survival while showing that magic exists, but it does not save everyone.
This book felt quiet, haunting, and emotional in the best way. The writing has a soft sadness to it that sticks with you. I loved how the fantasy elements were subtle and eerie rather than flashy. The real horror came from human behavior, not the supernatural, and that made everything hit harder. Mae’s pain felt real and raw, and her journey from broken to standing again was beautifully done.
The pacing was slow at times, which is why it is a four star read for me, but the atmosphere, emotions, and message completely made up for it. This is not a comfort fantasy. It is the kind of book that sits heavy on your heart and reminds you that healing is messy and strength can be quiet.
Thank you so much hidden hollow booktour for the free ARC!

[Desirée · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mysterious and dark reading that you'll love

This book is the perfect blend of darkness, suspense, and fantasy. Once you start reading this book, you simply won't be able to put it down. Featuring just the right number of pages, this fast-paced and incredibly gripping read contains the perfect dose of every ingredient needed to keep us captivated by the story. The author truly knew how to shine by expertly combining elements of tragedy, new beginnings, and powerful magical forces. 

What I love most is all the uncertainty, attraction, and doubt that the appearance of the mysterious Brandon Sills generates for Mae. It invites us to share a rollercoaster of conflicting emotions. The tension built around trusting this enigmatic stranger is absolutely compelling.

I sincerely recommend this book to all readers who are lovers of the intangible, of intricate conspiracies, and of esotericism. It's a superb choice for anyone looking for a thrilling experience in a world where magic and darkness collide, leaving you breathless until the very last page.

[Aurora R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

A story featuring lost sister in a wooded, forest setting while enrapturing the urban fantasy magical charm with the backdrop of a mystery setting.

The characters are realistic, I've found myself caring for Mae's sister when I learned how young she was and the relationship she has had with Mae, and the first love interest who we see and ends up following dare I say, a Pseudo-Shady Interactions but definitely some kind of morally-grey area as I'd rather not spoil it here. I adored the budding relationship and how the Love Interest on the later half of the book treats Mia. I also really enjoyed learning about the magic system as it happened. (I wasn't surprised about the behavior of some characters but I was sucked in so I kinda kept desperately trying to read it to learn more as clues fell into place.)

I found this book as a source of comfort for my own grief, and seeing hope.

Keep an eye on your literal shadows! They can be stolen as I've learned!

[Isabella · Rating 3 out of 5]

Before chapter 15 was reading an entirely different book. Each chapter read almost like its own separate story, it did not flow together and was confusing. There was not enough information about each character til after it was already important to know I felt like I was last to finding out basic information about the characters. And the story isn't formatted to where withholding this information was part of the story, it just made it harder to focus and connect with the characters. The flow of the passage of time is not mentioned either it's suddenly described as being the next day. After chapter 15 the story actually makes sense and flows so well it truly sucks you in. The book itself is written better after that point in my opinion.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ivana S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shadowless is a dark, atmospheric ride that blends mystery, fantasy, and romance with a fresh twist on the fae world. Readers will likely find themselves hooked from the eerie opening to the emotionally-charged climax. Mae is a relatable protagonist (flawed, curious, and torn between grief and hope) and her descent into a hidden magical world feels haunting and believable. The forest scenes are especially vivid, with a lingering sense of dread that keeps the pages turning. The romance with Brandon walks that fine line between dangerous and irresistible, though some may feel it rushes past red flags. Still, the pacing, suspense, and emotional stakes make this debut compelling. Fans of The Cruel Prince or Wicked Lovely will feel at home here. If you enjoy supernatural thrillers laced with fae lore and moral ambiguity, this one’s worth diving into.

[Shannon Hahn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5/5

First of all, this cover immediately drew me in. As soon as I read the blurb = sold.

While my heart broke for Mae and everything that went on with Emmie, I couldn't help but be drawn in by the magic of the story. Now this book had a lot going on; from the disappearance of her sister, to finding her sister, and everything that she went through with Brandon by her side. And while there were certain parts of the story that felt rushed, the intrigue, mystery, magic, and adventure more than made up for it.

While this didn't really end on a cliffhanger, the ending set it up nicely for wanting to know what comes next with Mae and Brandon and the malevolent force invading her world.

[Dave Wickenden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enter a fantasy land where nothing is as it seems. As children escaping the horrors of abuse, Mae and her sister Emmie fled to the strange woods around the family cottage in Willow’s End. There they played with a young child who lived in the wilds. When Emmie disappears, Mae becomes entangled in a fantasy world that helps her find her sister’s resting place. But something else has followed out of the woods, and it’s not there to help.

The Shadowless is a fantasy that reads like a thriller with heart-pounding action and twists that come out of the dark right towards your head. This is the first in the series, and you’ll be begging for it to keep going.

[Kristie Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun and twisty take on modern fae. Mae just wants to put her life back together after her sister's death, and while some days are easier than others, dating Benji keeps everything at the forefront of her mind. Despite their closeness, something just doesn't feel right, and when she begins to remember childhood dreams and connect them with the here and now, everything changes.

When demons start possessing people around her, Mae turns to Brandon for help. He's been stalking her, but she's also starting to remember him from the past. Fighting to survive and keep everyone themselves, Mae and Brandon have a long road ahead.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book surprised me in the best way. Mae’s story pulled me in so fast, and I wasn’t expecting it to hit this emotional. I felt so much for Mae the trauma, the guilt, the way she kept pushing through even when everything felt impossible. Her grief felt real, and that’s what made the paranormal parts stand out even more.

The magic, the darkness, the mystery, the late night chills… it all blended together so well. And Mae’s feelings for Benji, knowing Emmie liked him too, just added another heartbreaking layer that made her feel like a real person, not just a character.

If you want something paranormal with emotion, twists, and that heavy, lingering vibe this one is worth picking up.

[ZebraDebra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Shadowless is a very eerie kind of fantasy and murder mystery. It has a lot of triggers so be careful to inform yourself of these before reading it. The author has woven together a story from the past with a story from the present. Mae Dawson’s sister goes missing one night and Mae’s attempts at discovering the cause of her sister’s death are in vain. When Mae is finally ready to move on with her life and is successfully part of college, sinister things begin happening again. I found the writing style a bit heavy at times and some of the dialogue was unconvincing. However, I still think that this story deserves four stars.

[Esme · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot is fantastic. I was taken completely by surprise. The magical elements are slowly revealed, adding realism that pulls the reader in. With the intrigue of Mae’s budding romance, her evil stepfather lingering in the shadows, and hints of the fae, The Shadowless is a page-turner! The perfect mix of real-life suspense, romance, and dark and good fae.

The romance is what really pulled me in. I liked Mae’s boyfriend, Benji, but couldn’t help but root for Brandon, who had it so bad for her. I can’t wait to read more about them!

[Zahraareadsbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I tell you I sat and read this in one sitting??? It was an absolutely incredible read and I physically could not put it down! This book is a dark romantasy with a side of murder, mystery and some shared dreams and secrets to be revealed! 👀 If you like books that keep you gripped with suspense and hidden secrets, you will absolutely devour this! Another thing I loved is that it is a short read, which was perfect for me at the moment as I've been reading a lot of heavier books. So it was perfect as a quick pallette cleanser between longer series.

[Book nerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had read the short story Stolen Child and was excited that it became a novel. I read The Shadowless in two sittings. It starts off full of suspense and heartache. Then enter the phone call from Mae's deceased sister, Emmie, and the mysterious Brandon Sills, and it becomes a compulsive read.
I loved the writing, the characters, and the unique plot. The blending of suspense, fantasy elements, and romance ensured there was never a dull moment.

[Maddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a short story collection by this author, which included a short story that this is based on, so I was excited to dive in! I loved this magical, sometimes scary, and suspenseful tale! It is unique but has Neverland meets Twilight vibes.

This story really pulls you in. I became deeply invested. Mae overcame so much, I felt for her throughout this twisty ride. She is such a strong character! Brandon is a 'dream' boyfriend, leaving me so intrigued. I will eagerly await book two!

[Hippie Girl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so lucky to read an early copy of this book! Told in luminous prose, The Shadowless has suspense and magic around every corner. There is angst, heartache, romance, and adventure.
Fans of Twilight will love this paranormal romance. Book two, please!

[Hope Balz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an amazing read with so many different aspects thrown into it! This story literally sucks you in and doesn't let you leave until you finish it in one sitting! It is the perfect mix of dark fantasy, romance, and suspense.

The way this story was wrote almost makes you feel the pain that Mae and her sister Emmie went through. When she loses her sister, she tries to move on and piece her life back together but finds Brandon lurking and watching her every move. She needs to learn how to trust Brandon in order to uncover the secrets that will change her life.

[rebecca duncan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover of the book caught my eye. It was a good book, for me it started kinda slow and confusing, but soon it picked up around chapter 10. After that, it flowed beautifully. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Myles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowzers!

It was a great story! After part 1 it does go into 2 different povs! I love how suspenseful it was! Every page had you turning to want to know more that happend! I just find it crazy how the mom cant seem to pick the right men and blow it off as ok!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so unique. I haven’t read anything like it! I can’t wait for the rest of the series!

Her Sister goes missing at 16 from a cabin in the woods. Mae returns to the cabin to investigate. She has been seeing shadows and figures everywhere, sleepwalks.
Who is the blond boy in the forest?
Who is this mysterious Brandon?
And why is Benji so flaky?
There are Fairies, Changelings, Magic/spells and Nephilim.
“I summon thee”

[Ava · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hope this book becomes a thing because I'm oddly obsessed with it. It had romance, angst, and just the right amount of horror. I need book two!

[Yadi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was so unique I have never read a story with mystery, fantasy and some horror in it. At the beginning I was not sure where the story was going because of this fact and I loved it I enjoyed when books are unpredictable. The romance was cute and the MMC was such a cinnamon roll.

💕Thanks to Hidden hollow book tours and the author for the gifted copy.