What do you think?
Rate this book
Darkend
They call him the Dark Steward. But what side will he fight for?
Mason Grey has left his days of darkness behind and now stands against the same army he used to belong to. But as he ventures down this new path of light, he struggles to find a place among the Steward Knights he once swore to destroy. And when he cannot even hold the Beacon–the source of the Stewards’ power–without pain, he wonders if he’s been forgiven by the Lambient at all.
Though Seria Gayle has settled into her new life as a servant at Daymont Castle, her heart and mind often turn to the man she left behind at the Gateway. In her attempt to leave the past behind, she resolves to make amends for her choices and accept the consequences. But when the king of Paladin falls ill, her healing skills are again called into service, setting her on a path that will change her life forever.
When Mason is captured and held hostage by Emperor Jader, who refuses to release him from his vows, he faces the most difficult challenge of his life. As war looms ever closer, the Dark Steward must stand firm against the agonizing allure of darkness or surrender to its pull.
Mason Grey has left his days of darkness behind and now stands against the same army he used to belong to. But as he ventures down this new path of light, he struggles to find a place among the Steward Knights he once swore to destroy. And when he cannot even hold the Beacon–the source of the Stewards’ power–without pain, he wonders if he’s been forgiven by the Lambient at all.
Though Seria Gayle has settled into her new life as a servant at Daymont Castle, her heart and mind often turn to the man she left behind at the Gateway. In her attempt to leave the past behind, she resolves to make amends for her choices and accept the consequences. But when the king of Paladin falls ill, her healing skills are again called into service, setting her on a path that will change her life forever.
When Mason is captured and held hostage by Emperor Jader, who refuses to release him from his vows, he faces the most difficult challenge of his life. As war looms ever closer, the Dark Steward must stand firm against the agonizing allure of darkness or surrender to its pull.
Paperback
Published September 30, 2025
17 people want to read
About the author
Crystal D. Grant
19 books112 followersCrystal Grant is a daydreamer who adores freshly-baked cookies and anything with fur or feathers. During the day, she strives to instill a love of books and learning within her young students. As a hearing-impaired, home-school graduate, she found her voice in writing and has had multiple short stories and poems published. When she’s not reading or writing stories that sweep her away to another time and place, she watches classic movies and TV shows that do the same. Or she works on jigsaw puzzles. She currently resides in smalltown Missouri with her melodramatic German shepherd, Sadie.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 30, 2025
What a finish! This last book in The Gateway Trilogy wrapped things up in poignant and bittersweet ways. A lot happens in this book--a LOT. Be prepared for both nail biting and tear-inducing scenes as Crystal Grant proves, yet again, that she is not afraid to break her readers' hearts.💔 (I saw it coming in Lightshed; I did NOT here.😭) My journey with Seria, Mason, and Eric, et al is over, but their journeys toward redemption and healing will beat in my heart for time to come.
August 16, 2025
I was so grateful to receive an arc copy of this book! This book was simply incredible. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat constantly and my heart racing! My emotions were an absolute roller-coaster. This series started strong, stayed strong, and ended strong. Absolutely phenomenal!
October 1, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! I had the privilege to read this as an arc. It was interesting to see the Calla, which had been mentioned in previous books. I loved seeing Mason’s redemption and having to fully embrace his identity in Lambient. Also Lena and Eric’s relationship made me so happy! I also was so glad that Seria and Mason ended up together. One of my favorite quotes was “And the Lambient.” Passion seeped into Eric’s words, his expression urgent. He rested a hand on Mason’s shoulder. “He’s the one who gave us the strength and grace to forgive. So of course He would have enough to forgive you. So who are you—he jabbed a finger into Mason’s chest—“ to hold onto your own guilt?” Such a good reminder! Will definitely read again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
Darkend is filled with light and hope. Masons journey reminded me of the apostle Paul's journey, he was a broken man in need of a savior in need of his light. Throughout the book Mason must learn to stop relying on his own strength it was a good reminder to myself. This story is filled with little nuggets of wisdom and constantly points us back to the truth. It was an epic journey from start to finish a perfect way to end a series.
September 16, 2025
This has been one of my favorite series in the last couple of years, so it's bittersweet to see it end... but wow, what an ending!
Darkend is everything you could hope for in an epic finale. The battle between light and darkness finally comes to a head, and Mason is struggling in between. His inner struggle with forgiving himself for the deeds he did in the darkness of his past and accepting that he can truly serve the Lambient is so heartfelt and relatable. Seria, meanwhile, finds herself called into a position she never expected and isn't entirely sure she wants, Eric finds himself an ally of a man who wanted him dead, and Lionel finds himself playing the jealous older brother to Mason's prodigal son. I think, no matter where you are on your journey, there's a character you'll relate to. My surprise favorite in this book was Dudley. He's just so wise and humble, even in a powerful position, and the way he helps both Mason and Lionel is so inspiring. I want to be like Dudley when I grow up.
Something I really appreciated about this book, as well as the rest of the trilogy, is how layered the allegory is. I don't know if I can quite put that into words, but I'll try. At times, Prince Eric and King Aidan take the role of a Christ figure in the allegory, but they aren't the overarching Jesus figure. So I guess that means that their acting as the Lambient would, and that's really beautiful and adds layers to the allegory that I love!
The ending... oh the ending. I will warn you that there are people, friends who I and I'm sure others, have grown to love who don't make it. This story is about a war, and there are real stakes... but the story is all the better for it. None of the deaths felt like they were for mere shock value. They felt like the characters died for a good cause with no regrets.
If you like deep stories, impactful ones that stay with you, with characters who you love, laugh, and cry with, then this story is for you.
Darkend is everything you could hope for in an epic finale. The battle between light and darkness finally comes to a head, and Mason is struggling in between. His inner struggle with forgiving himself for the deeds he did in the darkness of his past and accepting that he can truly serve the Lambient is so heartfelt and relatable. Seria, meanwhile, finds herself called into a position she never expected and isn't entirely sure she wants, Eric finds himself an ally of a man who wanted him dead, and Lionel finds himself playing the jealous older brother to Mason's prodigal son. I think, no matter where you are on your journey, there's a character you'll relate to. My surprise favorite in this book was Dudley. He's just so wise and humble, even in a powerful position, and the way he helps both Mason and Lionel is so inspiring. I want to be like Dudley when I grow up.
Something I really appreciated about this book, as well as the rest of the trilogy, is how layered the allegory is. I don't know if I can quite put that into words, but I'll try. At times, Prince Eric and King Aidan take the role of a Christ figure in the allegory, but they aren't the overarching Jesus figure. So I guess that means that their acting as the Lambient would, and that's really beautiful and adds layers to the allegory that I love!
The ending... oh the ending. I will warn you that there are people, friends who I and I'm sure others, have grown to love who don't make it. This story is about a war, and there are real stakes... but the story is all the better for it. None of the deaths felt like they were for mere shock value. They felt like the characters died for a good cause with no regrets.
If you like deep stories, impactful ones that stay with you, with characters who you love, laugh, and cry with, then this story is for you.
September 15, 2025
Darkend delivered on the typical humor, action, wit, and wisdom we've come to expect from the award-winning Gateway Trilogy.
This epic conclusion delves into deep topics, such as forgiveness, grief, determination to change, and even overcoming self-loathing. It was fun to watch the formerly brooding Mason strive to fit in, humble himself, and make his fresh start, but also impactful as he faces all the shame that threatens to keep him from who he's meant to be.
We journey on the arc for dark hero, Mason, but also for Prince Eric, and soldier Lionel among others. All the friendships are a major asset of this book. Everyone's qualities are celebrated and important (quiet girls, looking at you!).
And of course we see the return of our prayerful and tenacious heroine Seria, plus her loveable donkey sidekick.
I have a lot of quotes below. I highlighted even more in this rich tale.
The serious ones:
When I have nothing left, I will trust in You.
It's all right to admit you can't do it all...
I've never claimed to be much. But I know I'm not nothing.
He took a step back, resting his hand on the Beacon. The feel of it grounded him, wrestled the terror into a semblance of fear that he could manage.
Truth pulsed through him, breaking through the soil of his spirit and uprooting the lies he had believed for too long. Forgiven. Accepted. Loved.
The swoony ones, while the couple was separate to get their values straight:
And the loneliness was a thorn to his bleeding heart, digging deeper with each moment of clarity.
He mostly thought of Seria. The memory of the radience of her smile, the light in her green eyes, the glow of her innocence-it kept him from drowning in darkness.
Seria, I'd die a thousand deaths to spend my last day with you.
This epic conclusion delves into deep topics, such as forgiveness, grief, determination to change, and even overcoming self-loathing. It was fun to watch the formerly brooding Mason strive to fit in, humble himself, and make his fresh start, but also impactful as he faces all the shame that threatens to keep him from who he's meant to be.
We journey on the arc for dark hero, Mason, but also for Prince Eric, and soldier Lionel among others. All the friendships are a major asset of this book. Everyone's qualities are celebrated and important (quiet girls, looking at you!).
And of course we see the return of our prayerful and tenacious heroine Seria, plus her loveable donkey sidekick.
I have a lot of quotes below. I highlighted even more in this rich tale.
The serious ones:
When I have nothing left, I will trust in You.
It's all right to admit you can't do it all...
I've never claimed to be much. But I know I'm not nothing.
He took a step back, resting his hand on the Beacon. The feel of it grounded him, wrestled the terror into a semblance of fear that he could manage.
Truth pulsed through him, breaking through the soil of his spirit and uprooting the lies he had believed for too long. Forgiven. Accepted. Loved.
The swoony ones, while the couple was separate to get their values straight:
And the loneliness was a thorn to his bleeding heart, digging deeper with each moment of clarity.
He mostly thought of Seria. The memory of the radience of her smile, the light in her green eyes, the glow of her innocence-it kept him from drowning in darkness.
Seria, I'd die a thousand deaths to spend my last day with you.
October 1, 2025
This final book in the Gateway Tirilogy is my favorite of the three!
I had moments of dread as the unexpected happened, smiles over the ending and a smattering of different emotions in the middle lol. You truly appreciate the characters journey in this last installment. Not only Mason's story but Serias as well.
The medivel fantasy setting of The Gateway Tirilogy truly comes out to shine in Darkend. Here we get castles, siege weapons, knight battles unlike what has been read in the series previously, even the everyday things like cooking and doing laundry. I feel so much more immersed in the land and its workings after reading Darkend.
Something I really appreciated about this story is the strong women characters. There are women who are more meek and while do not want to take up arms do what they must in the face of evil, lady knights who are capable in battle while holding a different role from the men and still valued equally, women who are good mothers above all else, women who make mistakes and treat others with kindness. Overall the showing of feminine qualitys through strength is perfect.
The relationship between men and women is also so well done. Men are men, protecters, valiant, providers and least I leave out dashing. They have emotions and are not afraid of their tears when the occasion is warranted (avoiding spoilers here!). I must admit I had times when I was upset at Mason and Serias relationship but in the end it all becomes such a fine redemptive example of love.
I received a ARC copy of the book. my opinions, as always, are my own.
I had moments of dread as the unexpected happened, smiles over the ending and a smattering of different emotions in the middle lol. You truly appreciate the characters journey in this last installment. Not only Mason's story but Serias as well.
The medivel fantasy setting of The Gateway Tirilogy truly comes out to shine in Darkend. Here we get castles, siege weapons, knight battles unlike what has been read in the series previously, even the everyday things like cooking and doing laundry. I feel so much more immersed in the land and its workings after reading Darkend.
Something I really appreciated about this story is the strong women characters. There are women who are more meek and while do not want to take up arms do what they must in the face of evil, lady knights who are capable in battle while holding a different role from the men and still valued equally, women who are good mothers above all else, women who make mistakes and treat others with kindness. Overall the showing of feminine qualitys through strength is perfect.
The relationship between men and women is also so well done. Men are men, protecters, valiant, providers and least I leave out dashing. They have emotions and are not afraid of their tears when the occasion is warranted (avoiding spoilers here!). I must admit I had times when I was upset at Mason and Serias relationship but in the end it all becomes such a fine redemptive example of love.
I received a ARC copy of the book. my opinions, as always, are my own.
August 30, 2025
“Forgiven. Accepted. Loved.”
“Don’t let past mistakes shut you off from growth”
Mercies!
Darkend does not disappoint! If you enjoy fantasy reads with light versus dark, good versus evil, and parallels to Christianity, this book (and trilogy) is for you. The character growth/development and the redemption arc are POWERFUL! So many powerful lessons to learn throughout this book (and trilogy). The plot is full of twists and turns that will leave you stunned. I was hooked on this trilogy from the very beginning of Shadowcast, and the plot and character development shine from Shadowcast through Lightshed to the VERY LAST WORD of Darkend. I was ALL IN while reading Darkend and its predecessors. Seria and Mason along with their supporting characters in Eric, Lena, Braylee, Dudley, Olen, Aladee, and Lionel will stick with me. I HIGHLY recommend Darkend (and the whole trilogy)!
I received an ARC copy for an honest review, and the thoughts are mine!
“Don’t let past mistakes shut you off from growth”
Mercies!
Darkend does not disappoint! If you enjoy fantasy reads with light versus dark, good versus evil, and parallels to Christianity, this book (and trilogy) is for you. The character growth/development and the redemption arc are POWERFUL! So many powerful lessons to learn throughout this book (and trilogy). The plot is full of twists and turns that will leave you stunned. I was hooked on this trilogy from the very beginning of Shadowcast, and the plot and character development shine from Shadowcast through Lightshed to the VERY LAST WORD of Darkend. I was ALL IN while reading Darkend and its predecessors. Seria and Mason along with their supporting characters in Eric, Lena, Braylee, Dudley, Olen, Aladee, and Lionel will stick with me. I HIGHLY recommend Darkend (and the whole trilogy)!
I received an ARC copy for an honest review, and the thoughts are mine!
September 30, 2025
What an ending! The Gateway Series is by far one of my favorites. I love the relationship dynamics between the characters and I absolutely adore who ends up with who. Crystal knows how to write angst without it being teenage drama so well. You can feel the emotional turmoil and pain of the characters.
Crystal is also a master at world building. The setting is believable and the battles are intense. I love the magic system with its aspect of light vs darkness.
If you have read my reviews before, you know I love a good redemption story and that is what Crystal has masterfully created. A story of light and darkness, redemption and forgiveness.
There are multiple POVs and sometimes for me that distracts but in Darkend it is well done and gives the reader a well-rounded view of the action and plot without taking you out of the story.
Darkend is a satisfying ending to Shadowcast and Lightshed and this series is one I highly recommend.
Crystal is also a master at world building. The setting is believable and the battles are intense. I love the magic system with its aspect of light vs darkness.
If you have read my reviews before, you know I love a good redemption story and that is what Crystal has masterfully created. A story of light and darkness, redemption and forgiveness.
There are multiple POVs and sometimes for me that distracts but in Darkend it is well done and gives the reader a well-rounded view of the action and plot without taking you out of the story.
Darkend is a satisfying ending to Shadowcast and Lightshed and this series is one I highly recommend.
September 15, 2025
This book kept me up WAY past my bedtime. I couldn't put it down!
What a fantastic, thrilling ending to the Gateway trilogy. If I didn't have the constant distractions of my littles (lol), I would have cried. This book is emotionally moving, fast-paced, and just oh-so-satisfying! Mason continues to be the best MMC ever (although Eric grew on me a lot, especially in this last book), and Seria was just as awkward and wonderful as ever (I definitely identify with her!).
It's clear why this series keeps getting nominated for awards. Crystal is such a talented writer, and while I'm sad this has come to a (spectacular) end, I can't wait to see what she writes next.
What a fantastic, thrilling ending to the Gateway trilogy. If I didn't have the constant distractions of my littles (lol), I would have cried. This book is emotionally moving, fast-paced, and just oh-so-satisfying! Mason continues to be the best MMC ever (although Eric grew on me a lot, especially in this last book), and Seria was just as awkward and wonderful as ever (I definitely identify with her!).
It's clear why this series keeps getting nominated for awards. Crystal is such a talented writer, and while I'm sad this has come to a (spectacular) end, I can't wait to see what she writes next.
October 31, 2025
Crystal D. Grant has turned this girl into a fantasy lover with the whole Gateway Trilogy, especially Darkened. Darkened had me from the very start and sucked me into the story, with its biblical allegory, good-versus-evil, and epic battles. I loved every moment of this book.
This enemies-to-lovers romance is sweet with kisses only.
Crystal D. Grant did a great job of intertwining faith throughout this story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This enemies-to-lovers romance is sweet with kisses only.
Crystal D. Grant did a great job of intertwining faith throughout this story.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 12, 2025
WOW!!
Darkend is an excellent conclusion to the Gateway Trilogy. I love how focused this book was on the power of light over dark. I love that the characters realized that their weapons didn't actually hold any power compared to Lambiant. I loved watching Mason overcome his darkness and Jaders hold through the power of Lambiant. I'm really sad the series is over though.😭
romance 1/5
violence 2/5
language 0/5
Darkend is an excellent conclusion to the Gateway Trilogy. I love how focused this book was on the power of light over dark. I love that the characters realized that their weapons didn't actually hold any power compared to Lambiant. I loved watching Mason overcome his darkness and Jaders hold through the power of Lambiant. I'm really sad the series is over though.😭
romance 1/5
violence 2/5
language 0/5
August 28, 2025
Darkend is an epic conclusion to a thrilling series. Woven with themes of hope and Light rising against darkness, Darkend is the perfect ending. I cried, cheered, and turned pages with bated breath. Well done, Crystal D. Grant!
September 9, 2025
This was an amazing ending to a great trilogy!
This book, for me, was hands down the best in the series!
Grant does a great job extracting all emotions from me in the final installment.
Darkend, like Lighshed and Shadowcast embody what it means to battle the "darkness" daily. But even more, how important it is to have God standing beside you as well as a great group of friends to get you through. Its spiritual nature is not missed, in fact is weaved perfectly into this story and relatable!
Sad to see this Trilogy end but excited for What Grant has ahead for her readers!
This book, for me, was hands down the best in the series!
Grant does a great job extracting all emotions from me in the final installment.
Darkend, like Lighshed and Shadowcast embody what it means to battle the "darkness" daily. But even more, how important it is to have God standing beside you as well as a great group of friends to get you through. Its spiritual nature is not missed, in fact is weaved perfectly into this story and relatable!
Sad to see this Trilogy end but excited for What Grant has ahead for her readers!
September 30, 2025
WOW THIS BOOK WAS GREAT! There are moments that make me want to smack the author, but overall it’s a well written story that was clearly thought through. There were things that surprised me that were more important than I ever thought it would.
I think this book is very important and many people need to read this book! Especially right now! The message of light in the darkness and that there are more good people than you think really matters and is a message people need!
I think this book is very important and many people need to read this book! Especially right now! The message of light in the darkness and that there are more good people than you think really matters and is a message people need!
September 18, 2025
It's a pretty profound thing when the first book in the series you've read is the last one...and you still walk away having messaged the author in all caps for the hypertensive episodes their story caused.
Bearing in mind that I still haven't read Shadowcast and Lightshed (therefore have no idea what landed our leads in the places they've found themselves), I found the themes of redemption and forgiveness to run powerfully through this final installment in the Gateway trilogy. Mason in particular struck me as an immensely compelling character - someone who's trying his hardest to lean into the forgiveness offered by God and to make right the wrongs he'd committed previously. And as someone who appreciates the stabby side of things, there were a few moments in his particular arc that had me at the edge of my seat with concern for his safety.
I have to also give the author props for the ending. It's so difficult to wrap up a series in a satisfying way, but this was perfect. For a series filled with light vs dark motifs, it truly felt like the sun had broken through and was shining on the characters' futures. You really can't ask for a better ending than that.
Bearing in mind that I still haven't read Shadowcast and Lightshed (therefore have no idea what landed our leads in the places they've found themselves), I found the themes of redemption and forgiveness to run powerfully through this final installment in the Gateway trilogy. Mason in particular struck me as an immensely compelling character - someone who's trying his hardest to lean into the forgiveness offered by God and to make right the wrongs he'd committed previously. And as someone who appreciates the stabby side of things, there were a few moments in his particular arc that had me at the edge of my seat with concern for his safety.
I have to also give the author props for the ending. It's so difficult to wrap up a series in a satisfying way, but this was perfect. For a series filled with light vs dark motifs, it truly felt like the sun had broken through and was shining on the characters' futures. You really can't ask for a better ending than that.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews