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Lighting up the shadow
126 pages, Paperback
Published October 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
April 12, 2026
This novella is a beautifully atmospheric continuation that masterfully captures the intangible nature of memory and the enduring scars of heartbreak. Beyond the enchanting world-building and magical apprenticeship, the narrative beats with a profound emotional sorrow. It explores the psychological reality that while mental illnesses or physical wounds might heal, the echoes of what broke us remain deeply rooted in our psyche. The devastating moment when a simple gesture of affection triggers a visceral, magical manifestation of trauma is beautifully written and guarantees a heavy, lingering ache. It is a perfect, tragic, and emotionally charged read for anyone who craves an authentic "ugly-cry" experience wrapped in a visually stunning fantasy setting.
January 14, 2026
As always, I want to thank Maria BlueLight for reaching out and providing me with a copy of this duology—your trust and generosity mean a lot.
I have to say... I actually enjoyed this book more than the first one, which almost never happens. Usually, I’m hopelessly attached to the first book of any series, but this sequel genuinely surprised me. The growth both Mira and Kaiden experienced was remarkable. I mean, don’t get me wrong—I was rooting for them from the start—but the changes they underwent were impressive. This story is a great reminder that people 𝘤𝘢𝘯 change, but only if they want to. And if you ever doubt yourself, just look at Mira—she’s the perfect example of what self-belief and determination can do (well, that and maybe a touch of magic).
Now, confession time: I wasn’t Mira’s biggest fan at first. She came off a bit childish—but given her circumstances, it made sense. She’s been through a lot and built her own little bubble to survive. But by the end, she kind of grew on me. She starts realizing her worth and that she can do amazing things 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 relying on that magical ring—though, to be honest, having one wouldn’t hurt either.
As for Kaiden… his sudden interest in Mira caught me off guard. Their relationship, while sweet, felt a little like it happened between chapters rather than on the page. Their chemistry is undeniable, but I just wish we’d seen more of it unfold naturally. Maybe a bonus chapter or an epilogue could give us a bit more of that spark—𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦… 𝘺𝘦𝘴, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨.
Overall, this duology feels perfect for a younger audience. I think younger teens, in particular, could really connect with the characters and their journeys. I’d definitely recommend it to my little cousins (and probably sneak them copies when the time comes).
Thank you again, Marie, for letting me be part of this adventure. It was a joy to read, and I can’t wait to see what you write next!
I have to say... I actually enjoyed this book more than the first one, which almost never happens. Usually, I’m hopelessly attached to the first book of any series, but this sequel genuinely surprised me. The growth both Mira and Kaiden experienced was remarkable. I mean, don’t get me wrong—I was rooting for them from the start—but the changes they underwent were impressive. This story is a great reminder that people 𝘤𝘢𝘯 change, but only if they want to. And if you ever doubt yourself, just look at Mira—she’s the perfect example of what self-belief and determination can do (well, that and maybe a touch of magic).
Now, confession time: I wasn’t Mira’s biggest fan at first. She came off a bit childish—but given her circumstances, it made sense. She’s been through a lot and built her own little bubble to survive. But by the end, she kind of grew on me. She starts realizing her worth and that she can do amazing things 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 relying on that magical ring—though, to be honest, having one wouldn’t hurt either.
As for Kaiden… his sudden interest in Mira caught me off guard. Their relationship, while sweet, felt a little like it happened between chapters rather than on the page. Their chemistry is undeniable, but I just wish we’d seen more of it unfold naturally. Maybe a bonus chapter or an epilogue could give us a bit more of that spark—𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦… 𝘺𝘦𝘴, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨.
Overall, this duology feels perfect for a younger audience. I think younger teens, in particular, could really connect with the characters and their journeys. I’d definitely recommend it to my little cousins (and probably sneak them copies when the time comes).
Thank you again, Marie, for letting me be part of this adventure. It was a joy to read, and I can’t wait to see what you write next!
January 25, 2026
The relationship Mira has with herself and with Kaiden was beautifully depicted. Mira had to get used to living in a magical world rather than her human one. But with help along the way she managed to heal her inner self, her inner child.
Thank you to Maria for reaching out to me to read this.
Thank you to Maria for reaching out to me to read this.
November 13, 2025
It was very layered and had a happy, empowered ending
March 7, 2026
Lighting Up The Shadow book review by Sutrishna Sen - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQJ0h4...
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews