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The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows
The stars chose them. The prophecy binds them.
Twins Fadeya and Seraphina are bound by blood and starlight, named in a prophecy that promises they will either unite the fractured realms or sunder them forever. At Aestral Unison University, where bonds with magical creatures awaken power and the fae world presses against the human one, the sisters are set upon diverging paths.
Long ago, fae twins tried and failed to heal the rift between the realms. Their story ended in ruin. Now the question can human sisters succeed where the fae could not?
Fadeya, bold and headstrong, believes her rise is inevitable. Seraphina, cautious and uncertain, dreads what the stars might demand.
And no bond, not even the bond of sisters, is safe from the pull of destiny.
Twins Fadeya and Seraphina are bound by blood and starlight, named in a prophecy that promises they will either unite the fractured realms or sunder them forever. At Aestral Unison University, where bonds with magical creatures awaken power and the fae world presses against the human one, the sisters are set upon diverging paths.
Long ago, fae twins tried and failed to heal the rift between the realms. Their story ended in ruin. Now the question can human sisters succeed where the fae could not?
Fadeya, bold and headstrong, believes her rise is inevitable. Seraphina, cautious and uncertain, dreads what the stars might demand.
And no bond, not even the bond of sisters, is safe from the pull of destiny.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2025
13 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 26, 2025
Stars-“Sometimes, they don’t just grant wishes, they guide us too.”. 5 stars in this case!
“Do not let your worth be bound in the expectations of others. Greatness often begins in the quiet defiance of such things.” This quote defines this book for me.
Intrigue, prophecy, fate, loss and the love between sisters make The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows a book worth reading. The imagery woven between these pages makes the fae world come Alive. From the buildings to the grounds to the magical beasts, the authors have written a book where you feel like you are there and can imagine every aspect of the fae world.
I’m excited for when/if an audiobook is released as well as book 2!
“Do not let your worth be bound in the expectations of others. Greatness often begins in the quiet defiance of such things.” This quote defines this book for me.
Intrigue, prophecy, fate, loss and the love between sisters make The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows a book worth reading. The imagery woven between these pages makes the fae world come Alive. From the buildings to the grounds to the magical beasts, the authors have written a book where you feel like you are there and can imagine every aspect of the fae world.
I’m excited for when/if an audiobook is released as well as book 2!
October 15, 2025
Every now and again, a book comes along that reinvents the fantasy world.
To me, this book was one of them.
It was nostalgic in the way I remember when first introduced into the fantasy world as a kid.
There are creatures you know and love along with new reimagined ideas.
This book will make you laugh, cry, scream, and throw something.
You have ups and downs trials and tribulations.
This book is more fantasy than romance. However, I still love the romance in it.
To me, this book was one of them.
It was nostalgic in the way I remember when first introduced into the fantasy world as a kid.
There are creatures you know and love along with new reimagined ideas.
This book will make you laugh, cry, scream, and throw something.
You have ups and downs trials and tribulations.
This book is more fantasy than romance. However, I still love the romance in it.
October 13, 2025
I read this as an ARC and loved it! Stats:
Genre: Fantasy/Romance (definitely fantasy first, romance second)
Vibe: Cozy
Steam: 2 out of 5 (behind closed doors)
Topics: magic academy, magical creatures, fantasy, romance
I definitely want my own bondmate!!! I feel like everyone has mentioned that this book feels cozy, but I really want to drive that home! You feel automatically at ease reading this. The characters are all interesting and unique (though Cordelia is my favorite)! You are able to understand the choices the characters make based on who they are as people, it does not just feel like the authors are guiding dolls through a story. I can't wait for the second book, this one definitely leaves you wanting more!
Genre: Fantasy/Romance (definitely fantasy first, romance second)
Vibe: Cozy
Steam: 2 out of 5 (behind closed doors)
Topics: magic academy, magical creatures, fantasy, romance
I definitely want my own bondmate!!! I feel like everyone has mentioned that this book feels cozy, but I really want to drive that home! You feel automatically at ease reading this. The characters are all interesting and unique (though Cordelia is my favorite)! You are able to understand the choices the characters make based on who they are as people, it does not just feel like the authors are guiding dolls through a story. I can't wait for the second book, this one definitely leaves you wanting more!
October 26, 2025
43 year old me devoured this book……16 year old me would’ve devoured this book as well. I can’t remember the last time I read a book that had me openly crying, it tugs on heart strings and makes you wish you could step into this world. The representation I found in this book was incredible and lovely. Everyone deserves to see themselves in a story EVERYONE! A true fantasy delight!
October 21, 2025
no one:
me at 2am: sorry, can't go to bed yet because I MUST finish this book.
I devoured "The Bonds of Starlight and Shadow" in days, and my dogs can attest I did very little else aside from work and read Cammy and Aly Crady's novel.
Because this book? This debut novel! It took me on an emotional rollercoaster, one that loops between friendship, sisterhood, heartbreak and pure adrenaline. Cammy and Aly Crady have built a world that feels like Hogwarts with a diversity upgrade and magical bonding. Plus, it's got a full creature catalog — hippocampi, dragons, pegasuses, and more. But more than just being a magical school, Astral Unison University feels alive. The setting hums with magic, and you can tell it's not just a backdrop. It feels like another character in the story.
The characters
Our twin heroines, Seraphina and Fadeya, carry this story with grace and grit. They share blood but not personalities — one is darkness and one is light, as the story's prophecy goes. Together, they’re proof that sisterhood can be both armor and Achilles’ heel.
Let’s talk about the supporting cast:
• Aleron — the golden retriever of love interests. Loyal, gentle, and radiating “I’ve got you” energy. We love him.
• Cordelia — sunshine personified. The kind of friend who bursts into every scene like a confetti cannon and makes you want to be braver just to keep up.
• And so many others... it's hard not to fall in love with all of the characters and magical creatures you meet throughout this story.
The vibe
There’s something simmering beneath the academic polish of this magical school — a whisper that not everything (or everyone) is as it seems. It’s the perfect dose of unease that keeps you turning pages long after your bedtime. *cough* see above *cough*
The romance? A sweet, friends-to-lovers story that’s tender enough to make your heart ache. Fade-to-black perfection, and you never feel like you're missing out on those romantasy vibes we all love.
And the writing — lush. Every description drips with color and energy, so vivid you can practically hear the rustle of dragon wings and feel the magic in the air. The Cradys write with the confidence of seasoned authors, blending whimsy, wisdom and world-building like it’s second nature.
The authors sprinkle these nuggets like stardust, and I ate up every word. Five stars. ✨ And as a debut? It's one hell of an opening act. I can't wait until book two.
me at 2am: sorry, can't go to bed yet because I MUST finish this book.
I devoured "The Bonds of Starlight and Shadow" in days, and my dogs can attest I did very little else aside from work and read Cammy and Aly Crady's novel.
Because this book? This debut novel! It took me on an emotional rollercoaster, one that loops between friendship, sisterhood, heartbreak and pure adrenaline. Cammy and Aly Crady have built a world that feels like Hogwarts with a diversity upgrade and magical bonding. Plus, it's got a full creature catalog — hippocampi, dragons, pegasuses, and more. But more than just being a magical school, Astral Unison University feels alive. The setting hums with magic, and you can tell it's not just a backdrop. It feels like another character in the story.
The characters
Our twin heroines, Seraphina and Fadeya, carry this story with grace and grit. They share blood but not personalities — one is darkness and one is light, as the story's prophecy goes. Together, they’re proof that sisterhood can be both armor and Achilles’ heel.
Let’s talk about the supporting cast:
• Aleron — the golden retriever of love interests. Loyal, gentle, and radiating “I’ve got you” energy. We love him.
• Cordelia — sunshine personified. The kind of friend who bursts into every scene like a confetti cannon and makes you want to be braver just to keep up.
• And so many others... it's hard not to fall in love with all of the characters and magical creatures you meet throughout this story.
The vibe
There’s something simmering beneath the academic polish of this magical school — a whisper that not everything (or everyone) is as it seems. It’s the perfect dose of unease that keeps you turning pages long after your bedtime. *cough* see above *cough*
The romance? A sweet, friends-to-lovers story that’s tender enough to make your heart ache. Fade-to-black perfection, and you never feel like you're missing out on those romantasy vibes we all love.
And the writing — lush. Every description drips with color and energy, so vivid you can practically hear the rustle of dragon wings and feel the magic in the air. The Cradys write with the confidence of seasoned authors, blending whimsy, wisdom and world-building like it’s second nature.
“Do not let your worth be bound to the expectations of others. Greatness often begins in the quiet defiance of such things.”
The authors sprinkle these nuggets like stardust, and I ate up every word. Five stars. ✨ And as a debut? It's one hell of an opening act. I can't wait until book two.
October 28, 2025
I loved the uniqueness of this fantasy world! This book had it all, prophecies, magical creatures, bonds, twists, sisterhood and romance. The authors were so descriptive, I could vividly see each dress, creature, scene, etc. So excited for the next book and to see what happens!
October 10, 2025
I read The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows as an ARC and really enjoyed it! The world-building pulled me in right away, and the dynamic between the twin sisters was so well done. It gave me that cozy, magical-school vibe I’ve been missing since Harry Potter (pre-problematic era, of course). The story balances wonder, mystery, and emotion beautifully...and that ending! I did not see it coming, but it left me excited (and a little desperate) for book two. A fantastic debut that fans of fantasy academies and magical creatures will absolutely love.
October 29, 2025
I just finished The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows and I’m obsessed. It gave me total Harry Potter meets Fourth Wing vibes...but without the spice, which I actually kind of loved because it let the story and the characters shine more.
The whole idea of bonding with magical creatures?? I’m still thinking about it. I kept wishing I could have one of my own. (Still deciding between a moon wolf or the crystabear.) I want to go to a magical college! If you love fantasy with deep friendships, sisterhood, and creature bonds, this book is seriously a must-read.
The whole idea of bonding with magical creatures?? I’m still thinking about it. I kept wishing I could have one of my own. (Still deciding between a moon wolf or the crystabear.) I want to go to a magical college! If you love fantasy with deep friendships, sisterhood, and creature bonds, this book is seriously a must-read.
December 8, 2025
The world building, heart, and character development were fantastic! The authors also had a great way of showing the depth of each character, even the villains— giving us hope and showing the complexity of humanity. HOPE! That was the biggest theme for me. I loved the sister relationship, but the compassion they lead the story with sealed it for me.
If you are looking for a book that is insightful, entertaining, and has you quickly wanting to be transported back into its world when the book ends—then this is the book for you!!
If you are looking for a book that is insightful, entertaining, and has you quickly wanting to be transported back into its world when the book ends—then this is the book for you!!
October 5, 2025
I came across The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows on TikTok and decided to give it a shot and wow, I’m so glad I did. The whole idea of bonding with magical creatures and studying at a mystical university totally hooked me. The story feels cozy and immersive, like curling up with your favorite fantasy world.
The characters felt real, the magic system was fascinating, and that twist at the end? I didn’t see it coming at all. I loved every minute of it and honestly can’t wait for book two!
The characters felt real, the magic system was fascinating, and that twist at the end? I didn’t see it coming at all. I loved every minute of it and honestly can’t wait for book two!
October 12, 2025
Fadeya and Seraphina pulled me in from the very first page. The mix of fantasy, a lil romantic tension, the authenticity of sisterhood, amazing magical creatures, and a cast of unforgettable characters makes this book pure escapism in the best way. Hogwarts meets 4th Wing and something new!
The world-building is my favorite—I couldn’t get enough of how this book felt to read. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end!
The world-building is my favorite—I couldn’t get enough of how this book felt to read. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end!
October 12, 2025
Incredible! Different from any books I’ve ready and yet had the elements we all love. The story of the sisters and their bond was beautifully written and it made me so excited to keep going. I haven’t had a book catch my attention as much in a long time. Def worth the read!
If you like:
Zodiac Academy
Direbound
If you like:
Zodiac Academy
Direbound
November 9, 2025
It was ok for me. I would say fantasy more thay romance for this one. I found the romance was very miniscule in this one. I think the 2nd book in the series could dive deeper in the relationships. I didnt connect well with the characters. at about the 80% market it picked up for me where I couldn't put it down.
November 11, 2025
I’m actually screaming over that ending.
Okay, The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows totally destroyed me in the best way. I went in thinking it’d be another cool fantasy with magic and creatures, but it’s SO much more. But that twist at the end… I did not see that coming. Like jaw on the floor, staring at the page, trying to process what just happened.
Okay, The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows totally destroyed me in the best way. I went in thinking it’d be another cool fantasy with magic and creatures, but it’s SO much more. But that twist at the end… I did not see that coming. Like jaw on the floor, staring at the page, trying to process what just happened.
November 15, 2025
A beautiful tale of two sisters finding themselves and their inner strengths. This book takes place in a wonderfully immersive fantasy realm full of magic and creatures. I loved the mystery unraveling throughout the book that kept me guessing. The characters had great personalities and I related to both sisters at points. The ending has me dying for the next one!
October 10, 2025
I loved The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows! It was such a fun read I didn’t want it to end. Cordelia was definitely my favorite character, she’s such a badass and I loved every scene she was in. I want a bondmate of my own! Can’t wait for book two!
October 10, 2025
Aestral Unison University felt like being back at Hogwarts, but cooler. The magic, the creatures, the whole vibe was just amazing. And Aleron… yeah, I’m kinda obsessed. He’s got that perfect mix of confident, goofy, and hot.
October 13, 2025
I can't believe this is a debut indie-published book. Bravo! I really enjoyed this one. Kinda gave YA vibes (Not in a bad way at all) but just in the sense that I didn't have to overthink to read it, just vibed the whole time.
October 31, 2025
Cozy fantasy that transports you into another world so effortlessly. The Bonds of Starlight and Shadows is a book that can be shared across generations, with everyone finding something they relate to and love.
December 6, 2025
3.5 story was good and characters were interesting. But, then it just ended - and not in an interesting or intriguing way.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews