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Shadows of the Sundered Lands
The walls that kept the darkness out are beginning to fall.
One hundred and fifty years ago, the Sundering drowned Avoni in darkness, twisting every living thing into a nightmare. The only survivors live under the Aurora Shrouds, mystical barriers shielding isolated towns from the horrors outside. When a Vanguard Courier, uncovers evidence that the Shrouds are dying, he is forced into a perilous journey through the Sundered Lands, where he uncovers long-buried secrets, binding Avoni's fate to a treaty with a forgotten race.
One hundred and fifty years ago, the Sundering drowned Avoni in darkness, twisting every living thing into a nightmare. The only survivors live under the Aurora Shrouds, mystical barriers shielding isolated towns from the horrors outside. When a Vanguard Courier, uncovers evidence that the Shrouds are dying, he is forced into a perilous journey through the Sundered Lands, where he uncovers long-buried secrets, binding Avoni's fate to a treaty with a forgotten race.
- GenresFantasyDark Fantasy
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 10, 2025
A brilliant dark fantasy with a core of hope. Rook is a rising star that will capture fans of Sanderson quickly with sharp wit, epic world building, and characters you'll love.
April 19, 2026
In Shadows of the Sundered Lands we are introduced to a dangerous and deadly world.
Years before a terrible cataclysm sundered the land into small save zones. In these, one is protected from the body altering properties and perilous beings occupying everywhere else.
Following a courier/messenger that travels to each community we soon realize the safe areas are failing. What is behind it is both dark mystery and possible sinister corruption.
I found this world very similar to Kate Elliott’s The Witch Roads.
A pretty good start to what should be engaging series.
Years before a terrible cataclysm sundered the land into small save zones. In these, one is protected from the body altering properties and perilous beings occupying everywhere else.
Following a courier/messenger that travels to each community we soon realize the safe areas are failing. What is behind it is both dark mystery and possible sinister corruption.
I found this world very similar to Kate Elliott’s The Witch Roads.
A pretty good start to what should be engaging series.
June 12, 2026
Great start to a fast paced, dark modern fantasy. That you can see and feel has been made in the right way.
What i always love with a magic system, it's when the magic comes with a price. And Corbin don't miss a beat with showing what that magic cost you.
Shadows of the Sundered Land is as fast paced and action packed as you can get it. I could feel that with the story leans more into being fast, that it could sacrifices moments where I would have wished I felt more feelings during big revelations, or happenings. But non the less I had a great time in this world.
The world itself is a super intriguing one, where it's as dark and brutal as you can get it. With monsters, bonding, places that slowly kills you, but still has some fantastic light points in the end of the tunnel. With new found friendship.
This is a fantastic book if you love a dark and dangerous world, that sweeps you away with the brutality from it.
What i always love with a magic system, it's when the magic comes with a price. And Corbin don't miss a beat with showing what that magic cost you.
Shadows of the Sundered Land is as fast paced and action packed as you can get it. I could feel that with the story leans more into being fast, that it could sacrifices moments where I would have wished I felt more feelings during big revelations, or happenings. But non the less I had a great time in this world.
The world itself is a super intriguing one, where it's as dark and brutal as you can get it. With monsters, bonding, places that slowly kills you, but still has some fantastic light points in the end of the tunnel. With new found friendship.
This is a fantastic book if you love a dark and dangerous world, that sweeps you away with the brutality from it.
February 15, 2026
*I read this book as a judge for Fanfiaddict for SPFBO XI. These are my personal thoughts and do not represent the thoughts of the whole team!*
Shadows of The Sundered Lands by Corbin Rook is a strong debut epic fantasy with stellar worldbuilding, a cast of likable characters, and all the action you could ask for. I really enjoyed my time with it, and think Rook is on to something with this series–I’m hoping it’s a series and we’ll get more books in this world!
We follow Cam, a courier who travels through the Sundered Lands, a wasteland that will kill you in days–or turn you into a scaletaint, mindless husks covered in scales who kill indiscriminately. All of the settlements are protected by Aurora Shrouds, which keep the effects of the Sundered Lands from setting in. However, the Shrouds are beginning to fail.
Cam and Illyria, a healer with a hidden agenda, travel across the Sundered Lands to seek help for some of the failing cities, but soon, Cam finds himself tethered to an Elmia, a people once widespread who have all but disappeared. Luik, the Elmia, resides within Cam, and they have some amazing exchanges. Also, with Luik tethered to him, Cam has new powers he didn’t have before.
The rest of the main cast are Chek and Felix, two siblings who assist Cam along the way and join the quest. There’s no great disability rep here: Chek has a muscle disorder that affects the right side of her body, and Felix is autistic, something Rook does a great job portraying. They’re both excellent characters, though sometimes I wanted a little more of them. There were times where they were lost from the story for good chunks.
Most of the world building was done really well, but one scene when Cam and Luik first meet felt like an infodump via dialogue, and some of the dialogue did feel stilted–Rook is at his best when the characters are just talking to each other and he has some great humorous moments mixed in, but in some of the moments where things were supposed to be dramatic, I felt the dialogue slightly missed the mark.
The pace at the end is breakneck and you can’t stop reading, but I felt like we were missing some of the character’s emotions. Several characters encounter shocking twists, reveals, and even deaths, and I felt like there wasn’t enough time spent on the emotional responses to those moments.
Even with the pacing issues in the last third of the book, it’s clear that Rook is a writer to watch. He excels with world building, does a great job writing friendships, and created several very likable characters that were a lot of fun to follow. I know he’s gonna do some big things in the Indie fantasy scene. I’ll be watching his career closely, and I hope to see more stories in this world!
Shadows of The Sundered Lands by Corbin Rook is a strong debut epic fantasy with stellar worldbuilding, a cast of likable characters, and all the action you could ask for. I really enjoyed my time with it, and think Rook is on to something with this series–I’m hoping it’s a series and we’ll get more books in this world!
We follow Cam, a courier who travels through the Sundered Lands, a wasteland that will kill you in days–or turn you into a scaletaint, mindless husks covered in scales who kill indiscriminately. All of the settlements are protected by Aurora Shrouds, which keep the effects of the Sundered Lands from setting in. However, the Shrouds are beginning to fail.
Cam and Illyria, a healer with a hidden agenda, travel across the Sundered Lands to seek help for some of the failing cities, but soon, Cam finds himself tethered to an Elmia, a people once widespread who have all but disappeared. Luik, the Elmia, resides within Cam, and they have some amazing exchanges. Also, with Luik tethered to him, Cam has new powers he didn’t have before.
The rest of the main cast are Chek and Felix, two siblings who assist Cam along the way and join the quest. There’s no great disability rep here: Chek has a muscle disorder that affects the right side of her body, and Felix is autistic, something Rook does a great job portraying. They’re both excellent characters, though sometimes I wanted a little more of them. There were times where they were lost from the story for good chunks.
Most of the world building was done really well, but one scene when Cam and Luik first meet felt like an infodump via dialogue, and some of the dialogue did feel stilted–Rook is at his best when the characters are just talking to each other and he has some great humorous moments mixed in, but in some of the moments where things were supposed to be dramatic, I felt the dialogue slightly missed the mark.
The pace at the end is breakneck and you can’t stop reading, but I felt like we were missing some of the character’s emotions. Several characters encounter shocking twists, reveals, and even deaths, and I felt like there wasn’t enough time spent on the emotional responses to those moments.
Even with the pacing issues in the last third of the book, it’s clear that Rook is a writer to watch. He excels with world building, does a great job writing friendships, and created several very likable characters that were a lot of fun to follow. I know he’s gonna do some big things in the Indie fantasy scene. I’ll be watching his career closely, and I hope to see more stories in this world!
October 10, 2025
I read this before it went to the editor and it was soooo good even then 🤩
April 23, 2026
Know you will fail. Act anyway.
I'll start by saying that this was sold to me as a Sanderson-esque book but I think I actually whizzed through this more than I have any Sanderson book.
Shadows of the Sundered Lands is a fantastic book by Corbin Rook that will have you itching to know more of the world, it's characters and what the heck is going to happen from here.
It's hard for a fantasy book to keep me entertained these days. Everything has been done before or it's all too predictable but I can honestly say that Rook had me guessing right until the end. I even had some expletives ready for Corbin!!
These characters really made it feel real. I won't spoil who my favourite is but I'm hoping for more from a certain Elmia!
I really enjoyed the world that has been built here. Towards the end the pacing gets a little rushed and I wish we just got to explore and see more of the Sundered Lands but I have it on good authority that's coming.
This is a fast-paced, brilliantly written novel that's filled with hope and despair but one that's skyrocketed to the top of my favourite series.
I'll start by saying that this was sold to me as a Sanderson-esque book but I think I actually whizzed through this more than I have any Sanderson book.
Shadows of the Sundered Lands is a fantastic book by Corbin Rook that will have you itching to know more of the world, it's characters and what the heck is going to happen from here.
It's hard for a fantasy book to keep me entertained these days. Everything has been done before or it's all too predictable but I can honestly say that Rook had me guessing right until the end. I even had some expletives ready for Corbin!!
These characters really made it feel real. I won't spoil who my favourite is but I'm hoping for more from a certain Elmia!
I really enjoyed the world that has been built here. Towards the end the pacing gets a little rushed and I wish we just got to explore and see more of the Sundered Lands but I have it on good authority that's coming.
This is a fast-paced, brilliantly written novel that's filled with hope and despair but one that's skyrocketed to the top of my favourite series.
November 4, 2025
Shadows of the Sundered Lands by Corbin Rook was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and I’m happy to say it didn’t disappoint. Thank you for the ARC!
Dropped in the middle of a country ravaged by a magical sundering that caused painful transformations to anyone outside unprotected with isolated cities protected by Aurora Shrouds, it was hard to see how anyone could remain hopeful. And yet, in the middle of all of this, we have characters like Cam and Chek who forge on no matter what. Cam, plagued with anxiety and self doubt, refuses to back down or leave anyone behind. He will try again and again, no matter what it costs him, to ensure things turn out better. Chek is constantly looked down upon due to her mobility disability, but she is determined to show she is still a force to he reckoned with. She forces herself to go farther than anyone thought she could, yet she knows when to rest when her body demands it. Corbin calls this book “hope punk” and I’d say it’s pretty fitting.
I grew very attached to the characters (as you can see) but I’d say my favorite of the bunch was probably Felix. He is lovable in a way that reminds me so much of my dearest friends, and I liked the way Corbin portrayed autism through him. I felt like I could hear Felix talk for ages about Elmia, something no one let him do unfortunately. Hopefully next book we get a long lecture from him!
My one issue would have to be that sometimes the pacing felt a bit off. I felt that towards the big twist, everything started happening really quickly but I wasn’t sold on the evils of the cult leader who thought he was a god to the point I should have been.
That being said, the twist itself had me reeling and I absolutely could not put the book down until I finished. I needed to know how Cam and Chek and Felix would make it to the end, basically brute forcing an ending that would benefit as many people as possible.
The ending made me cry, and I felt betrayed in ways that only a good book could make me feel betrayed. For the love of all Alvonis, you have to support Corbin and his kickstarter when it comes out.
Dropped in the middle of a country ravaged by a magical sundering that caused painful transformations to anyone outside unprotected with isolated cities protected by Aurora Shrouds, it was hard to see how anyone could remain hopeful. And yet, in the middle of all of this, we have characters like Cam and Chek who forge on no matter what. Cam, plagued with anxiety and self doubt, refuses to back down or leave anyone behind. He will try again and again, no matter what it costs him, to ensure things turn out better. Chek is constantly looked down upon due to her mobility disability, but she is determined to show she is still a force to he reckoned with. She forces herself to go farther than anyone thought she could, yet she knows when to rest when her body demands it. Corbin calls this book “hope punk” and I’d say it’s pretty fitting.
I grew very attached to the characters (as you can see) but I’d say my favorite of the bunch was probably Felix. He is lovable in a way that reminds me so much of my dearest friends, and I liked the way Corbin portrayed autism through him. I felt like I could hear Felix talk for ages about Elmia, something no one let him do unfortunately. Hopefully next book we get a long lecture from him!
My one issue would have to be that sometimes the pacing felt a bit off. I felt that towards the big twist, everything started happening really quickly but I wasn’t sold on the evils of the cult leader who thought he was a god to the point I should have been.
That being said, the twist itself had me reeling and I absolutely could not put the book down until I finished. I needed to know how Cam and Chek and Felix would make it to the end, basically brute forcing an ending that would benefit as many people as possible.
The ending made me cry, and I felt betrayed in ways that only a good book could make me feel betrayed. For the love of all Alvonis, you have to support Corbin and his kickstarter when it comes out.
January 14, 2026
What a stunning, stunning fantasy book. Brilliant, dark, and intriguing, while still offering a sliver of hope. A book that keeps you up at night and consumes your waking hours.
In the words of one of my favorite characters, Luik:
“Know you will fail. Act anyway.”
And this is precisely what the characters do. They keep trying and pushing until the very end. Even when all hope seems lost, they never give up. They may act out of different beliefs and ideas, and some may choose the wrong path, but in the end, everyone is simply trying to do what feels right to them.
“Sometimes, humans don’t need the Sundered Lands to turn into monsters.”
What makes someone a monster? A physical characteristic, like a scaled arm, perhaps, or something else? Corbin poses some difficult questions in his book, ones that made me think and question the world.
Because, in the end, who are the true monsters? The ones turned into scaletaints, roaming the cursed Sundered Lands? Humans standing by? Or those using and abusing others, not in order to live, but merely to survive?
In a world tainted by corruption, where only a few settlements remain under the Aurora Shrouds, where does one find a way forward?
“Sometimes the most courageous thing someone can do is to make a choice and live with the consequences.”
Cam will make a choice. Luik will make a choice. Chek and Felix will. Illyria will. So many others will make their choices and live with their consequences. But, will they live, die, or survive?
Shadows of the Sundered Lands will try to answer those questions. Let it.
In the words of one of my favorite characters, Luik:
“Know you will fail. Act anyway.”
And this is precisely what the characters do. They keep trying and pushing until the very end. Even when all hope seems lost, they never give up. They may act out of different beliefs and ideas, and some may choose the wrong path, but in the end, everyone is simply trying to do what feels right to them.
“Sometimes, humans don’t need the Sundered Lands to turn into monsters.”
What makes someone a monster? A physical characteristic, like a scaled arm, perhaps, or something else? Corbin poses some difficult questions in his book, ones that made me think and question the world.
Because, in the end, who are the true monsters? The ones turned into scaletaints, roaming the cursed Sundered Lands? Humans standing by? Or those using and abusing others, not in order to live, but merely to survive?
In a world tainted by corruption, where only a few settlements remain under the Aurora Shrouds, where does one find a way forward?
“Sometimes the most courageous thing someone can do is to make a choice and live with the consequences.”
Cam will make a choice. Luik will make a choice. Chek and Felix will. Illyria will. So many others will make their choices and live with their consequences. But, will they live, die, or survive?
Shadows of the Sundered Lands will try to answer those questions. Let it.
October 28, 2025
“So, what do I do?”
“Know you will fail. Act anyway.”
my ARC review of Shadows of the Sundered Lands, the first book in a new series by Corbin Rook.
Shadows of the Sundered Lands had a really unique magic system that was complicated enough to keep it interesting, but simple enough to not need 300 pages & copious notes & a headache to explain it. the world building was dark and very unique, & the characters were intensely likable and well rounded.
the last like 15% is very intense, & I’m ngl I was vaguely threatening the author in DMs with Sierra 😂 I am in my cozy girl era so I was SHOOK 😂
overall, this was an intense, beautiful, unique fantasy debut & I cannot wait for the sequels!
Shadows of the Sundered Lands releases December 30th, 2025 so definitely check it out. & thank you to the author & Kaden Love for the advanced ebook copy!
🌿high fantasy
🔹third person limited, multiple POVs
🌿dark world building— post apocalyptic dystopian but make it fantasy
🔹impossibly unique world
🌿this is reminding me a bit of Monstrous by Lily Mayne & I am HERE. for. it.
🔹I’m such a sucker for a gentle giant
🌿banter 🤌
🔹disability rep
🌿Autism rep done RIGHT
🔹diverse cast of characters
🌿classic ‘group of misfits go on an adventure to save the world’ fantasy but with lots of twists & turns & unique elements
🔹action packed & fast paced
🌿fascinating, well thought out magic system
“Know you will fail. Act anyway.”
my ARC review of Shadows of the Sundered Lands, the first book in a new series by Corbin Rook.
Shadows of the Sundered Lands had a really unique magic system that was complicated enough to keep it interesting, but simple enough to not need 300 pages & copious notes & a headache to explain it. the world building was dark and very unique, & the characters were intensely likable and well rounded.
the last like 15% is very intense, & I’m ngl I was vaguely threatening the author in DMs with Sierra 😂 I am in my cozy girl era so I was SHOOK 😂
overall, this was an intense, beautiful, unique fantasy debut & I cannot wait for the sequels!
Shadows of the Sundered Lands releases December 30th, 2025 so definitely check it out. & thank you to the author & Kaden Love for the advanced ebook copy!
🌿high fantasy
🔹third person limited, multiple POVs
🌿dark world building— post apocalyptic dystopian but make it fantasy
🔹impossibly unique world
🌿this is reminding me a bit of Monstrous by Lily Mayne & I am HERE. for. it.
🔹I’m such a sucker for a gentle giant
🌿banter 🤌
🔹disability rep
🌿Autism rep done RIGHT
🔹diverse cast of characters
🌿classic ‘group of misfits go on an adventure to save the world’ fantasy but with lots of twists & turns & unique elements
🔹action packed & fast paced
🌿fascinating, well thought out magic system
May 27, 2026
Corbin Rook’s Shadows of the Sundered Lands completely surprised me in the best way. It’s one of those fantasy books that pulls you in almost immediately and refuses to let go. The world is harsh, broken, and dangerous, yet there’s still a strong thread of hope running through the story that makes it feel deeply human.
The setting itself is brilliant. The Sundered Lands are terrifying, full of corruption, mutations, and constant danger, while the remaining cities survive under magical Aurora Shrouds. It feels vivid and original without becoming overwhelming. I loved slowly uncovering how this world works and what caused everything to fall apart.
What truly made the book stand out for me, though, were the characters. Cam is such an easy protagonist to root for. He struggles with anxiety and self-doubt, but he keeps going anyway, even when things feel impossible. That determination gave the story a lot of emotional weight. Felix was another standout for me, warm, awkward, and incredibly genuine. His passion and personality made every scene with him memorable. Chek was also fantastic, especially because of how her disability was handled with care and realism while never defining her completely.
The relationships between the characters felt natural, and the themes about choice, survival, humanity, and hope really landed for me. The story constantly asks what truly makes someone monstrous, and I loved how morally layered some situations became.
The pacing is very strong for most of the book, and I flew through it much faster than I expected. The twists genuinely caught me off guard too, which is rare for me in fantasy these days. There were a few moments near the ending where things moved a little too quickly, and I would have happily spent more time exploring certain parts of the world and some character dynamics before the finale hit. A couple of antagonistic motivations could also have used slightly more development to make the final conflict hit even harder.
Still, those are fairly minor issues in what was otherwise an incredibly engaging and emotional read. The ending absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way and left me desperate for the sequel.
If you enjoy character-driven epic fantasy with emotional depth, unique magic, dark atmosphere, and a hopeful core beneath all the chaos, this is definitely worth picking up.
Verdict: A gripping and emotional fantasy with fantastic characters, clever twists, and a beautifully broken world. Dark, hopeful, and incredibly hard to put down.
A huge thank you to Corbin for reaching out to me and for the complimentary ebook copy. I’m really grateful for the chance to read and review your story, and I truly appreciate your trust.
The setting itself is brilliant. The Sundered Lands are terrifying, full of corruption, mutations, and constant danger, while the remaining cities survive under magical Aurora Shrouds. It feels vivid and original without becoming overwhelming. I loved slowly uncovering how this world works and what caused everything to fall apart.
What truly made the book stand out for me, though, were the characters. Cam is such an easy protagonist to root for. He struggles with anxiety and self-doubt, but he keeps going anyway, even when things feel impossible. That determination gave the story a lot of emotional weight. Felix was another standout for me, warm, awkward, and incredibly genuine. His passion and personality made every scene with him memorable. Chek was also fantastic, especially because of how her disability was handled with care and realism while never defining her completely.
The relationships between the characters felt natural, and the themes about choice, survival, humanity, and hope really landed for me. The story constantly asks what truly makes someone monstrous, and I loved how morally layered some situations became.
The pacing is very strong for most of the book, and I flew through it much faster than I expected. The twists genuinely caught me off guard too, which is rare for me in fantasy these days. There were a few moments near the ending where things moved a little too quickly, and I would have happily spent more time exploring certain parts of the world and some character dynamics before the finale hit. A couple of antagonistic motivations could also have used slightly more development to make the final conflict hit even harder.
Still, those are fairly minor issues in what was otherwise an incredibly engaging and emotional read. The ending absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way and left me desperate for the sequel.
If you enjoy character-driven epic fantasy with emotional depth, unique magic, dark atmosphere, and a hopeful core beneath all the chaos, this is definitely worth picking up.
Verdict: A gripping and emotional fantasy with fantastic characters, clever twists, and a beautifully broken world. Dark, hopeful, and incredibly hard to put down.
A huge thank you to Corbin for reaching out to me and for the complimentary ebook copy. I’m really grateful for the chance to read and review your story, and I truly appreciate your trust.
January 10, 2026
“Sometimes the most courageous thing someone can do is to make a choice and live with the consequences”
Shadows of the Sundered Lands by Corbin Rook is a fast paced, intriguing, and enjoyable read.
It took me out of the reading slump, and I devoured the first half in a day!
I enjoyed following Cam and Check as they navigated their differently non-easy lives in the different settlements of the kingdom, separated by the inhospitable Shadowed Lands.
I enjoyed trying to detangle the clues and find out what will happen next. I loved seeing the fear and panic attacks Cam has to deal with and felt with him in those moments. I enjoyed Illyria’s secrets and Felix’s love for books.
The magic system was unique and exciting and the cooperation and relationship between Cam and Luik was a delight.
There was a lot to enjoy within the book!
That said, not everything worked for me in the story 100%, some of which was just personal taste.
I wished I could connect with the characters more, understand them even better, have a better grasp of their personalities. I think there was a tiny bit missing for me to fall completely in love with them.
But all in all, this is a great story that doesn’t shy away from darkness, but doesn’t fall into despair. It is hopeful.
“Sometimes, humans don’t need the Sundered Lands to turn into monsters”
Who would enjoy the story most? Readers who love a fast paced fantasy with unique world-building and magic system, a cast of relatable characters who need to work together, and a hopeful message.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Shadows of the Sundered Lands by Corbin Rook is a fast paced, intriguing, and enjoyable read.
It took me out of the reading slump, and I devoured the first half in a day!
I enjoyed following Cam and Check as they navigated their differently non-easy lives in the different settlements of the kingdom, separated by the inhospitable Shadowed Lands.
I enjoyed trying to detangle the clues and find out what will happen next. I loved seeing the fear and panic attacks Cam has to deal with and felt with him in those moments. I enjoyed Illyria’s secrets and Felix’s love for books.
The magic system was unique and exciting and the cooperation and relationship between Cam and Luik was a delight.
There was a lot to enjoy within the book!
That said, not everything worked for me in the story 100%, some of which was just personal taste.
I wished I could connect with the characters more, understand them even better, have a better grasp of their personalities. I think there was a tiny bit missing for me to fall completely in love with them.
But all in all, this is a great story that doesn’t shy away from darkness, but doesn’t fall into despair. It is hopeful.
“Sometimes, humans don’t need the Sundered Lands to turn into monsters”
Who would enjoy the story most? Readers who love a fast paced fantasy with unique world-building and magic system, a cast of relatable characters who need to work together, and a hopeful message.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2026
4.5, rounding up.
This was a fun read! It was a lot more of a standalone with series potential than I had expected (which was a pleasant surprise), and the world introduced was interesting enough that I definitely hope to read more in it down the line. The story also took a lot of inspiration from Twilight Princess, which my Zelda-loving heart quite enjoyed.
My only real critique is that it got a little bit cheesy by the end, but it was in a similar way to how Brandon Sanderson's more recent books have a bit of a cheesy quality to them, so it's really down to personal taste if it'll be a problem for you or not.
But yeah. Solid read. Quite enjoyed it, and I look forward to seeing what comes next!
This was a fun read! It was a lot more of a standalone with series potential than I had expected (which was a pleasant surprise), and the world introduced was interesting enough that I definitely hope to read more in it down the line. The story also took a lot of inspiration from Twilight Princess, which my Zelda-loving heart quite enjoyed.
My only real critique is that it got a little bit cheesy by the end, but it was in a similar way to how Brandon Sanderson's more recent books have a bit of a cheesy quality to them, so it's really down to personal taste if it'll be a problem for you or not.
But yeah. Solid read. Quite enjoyed it, and I look forward to seeing what comes next!
July 21, 2026
Shadows of the Sundered Lands ARC Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5 rounded up
📘 Shadows of the Sundered Lands is the kind of epic fantasy that reminds you why dark, sprawling adventures are so addictive. Blending ancient magic, dangerous secrets, morally complex characters, and a world that feels as though it's balanced on the edge of collapse, Corbin Rook delivers a story that rewards readers who love immersive worldbuilding and high stakes. It rewards patient readers with immersive worldbuilding, emotionally resonant themes, and steadily evolving characters. While its measured pace won't appeal to everyone, those who enjoy expansive fantasy worlds, mysterious histories, and character-driven storytelling will likely find it deeply satisfying. It stands out most for the sense that its world existed long before the first page, and will continue beyond the last, making it an excellent choice for readers who love getting lost in an epic fantasy adventure.
It's an immersive fantasy that thrives on its atmosphere, layered mythology, and steadily escalating sense of danger. Readers who enjoy unraveling ancient mysteries, exploring richly imagined worlds, and following flawed characters through impossible choices will find plenty to appreciate here. It's a rewarding read that balances epic scope with intimate character moments, making it an excellent choice for fans of modern dark fantasy looking for a new world to lose themselves in. If you enjoy peeling back layers of mystery while watching unlikely heroes confront impossible odds, this is a journey worth taking.
📓 When long-buried powers begin to awaken across a fractured realm, old wounds and forgotten histories collide. As dangerous forces gather in the shadows, unlikely allies must navigate ancient magic, deadly enemies, and impossible choices before the land is lost to the dark forever.
🫵🏼 Shadows of the Sundered Lands is for readers who enjoy:
• epic (and dark?) fantasy with layered worldbuilding
• ancient magic, forgotten history, and dangerous relics
• morally grey heroes and villains
• multiple mysteries unfolding alongside the main plot
• political intrigue and high stakes
• atmospheric settings with a sense of looming danger
• character-driven fantasy that balances action and emotional growth
• fans of The Witcher, The Faithful and the Fallen, and The Licanius Trilogy
❓QOTD: What's a fictional world you'd happily get lost in—and one you'd refuse to visit even if someone paid you?
❗AOTD: I'd love to explore The Ever Kingdom. You couldn't pay me enough to explore the world in Shadows of the Sundered Lands - I'd get lost immediately and inadvertently leave the safety of the shroud and not realize until way too late. 😅
📖 Shadows of the Sundered Lands is an ambitious epic fantasy that leans into classic fantasy foundations while incorporating modern character work and a darker emotional core. Rather than relying on constant action, the novel emphasizes mystery, history, and slowly unfolding revelations, rewarding readers who enjoy immersive worlds and gradual character growth. It isn't trying to reinvent every fantasy convention. Instead, it refines familiar elements through strong atmosphere, compelling interpersonal dynamics, and an increasingly intricate mythology. Its greatest strengths lie in worldbuilding, layered lore, and a steadily evolving cast. If you enjoy the journey of the pieces being laid out and then clicking together at their own rate, I think you'll enjoy this.
✨ When people impacted by something tell you said something is wrong - believe them. The first time.
📘 Plot 4.5/5
The story unfolds like a mystery wrapped inside an epic quest. Rather than rushing from battle to battle, it gradually reveals the truth behind its fractured world, forgotten history, and growing corruption. Much of the enjoyment comes from uncovering secrets alongside the characters. Every revelation tends to reshape previous assumptions, giving the narrative a satisfying sense of progression. The conflicts feel meaningful because they operate on multiple levels: external threats, political tensions, personal struggles, ancient mysteries, and moral choices. The ending expands the scope considerably while leaving readers eager for whatever comes next for the series.
➕ Loved
• mystery that unfolds naturally
• strong balance between action and investigation
• high stakes that continually escalate
• plenty of unexpected twists and turns that feel satisfying
• paying attention to clues along the way resulted in a rewarding, satisfying reading
• I appreciate and enjoyed the clues you'd miss if not paying close attention, and that attention ending up paying off later in the book
➖ Didn't Love
• the beginning act (set up) is a smidge on the slower side. I was interested immediately, but not invested for a few chapters or so (but I'll always chose a well developed world with some exposition over the opposite)
• some sections were a bit heavier in exposition than I'd prefer
📓 Themes & Deeper Meaning 5/5
The title itself reflects one of the central ideas: fractured lands mirror fractured people. Characters often struggle with inherited burdens and must decide whether they will repeat them or break the cycles. The novel also examines the danger of incomplete history. Much of what characters believe proves unreliable, forcing them—and the reader—to question accepted truths. There's a recurring message that light and darkness exist within everyone (or at least the potential for both), rather than being simple opposing forces.
Beneath the adventure lies an exploration of legacy, identity, sacrifice, grief, corruption, power, hope despite overwhelming darkness, and how history shapes the present.
➕ Loved
• mature without being cynical
• symbolism woven naturally into the narrative
• emotional themes that feel earned
• history and mythology reinforce thematic ideas
✍🏼 Prose & Dialogue 4.25/5
Corbin Rook writes in a way that feels comfortably traditional while remaining highly accessible to modern fantasy readers. Descriptions emphasize atmosphere over excessive ornamentation. Landscapes often feel lived-in, ancient, lonely, and filled with hidden history. Dialogue is natural and fits the characters. My favorite aspect of the dialogue is the witty, sharp banter within the found family. We also get dialogue that serves character development and/or move the plot forward. Action scenes are easy to follow and choreography makes sense.
As a self-proclaimed fantasy aficionado, not all epic fantasy books are best suited for a new to fantasy reader (various reasons I believe this, one is esoteric knowledge). Shadows of the Sundered Lands is written in a way that makes it accessible to new fantasy readers without being too "basic" for seasoned fantasy readers.
➕ Loved
• strong atmosphere
• accessible, easy to read (and binge) prose
• easy to follow combat that feels tense and exciting
• consistent tone
• dialogue that distinguishes personalities well
• great found family banter
➖ Didn't Love
• occasional exposition-heavy conversations
• I wish we'd gotten a bit more descriptive info regarding looks. As someone with aphantasia, I rely on that to create vibes (I guess, I still don't know how to explain it, but I can't form a mental picture of anything, regardless of how thoroughly it's described).
⏳ Pacing 4/5
It's a bit slow to start, but worth the satisfying payoff that feels earned. Not painfully slow, but more of a slow burn style plot. Once the characters and some mysteries are introduced, lore is established, and the narrative groundwork is layed, it takes off. It's a few chapters, less than 10%, I'd guesstimate, before she's off to the races. Rather than maintaining non-stop action, the novel alternates between exploration, discovery, quieter character moments, found family banter, and bursts of high-intensity conflict.
There is a thin thread of a slow burn, maybe romance within, but it's very much a side quest situation (this is not a romantasy or fantasy romance). I love (and also hate cause spoiler reasons 😆) how this was handled. It felt realistic and believable while also playing with my brain and heart (in a positive way).
✨ The pacing reminding me loosely of Brandon Sanderson, Robin Hobb, and Tad Williams.
➕ Loved
• strong payoff for patient readers
• escalation that feels earned
• after the first act, it speeds up a lot without ever feeling rushed
• quiet scenes interspersed that strengthen emotional investment
➖ Didn't Love
• opening is on the slower side for my tastes
• some areas prioritize information over momentum
🗺️ Worldbuilding 5/5
The world feels genuinely old and starting to show signs of aging, decay, and corruption. Rather than existing solely as a backdrop, history actively influences nearly everything happening in the present. The setting contains ancient civilizations, ruined locations, political divisions, forgotten magic, myths, cultural diversity, evolving cultures, and mysterious relics. You get a gradually explored world, layered lore, and an expansive world. Every new revelation tends to deepen earlier mysteries rather than replacing them. Descriptions provide enough detail to create a mental image, a vibe for me, without overwhelming the narrative. I suspect descriptions were kept this way to allow readers' imaginations to fill in the details based on their own creativity and life experiences (but that's just a theory I have 😅). You get enough detailed info to be immersed, but not so much the prose becomes ornately verbose.
➕ Loved
• rich in layered lore
• a world that feels lived-in and ancient
• excellent use of history
• strong environmental storytelling
• exploration that stays engaging
• creative, atmospheric world
✨ You do need to pay close attention if you want the best chance for rewarding, satisfying reveals/twists. It'll still feel rewarding and satisfying if your attention wonders a bit here and there, I think, just not as intensely.
🔮 Magic System 4.5/5
The magic system is well developed and explained, with some mysterious aspects intentionally left to be revealed later in the series. This creates a sense of wonder while maintaining internal consistency. It has rules, limitations, and consequences. Magic is closely tied to the world's history, making its development feel like uncovering lost knowledge rather than simply learning spells or powers. Importantly, magic rarely serves as convenient or "easy" solution. It comes with costs, risks, and limitations that preserve narrative tension. As the story progresses, the reader gains clearer understanding of how the system functions, and it becomes increasingly integral to both the plot and the world's mythology.
➕ Loved
• feels mysterious without being confusing
• internal logic stays consistent
• magic is woven into the lore
• limitations keep conflicts suspenseful
• discovery of magical history is rewarding
• consequences that feel real, believable, and proportional
✨ Some mechanics, or aspects, remain intentionally enigmatic. I presume they'll be elucidated on later in the series.
👥 Character Development 4.5/5
We get strong (physically and mentally) characters with meaningful disability rep and cast diversity. Rather than relying solely on archetypes, these characters gradually reveal motivations, flaws, fears, and varied personal histories. The protagonists evolve meaningfully throughout the story, shaped by difficult choices and burdens of the past. Their growth feels earned, satisfying. Relationships, be it alliances, friendships, or rivalries, develop organically. Trust is built (or broken) over time, making emotional beats feel believable. Interactions are influenced by conflicting goals and personalities, adding nuance to the group dynamic.
Secondary characters are generally memorable and contribute meaningfully to the story as well as help flesh out the world.
➕ Loved
• meaningful disability rep
• diverse main cast
• strong emotional growth
• believable relationships
• distinct personalities
• characters have meaningful flaws
• interpersonal conflicts feel authentic
• found family dynamics that I resonated with
➖ Didn't Love
• I would've loved a bit more development of a couple side characters
• emotional arcs occasionally take a back seat to worldbuilding
• I'd have loved a bit more page time exploring certain relationships
📚 Read if you enjoyed these books:
BIPOC Comps
The Final Strife (Saara El-Arifi),
Son of the Storm (Suyi Davies Okungbowa),
The Rage of Dragons (Evan Winter),
Black Sun (Rebecca Roanhorse),
The Fall Before Flight (Kristine Castillo Negron),
Scarlet Odyssey (CT Rwizi)
Queer Comps
The Spear Cuts Through Water (Simon Jimenez),
A Taste of Gold and Iron (Alexandra Rowland),
The Unbroken (CL Clark),
The Bone Harp (Victoria Goddard),
The Saint of Bright Doors (Vajra Chandrasekera),
The Phoenix Keeper (SA MacLean)
Indie/Small Pub Comps
The Fall is all There is (CM Caplan),
Kings of Paradise (Richard Nell),
The Sword of Kaigen (ML Wang),
Blood of Heirs (Alicia Wanstall-Burke),
Dragon Mage (ML Spencer),
The Cruel Gods (Trudie Skies)
Trad Pub Comps
The Shadow of the Gods (John Gwynne),
The Ruin of Kings (Jenn Lyons),
The Justice of Kings (Richard Swan),
The Will of the Many (James Islington),
The Pariah (Anthony Ryan),
The Ember Blade (Chris Wooding)
Thank you to @corbinrookauthor and Svetling Press for the opportunity to read this gifted eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and freely given.
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5 rounded up
📘 Shadows of the Sundered Lands is the kind of epic fantasy that reminds you why dark, sprawling adventures are so addictive. Blending ancient magic, dangerous secrets, morally complex characters, and a world that feels as though it's balanced on the edge of collapse, Corbin Rook delivers a story that rewards readers who love immersive worldbuilding and high stakes. It rewards patient readers with immersive worldbuilding, emotionally resonant themes, and steadily evolving characters. While its measured pace won't appeal to everyone, those who enjoy expansive fantasy worlds, mysterious histories, and character-driven storytelling will likely find it deeply satisfying. It stands out most for the sense that its world existed long before the first page, and will continue beyond the last, making it an excellent choice for readers who love getting lost in an epic fantasy adventure.
It's an immersive fantasy that thrives on its atmosphere, layered mythology, and steadily escalating sense of danger. Readers who enjoy unraveling ancient mysteries, exploring richly imagined worlds, and following flawed characters through impossible choices will find plenty to appreciate here. It's a rewarding read that balances epic scope with intimate character moments, making it an excellent choice for fans of modern dark fantasy looking for a new world to lose themselves in. If you enjoy peeling back layers of mystery while watching unlikely heroes confront impossible odds, this is a journey worth taking.
📓 When long-buried powers begin to awaken across a fractured realm, old wounds and forgotten histories collide. As dangerous forces gather in the shadows, unlikely allies must navigate ancient magic, deadly enemies, and impossible choices before the land is lost to the dark forever.
🫵🏼 Shadows of the Sundered Lands is for readers who enjoy:
• epic (and dark?) fantasy with layered worldbuilding
• ancient magic, forgotten history, and dangerous relics
• morally grey heroes and villains
• multiple mysteries unfolding alongside the main plot
• political intrigue and high stakes
• atmospheric settings with a sense of looming danger
• character-driven fantasy that balances action and emotional growth
• fans of The Witcher, The Faithful and the Fallen, and The Licanius Trilogy
❓QOTD: What's a fictional world you'd happily get lost in—and one you'd refuse to visit even if someone paid you?
❗AOTD: I'd love to explore The Ever Kingdom. You couldn't pay me enough to explore the world in Shadows of the Sundered Lands - I'd get lost immediately and inadvertently leave the safety of the shroud and not realize until way too late. 😅
📖 Shadows of the Sundered Lands is an ambitious epic fantasy that leans into classic fantasy foundations while incorporating modern character work and a darker emotional core. Rather than relying on constant action, the novel emphasizes mystery, history, and slowly unfolding revelations, rewarding readers who enjoy immersive worlds and gradual character growth. It isn't trying to reinvent every fantasy convention. Instead, it refines familiar elements through strong atmosphere, compelling interpersonal dynamics, and an increasingly intricate mythology. Its greatest strengths lie in worldbuilding, layered lore, and a steadily evolving cast. If you enjoy the journey of the pieces being laid out and then clicking together at their own rate, I think you'll enjoy this.
✨ When people impacted by something tell you said something is wrong - believe them. The first time.
📘 Plot 4.5/5
The story unfolds like a mystery wrapped inside an epic quest. Rather than rushing from battle to battle, it gradually reveals the truth behind its fractured world, forgotten history, and growing corruption. Much of the enjoyment comes from uncovering secrets alongside the characters. Every revelation tends to reshape previous assumptions, giving the narrative a satisfying sense of progression. The conflicts feel meaningful because they operate on multiple levels: external threats, political tensions, personal struggles, ancient mysteries, and moral choices. The ending expands the scope considerably while leaving readers eager for whatever comes next for the series.
➕ Loved
• mystery that unfolds naturally
• strong balance between action and investigation
• high stakes that continually escalate
• plenty of unexpected twists and turns that feel satisfying
• paying attention to clues along the way resulted in a rewarding, satisfying reading
• I appreciate and enjoyed the clues you'd miss if not paying close attention, and that attention ending up paying off later in the book
➖ Didn't Love
• the beginning act (set up) is a smidge on the slower side. I was interested immediately, but not invested for a few chapters or so (but I'll always chose a well developed world with some exposition over the opposite)
• some sections were a bit heavier in exposition than I'd prefer
📓 Themes & Deeper Meaning 5/5
The title itself reflects one of the central ideas: fractured lands mirror fractured people. Characters often struggle with inherited burdens and must decide whether they will repeat them or break the cycles. The novel also examines the danger of incomplete history. Much of what characters believe proves unreliable, forcing them—and the reader—to question accepted truths. There's a recurring message that light and darkness exist within everyone (or at least the potential for both), rather than being simple opposing forces.
Beneath the adventure lies an exploration of legacy, identity, sacrifice, grief, corruption, power, hope despite overwhelming darkness, and how history shapes the present.
➕ Loved
• mature without being cynical
• symbolism woven naturally into the narrative
• emotional themes that feel earned
• history and mythology reinforce thematic ideas
✍🏼 Prose & Dialogue 4.25/5
Corbin Rook writes in a way that feels comfortably traditional while remaining highly accessible to modern fantasy readers. Descriptions emphasize atmosphere over excessive ornamentation. Landscapes often feel lived-in, ancient, lonely, and filled with hidden history. Dialogue is natural and fits the characters. My favorite aspect of the dialogue is the witty, sharp banter within the found family. We also get dialogue that serves character development and/or move the plot forward. Action scenes are easy to follow and choreography makes sense.
As a self-proclaimed fantasy aficionado, not all epic fantasy books are best suited for a new to fantasy reader (various reasons I believe this, one is esoteric knowledge). Shadows of the Sundered Lands is written in a way that makes it accessible to new fantasy readers without being too "basic" for seasoned fantasy readers.
➕ Loved
• strong atmosphere
• accessible, easy to read (and binge) prose
• easy to follow combat that feels tense and exciting
• consistent tone
• dialogue that distinguishes personalities well
• great found family banter
➖ Didn't Love
• occasional exposition-heavy conversations
• I wish we'd gotten a bit more descriptive info regarding looks. As someone with aphantasia, I rely on that to create vibes (I guess, I still don't know how to explain it, but I can't form a mental picture of anything, regardless of how thoroughly it's described).
⏳ Pacing 4/5
It's a bit slow to start, but worth the satisfying payoff that feels earned. Not painfully slow, but more of a slow burn style plot. Once the characters and some mysteries are introduced, lore is established, and the narrative groundwork is layed, it takes off. It's a few chapters, less than 10%, I'd guesstimate, before she's off to the races. Rather than maintaining non-stop action, the novel alternates between exploration, discovery, quieter character moments, found family banter, and bursts of high-intensity conflict.
There is a thin thread of a slow burn, maybe romance within, but it's very much a side quest situation (this is not a romantasy or fantasy romance). I love (and also hate cause spoiler reasons 😆) how this was handled. It felt realistic and believable while also playing with my brain and heart (in a positive way).
✨ The pacing reminding me loosely of Brandon Sanderson, Robin Hobb, and Tad Williams.
➕ Loved
• strong payoff for patient readers
• escalation that feels earned
• after the first act, it speeds up a lot without ever feeling rushed
• quiet scenes interspersed that strengthen emotional investment
➖ Didn't Love
• opening is on the slower side for my tastes
• some areas prioritize information over momentum
🗺️ Worldbuilding 5/5
The world feels genuinely old and starting to show signs of aging, decay, and corruption. Rather than existing solely as a backdrop, history actively influences nearly everything happening in the present. The setting contains ancient civilizations, ruined locations, political divisions, forgotten magic, myths, cultural diversity, evolving cultures, and mysterious relics. You get a gradually explored world, layered lore, and an expansive world. Every new revelation tends to deepen earlier mysteries rather than replacing them. Descriptions provide enough detail to create a mental image, a vibe for me, without overwhelming the narrative. I suspect descriptions were kept this way to allow readers' imaginations to fill in the details based on their own creativity and life experiences (but that's just a theory I have 😅). You get enough detailed info to be immersed, but not so much the prose becomes ornately verbose.
➕ Loved
• rich in layered lore
• a world that feels lived-in and ancient
• excellent use of history
• strong environmental storytelling
• exploration that stays engaging
• creative, atmospheric world
✨ You do need to pay close attention if you want the best chance for rewarding, satisfying reveals/twists. It'll still feel rewarding and satisfying if your attention wonders a bit here and there, I think, just not as intensely.
🔮 Magic System 4.5/5
The magic system is well developed and explained, with some mysterious aspects intentionally left to be revealed later in the series. This creates a sense of wonder while maintaining internal consistency. It has rules, limitations, and consequences. Magic is closely tied to the world's history, making its development feel like uncovering lost knowledge rather than simply learning spells or powers. Importantly, magic rarely serves as convenient or "easy" solution. It comes with costs, risks, and limitations that preserve narrative tension. As the story progresses, the reader gains clearer understanding of how the system functions, and it becomes increasingly integral to both the plot and the world's mythology.
➕ Loved
• feels mysterious without being confusing
• internal logic stays consistent
• magic is woven into the lore
• limitations keep conflicts suspenseful
• discovery of magical history is rewarding
• consequences that feel real, believable, and proportional
✨ Some mechanics, or aspects, remain intentionally enigmatic. I presume they'll be elucidated on later in the series.
👥 Character Development 4.5/5
We get strong (physically and mentally) characters with meaningful disability rep and cast diversity. Rather than relying solely on archetypes, these characters gradually reveal motivations, flaws, fears, and varied personal histories. The protagonists evolve meaningfully throughout the story, shaped by difficult choices and burdens of the past. Their growth feels earned, satisfying. Relationships, be it alliances, friendships, or rivalries, develop organically. Trust is built (or broken) over time, making emotional beats feel believable. Interactions are influenced by conflicting goals and personalities, adding nuance to the group dynamic.
Secondary characters are generally memorable and contribute meaningfully to the story as well as help flesh out the world.
➕ Loved
• meaningful disability rep
• diverse main cast
• strong emotional growth
• believable relationships
• distinct personalities
• characters have meaningful flaws
• interpersonal conflicts feel authentic
• found family dynamics that I resonated with
➖ Didn't Love
• I would've loved a bit more development of a couple side characters
• emotional arcs occasionally take a back seat to worldbuilding
• I'd have loved a bit more page time exploring certain relationships
📚 Read if you enjoyed these books:
BIPOC Comps
The Final Strife (Saara El-Arifi),
Son of the Storm (Suyi Davies Okungbowa),
The Rage of Dragons (Evan Winter),
Black Sun (Rebecca Roanhorse),
The Fall Before Flight (Kristine Castillo Negron),
Scarlet Odyssey (CT Rwizi)
Queer Comps
The Spear Cuts Through Water (Simon Jimenez),
A Taste of Gold and Iron (Alexandra Rowland),
The Unbroken (CL Clark),
The Bone Harp (Victoria Goddard),
The Saint of Bright Doors (Vajra Chandrasekera),
The Phoenix Keeper (SA MacLean)
Indie/Small Pub Comps
The Fall is all There is (CM Caplan),
Kings of Paradise (Richard Nell),
The Sword of Kaigen (ML Wang),
Blood of Heirs (Alicia Wanstall-Burke),
Dragon Mage (ML Spencer),
The Cruel Gods (Trudie Skies)
Trad Pub Comps
The Shadow of the Gods (John Gwynne),
The Ruin of Kings (Jenn Lyons),
The Justice of Kings (Richard Swan),
The Will of the Many (James Islington),
The Pariah (Anthony Ryan),
The Ember Blade (Chris Wooding)
Thank you to @corbinrookauthor and Svetling Press for the opportunity to read this gifted eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and freely given.
March 21, 2026
Shadows of the sundered lands is a self published entry in this years spbo it was a fairly good effort id rate it as a 3.5 because it did show some promise and will appeal to many people but maybe ran out of steam towards the end. but i dont want to put you off reading it, i mean what do i know about writing books?
June 17, 2026
What I love most about this book is its unrivalled ability to take a bleak and desperate world and inject a prominent vein of hope into it. The titular Sundered Lands may be inhospitable, and the Aurora Shrouds protecting the remnants of humanity may be collapsing, and the main characters may be stranded and with no notion of how to prevail, but there’ll always be someone willing to step up and stand tall even when it seems all hope is lost.
The two main heroes through which this message of hope against all odds endures are Cam and Chek, both members of the Vanguard—the organisation responsible for keeping channels open between isolated settlements and battling against the incursion of scaletaints (people corrupted by being the Sundered Lands for too long).
Cam has somewhat lost his purpose, and even when asked cannot name the reason he still risks his life as a Vanguard Courier. When his path crosses with that of Luik, a member of a race of non-physical sentients, he finds himself on the frontlines of the fight to save the entire stricken nation of Avoni. Through his stubbornness and determination, he makes himself into a paragon of endurance. As Luik at one point tells Cam: know you will fail, but try anyway. And Cam will keep on trying until he has nothing left to give.
Chek differs from Cam in that she can’t serve the Vanguard in the way she wants; a debilitating limp means she can’t serve as a Courier, instead relegated to the role of Route Coordinator. However, when it becomes obvious her city no longer wishes to provide for those it considers less than fully able, Chek decides to seize her own fate and sets off in search for answers as to why the Aurora Shrouds are failing. Chek sees herself as a burden because of her limp, and yet, like Cam, she won’t stop trying.
There’s a constant sense of immediacy about the plot that I appreciated. As soon as the Shrouds started failing, the problems compounded and larger issues were thrown at the main characters. Not only do Cam, Chek, and their companions have to deal with the Sundered Lands threatening the surviving settlements, but there are deeper conspiracies at work. Destructive creatures called Reapers begin attacking. Cam’s connection with Luik raises questions about Luik’s race, a group of people called Elmias thought long dead. A cultic faction is at work, ostensibly trying to undermine the cities protected by the Aurora Shrouds.
It all reaches a climax in an explosive and chaotic way. Whichever direction you believe the plot to be steering itself, think again, because I didn’t see the ending coming.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It strikes a perfect balance between despair and hope, darkness and light, and ensures that every brave action has a cost, one only the bravest will be willing to pay.
The two main heroes through which this message of hope against all odds endures are Cam and Chek, both members of the Vanguard—the organisation responsible for keeping channels open between isolated settlements and battling against the incursion of scaletaints (people corrupted by being the Sundered Lands for too long).
Cam has somewhat lost his purpose, and even when asked cannot name the reason he still risks his life as a Vanguard Courier. When his path crosses with that of Luik, a member of a race of non-physical sentients, he finds himself on the frontlines of the fight to save the entire stricken nation of Avoni. Through his stubbornness and determination, he makes himself into a paragon of endurance. As Luik at one point tells Cam: know you will fail, but try anyway. And Cam will keep on trying until he has nothing left to give.
Chek differs from Cam in that she can’t serve the Vanguard in the way she wants; a debilitating limp means she can’t serve as a Courier, instead relegated to the role of Route Coordinator. However, when it becomes obvious her city no longer wishes to provide for those it considers less than fully able, Chek decides to seize her own fate and sets off in search for answers as to why the Aurora Shrouds are failing. Chek sees herself as a burden because of her limp, and yet, like Cam, she won’t stop trying.
There’s a constant sense of immediacy about the plot that I appreciated. As soon as the Shrouds started failing, the problems compounded and larger issues were thrown at the main characters. Not only do Cam, Chek, and their companions have to deal with the Sundered Lands threatening the surviving settlements, but there are deeper conspiracies at work. Destructive creatures called Reapers begin attacking. Cam’s connection with Luik raises questions about Luik’s race, a group of people called Elmias thought long dead. A cultic faction is at work, ostensibly trying to undermine the cities protected by the Aurora Shrouds.
It all reaches a climax in an explosive and chaotic way. Whichever direction you believe the plot to be steering itself, think again, because I didn’t see the ending coming.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It strikes a perfect balance between despair and hope, darkness and light, and ensures that every brave action has a cost, one only the bravest will be willing to pay.
May 18, 2026
QUICK THOUGHTS
If you’re a big reader of the genre, you’ll know what I’m talking about when I say that modern fantasy just has a certain feeling. That sense of fantasy with the character focus dialed up to eleven, with action and dialogue that feels snappy and well honed. The sort of feeling you get from reading something like Sanderson’s Mistborn or Weeks’ Lightbringer. So when I say that Corbin Rook’s debut novel, Shadows of the Sundered Lands, evokes the feeling of modern fantasy in the right way, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
Shadows is a character focused, action forward story that is driven by an interesting magic system, a cast that feels engaging and familiar and a plot that creates immediate investment. It is a compelling debut that establishes the world and makes big promises of what’s to come from this author.
For my FULL REVIEW, please visit;
https://mikecahoon.com/book-review-sh...
If you’re a big reader of the genre, you’ll know what I’m talking about when I say that modern fantasy just has a certain feeling. That sense of fantasy with the character focus dialed up to eleven, with action and dialogue that feels snappy and well honed. The sort of feeling you get from reading something like Sanderson’s Mistborn or Weeks’ Lightbringer. So when I say that Corbin Rook’s debut novel, Shadows of the Sundered Lands, evokes the feeling of modern fantasy in the right way, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
Shadows is a character focused, action forward story that is driven by an interesting magic system, a cast that feels engaging and familiar and a plot that creates immediate investment. It is a compelling debut that establishes the world and makes big promises of what’s to come from this author.
For my FULL REVIEW, please visit;
https://mikecahoon.com/book-review-sh...
March 20, 2026
Shadows of the Sundered Lands is a fascinating new fantasy novel that follows our hero’s, Cam, journey to save a trapped race and repair his world before it’s destroyed. The world building is exquisite with a unique magic system that links astral energy and conscious beings with physical phenomena. Each character has an arc of growth and role that contributes to the story’s movement and quest. The dialogue is funny, tragic, and emotionally real. There are points where tension is quickly resolved in dialogue, but that serves the movement is the story and the character’s growth. Overall, this is an excellent story and I’m ready to see the next chapter of the tale.
October 29, 2025
What an amazing book. Hooked from the very beginning, Corbin takes you on a journey of hope through dark lands when there seems to be no hope. The characters are very well drawn out and the wording is masterful! He does an amazing job of helping you see everything without being overly wordy. As well as, these characters and stories leave you wanting more.
Also, Chek is the best, In My Opinion. 🩷
Also, Chek is the best, In My Opinion. 🩷
December 30, 2025
The land of Avoni is a collection of fragmented cities surrounded by the dangerous and body altering Sundered Lands. Cam, the protagonist, traverses the Sundered Lands, when he encounters and is almost killed by the mutated, animalistic individuals, Scaletaints. After narrowly surviving the attack, Cam tethers to an astral plain being, an Elmias, called Luik. With new found abilities and friends, Cam and Luik fight to bring peace to Avoni and destroy those who seek to expand the Sundered Lands.
I was blown away by this novel. Each character had a weakness or motivation that made them relatable and interesting. I have never related to a side character, Felix, as much as I have in this novel. There were times when I thought I had figured out the plot, but then Rook sent me for a loop with who was really behind certain incidents or the motives of certain characters. And the writing dropped subtle hints, that in hindsight, I went "How did I not see that." The death of characters held weight, and when trouble arose, I felt tense for each and every character.
This novel has fantastic themes as well. One such theme that continued showing up was the idea that we all go through hard events in life that we regret. However, we have to recognize those events, understand it was tough, and grow as an individual. That is was makes life worth living. It was conveyed in a therapeutic way that really hit home with this reader. The theme that anyone is capable of becoming a hero was also a well established and drawn out theme.
The abilities described made complete sense. The climactic battle gave off strong Dr. Strange vibes in the best way. The epilogue was epic.
I was blown away by this novel. Each character had a weakness or motivation that made them relatable and interesting. I have never related to a side character, Felix, as much as I have in this novel. There were times when I thought I had figured out the plot, but then Rook sent me for a loop with who was really behind certain incidents or the motives of certain characters. And the writing dropped subtle hints, that in hindsight, I went "How did I not see that." The death of characters held weight, and when trouble arose, I felt tense for each and every character.
This novel has fantastic themes as well. One such theme that continued showing up was the idea that we all go through hard events in life that we regret. However, we have to recognize those events, understand it was tough, and grow as an individual. That is was makes life worth living. It was conveyed in a therapeutic way that really hit home with this reader. The theme that anyone is capable of becoming a hero was also a well established and drawn out theme.
The abilities described made complete sense. The climactic battle gave off strong Dr. Strange vibes in the best way. The epilogue was epic.
May 27, 2026
Shadows of the Sundered Lands by Corbin Rook is a solid and well-written fantasy story.
The Sundered Lands are one of the coolest settings for a fantasy book that I’ve ever read, and it was very fun to explore the nuances within. Likewise, the characters in the story are all unique and interesting. They all have flaws and struggles, and it was awesome to follow (most of) them through their harrowing travels. I would easily give the first half of this book 6/5 stars. It is really good.
Unfortunately, the second half of the book didn’t hold up as well for me. The Sundered Lands, which were so interesting in the first half, became something of background noise that mostly stopped impacting the plot. Additionally, I felt the latter half of the book moved very quickly, so much so that certain events that ought to have felt meaningful (such as a character learning the true fate of their parents) ended up falling a bit flat for me. There were a ton of new developments very quickly, and I didn’t feel I had the time to let them settle. I’ll also admit that I tend to zone out a bit if the stakes get too large, so some of this might just be a personal issue.
Finally, the end of the book. I really wish I would have liked the ending, but it didn’t quite work for me. While many things were resolved, some character arcs felt oddly vague in their resolution, which left me unsatisfied. Beyond that, this leans a bit too heavily into sequel bait for a standalone. In fairness, it does make me want to read future books, but it is awkward that the book ended without clearly informing me of the fates/futures of several of the POV characters.
Still, if you like interesting fantasy settings and characters that struggle with mental health in a meaningful way, this story is still worth checking out.
The Sundered Lands are one of the coolest settings for a fantasy book that I’ve ever read, and it was very fun to explore the nuances within. Likewise, the characters in the story are all unique and interesting. They all have flaws and struggles, and it was awesome to follow (most of) them through their harrowing travels. I would easily give the first half of this book 6/5 stars. It is really good.
Unfortunately, the second half of the book didn’t hold up as well for me. The Sundered Lands, which were so interesting in the first half, became something of background noise that mostly stopped impacting the plot. Additionally, I felt the latter half of the book moved very quickly, so much so that certain events that ought to have felt meaningful (such as a character learning the true fate of their parents) ended up falling a bit flat for me. There were a ton of new developments very quickly, and I didn’t feel I had the time to let them settle. I’ll also admit that I tend to zone out a bit if the stakes get too large, so some of this might just be a personal issue.
Finally, the end of the book. I really wish I would have liked the ending, but it didn’t quite work for me. While many things were resolved, some character arcs felt oddly vague in their resolution, which left me unsatisfied. Beyond that, this leans a bit too heavily into sequel bait for a standalone. In fairness, it does make me want to read future books, but it is awkward that the book ended without clearly informing me of the fates/futures of several of the POV characters.
Still, if you like interesting fantasy settings and characters that struggle with mental health in a meaningful way, this story is still worth checking out.
March 15, 2026
Wow! This is a debut novel by an indie author and it is excellent! We get high stakes, twists and turns, great characters, and lots of action.
In this world, Aurora Shrouds protect major cities from the Sundered Lands, a terrain of unbreathable air that turns humans into lizard creatures. Our protagonist Cam is a courier who journeys through the Sundered Lands regularly to deliver messages between cities. He is joined by healer Illyria and Soren, another courier. Over the course of their travels it becomes clear that the shrouds are failing and everyone is in danger.
This story has amazing Worldbuilding, the Sundered Lands are a terryfing place filled with various creatures, a violent cult, and many unknown dangers. I wont spoil things but there is so much more going on that is revealed over time and it works really well.
The characters are also amazing! I love Cam and Illyria and their individual arcs took so many turns I was not expecting. Luik and Cams bond is the emotional heart of everything and is very endearing. We also have Felix and Chek the brother sister bookstore owners who love knowledge and seem to have no fear. I adored these two and thought Chek gave us some great disability representation.
In this world, Aurora Shrouds protect major cities from the Sundered Lands, a terrain of unbreathable air that turns humans into lizard creatures. Our protagonist Cam is a courier who journeys through the Sundered Lands regularly to deliver messages between cities. He is joined by healer Illyria and Soren, another courier. Over the course of their travels it becomes clear that the shrouds are failing and everyone is in danger.
This story has amazing Worldbuilding, the Sundered Lands are a terryfing place filled with various creatures, a violent cult, and many unknown dangers. I wont spoil things but there is so much more going on that is revealed over time and it works really well.
The characters are also amazing! I love Cam and Illyria and their individual arcs took so many turns I was not expecting. Luik and Cams bond is the emotional heart of everything and is very endearing. We also have Felix and Chek the brother sister bookstore owners who love knowledge and seem to have no fear. I adored these two and thought Chek gave us some great disability representation.
October 27, 2025
Rook is not afraid to touch the darkness, because he is always shining a light that is stronger. Shadows of the Sundered Lands has amazing world building, characters that you want to root for, and a plot with stakes that grip you. Rook infuses humor that made me laugh out loud, and plot poetry that is *chef's kiss*. But my all time favorite thing from his writing is the way he touches on themes of community and failure. We are all broken by the world. As Cam says, "Sometimes, humans don't need the Sundered Lands to turn them into monsters." Intimacy can be scary, but Cam finds help and hope from friends as he travels through the painful Sundered Lands. When we find people who truly care for us we find that the broken world, and our broken selves, can find places to heal, endure, and grow. Our failures can grow us into the best versions of ourselves, if we don't let the fear of failure keep us from acting. This book is the perfect representation of its ideals.
If you love fantasy, stories that shine bright and bring all the feels, and stories that make you want more from the world (fiction or non), I highly recommend Shadows of the Sundered Lands.
If you love fantasy, stories that shine bright and bring all the feels, and stories that make you want more from the world (fiction or non), I highly recommend Shadows of the Sundered Lands.
July 29, 2026
Wow! What a unique and fun world. I love a high-concept book where the antagonist is the environment. This reminded me of Moby Dick where the sea is the primary adversary just as the sundered lands provides the same tension for Cam. From the beginning you are swept away in an adventure and eager to learn more about how these people are surviving in such harsh conditions.
What I appreciate is the single-story focus and not a million POVs that I lose track of. The names and world building elements are easily digestible, making it quick to comprehend the scenes and plot.
I didn't feel as if I were slogging through any points, so I would credit Rook for his pacing and structure. I would have liked a bit more resolution at the ending but it sounds like things will pick back up in future books so I'm all here for it!
Seriously, check this out if you would like an action packed, fun, fantasy that dares to stray from highly political or grim themes.
What I appreciate is the single-story focus and not a million POVs that I lose track of. The names and world building elements are easily digestible, making it quick to comprehend the scenes and plot.
I didn't feel as if I were slogging through any points, so I would credit Rook for his pacing and structure. I would have liked a bit more resolution at the ending but it sounds like things will pick back up in future books so I'm all here for it!
Seriously, check this out if you would like an action packed, fun, fantasy that dares to stray from highly political or grim themes.
June 20, 2026
Thought this was a really solid book overall!
It has a really interesting setting/concept - a 'ruined' land in which the only surviving settlements are protected by a magical shroud, and humans cannot practically survive outside of those barriers. There's a lot of cool worldbuilding, and I thought that the world felt pretty fleshed out and immersive, with just enough lore and history to draw you in but not overwhelm you, leaving room for plenty more exploration in future books.
The characters were generally very relatable, and the main protagonist was quite easy to root for. For the most part, the characters were morally ambiguous, and I thought their arcs had the right amount of complexity and unpredictability.
Really solid debut novel for Corbin Rook! Looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here in the future.
It has a really interesting setting/concept - a 'ruined' land in which the only surviving settlements are protected by a magical shroud, and humans cannot practically survive outside of those barriers. There's a lot of cool worldbuilding, and I thought that the world felt pretty fleshed out and immersive, with just enough lore and history to draw you in but not overwhelm you, leaving room for plenty more exploration in future books.
The characters were generally very relatable, and the main protagonist was quite easy to root for. For the most part, the characters were morally ambiguous, and I thought their arcs had the right amount of complexity and unpredictability.
Really solid debut novel for Corbin Rook! Looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here in the future.
March 20, 2026
Shadows of the Sundered lands is a thrilling and unique fantasy story set in a world where the land, cursed in the past, is dangerous and deadly. Even the air is poisonous. The longer you linger the more likely you are to turn into something not human. There are safe places to live called the Aurora Shrouds that will protect you from the unfriendly environment outside. Curriers go from shroud to shroud delivering messages, putting their own lives in danger. Now something is breaking down these safety zones and threatening those inside.
I really enjoyed my time with this book. Rook does a great job presenting a unique and dangerous world that in spite of what lurks there you still want to explore and learn all you can about it. The characters stand out and each brings their own distinct personality and adds so much to the story.
I’m a sucker for hopeful over grimdark stories and this although dark at times wasn’t lacking in hope and light.
I highly recommend Shadows of The Sundered Lands to all who love fantasy and especially to readers of Brandon Sanderson.
I really enjoyed my time with this book. Rook does a great job presenting a unique and dangerous world that in spite of what lurks there you still want to explore and learn all you can about it. The characters stand out and each brings their own distinct personality and adds so much to the story.
I’m a sucker for hopeful over grimdark stories and this although dark at times wasn’t lacking in hope and light.
I highly recommend Shadows of The Sundered Lands to all who love fantasy and especially to readers of Brandon Sanderson.
October 25, 2025
as a debut and an intro to a series, this blew me away! the intricate and unique worldbuilding is clearly well thought up and very intentionally explained. the concept of tethering is one I’m excited to see more of in future books!
I found myself getting attached to quite literally every single character. The way they are written makes it feel like they are right there in front of you. I was constantly giggling at Luik’s comments and the dynamic with Cam. There were some twists I saw coming and some that felt like a slap across the face. By the time I hit 50%, I couldn’t put it down. The deeper themes explored really got me in my feels and I am STILL mad about one thing I didn’t see coming😭
Overall, I can’t WAIT to see where this story goes and thank you so much to Svetling Press and Corbin Rook for the ARC🩵
I found myself getting attached to quite literally every single character. The way they are written makes it feel like they are right there in front of you. I was constantly giggling at Luik’s comments and the dynamic with Cam. There were some twists I saw coming and some that felt like a slap across the face. By the time I hit 50%, I couldn’t put it down. The deeper themes explored really got me in my feels and I am STILL mad about one thing I didn’t see coming😭
Overall, I can’t WAIT to see where this story goes and thank you so much to Svetling Press and Corbin Rook for the ARC🩵
October 28, 2025
Shadows of the Sundered Lands is a solid debut. Corbin Rook creates nuanced characters in a world deep with lore, tied to a unique magic-system. Hope is a strong theme throughout the novel, though it can be hard to see at times through the beautifully, dark landscape and the impact that has on the characters, and the conflicts it creates. Rook is not afraid to hit you in the gut, he doesn't even pull his punches in the slightest. The conclusion of Shadows of the Sundered Lands leaves you feeling that you have barely scratched the surface in this world, and leaves you wanting more. Now, I'll attempt to wait patiently for book two.
4.5 / 5 stars, rounding up to 5!
4.5 / 5 stars, rounding up to 5!
November 5, 2025
Corbin kindly sent me an advanced reader copy (ARC) of his book, Shadows of the Sundered Lands.
Corbin Rook’s Shadows of the Sundered Lands is a masterful story that plunges readers into a hauntingly beautiful world fractured by catastrophe. Rook’s prose is both lyrical and chilling, painting a vivid picture of a world teetering on the edge of oblivion. The journey is as much about survival as it is about confronting the ghosts of a forgotten past, and the emotional weight of choices lingers long after the final page. With its inventive world-building, richly textured atmosphere, and deeply human themes of transformation, memory, and sacrifice, this novel stands out as a triumph of dark fantasy. Fans of introspective epics will find themselves utterly enthralled.
Cody Pelletier, Writer, Illustrator, Executive Producer
Corbin Rook’s Shadows of the Sundered Lands is a masterful story that plunges readers into a hauntingly beautiful world fractured by catastrophe. Rook’s prose is both lyrical and chilling, painting a vivid picture of a world teetering on the edge of oblivion. The journey is as much about survival as it is about confronting the ghosts of a forgotten past, and the emotional weight of choices lingers long after the final page. With its inventive world-building, richly textured atmosphere, and deeply human themes of transformation, memory, and sacrifice, this novel stands out as a triumph of dark fantasy. Fans of introspective epics will find themselves utterly enthralled.
Cody Pelletier, Writer, Illustrator, Executive Producer
February 18, 2026
A Story of Hope
Shadows of the Sundered Lands presents a world that is dangerous and nearly unlivable, with only pockets of humanity fighting for survival.
This world is full of characters you’ll love with distinct personalities, gifts, and burdens. As the characters come together to try to prevent the collapse of their civilization, you’ll find yourself metaphorically on the edge of your seat!
Truthfully, I struggled to put this book down from the very first chapter. The world is rich, the characters are amazing, and the story is fresh and unique!
Shadows of the Sundered Lands presents a world that is dangerous and nearly unlivable, with only pockets of humanity fighting for survival.
This world is full of characters you’ll love with distinct personalities, gifts, and burdens. As the characters come together to try to prevent the collapse of their civilization, you’ll find yourself metaphorically on the edge of your seat!
Truthfully, I struggled to put this book down from the very first chapter. The world is rich, the characters are amazing, and the story is fresh and unique!
November 10, 2025
This book was great!
What really kept me engaged was the interesting characters and the wicked-cool magic system.
The world building was also very easy to follow. Shields protecting cities from a toxic environment felt unique, and the story was easy to follow.
Certain parts were a bit repetitive for me, which is why I have 4/5 stars. It was mildly distracting, but overall, this was a great read. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy!
What really kept me engaged was the interesting characters and the wicked-cool magic system.
The world building was also very easy to follow. Shields protecting cities from a toxic environment felt unique, and the story was easy to follow.
Certain parts were a bit repetitive for me, which is why I have 4/5 stars. It was mildly distracting, but overall, this was a great read. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy!
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