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Legend of the Lightborn
Beck Winborn has cheated death many times in his twenty-five years. But he didn’t consider himself lucky when he survived an epidemic as a child, nor when he survived a brutal war he’d been drafted into at only sixteen years old. If anything, Beck felt cursed to continue living.
That was before he truly knew what it meant to be cursed.
Now a captain in the Royal Guard, Beck is tasked with the safety of Elandria’s princess and heir to the throne, Sola. But after a mysterious encounter with a woman in black, Beck finds himself plagued by visions of a terrible fate befalling the kingdom, and with them, an insidious presence threatens to claim his life from within.
If he has any hope of saving his people and himself, Beck must find answers in a world where curses and magic are supposed to no longer exist. The Lightborn—gifted magic-wielders of old—have long been killed off. But is any of their power lingering in the world beyond the palace walls?
Beck will need to risk everything to follow the thread of fate tugging on him. But where will it lead? And will Beck be the same when he finds what he’s looking for?
That was before he truly knew what it meant to be cursed.
Now a captain in the Royal Guard, Beck is tasked with the safety of Elandria’s princess and heir to the throne, Sola. But after a mysterious encounter with a woman in black, Beck finds himself plagued by visions of a terrible fate befalling the kingdom, and with them, an insidious presence threatens to claim his life from within.
If he has any hope of saving his people and himself, Beck must find answers in a world where curses and magic are supposed to no longer exist. The Lightborn—gifted magic-wielders of old—have long been killed off. But is any of their power lingering in the world beyond the palace walls?
Beck will need to risk everything to follow the thread of fate tugging on him. But where will it lead? And will Beck be the same when he finds what he’s looking for?
- GenresFantasy
629 pages, Paperback
Published October 18, 2025
27 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 5, 2025
Lightborn is the definition of an EPIC fantasy. In the first chapter you’re getting Edgar Allan Poe vibes, but nothing too scary (I can’t do scary above a PG-13 rating and this was the perfect amount of spooky sprinkled in throughout the entire book) and I LOVE the unique natured influenced magic, and enchanting scenery author Peterson paints for readers with her beautiful writing style. This book is slow burn romance in the BEST way and fade to black for those scenes that go from “yearning to turning up the heat”.
If you love Zelda and Lord of the Rings you will love this brilliantly written masterpiece! (I can’t believe this is a debut book, I can’t wait to read her next works!!)
If you love Zelda and Lord of the Rings you will love this brilliantly written masterpiece! (I can’t believe this is a debut book, I can’t wait to read her next works!!)
December 8, 2025
I would give this indie gem 4.5. In the world of romantasy it was refreshing to have the MMC be the lost soul coming in to his powers, surrounded and guided by strong women, rather than the other way around. Thoroughly enjoyed the village setting as it reminded me of my time in Thailand. And was quite taken with the heartwarming relationship between Beck (MMC) and side character Aida.
November 12, 2025
Legend of the Lightborn… my sweet summer child😭
Do you love suffering? Gasping? Clutching your pearls in disbelief? This book may be your next 5 star read!
Abbey knocked it out of the park with her debut novel that PERFECTLY scratched the itch of reading a fantasy book with inspiration drawn from some of my favorite media. As an avid LOZ fan, I adored this book. But not just because Beck reminded me of Linky boy.
I fell in love with Beck immediately. A deep feeler, quiet soul who knows how to beat people up when the time is needed. A precious baby boy with deep rooted trauma, coming into who he is and rejecting the lies he believes about himself with the help of found family and TRUE LOVE 😭❤️
This book is full of surprises. I went into it thinking I knew how things would go… I was so wrong! And in the best way. Abbey kept me on my toes, and her plot twists and connections were executed with care and precision. Characters were believable, carried depth, and the transformations they go through feel natural.
You will go on an emotional roller coaster reading this and you will LOVE IT!!
Do you love suffering? Gasping? Clutching your pearls in disbelief? This book may be your next 5 star read!
Abbey knocked it out of the park with her debut novel that PERFECTLY scratched the itch of reading a fantasy book with inspiration drawn from some of my favorite media. As an avid LOZ fan, I adored this book. But not just because Beck reminded me of Linky boy.
I fell in love with Beck immediately. A deep feeler, quiet soul who knows how to beat people up when the time is needed. A precious baby boy with deep rooted trauma, coming into who he is and rejecting the lies he believes about himself with the help of found family and TRUE LOVE 😭❤️
This book is full of surprises. I went into it thinking I knew how things would go… I was so wrong! And in the best way. Abbey kept me on my toes, and her plot twists and connections were executed with care and precision. Characters were believable, carried depth, and the transformations they go through feel natural.
You will go on an emotional roller coaster reading this and you will LOVE IT!!
December 28, 2025
This was a very cool story that never went where I expected it to. I especially enjoyed how, by the end of Beck’s journey, it truly felt like he had grown and evolved from who he was at the beginning. It was quite an adventure.
The ending felt very cinematic, full of twists and turns. At times it almost felt like the climax of a video game—I could easily imagine a Zelda or Final Fantasy game culminating in a similar way.
I did feel that some story-driving moments were happening off page, but there was something realistic about that as well. Beck couldn’t be everywhere at once, and he didn’t always know what was going on, which made the story feel grounded.
The final chapters wrapped everything up in a very satisfying way that I didn’t see coming. I do wish we knew what happens to one character in particular—maybe something to look forward to in a sequel?
The ending felt very cinematic, full of twists and turns. At times it almost felt like the climax of a video game—I could easily imagine a Zelda or Final Fantasy game culminating in a similar way.
I did feel that some story-driving moments were happening off page, but there was something realistic about that as well. Beck couldn’t be everywhere at once, and he didn’t always know what was going on, which made the story feel grounded.
The final chapters wrapped everything up in a very satisfying way that I didn’t see coming. I do wish we knew what happens to one character in particular—maybe something to look forward to in a sequel?
November 18, 2025
Legend of the Lightborn is one of those rare fantasy novels that completely sweeps you into its world and refuses to let you go. The author’s descriptive writing is nothing short of stunning. Every landscape, person, and moment of danger is painted so vividly that it feels like you're right beside the characters.
Speaking of characters, I found myself genuinely rooting for (most of 😅) them from the very beginning.
What I especially appreciated was how the story didn’t follow the usual predictable, going-on-a-journey fantasy path. It’s not a cliffhanger-driven or thriller-type narrative, yet I was constantly wrong about what I thought would happen next. The plot simply unfolds in such a natural, surprising way that it continually subverted my expectations without ever feeling forced.
Part 3, especially, was impossible to put down. The pacing tightens and every chapter ends with a pull that kept me reading far later into the night than I planned.
If you’re looking for a beautifully written, immersive, and surprising adventure, Legend of the Lightborn is an absolute must-read. I loved every page.
Speaking of characters, I found myself genuinely rooting for (most of 😅) them from the very beginning.
What I especially appreciated was how the story didn’t follow the usual predictable, going-on-a-journey fantasy path. It’s not a cliffhanger-driven or thriller-type narrative, yet I was constantly wrong about what I thought would happen next. The plot simply unfolds in such a natural, surprising way that it continually subverted my expectations without ever feeling forced.
Part 3, especially, was impossible to put down. The pacing tightens and every chapter ends with a pull that kept me reading far later into the night than I planned.
If you’re looking for a beautifully written, immersive, and surprising adventure, Legend of the Lightborn is an absolute must-read. I loved every page.
December 12, 2025
Blurb:
For fans of The Legend of Zelda and Studio Ghibli, this is an epic fantasy romance novel about a royal guard outrunning his past, a princess torn between her duty and her heart, a curse that threatens to destroy their world, and a hidden village tucked away on a mountain - home to a girl who may be the key to saving them all
Thoughts:
I have never been happier to have stumbled upon Abbey’s Instagram. When I saw that she was in the process of writing a story inspired by Studio Ghibli and The Legend of Zelda, I immediately knew this was a journey I wanted to follow and a book that I had to get my hands on📖
This book utterly blew me away. You would never have guessed that this was the author’s debut novel. The characters, the plot, the pacing, the emotions evoked - all beautifully written✨
Beck as an MMC was truly a breath of fresh air. His quiet, contemplative nature as he questioned everything he’s ever known and who he is at his core broke my heart and made me fall in love with him all at once. His indecision at times was certainly infuriating, but at the same time so raw and realistic for what he was going through. Do I have a thing for left-handed blonde warriors? Absolutely now I do 🤭 But in all seriousness, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - the world needs more tender hearted MMCs like Beck🫶🏽
And don’t get me started on my girl Lyrin. Her no nonsense attitude and all around strength of character made me love her immediately. The kind of person who would do anything to protect those she loves, I really enjoyed her journey and growth throughout the story🌿
This book will always hold a special place in my heart as the very first giveaway I won after joining bookstagram. From watching the process of the story coming to life on Abbey’s page to then finally holding my very own copy makes it that much sweeter of a gift. Abbey is a gem of a human and I will forever be thankful our paths crossed, even if only in the smallest of ways💛
For fans of The Legend of Zelda and Studio Ghibli, this is an epic fantasy romance novel about a royal guard outrunning his past, a princess torn between her duty and her heart, a curse that threatens to destroy their world, and a hidden village tucked away on a mountain - home to a girl who may be the key to saving them all
Thoughts:
I have never been happier to have stumbled upon Abbey’s Instagram. When I saw that she was in the process of writing a story inspired by Studio Ghibli and The Legend of Zelda, I immediately knew this was a journey I wanted to follow and a book that I had to get my hands on📖
This book utterly blew me away. You would never have guessed that this was the author’s debut novel. The characters, the plot, the pacing, the emotions evoked - all beautifully written✨
Beck as an MMC was truly a breath of fresh air. His quiet, contemplative nature as he questioned everything he’s ever known and who he is at his core broke my heart and made me fall in love with him all at once. His indecision at times was certainly infuriating, but at the same time so raw and realistic for what he was going through. Do I have a thing for left-handed blonde warriors? Absolutely now I do 🤭 But in all seriousness, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - the world needs more tender hearted MMCs like Beck🫶🏽
And don’t get me started on my girl Lyrin. Her no nonsense attitude and all around strength of character made me love her immediately. The kind of person who would do anything to protect those she loves, I really enjoyed her journey and growth throughout the story🌿
This book will always hold a special place in my heart as the very first giveaway I won after joining bookstagram. From watching the process of the story coming to life on Abbey’s page to then finally holding my very own copy makes it that much sweeter of a gift. Abbey is a gem of a human and I will forever be thankful our paths crossed, even if only in the smallest of ways💛
January 21, 2026
There aren't enough stars for this book...
I loved every single sentence in this book. It was exactly what I want from an epic fantasy. The main POV Beck (Becky, is just so adorable), was so relatable and likeable, he could honestly do no wrong. Every setting, every situation he found himself in was rich with emotive language, but also so vivid, I felt immersed in the story, like I was right there alongside him as he journeyed through the story. The description was so well done, that I felt I was watching it play out on the screen like Princess Mononoke and the Legend of Zelda! This books spoke to the parts of me that adore both of these things and it felt like I was curling up with a well-loved classic.
The relationships and character dynamics were one of my favourite things about this book. The platonic relationships and friendships that Beck builds throughout the book not only add to the story and its overreaching arc, but also give so much context and character depth to Beck and the host of characters around him.
The secondary and even tertiary characters were multi-faceted, each had their own complexities and backstories, even if it was one or two lines to flesh them out, it was written so well that it felt like enough to embed them in your mind.
I feel genuinely sad that I will never get to read this incredible book for the first time again. There were points were I had to physically close the book and let my brain have a moment because my mind was literally blown. The way the story was weaved and crafted spoke of a real love for storytelling and the (IMO) lost art of crafting a well balanced fantasy story.
I really really hope this is not the last we see of these characters, I just could not get enough and though I am early, this is going to be an insanely difficult book to beat for my book of the year!
Absolutely stunning work!
I loved every single sentence in this book. It was exactly what I want from an epic fantasy. The main POV Beck (Becky, is just so adorable), was so relatable and likeable, he could honestly do no wrong. Every setting, every situation he found himself in was rich with emotive language, but also so vivid, I felt immersed in the story, like I was right there alongside him as he journeyed through the story. The description was so well done, that I felt I was watching it play out on the screen like Princess Mononoke and the Legend of Zelda! This books spoke to the parts of me that adore both of these things and it felt like I was curling up with a well-loved classic.
The relationships and character dynamics were one of my favourite things about this book. The platonic relationships and friendships that Beck builds throughout the book not only add to the story and its overreaching arc, but also give so much context and character depth to Beck and the host of characters around him.
The secondary and even tertiary characters were multi-faceted, each had their own complexities and backstories, even if it was one or two lines to flesh them out, it was written so well that it felt like enough to embed them in your mind.
I feel genuinely sad that I will never get to read this incredible book for the first time again. There were points were I had to physically close the book and let my brain have a moment because my mind was literally blown. The way the story was weaved and crafted spoke of a real love for storytelling and the (IMO) lost art of crafting a well balanced fantasy story.
I really really hope this is not the last we see of these characters, I just could not get enough and though I am early, this is going to be an insanely difficult book to beat for my book of the year!
Absolutely stunning work!
November 26, 2025
What a joy this was to read! I’ve been following Abbey’s writing journey on IG for a while now, and I am genuinely so impressed with her debut novel. This is the kind of high fantasy I crave—adventure, magic, with a dash of romance—it checked every one of my boxes. I could really see the inspiration from some of my favorite medias, mainly Legend of Zelda and Princess Mononoke, but I loved how she took familiar ideas and made them her own.
The characters? Perfection. Beck was a wonderful MC, and Lyrin was his perfect complement as the FMC. After reading the blurb, I thought I knew where the story might go, but it totally went in a different direction and I LOVED it. Every character felt real and fleshed out. Their motivations were genuine, even if for the wrong reasons, but it also made them so much more relatable. And the Jackal? I’ll have nightmares for weeks.
I admit, it did slow down for me from about 20% - 50% when Beck settles into the village and there isn’t as much action. This isn’t a criticism of the book or writer at all. Lightborn just happened to be released during several other anticipated books, and I found myself bouncing between them.
But once things picked back up, I was HOOKED. I sat down to read around 9 PM (at around 52% of a 622 page book) and it’s now 12:39 as I write this, having just finished. Abbey, if I’m exhausted and not productive at work tomorrow, it’s your fault. Jk. Sort of.
I love how it all wrapped up. I love the romance, the found family, the magic, the discoveries. And the prose is beautiful. It’s accessible and easy to digest, yet still has so many lyrical passages and phrases. It’s the perfect blend, IMO.
I am so excited for Abbey, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
The characters? Perfection. Beck was a wonderful MC, and Lyrin was his perfect complement as the FMC. After reading the blurb, I thought I knew where the story might go, but it totally went in a different direction and I LOVED it. Every character felt real and fleshed out. Their motivations were genuine, even if for the wrong reasons, but it also made them so much more relatable. And the Jackal? I’ll have nightmares for weeks.
I admit, it did slow down for me from about 20% - 50% when Beck settles into the village and there isn’t as much action. This isn’t a criticism of the book or writer at all. Lightborn just happened to be released during several other anticipated books, and I found myself bouncing between them.
But once things picked back up, I was HOOKED. I sat down to read around 9 PM (at around 52% of a 622 page book) and it’s now 12:39 as I write this, having just finished. Abbey, if I’m exhausted and not productive at work tomorrow, it’s your fault. Jk. Sort of.
I love how it all wrapped up. I love the romance, the found family, the magic, the discoveries. And the prose is beautiful. It’s accessible and easy to digest, yet still has so many lyrical passages and phrases. It’s the perfect blend, IMO.
I am so excited for Abbey, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
October 24, 2025
📖 Legend of the Lightborn by Abbey Peterson
💭 My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book. We steadily move through Beck’s journey, which has so many layers to it. The curse he carries, to finding the people who feel like home and to discovering where he truly belongs was a beautiful journey. The story moves at a calm, steady pace that never feels slow, just consistent and meaningful.
It’s definitely more character-driven than plot-heavy in my opinion. But the world-building still shines through. The focus is on Beck’s thoughts, feelings, relationships, and the conversations between characters. That made the story feel like we are truly getting that self discovery along with the mystery of the curse and his nightmares.
The author’s writing is beautiful and descriptive. She does such a wonderful job creating layered characters and a world you actually enjoy being in. Even though the story flows gently, there are still some really intense moments (nothing explicit, though). Overall, a very good read that I truly enjoyed.
If the author ever releases more stories, I’ll gladly read them. I really enjoyed her writing and would love to see more from her.
💭 My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book. We steadily move through Beck’s journey, which has so many layers to it. The curse he carries, to finding the people who feel like home and to discovering where he truly belongs was a beautiful journey. The story moves at a calm, steady pace that never feels slow, just consistent and meaningful.
It’s definitely more character-driven than plot-heavy in my opinion. But the world-building still shines through. The focus is on Beck’s thoughts, feelings, relationships, and the conversations between characters. That made the story feel like we are truly getting that self discovery along with the mystery of the curse and his nightmares.
The author’s writing is beautiful and descriptive. She does such a wonderful job creating layered characters and a world you actually enjoy being in. Even though the story flows gently, there are still some really intense moments (nothing explicit, though). Overall, a very good read that I truly enjoyed.
If the author ever releases more stories, I’ll gladly read them. I really enjoyed her writing and would love to see more from her.
October 28, 2025
This book completely pulled me in. From the very first pages, it had that rare kind of magic where you forget you are reading and just live in the story. Abbey has created a world that feels both haunting and hopeful, full of quiet mystery, emotion, and the sense that something powerful is just beneath the surface.
What I loved most is how real this story feels. Beck is such a compelling character, vulnerable, flawed, and humble, and I could not help but feel for him every step of the way. The slow-burn romance is perfect, unfolding naturally and making every connection between the characters feel earned. The relationships feel authentic, and the emotions of grief, strength, love, and hope are written so honestly.
The pacing is steady and thoughtful, giving you time to soak in the world and really get to know the characters. The writing is beautiful and immersive without ever feeling heavy or overdone.
Without giving anything away, Legend of the Lightborn is about finding light in unexpected places, about resilience, and quiet strength. The storytelling is something special, and I cannot wait to see what Abbey writes next.
What I loved most is how real this story feels. Beck is such a compelling character, vulnerable, flawed, and humble, and I could not help but feel for him every step of the way. The slow-burn romance is perfect, unfolding naturally and making every connection between the characters feel earned. The relationships feel authentic, and the emotions of grief, strength, love, and hope are written so honestly.
The pacing is steady and thoughtful, giving you time to soak in the world and really get to know the characters. The writing is beautiful and immersive without ever feeling heavy or overdone.
Without giving anything away, Legend of the Lightborn is about finding light in unexpected places, about resilience, and quiet strength. The storytelling is something special, and I cannot wait to see what Abbey writes next.
December 1, 2025
Wow. Abbey Peterson knocked it out of the park with her debut! With every plot twist and beautiful line of prose, I became more surprised that this is her very first published book! She writes like she's been doing it for years.
This book is written in third person past tense, and we follow Beck Windborn, a captain of the guard. I found it so incredibly refreshing to read a romantic fantasy book that followed the man as the main character instead of the woman. Not to mention how beautifully written Beck is! He's not the cookie-cutter shadow daddies that are so common these days. He has true depth, emotional struggles, and significant development. He makes mistakes, but makes up for them in spades.
The world was enchanting, the magic enthralling, and the conflicts suspenseful!
I can't say much more about this book without giving spoilers 😅🫣
If you find yourself in need of a solid fantasy standalone with beautiful writing, deep characters, and emotional trauma, Legend of the Lightborn is a great place to start!
This book is written in third person past tense, and we follow Beck Windborn, a captain of the guard. I found it so incredibly refreshing to read a romantic fantasy book that followed the man as the main character instead of the woman. Not to mention how beautifully written Beck is! He's not the cookie-cutter shadow daddies that are so common these days. He has true depth, emotional struggles, and significant development. He makes mistakes, but makes up for them in spades.
The world was enchanting, the magic enthralling, and the conflicts suspenseful!
I can't say much more about this book without giving spoilers 😅🫣
If you find yourself in need of a solid fantasy standalone with beautiful writing, deep characters, and emotional trauma, Legend of the Lightborn is a great place to start!
June 6, 2025
This book took me to a whole new world that I refuse to leave. The main character is relatable and stole my heart from the first chapter. The prose is lyrical and beautiful, and concise when the stakes are high. The romance is TO DIE FOR. I screamed under the covers on more than one occasion and cried cursing the author (in the best way).
This book got me out of a reading slump that lasted for YEARS. Fantastic world building that was all encompassing. A different sort of magic system that is easy to understand. A plot I cared about and stakes that felt real.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy with a side plot of romance, wants a MMC who’s not just the morally gray brooding character that’s everywhere, and is dying to escape into a place that will make the rest of the world melt away. Or anyone with a pulse. I love it too much.
This book got me out of a reading slump that lasted for YEARS. Fantastic world building that was all encompassing. A different sort of magic system that is easy to understand. A plot I cared about and stakes that felt real.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy with a side plot of romance, wants a MMC who’s not just the morally gray brooding character that’s everywhere, and is dying to escape into a place that will make the rest of the world melt away. Or anyone with a pulse. I love it too much.
November 5, 2025
This was honestly a great stand alone I couldn’t put it down and will recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy.
Legend of the Lightborn is fit for everyone, with a beautiful love story as a bonus.
It has it all:
- Interesting MMC on a healing journey
- Great Magical System with some mysteries
- Fierce FMC with powerful skills
- A found Family where Home is
- Some jaw-dropping twists.
- A guy named Kai.
Micro tropes that got me kicking my feet:
- They train together.
- she braids his hair.
- She wakes him from a nightmare.
Please go read this 5 stars book it’s totally worth your time!
And no spice / closed door.
Legend of the Lightborn is fit for everyone, with a beautiful love story as a bonus.
It has it all:
- Interesting MMC on a healing journey
- Great Magical System with some mysteries
- Fierce FMC with powerful skills
- A found Family where Home is
- Some jaw-dropping twists.
- A guy named Kai.
Micro tropes that got me kicking my feet:
- They train together.
- she braids his hair.
- She wakes him from a nightmare.
Please go read this 5 stars book it’s totally worth your time!
And no spice / closed door.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2025
I love how unique the setting for this fantasy was from anything I have read in the past. The magic system was fun to learn more about - especially the way it interacted with Beck’s curse.
Although this was a “slower paced” read, I was never bored - it was different from a lot of the mainstream, action-packed fantasies that only use drama to drive the storyline, which was refreshing. It was very character driven rather than action focused.
I also appreciated that the romance, although it implied what happened, was truly closed-door and not super steamy for what was present.
I’m looking forward to reading more of what Abbey writes in the future!
Although this was a “slower paced” read, I was never bored - it was different from a lot of the mainstream, action-packed fantasies that only use drama to drive the storyline, which was refreshing. It was very character driven rather than action focused.
I also appreciated that the romance, although it implied what happened, was truly closed-door and not super steamy for what was present.
I’m looking forward to reading more of what Abbey writes in the future!
June 1, 2025
I was lucky enough to have the chance to read an advance copy of Legend of the Lightborn. If you are a fan of beautiful writing, complex real characters, heart racing story lines, magical world building, adventure, humor, loss, and love, this debut novel is for you!
I was drawn into this world immediately and absolutely loved the strong female characters and the brave, kind, but fallible MMC.
This book had me turning pages late into the night on many occasions and the heart pounding ending was perfection. You NEED to read this!
I was drawn into this world immediately and absolutely loved the strong female characters and the brave, kind, but fallible MMC.
This book had me turning pages late into the night on many occasions and the heart pounding ending was perfection. You NEED to read this!
October 20, 2025
This book was so lovely, a journey I enjoyed every step of the way. The characterization was excellent, with even minor side characters having their own distinct feeling. There were no generic masked NPCs. Conversations flowed naturally, and there were plenty of clever moments that made me smile. The settings were rich and the worldbuilding was well balanced.
I loved getting to follow Beck on his journey as he discovers more about himself and the drive of his soul. How to face challenges and the struggle of his own fears.
An excellent debut book. Highly recommend. :)
I loved getting to follow Beck on his journey as he discovers more about himself and the drive of his soul. How to face challenges and the struggle of his own fears.
An excellent debut book. Highly recommend. :)
June 15, 2025
Lightborn was everything I wanted it to be. A Fantasy/adventure story, intertwined with a romance filled with intense yearning for each other... this combination alone meant that I could not put it down. I found myself up at 2 or 3 in the morning finishing chapters or thinking about the characters and their stories. It has quickly become one of my favourite reads of the year!
September 6, 2025
A book for the fantasy lovers!!
I loved everything about this from the first chapter all the way to the end. The curse. The intrigue! The stoic and sunshiney MMC. I loved this world and would have lived there forever. A fantastic debut novel by Abbey Peterson, I can't wait to read more by her.
<3
I loved everything about this from the first chapter all the way to the end. The curse. The intrigue! The stoic and sunshiney MMC. I loved this world and would have lived there forever. A fantastic debut novel by Abbey Peterson, I can't wait to read more by her.
<3
October 19, 2025
Legend of the Lightborn is so beautifully written. I did not leave my couch for two days, I could just not put this book down. I’ve never been much of a fantasy reader - but this book entirely changed my mind.
Beck’s character development is just so well written. There was truly never a dull moment. I just want to read this book over and over again omg💖💖💖💖
Beck’s character development is just so well written. There was truly never a dull moment. I just want to read this book over and over again omg💖💖💖💖
December 31, 2025
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Absolutely fantastic! Shocked this was Abbey’s debut novel because it was so well written! Her voice is so strong. Her world building is magnificent. All of her characters have compelling stories and arcs; I fell in love with all of them. I had so many emotions reading this book. I absolutely devoured it. I highly recommend Lightborn!!
June 1, 2025
I had the absolute honor of beta reading this book for Abbey and I absolutely adore it!!! The magic and yearning and exploration of humanity is unmatched. I cannot wait for October so it can have a permanent place on my bookshelf 🥹🥹
November 9, 2025
One of the most gripping books I've ever had the pleasure to read. The characters, story, and world are so vibrant, it's easy to get pulled into it. It's rare to find a book and an author so easily able to make your heart soar and weep. You do not want to miss this book!
December 29, 2025
Hard to believe this is a debut novel! The writing is excellent, painting a picture of this magical world, and leaves nothing to be desired. I loved Thelis especially, and the magic of the lightborn was incredible. I would definitely read this author again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2026
I wish I could give this 100 stars. I’ve read a lot of fantasy, and this novel is right up there in my favs!! It is a long read, but I was honestly never bored! Something exciting was always happening, and I never wanted to put it down! Loooooved it!
January 21, 2026
This novel is so good, it’s captivates you from the first few pages!! So well written, so descriptive you can see everything playing out like a movie. I want to live in the Lightborn universe! This is a must read it truly does not disappoint!!!
November 29, 2025
Loved it!
I felt like this book was a breath of fresh air! The plot was intriguing from the very first chapter, and continued to keep me on my toes. The world building was easy to follow, natural and the scenery was so well described. the character development of the MMC Beck was fantastic and it was so different to be mostly following a male lead (a good different).
How could I not love a book with male characters named Jace, Kai and Beck ?
I would definitely read this again and so excited for Abbey's future stories!
I felt like this book was a breath of fresh air! The plot was intriguing from the very first chapter, and continued to keep me on my toes. The world building was easy to follow, natural and the scenery was so well described. the character development of the MMC Beck was fantastic and it was so different to be mostly following a male lead (a good different).
How could I not love a book with male characters named Jace, Kai and Beck ?
I would definitely read this again and so excited for Abbey's future stories!
November 27, 2025
3.75⭐️
December 16, 2025
Review to come, but ahhh such a beautiful story! Fantastic debut
December 25, 2025
What a gorgeously written novel. I absolutely devoured it, especially part 3! Stunning characters, world building that feels like a Ghibli film, and a plot that takes its time unfolding for maximum emotional damage. I sometimes struggle with plot reveals that feel totally out of the blue, but this book has the kind that makes everything you've read before fall into place. Beck is a thoughtful, quiet MMC who will break your heart over and over. His journey is so relatable, the way the trauma of his past conflicts with the current story is expertly done, and my god this man can YEARN. I just wanted to hug him throughout so much of the book. The push and pull between him and the other characters - both with the romantic prospects and the friends + little found family Beck forms - was excellent. And the writing is so vivid! I felt his fears, his sorrows, every sword injury and rainstorm he got stuck in. It was like I was living in the story with him. This is book has moments of great whimsy and great darkness, so be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster!
December 28, 2025
Legend of the Lightborn by Abbey Peterson is a beautiful story of friendship, love, healing and realizing that you’re worth the trouble. Beck is one of my favorite “male written by a female” characters I’ve come across in a long time. He’s vulnerable and emotional and kind and flawed and willing to do whatever it takes to help his friends even if it means sacrificing his happiness. Beck is so baby girl and you’re going to love him and all the characters throughout his journey. The found family aspect of LotLB is hands down one of the best, Beck being able to surround himself with those that truly care about him is a reflection on the love he gives to others.
Abbeys ability to suck you right in with her story telling is pure magic, her characters are complex and so real, I felt as if the story was playing out right in front of me. In a world of "strong MMC" it felt it was time to have someone like Beck, who wears his heart on his sleeve and isn't afraid to be emotional, because men cry too and that needs to be represented more in fantasy.
If you don’t read this heart stopping, stunning story, you’re truly missing out.
Abbeys ability to suck you right in with her story telling is pure magic, her characters are complex and so real, I felt as if the story was playing out right in front of me. In a world of "strong MMC" it felt it was time to have someone like Beck, who wears his heart on his sleeve and isn't afraid to be emotional, because men cry too and that needs to be represented more in fantasy.
If you don’t read this heart stopping, stunning story, you’re truly missing out.
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