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A Glow from the Window
Since Sahle became Queen of Izwe one year ago, she has struggled to understand this new world. She has denied her power. She has lost her closest friend during a recent palace attack. Racked by guilt, she knows her next decisions determine the fate of her kingdom.
Yet, the realm is more chaotic than ever. Magic like hers has not been seen in generations, and she must raise a dormant power if she is to master it. As external threats continue to mount and internal allegiances splinter, marriage becomes the key to holding a nation together. The question is, which man is destined to wear the Consort's crown?
The sequel to A Certain Slant of Light continues Sahle's story amidst the lush, evocative land of a reimagined colonial Africa. Only this time, Sahle must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice for the sake of her people.
Yet, the realm is more chaotic than ever. Magic like hers has not been seen in generations, and she must raise a dormant power if she is to master it. As external threats continue to mount and internal allegiances splinter, marriage becomes the key to holding a nation together. The question is, which man is destined to wear the Consort's crown?
The sequel to A Certain Slant of Light continues Sahle's story amidst the lush, evocative land of a reimagined colonial Africa. Only this time, Sahle must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice for the sake of her people.
481 pages, Paperback
Published November 24, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
November 26, 2025
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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A Glow from the Window was all I'd hoped for after A Certain Slant of Light! In terms of everything: writing, plot, world building, characterization and pacing, this book is even better.
Picking up right where the first book leaves us, I feel like Du Toit brilliantly explores its aftermath and its affect on Sahle. We see her continue to struggle in adjusting to this new world into which she has been thrust, now with the added weight of reeling under the guilt and grief of losing her friend and lover. We watch as she's forced to make one difficult decision after another and this really does so much in allowing us to see Sahle gradually come into her own both as a character and as a true queen of this realm.
We also get to witness Sahle learning to accept her powers and in doing so finally wielding them. After everything she goes through in the first book, all the people who try to put her down or expect too much of her as well as her own reluctance and wish to remain normal, I loved that we finally get to see her grow into her power. Her dynamic and interactions with Manelesi were a highlight of this book for me. His being both man and God also opened up a whole world of questions and possibilities and I'm really hoping we aren't quite closing the chapter on exploring more of them together and what it could mean that Sahle's power rivals his.
I also really enjoyed getting to learn more about not just Izwe but the entire realm through a new cast of characters being introduced. And Sahle playing more of an active part in the court politics was something I'd really been hoping for after book one.
In terms of plot, this book was definitely more romance heavy as compared to the previous one. Needless to say, as a romantasy lover, it was also my absolute favourite thing!!! I've waited since the first book for Anson to play a bigger role and I was not disappointed.
With my favourite tropes of marriage of convenience, enemies to lovers, slow burn and he always loved her coming into play, I ABSOLUTELY ATE THIS UP. Literally finished it in a single day. Also the first part of this book was major Princess Diaries 2 vibes which I simply LOVED.
And omg the way it ended??? I am so ready to see where this relationship goes in book three.
I feel like I would've rated it higher but there were somethings that I didn't love due to personal preferences. Firstly, I wish we'd had more actual action. This book was again more introspective as we're mainly just inside Sahle's head. When the plot does move forward, it is mostly in terms of romance and her relationship with Anson. As we are building towards a war, I'm hoping we get to see more action and battle in the next book. Also personally I'm not a huge fan of the age gap because Anson knowing her as a baby felt just a little icky to me.
But overall I'm so excited for more of Sahle's story and cannot wait for the next book! I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a new fantasy series with a lush unique magical world, a strong FMC, a morally grey MMC and a perfect slow burn romance.
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A Glow from the Window was all I'd hoped for after A Certain Slant of Light! In terms of everything: writing, plot, world building, characterization and pacing, this book is even better.
Picking up right where the first book leaves us, I feel like Du Toit brilliantly explores its aftermath and its affect on Sahle. We see her continue to struggle in adjusting to this new world into which she has been thrust, now with the added weight of reeling under the guilt and grief of losing her friend and lover. We watch as she's forced to make one difficult decision after another and this really does so much in allowing us to see Sahle gradually come into her own both as a character and as a true queen of this realm.
We also get to witness Sahle learning to accept her powers and in doing so finally wielding them. After everything she goes through in the first book, all the people who try to put her down or expect too much of her as well as her own reluctance and wish to remain normal, I loved that we finally get to see her grow into her power. Her dynamic and interactions with Manelesi were a highlight of this book for me. His being both man and God also opened up a whole world of questions and possibilities and I'm really hoping we aren't quite closing the chapter on exploring more of them together and what it could mean that Sahle's power rivals his.
I also really enjoyed getting to learn more about not just Izwe but the entire realm through a new cast of characters being introduced. And Sahle playing more of an active part in the court politics was something I'd really been hoping for after book one.
In terms of plot, this book was definitely more romance heavy as compared to the previous one. Needless to say, as a romantasy lover, it was also my absolute favourite thing!!! I've waited since the first book for Anson to play a bigger role and I was not disappointed.
With my favourite tropes of marriage of convenience, enemies to lovers, slow burn and he always loved her coming into play, I ABSOLUTELY ATE THIS UP. Literally finished it in a single day. Also the first part of this book was major Princess Diaries 2 vibes which I simply LOVED.
And omg the way it ended??? I am so ready to see where this relationship goes in book three.
I feel like I would've rated it higher but there were somethings that I didn't love due to personal preferences. Firstly, I wish we'd had more actual action. This book was again more introspective as we're mainly just inside Sahle's head. When the plot does move forward, it is mostly in terms of romance and her relationship with Anson. As we are building towards a war, I'm hoping we get to see more action and battle in the next book. Also personally I'm not a huge fan of the age gap because Anson knowing her as a baby felt just a little icky to me.
But overall I'm so excited for more of Sahle's story and cannot wait for the next book! I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a new fantasy series with a lush unique magical world, a strong FMC, a morally grey MMC and a perfect slow burn romance.
November 26, 2025
This is a quiet, political fantasy where magic simmers in the background while a young queen figures out how to rule a fractured nation. It continues the slow, careful work of watching her learn her power, navigate shifting loyalties, and decide what kind of leader she wants to become. The lush world-building from the first book still shines here, rooted in a reimagined African-inspired landscape.
This continues to be a character-driven, but perhaps quieter, softer, and more thoughtful than the first. It's less about danger and more about responsibility. Sahle’s growth is really the centerpiece, and I loved watching her carry the weight of her choices, step into her authority, and slowly build something resembling trust with her chosen consort. Their relationship is political and has surprising depth… though admittedly occasionally eyebrow-raising. I can ignore it.
What I appreciated most is that even though it’s slow-paced, it never feels dull. The rich cultural influences, the layered representation, and the sense that this kingdom is alive and shifting all keep the story engaging. It reminded me a bit of Isabelle Olmo’s work (political, immersive, and based in historical expectations), but FAR gentler on the heart. There isn't much despair or danger, and more quiet transformation.
Being inside our main character's head gives us a front-row seat to every impossible decision she faces, and it really deepens the sense that she’s growing into her crown. Her tentative steps toward mastering her magic also add a nice layer of anticipation, especially with a larger conflict on the horizon. I do hope the next book brings more action and payoff now that the political groundwork is laid.
All in all, this was a thoughtful, slow-burning continuation that expands the world beautifully. I still have a few hang-ups about the romance dynamics, but they’re easy enough to overlook when the character growth is this strong.
Thanks to the author and Fractured Mirror Publishing for the pre-released complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This continues to be a character-driven, but perhaps quieter, softer, and more thoughtful than the first. It's less about danger and more about responsibility. Sahle’s growth is really the centerpiece, and I loved watching her carry the weight of her choices, step into her authority, and slowly build something resembling trust with her chosen consort. Their relationship is political and has surprising depth… though admittedly occasionally eyebrow-raising. I can ignore it.
What I appreciated most is that even though it’s slow-paced, it never feels dull. The rich cultural influences, the layered representation, and the sense that this kingdom is alive and shifting all keep the story engaging. It reminded me a bit of Isabelle Olmo’s work (political, immersive, and based in historical expectations), but FAR gentler on the heart. There isn't much despair or danger, and more quiet transformation.
Being inside our main character's head gives us a front-row seat to every impossible decision she faces, and it really deepens the sense that she’s growing into her crown. Her tentative steps toward mastering her magic also add a nice layer of anticipation, especially with a larger conflict on the horizon. I do hope the next book brings more action and payoff now that the political groundwork is laid.
All in all, this was a thoughtful, slow-burning continuation that expands the world beautifully. I still have a few hang-ups about the romance dynamics, but they’re easy enough to overlook when the character growth is this strong.
Thanks to the author and Fractured Mirror Publishing for the pre-released complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
November 26, 2025
**I received an advanced reader copy from the author, all thoughts are my own**
Queen Sahle continues to be a compelling character and the way she grows into her role after being torn away from what she knew and being thrusted into a new realm with huge responsibilities is commendable. AGftW picks up from where we left off in book 1, and sees our queen mourning a friend and a lover while recovering from a targeted attack on her kingdom and people. This book does an excellent job of balancing the plot, Sahle as she continues to grow, train and make mistakes and better command her magic, and of course, the romance part of this romantasy equation.
Objectively this is a well written read and I have faith it will find it's readers in search of strong romantasy that features a Black f!MC in a rich African inspired setting. Subjectively, I couldn't root for the romance. I wasn't Finn's biggest fan in book 1, but it wasn't an issue as Sahle point blank says she doesn't love him.
I'm curious as to how this story will conclude, and I hope I can enjoy the rest of Sahle's journey without being too put out by the romance.
Queen Sahle continues to be a compelling character and the way she grows into her role after being torn away from what she knew and being thrusted into a new realm with huge responsibilities is commendable. AGftW picks up from where we left off in book 1, and sees our queen mourning a friend and a lover while recovering from a targeted attack on her kingdom and people. This book does an excellent job of balancing the plot, Sahle as she continues to grow, train and make mistakes and better command her magic, and of course, the romance part of this romantasy equation.
Objectively this is a well written read and I have faith it will find it's readers in search of strong romantasy that features a Black f!MC in a rich African inspired setting. Subjectively, I couldn't root for the romance. I wasn't Finn's biggest fan in book 1, but it wasn't an issue as Sahle point blank says she doesn't love him.
I'm curious as to how this story will conclude, and I hope I can enjoy the rest of Sahle's journey without being too put out by the romance.
November 28, 2025
“𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘺.”
A Glow from the Window was lots of fun!!
This book is highly character driven, and Sahle continues to be the strongest part of the series. Seeing her learn to balance power and responsibility with her ache to have a sense of normalcy back in her life is always compelling!! And Sahle’s confidence has grown so much since A Certain Slant of Light, her thought process feels much more grounded and mature here, which I loved!! She’s truly come into her own 🥹 I wish we got to see deeper into her character, though. This far in, I hoped for more of an emotional connection to her. Still, she was a great lead!
I love A Glow from the Window’s setting: a lush reimagined Africa! Izwe’s traditions, history, and political structure are so engaging!! Hopefully, in the next book we can explore the world more directly because there’s so much untapped potential 💐 I can’t wait! I do have to mention, however, that I was hoping for more momentum in this book’s pacing. Most of it takes place within Izwe’s palace, and while the court politics were interesting, it took a while to build tension. There were definitely moments that pulled me in, but I wished the plot was better placed.
I can’t freely talk about Sahle’s love story because it’s a spoiler in and of itself but I really liked it! It had a fun spark and a touch of that enemies to lovers tension that always hits!! That said, I do think it could have benefited from being built up earlier so the shift in dynamic felt more natural. There were also a few details of said romance that didn’t land (too spoilery to explain). I can see what was trying to be done emotionally but the implications were very uncomfortable 😅
Overall, I appreciate what the Light trilogy is doing. The world is intriguing, the writing is thoughtful and Sahle’s journey is I’m curious to follow. I’m excited to see how everything comes together in book 3!!
I’d recommend this if you enjoy a gentle, character focused fantasy with a rich court politics plot 🗡️🖤 Thank you C.P. Du Toit for this ARC! All opinions are my own.
A Glow from the Window was lots of fun!!
This book is highly character driven, and Sahle continues to be the strongest part of the series. Seeing her learn to balance power and responsibility with her ache to have a sense of normalcy back in her life is always compelling!! And Sahle’s confidence has grown so much since A Certain Slant of Light, her thought process feels much more grounded and mature here, which I loved!! She’s truly come into her own 🥹 I wish we got to see deeper into her character, though. This far in, I hoped for more of an emotional connection to her. Still, she was a great lead!
I love A Glow from the Window’s setting: a lush reimagined Africa! Izwe’s traditions, history, and political structure are so engaging!! Hopefully, in the next book we can explore the world more directly because there’s so much untapped potential 💐 I can’t wait! I do have to mention, however, that I was hoping for more momentum in this book’s pacing. Most of it takes place within Izwe’s palace, and while the court politics were interesting, it took a while to build tension. There were definitely moments that pulled me in, but I wished the plot was better placed.
I can’t freely talk about Sahle’s love story because it’s a spoiler in and of itself but I really liked it! It had a fun spark and a touch of that enemies to lovers tension that always hits!! That said, I do think it could have benefited from being built up earlier so the shift in dynamic felt more natural. There were also a few details of said romance that didn’t land (too spoilery to explain). I can see what was trying to be done emotionally but the implications were very uncomfortable 😅
Overall, I appreciate what the Light trilogy is doing. The world is intriguing, the writing is thoughtful and Sahle’s journey is I’m curious to follow. I’m excited to see how everything comes together in book 3!!
I’d recommend this if you enjoy a gentle, character focused fantasy with a rich court politics plot 🗡️🖤 Thank you C.P. Du Toit for this ARC! All opinions are my own.
February 16, 2026
“So much has been taken from you. I refuse to take more, no matter what I feel.”
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
We are back in Izwe with Queen Sahle ruling for a year now. This story was what I was hoping for after finishing A Certain Slant of Light because the cliffhanger at the end of book 1 shook me.
I loved the storyline of this book as much as the first one. We see how much Sahle has grown throughout her time as Queen of Izwe and we also see how things have changed as well. This story, to me, seemed to be broken up into two parts, although there were technically three. I enjoyed seeing Sahle finally come into her power, although I’m sure she has yet to fully tap into her full potential. Her relationship with Anson was intriguing to read about because enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes. I knew there was a good reason behind Anson and his tactics/attitudes; more than just him not wanting Sahle to be Queen. It all made sense in the end.
The pacing of the story was great, although I will say at some parts it dragged just a little, but picked right back up. I would love to read a third installment of this series, especially with Sahle just now getting comfortable in her elite position. Read this if you enjoy fantasy, bickering moments between characters, but also if you enjoy reading about the idea of what family is and the sacrifices families make.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
We are back in Izwe with Queen Sahle ruling for a year now. This story was what I was hoping for after finishing A Certain Slant of Light because the cliffhanger at the end of book 1 shook me.
I loved the storyline of this book as much as the first one. We see how much Sahle has grown throughout her time as Queen of Izwe and we also see how things have changed as well. This story, to me, seemed to be broken up into two parts, although there were technically three. I enjoyed seeing Sahle finally come into her power, although I’m sure she has yet to fully tap into her full potential. Her relationship with Anson was intriguing to read about because enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes. I knew there was a good reason behind Anson and his tactics/attitudes; more than just him not wanting Sahle to be Queen. It all made sense in the end.
The pacing of the story was great, although I will say at some parts it dragged just a little, but picked right back up. I would love to read a third installment of this series, especially with Sahle just now getting comfortable in her elite position. Read this if you enjoy fantasy, bickering moments between characters, but also if you enjoy reading about the idea of what family is and the sacrifices families make.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up!
** I received this e-arc from the author and this review is honest and completely my own**
A Glow from the Window was everything we wanted and needed after A Certain Slant of Light. Taking place shortly after the ending of the first book, we find ourselves on a journey with Sahle as she grieves, is forced to make unwanted but important decisions, and tries to find peace with her potential future going into a looming war with Trina Cheile.
While reading, I first found it slow, but as the story progressed, I actually enjoyed this pacing. It’s similar to the first book and I found this to be very aligned with Sahle’s story and everything she was experiencing. Sahle is independent and perhaps a bit of a pessimist, but she grows as the story does, which is something I really love about the way Du Toit writes.
In addition but without spoilers, I loved the way Du Toit weaved in Anson’s background and present into Sahle’s journey. As far as character progression goes, I really favored his story and found myself excited to read any chapter involving him. I dare say I waited all of the first book for this character arc!
Overall, this book had wonderful characters, action, and build up that I couldn’t wait to get back to! This is a fantastic 2nd addition in a trilogy and I’m eager to read the next!
** I received this e-arc from the author and this review is honest and completely my own**
A Glow from the Window was everything we wanted and needed after A Certain Slant of Light. Taking place shortly after the ending of the first book, we find ourselves on a journey with Sahle as she grieves, is forced to make unwanted but important decisions, and tries to find peace with her potential future going into a looming war with Trina Cheile.
While reading, I first found it slow, but as the story progressed, I actually enjoyed this pacing. It’s similar to the first book and I found this to be very aligned with Sahle’s story and everything she was experiencing. Sahle is independent and perhaps a bit of a pessimist, but she grows as the story does, which is something I really love about the way Du Toit writes.
In addition but without spoilers, I loved the way Du Toit weaved in Anson’s background and present into Sahle’s journey. As far as character progression goes, I really favored his story and found myself excited to read any chapter involving him. I dare say I waited all of the first book for this character arc!
Overall, this book had wonderful characters, action, and build up that I couldn’t wait to get back to! This is a fantastic 2nd addition in a trilogy and I’m eager to read the next!
December 19, 2025
A Glow From the Window picks up right where book 1 leaves off. Sahle is still firmly in her grief, war is on the horizon and she is faced with the difficult tasks of mastering her magic and securing a strong ally for the kingdom via marriage.
I enjoyed the magical training aspect of this and getting to see Sahle's strength and control developing. I thought some of the potential conflict involving *her trainer* (no spoilers) was resolved somewhat easily and I wonder if there is more of that to be revealed in the next book.
This was the slow burn/marriage of convenience of my dreams. The romance is done so well and I loved that even though I saw this pairing coming, the author still found a way to add details that made it feel fresh and exciting anyway.
Overall I love the way this story is unfolding. C.P. Du Toit has such a talent for creating an immersive reading experience through her lyrically descriptive writing, lush world-building, and thoughtful character development. I cannot wait to see what's in store for the Queen and her Consort in the final book!
I received an eARC from the author. This review reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
I enjoyed the magical training aspect of this and getting to see Sahle's strength and control developing. I thought some of the potential conflict involving *her trainer* (no spoilers) was resolved somewhat easily and I wonder if there is more of that to be revealed in the next book.
This was the slow burn/marriage of convenience of my dreams. The romance is done so well and I loved that even though I saw this pairing coming, the author still found a way to add details that made it feel fresh and exciting anyway.
Overall I love the way this story is unfolding. C.P. Du Toit has such a talent for creating an immersive reading experience through her lyrically descriptive writing, lush world-building, and thoughtful character development. I cannot wait to see what's in store for the Queen and her Consort in the final book!
I received an eARC from the author. This review reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 26, 2025
I was so excited to continue this series and it did not disappoint! We get to continue Sahle’s story as she continues to learn about her powers and prepare Izwe against impending war, and on top of that, the council has decided it’s time for her to choose a consort.
Book 1 set the stage for A Glow From the Window to really shine. The banter was top tier, and I found myself giggling and kicking my feet at times. I also really enjoyed getting to see how the main character, Sahle really gets to develop and mature. Overall this was a highly satisfying read. (Except that now we have to wait for book 3.)
I found the balance between fantasy and romance pretty balanced, which is perfect for me since I’m not super into full on romantasy most of the time. I certainly recommend this series for anyone looking for a fantasy with a healthy dose of romance.
*I received this as an eARC, but these are all my own thoughts. I this was a really fun book*
Book 1 set the stage for A Glow From the Window to really shine. The banter was top tier, and I found myself giggling and kicking my feet at times. I also really enjoyed getting to see how the main character, Sahle really gets to develop and mature. Overall this was a highly satisfying read. (Except that now we have to wait for book 3.)
I found the balance between fantasy and romance pretty balanced, which is perfect for me since I’m not super into full on romantasy most of the time. I certainly recommend this series for anyone looking for a fantasy with a healthy dose of romance.
*I received this as an eARC, but these are all my own thoughts. I this was a really fun book*
November 30, 2025
Thank you so much to the author for sharing a free copy of this ARC for me in exchange for an honest review!
A Glow from the Window is a strong and confident sequel that leans into aftermath rather than spectacle. Instead of rushing forward, it sits with Sahle’s grief, responsibility, and reluctance, and the result is a character arc that feels earned. Watching her move from overwhelmed to quietly powerful was one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
The world continues to expand in compelling ways, and the romance takes center stage. Slow burn, tension, and trope-driven chemistry are handled beautifully, and the dynamic between Sahle and Anson delivers on everything the first book hinted at.
I did wish for more action and political momentum, but the emotional depth and character work more than carry this installment. It’s a lush, grounded chapter in the series — one that prepares the stage for something bigger.
A Glow from the Window is a strong and confident sequel that leans into aftermath rather than spectacle. Instead of rushing forward, it sits with Sahle’s grief, responsibility, and reluctance, and the result is a character arc that feels earned. Watching her move from overwhelmed to quietly powerful was one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
The world continues to expand in compelling ways, and the romance takes center stage. Slow burn, tension, and trope-driven chemistry are handled beautifully, and the dynamic between Sahle and Anson delivers on everything the first book hinted at.
I did wish for more action and political momentum, but the emotional depth and character work more than carry this installment. It’s a lush, grounded chapter in the series — one that prepares the stage for something bigger.
November 28, 2025
This is an amazing sequel to A Certain Slant of Light. I love how this story is so character driven, getting to know the main characters and the way they think and feel is what draws me in more than anything else. It makes the endings even more high stakes when the plot intensifies.
Sahle is in such a transitionary stage in this book as she navigates the aftermath of the events in book one. Being thrust into a position of power and having the reality of that show its face in such a tragic way really allowed her to come into her own in book two, and I loved seeing her growth.
I am such a sucker for a slow burn, and this DELIVERED. The banter, the tension, everything was perfect. I’m so glad that it played out the way I wanted it to!
I can absolutely see the next installment diving even more heavily into the action and politics, and I’m so excited to continue this series! I definitely recommend this series to all lovers of fantasy and romantasy.
Sahle is in such a transitionary stage in this book as she navigates the aftermath of the events in book one. Being thrust into a position of power and having the reality of that show its face in such a tragic way really allowed her to come into her own in book two, and I loved seeing her growth.
I am such a sucker for a slow burn, and this DELIVERED. The banter, the tension, everything was perfect. I’m so glad that it played out the way I wanted it to!
I can absolutely see the next installment diving even more heavily into the action and politics, and I’m so excited to continue this series! I definitely recommend this series to all lovers of fantasy and romantasy.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews