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In Between Darkness
In a world where the time of your birth seals your fate forever, the lines between day and night are absolute.
Asha Calloway, born into daylight, is destined to receive her powers from the Sun Gods on her eighteenth birthday. Her future is bright, but a secret darkness plagues her.
Raised to fear the night and those who walk within it, Asha has always abided by the strict curfew that separates her people from the cursed Moonkind. The stories of their merciless powers and cruel Moon Gods are enough to keep her up at night.
But a week into her studies at an elite Sun academy, Asha's restless nights take a dangerous turn. A sleepwalking episode leads her past the boundaries of her world and directly into the path of Ryder Stormwood, a lethal and magnetic Moonkind.
He is everything she has been taught to fear... so why is she so drawn to him?
In a realm so intent on keeping light and dark separate, can love survive in the space between?
Asha Calloway, born into daylight, is destined to receive her powers from the Sun Gods on her eighteenth birthday. Her future is bright, but a secret darkness plagues her.
Raised to fear the night and those who walk within it, Asha has always abided by the strict curfew that separates her people from the cursed Moonkind. The stories of their merciless powers and cruel Moon Gods are enough to keep her up at night.
But a week into her studies at an elite Sun academy, Asha's restless nights take a dangerous turn. A sleepwalking episode leads her past the boundaries of her world and directly into the path of Ryder Stormwood, a lethal and magnetic Moonkind.
He is everything she has been taught to fear... so why is she so drawn to him?
In a realm so intent on keeping light and dark separate, can love survive in the space between?
600 pages, Paperback
Published September 22, 2025
1222 people are currently reading
10952 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
October 7, 2025
I really wanted to enjoy this book - the premise of it sounds so interesting but I’ve DNF’d it about 4% in. The writing is just terrible. It’s not well written at all, it sounds like something a high school student wrote up for English class. A real shame but the juvenile writing is such a turn off.
October 5, 2025
This book would make a good movie because the premise was interesting but the writing absolutely killed it. The entire book didn't use a word over middle school reading level. The fact that the author used the phrase "kisses his teeth together" at all should be a crime, but using it repeatedly, felony behavior. The author didn't respect their own readers intelligence, spelling out exactly what each action or dialogue meant after it happened. No nuance. No subtlety. The dialogue was as juvenile as the writing, which made the smut scene make me physically cringe. It was just overall a weird experience.
November 7, 2025
DNF- I really struggled to work out if I was enjoying this book or not but then I gave up at 74%. It’s such a shame because the plot has real potential, the magic system felt original, despite some parts of the story being very similar to forth wing. Bonding with flying things, mind speaking, shadow daddy. It was just so poorly written that I couldn’t get on board. The main characters had no chemistry, the banter was not bantering, important scenes felt rushed, the dialogue was basic. I actually stopped when the smut started as it made me cringe. I just wish this was executed better.
December 2, 2025
Okay so the premise of this book is great. Similar to Fourth Wing, different, unique magic system. However, the reading level is at a 7 th-9 th grade reading level, but with YA 16+ content. I.e. spice, drugs, alcohol etc. The writing and content do not mesh well.
Example of this:
The first bell cuts through me like a bullet to the brain. I groan and force myself to roll out of bed. My head is pounding, and I can feel my heartbeat in my temples. I wince and use my fingers to rub the sides of my head in circles to soothe the feeling.
What the fuck happened last night?
Now at a college reading level:
The first bell cleaves through the quiet with the precision of a bullet, jolting me into reluctant consciousness. I exhale a low groan and compel myself to peel away from the bed, though my body protests with every movement. A violent, throbbing ache reverberates behind my eyes, each pulse of my heartbeat hammering against my temples with unforgiving insistence. I press my fingertips to the sides of my skull, attempting slow, deliberate circles in a futile effort to temper the pain.
What the hell happened last night?
I think the author has a possible hit story. But needs to work on delivery, texture, and really polish it up.
Example of this:
The first bell cuts through me like a bullet to the brain. I groan and force myself to roll out of bed. My head is pounding, and I can feel my heartbeat in my temples. I wince and use my fingers to rub the sides of my head in circles to soothe the feeling.
What the fuck happened last night?
Now at a college reading level:
The first bell cleaves through the quiet with the precision of a bullet, jolting me into reluctant consciousness. I exhale a low groan and compel myself to peel away from the bed, though my body protests with every movement. A violent, throbbing ache reverberates behind my eyes, each pulse of my heartbeat hammering against my temples with unforgiving insistence. I press my fingertips to the sides of my skull, attempting slow, deliberate circles in a futile effort to temper the pain.
What the hell happened last night?
I think the author has a possible hit story. But needs to work on delivery, texture, and really polish it up.
October 7, 2025
Loved it !
The magic system is like nothing I ever read.
I just want more !!!
The magic system is like nothing I ever read.
I just want more !!!
October 23, 2025
needs work
Very good plot line, but the writing definitely needs some work. Some sentences sound too robotic and others are far too over explained. But otherwise can’t wait for the 2nd book!
Very good plot line, but the writing definitely needs some work. Some sentences sound too robotic and others are far too over explained. But otherwise can’t wait for the 2nd book!
September 25, 2025
The plot is absolutely perfect; it's not just clever, but delivered with a pace that keeps you in constant suspense right up until the final page. Every twist came at just the right moment, proving how masterfully designed the mystery was.
The characters, however, are the heart of this book. I empathized, worried, and even came to love the most controversial among them.
I highly recommend it to every fantasy lover looking for something more than a simple adventure. It’s a fantasy story that’s worth every minute of your time.
After the stunning conclusion, all I can say is: I am eagerly awaiting the release of the next installment!
The characters, however, are the heart of this book. I empathized, worried, and even came to love the most controversial among them.
I highly recommend it to every fantasy lover looking for something more than a simple adventure. It’s a fantasy story that’s worth every minute of your time.
After the stunning conclusion, all I can say is: I am eagerly awaiting the release of the next installment!
September 25, 2025
wow!
Well this book is seriously putting me into a slump .. I haven’t read anything like this & now I’m going to have to wait for the next one to get a fix again 🤯
Asha & Ryder are living rent free in my mind right now and for the foreseeable future - a fierce & loveable FMC & troubled but protective MMC .. yesss please 🥵 I can’t wait to see the rest of the characters grow with this series and where the world takes us. It literally can’t come soon enough 😍😍
Well this book is seriously putting me into a slump .. I haven’t read anything like this & now I’m going to have to wait for the next one to get a fix again 🤯
Asha & Ryder are living rent free in my mind right now and for the foreseeable future - a fierce & loveable FMC & troubled but protective MMC .. yesss please 🥵 I can’t wait to see the rest of the characters grow with this series and where the world takes us. It literally can’t come soon enough 😍😍
October 27, 2025
The writing wasn’t the most poetic thing I’ve ever read but the story was cool! I’ll read book 2 when it comes out
December 9, 2025
Okay, listen… this book ate. I stumbled across
In Between Darkness
on my TikTok FYP, thought “why not?”, and next thing I knew I’d accidentally inhaled it and was forcing my book club to read it for November. Zero regrets. Pure vibes. Peak debut energy in the best way.
We’ve got:
✨ Sunborn vs Moonkind
✨ Forbidden vibes
✨ Sass, banter, and chaotic chemistry
✨ A protective MMC who gives “touch her and die” effortlessly
✨ A heroine with a secret darkness of her own
✨ A cliffhanger that made me want to throw my Kindle to the moon
From page one, the tone is very Fourth Wing coded (in the same way Dire Bound is), but it never feels derivative. The world of Sun vs Moon, curfews, and fate-by-birthtime? So fun. So unique. And honestly, some of the twists actually got me, which is a rare treat when you read as much romantasy as I do.
Characters & Chaos (the highest compliment)
Asha is the definition of a sheltered Sun girl who suddenly realises the world is not nearly as black-and-white as she was first told. Her inner monologue had me snorting throughout e.g. when she’s on a particularly high cable cart with Nala, looks over, and goes:
Nala was such a fun bestie, even if I wished their friendship had more build-up. Still, she immediately brought the chaotic sunshine energy.
Craize the elion? I am obsessed. His Tairn-coded sarcasm had me rolling; he’s absolutely the creature sidekick I will be thinking about for months.
And River… oh River. He’s one of those characters where you’re loving him one chapter, and side-eyeing him the next. The emotional whiplash? Delicious.
But let’s get to the reason we’re all here.
Ryder Stormwood: certified problem.
This man??? This man is feral meets poetic meets menace with dimples. From the second he drops the iconic:
Their banter is honestly some of the best part of the book. The “stalker” jokes alone kept me alive:
And then the sleepwalking scene where Asha wakes up in his dorm:
But it’s not all jokes. Ryder’s protectiveness runs deep. When he finds Alex hurting her and loses all control, before later dressing her wounds himself, I felt that in my soul. And then in the quiet moments, like where Asha says:
His feelings for Asha are intense and messy and so believable for someone who’s grown up in a world that sees him as a monster:
And let’s not forget the most chaotic line in the whole book: my personal villain origin moment:
By the time Ryder whispered:
Plot, pacing, and that cruel little cliffhanger
The story moves fast, but not in a bad way. I was hooked the whole time. The lore is intriguing, the stakes get higher and higher, and Castleford manages to build tension and chemistry in equal measure.
Asha’s internal conflict, Ryder’s quiet sadness, River’s unpredictable loyalty, Craize providing unhinged commentary… it all just works.
And then the ending??? Dare I say Iron Flame vibes?
With all due respect: HOW DARE YOU?!
Book Two cannot come soon enough. I am feral for it.
Final Thoughts
If you love romantasy with enemies-to-lovers edges, forbidden vibes, banter, and an MMC who is one “stalker” joke away from ruining your life, this is for you.
4.5 stars.
A phenomenal indie debut, and I can’t wait to dive straight into the sequel the moment it drops because, as River says:
We’ve got:
✨ Sunborn vs Moonkind
✨ Forbidden vibes
✨ Sass, banter, and chaotic chemistry
✨ A protective MMC who gives “touch her and die” effortlessly
✨ A heroine with a secret darkness of her own
✨ A cliffhanger that made me want to throw my Kindle to the moon
From page one, the tone is very Fourth Wing coded (in the same way Dire Bound is), but it never feels derivative. The world of Sun vs Moon, curfews, and fate-by-birthtime? So fun. So unique. And honestly, some of the twists actually got me, which is a rare treat when you read as much romantasy as I do.
Characters & Chaos (the highest compliment)
Asha is the definition of a sheltered Sun girl who suddenly realises the world is not nearly as black-and-white as she was first told. Her inner monologue had me snorting throughout e.g. when she’s on a particularly high cable cart with Nala, looks over, and goes:
“We are very high up now. Lucky for me, heights are not one of my fears. I turn and look at Nala, who has never looked happier. I am starting to think she is some kind of psychopath.”I love her. She’s sweet, sarcastic, a little unhinged, and very much going through a crisis of identity.
Nala was such a fun bestie, even if I wished their friendship had more build-up. Still, she immediately brought the chaotic sunshine energy.
Craize the elion? I am obsessed. His Tairn-coded sarcasm had me rolling; he’s absolutely the creature sidekick I will be thinking about for months.
And River… oh River. He’s one of those characters where you’re loving him one chapter, and side-eyeing him the next. The emotional whiplash? Delicious.
But let’s get to the reason we’re all here.
Ryder Stormwood: certified problem.
This man??? This man is feral meets poetic meets menace with dimples. From the second he drops the iconic:
“Those eyes, I’d remember you anywhere."…I knew I was done for.
Their banter is honestly some of the best part of the book. The “stalker” jokes alone kept me alive:
“I’m not the one watching strangers in the forest at night… Stalker.”HELLO??? I was giggling. I was kicking my feet like I was 14 again.
“Oh, please, why would I want to stalk someone like you?”
“Because maybe the sweet little Sun girl wants a taste of the darkness.”
And then the sleepwalking scene where Asha wakes up in his dorm:
“You’re in my dorm room, Asha. I know I called you a stalker, but this is taking the piss…”I actually wheezed.
But it’s not all jokes. Ryder’s protectiveness runs deep. When he finds Alex hurting her and loses all control, before later dressing her wounds himself, I felt that in my soul. And then in the quiet moments, like where Asha says:
“Silence surrounds us… I never thought a Moon could make me feel so safe.”That’s when I knew we were in trouble.
His feelings for Asha are intense and messy and so believable for someone who’s grown up in a world that sees him as a monster:
“When I saw him hurting you, all I could think about was how many ways I could make him suffer.”I am unwell.
“Maybe I am dangerous, but I would never hurt you.”
And let’s not forget the most chaotic line in the whole book: my personal villain origin moment:
“Don’t worry, I didn’t see anything.I had to put the book down and collect myself.
Red looks good on you, though.”
By the time Ryder whispered:
“I love you, stalker.”…I was simply no longer human.
Plot, pacing, and that cruel little cliffhanger
The story moves fast, but not in a bad way. I was hooked the whole time. The lore is intriguing, the stakes get higher and higher, and Castleford manages to build tension and chemistry in equal measure.
Asha’s internal conflict, Ryder’s quiet sadness, River’s unpredictable loyalty, Craize providing unhinged commentary… it all just works.
And then the ending??? Dare I say Iron Flame vibes?
With all due respect: HOW DARE YOU?!
Book Two cannot come soon enough. I am feral for it.
Final Thoughts
If you love romantasy with enemies-to-lovers edges, forbidden vibes, banter, and an MMC who is one “stalker” joke away from ruining your life, this is for you.
4.5 stars.
A phenomenal indie debut, and I can’t wait to dive straight into the sequel the moment it drops because, as River says:
“I was really starting to like you.”…same, River. Same.
November 1, 2025
Loved the magic in here. I love a strong FMC and the fighting scenes. I wish there was a bit more description in some areas like the animals and the faces of them. I feel the description was focused on the feet and wings.
Also would like to learn more of how the roommate and her became best friends instead of it being implied since they were roommates, as they talked maybe a handful of times and she kept saying she was blowing her off to be with Ryder so didn’t make sense how Charlie ended up knowing what was going on to be able to report back to his mom.I get that he was a deceiver but I was a bit confused on others powers as she lowkey skipped all her classes or maybe I rushed over that part.
I was also a bit confused as to why Alex didn’t question her or say anything on why a night person (Ryder) was on the sun side when Ryder came out swinging lol or maybe I’m imagining the map wrong and it’s somewhere in between both colleges. I just expected a bit more hatred on his side since he was yapping how they were ugly and disgusting in class so was strange to see him back down so fast
Over all great concept good story line just wish there was more a bit more character background/detail also I kept trying to think how do you kiss teeth I kept trying it lol when I saw it was just a lil giggle
Ps I loved this book I think it’s great the author is very nice and sweet she took time out of her day and answered some questions I had.
I am excited and hope for a book 2 even if it ends up being a bigger book to get everything in I would love to read it. Also low key high key wanted the end to be a why choose cuz River is adorable 😭🫶🏼
Also would like to learn more of how the roommate and her became best friends instead of it being implied since they were roommates, as they talked maybe a handful of times and she kept saying she was blowing her off to be with Ryder so didn’t make sense how Charlie ended up knowing what was going on to be able to report back to his mom.I get that he was a deceiver but I was a bit confused on others powers as she lowkey skipped all her classes or maybe I rushed over that part.
I was also a bit confused as to why Alex didn’t question her or say anything on why a night person (Ryder) was on the sun side when Ryder came out swinging lol or maybe I’m imagining the map wrong and it’s somewhere in between both colleges. I just expected a bit more hatred on his side since he was yapping how they were ugly and disgusting in class so was strange to see him back down so fast
Over all great concept good story line just wish there was more a bit more character background/detail also I kept trying to think how do you kiss teeth I kept trying it lol when I saw it was just a lil giggle
Ps I loved this book I think it’s great the author is very nice and sweet she took time out of her day and answered some questions I had.
I am excited and hope for a book 2 even if it ends up being a bigger book to get everything in I would love to read it. Also low key high key wanted the end to be a why choose cuz River is adorable 😭🫶🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
3.5 STARS
First book of 2026 is finished—I really enjoyed the start of this one, the middle kind of lost me but I did enjoy the ending or more like this one part of the ending.
I felt like the sorry was somewhat basic and maybe that’s not the best way to explain it. But it’s supposed to be a fantasy but also felt less fantasy at times and more like a modern contemporary romance. Which just threw me.
Plus there was one moment where in a life or death situation the FMC says “don’t be silly” and in all honestly that felt off. Like read the room girl.
Great for a debut book but idk if I want to pick up the second one whenever it releases.
First book of 2026 is finished—I really enjoyed the start of this one, the middle kind of lost me but I did enjoy the ending or more like this one part of the ending.
I felt like the sorry was somewhat basic and maybe that’s not the best way to explain it. But it’s supposed to be a fantasy but also felt less fantasy at times and more like a modern contemporary romance. Which just threw me.
Plus there was one moment where in a life or death situation the FMC says “don’t be silly” and in all honestly that felt off. Like read the room girl.
Great for a debut book but idk if I want to pick up the second one whenever it releases.
November 7, 2025
Wow what a great book! I am a fourth wing junky currently and was looking for another great read. I came across this author on tik tok and her book got my attention. In this world or light and dark,sun and moon, we follow the journey of our young main character Asha! We meet friends and foes along the way as she learns to wield her unexpected powers and learns the secrets of her birth. This book not only held my attention but demanded to be finish leaving me on a cliff hanger wanting more! I cannot wait for the next book to come out in January!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2025
I'm sorry but I had to DNF this book... I got about 5 chapters in and even though the premise of the book is fantastic, the writing of the book was throwing me off as if I was reading a child's essay for school.
If the book gets republished and is written a little more better than what it is I'll take another crack at it.
If the book gets republished and is written a little more better than what it is I'll take another crack at it.
December 24, 2025
I loved this book! I had learnt that I had the newer updated KU version so I feel that previous reviews on here were for the original version - worth keeping in mind!
What a fantastic story! I loved the magic system and the lore of the Light & Dark. I really enjoyed the slow burn between the characters and the action towards the middle to end of the book.
Can't wait for book 2....how can one sentence draw so much emotion!!!!!
What a fantastic story! I loved the magic system and the lore of the Light & Dark. I really enjoyed the slow burn between the characters and the action towards the middle to end of the book.
Can't wait for book 2....how can one sentence draw so much emotion!!!!!
October 29, 2025
This was such a fun read! I am left wanting more and wish the second book was out!! Totally devoured this book. I loved the magic, the world and am left wanting more.
November 17, 2025
DNF at 76%. Idea was good but that’s about it. I never DNF books and I rarely write a review. But this was categorically the worst written fantasy book I’ve ever tried to read. It was so juvenile in the way it was written. Every problem that the FMC had… it was magically fixed on the second try at it. There was no depth to the characters, there was an attempt to fit in every basic trope and they all were done awfully. The spicy scene made me want to cringe. SO many plot holes. FMC could magically portal places but conveniently chose not to when it didn’t fit in the storyline. The only good thing about the book was the idea and everything else was basic and also executed terribly. A good example of how NOT to write a book.
November 11, 2025
Lately I’ve been downloading free samples of books I’m interested in to make sure I like the writing style. For this book I am so glad I did.
I read up until chapter four and could not read any further.. it felt as if I was reading one of my own stories I wrote when I was a teenager. The thoughts of the FMC felt robotic, the sentences were short and some things were overexplained. For instance, isn’t it obvious curls stretch when they get wet and shrink when they dry? Why does it matter to even mention this in the book.
In addition, the interaction with the sidekick felt so obvious, unnatural and rushed to me. It just made me cringe the entire time.
So many people seem to love it and it makes me wonder if it’s just me - but by reading some of the other reviews I can conclude that the writing style needs a big adjustment.
The plot was really interesting to me and that’s why I think it has potential. It’s what got me interested but I definitely prefer a more complex writing style.
I read up until chapter four and could not read any further.. it felt as if I was reading one of my own stories I wrote when I was a teenager. The thoughts of the FMC felt robotic, the sentences were short and some things were overexplained. For instance, isn’t it obvious curls stretch when they get wet and shrink when they dry? Why does it matter to even mention this in the book.
In addition, the interaction with the sidekick felt so obvious, unnatural and rushed to me. It just made me cringe the entire time.
So many people seem to love it and it makes me wonder if it’s just me - but by reading some of the other reviews I can conclude that the writing style needs a big adjustment.
The plot was really interesting to me and that’s why I think it has potential. It’s what got me interested but I definitely prefer a more complex writing style.
October 16, 2025
I gave up after the first two chapters. Is this supposed to be for 14 yr olds? Because that’s what the writing reflects. It was so hard to get past which is a shame because the premise is actually intriguing.
September 29, 2025
I was very fortunate enough to be chosen as a beta reader for this amazing new author and the first instalment of this fast paced adventure blew me away from the first page to the cliff-hanger on the last page. I loved it so much I purchased the book on Monday and read it again in a few days. Second time around and it is as brilliant as the first reading.
The characters are vividly realistic, as is the description of the academy, landscape and the beautiful but dangerous creatures that have been brought to life within the story.
The tense and tumultuous relationship between Asha Calloway and Ryder Stormwood kept me turning the pages, the adventure that ensued was riveting and exciting and one particular scene between Asha and her best friend Nala was written with such emotional depth, it reduced me to tears.
I would love to write more, but I don’t want to give out any spoilers. All I can say is that if you are a reader who loves romance, fantasy, adventure, magic and humour (yes, there are laugh out loud moments too!) then this is THE book to read!
I am so excited to read the second instalment. It can’t come soon enough!
The characters are vividly realistic, as is the description of the academy, landscape and the beautiful but dangerous creatures that have been brought to life within the story.
The tense and tumultuous relationship between Asha Calloway and Ryder Stormwood kept me turning the pages, the adventure that ensued was riveting and exciting and one particular scene between Asha and her best friend Nala was written with such emotional depth, it reduced me to tears.
I would love to write more, but I don’t want to give out any spoilers. All I can say is that if you are a reader who loves romance, fantasy, adventure, magic and humour (yes, there are laugh out loud moments too!) then this is THE book to read!
I am so excited to read the second instalment. It can’t come soon enough!
October 29, 2025
The writing was horrible. Did a middle schooler write this? AI? It sounded like a good premise but I made it about 100 pages in and threw in the towel. Just bad writing.
December 22, 2025
It is so rare that I see a bookish Instagram reel, pause, and immediately go “Yep. Reading that. Right now.” But that’s exactly what happened with In Between Darkness, and honestly? Zero regrets. The lore, the magic system, the whole light‑vs‑dark tension wrapped in forbidden love and hidden identities… I was hooked from page one and happily dragged along for the ride.
One of my favourite elements was the setting and the magic system. The idea that people inherit powers of light or dark based purely on the time of day they’re born? Absolutely brilliant — and genuinely something I’ve never come across before. I loved learning this world through Asha’s eyes, discovering the lore piece by piece rather than being dumped with exposition. It made the world feel alive, mysterious, and beautifully immersive. Just great worldbuilding all round.
Asha is such a refreshing heroine. Fearless, kind‑hearted, and so much tougher than anyone gives her credit for. She stands up to bullies, stares down a deadly elion to protect her best friend Nala, and faces every prejudice she’s ever been taught the moment she meets Moonkind Ryder Stormwood. She’s witty, stubborn in the best way, and when the truth of her past and her destiny hits her, she doesn’t crumble—she rises. She gave me major Violet Sorrengail vibes, and I welcomed it with open arms.
And then there’s Ryder. My broody Shadow Daddy dreams have been answered. He is everything: cocky, sarcastic, wickedly witty, ridiculously strong, fiercely protective of his people… and an absolute softie where Asha is concerned. He pushes her, teases her, challenges her, and slowly—so slowly—lets those walls fall. Every scene with them crackled. Their chemistry? Electric.
I also adored the friendship between Asha and Nala. From the very beginning, they’re each other’s safe place. They laugh, they banter, they protect each other with a ferocity that made my heart swell. And then Castleton hits us with a twist that absolutely shredded me… only to stitch me back together moments later. Evil. Brilliant. I loved it.
The stakes stay high throughout, with tension and mystery woven so well that I couldn’t stop turning pages. And that cliffhanger? I felt it in my soul. I’m already counting down the days until I can reunite with Asha, Nala, and Ryder in book two.
If you love magic, morally grey men, fierce heroines, and friendships that feel like home, In Between Darkness needs to be on your TBR immediately.
One of my favourite elements was the setting and the magic system. The idea that people inherit powers of light or dark based purely on the time of day they’re born? Absolutely brilliant — and genuinely something I’ve never come across before. I loved learning this world through Asha’s eyes, discovering the lore piece by piece rather than being dumped with exposition. It made the world feel alive, mysterious, and beautifully immersive. Just great worldbuilding all round.
Asha is such a refreshing heroine. Fearless, kind‑hearted, and so much tougher than anyone gives her credit for. She stands up to bullies, stares down a deadly elion to protect her best friend Nala, and faces every prejudice she’s ever been taught the moment she meets Moonkind Ryder Stormwood. She’s witty, stubborn in the best way, and when the truth of her past and her destiny hits her, she doesn’t crumble—she rises. She gave me major Violet Sorrengail vibes, and I welcomed it with open arms.
And then there’s Ryder. My broody Shadow Daddy dreams have been answered. He is everything: cocky, sarcastic, wickedly witty, ridiculously strong, fiercely protective of his people… and an absolute softie where Asha is concerned. He pushes her, teases her, challenges her, and slowly—so slowly—lets those walls fall. Every scene with them crackled. Their chemistry? Electric.
I also adored the friendship between Asha and Nala. From the very beginning, they’re each other’s safe place. They laugh, they banter, they protect each other with a ferocity that made my heart swell. And then Castleton hits us with a twist that absolutely shredded me… only to stitch me back together moments later. Evil. Brilliant. I loved it.
The stakes stay high throughout, with tension and mystery woven so well that I couldn’t stop turning pages. And that cliffhanger? I felt it in my soul. I’m already counting down the days until I can reunite with Asha, Nala, and Ryder in book two.
If you love magic, morally grey men, fierce heroines, and friendships that feel like home, In Between Darkness needs to be on your TBR immediately.
January 7, 2026
Asha is a sun and Ryder is a moon. Suns and moons don’t mingle. They go to schools next to each other. The suns are out in the day and the moons are out during the night. But Asha can see the moon school from her dorm window and she watches Ryder. Then suddenly she dream walks to him which is a weird thing to do. And so begins their wild relationship. On the night of her 18th birthday she is visited by the god who will give her her gifts. But she isn’t visited by a sun god because she’s not actually a sun. She is a star and that is the product of a sun mom and a moon dad. Turns out they can mingle but all the star people were killed off. Now she and Ryder have to fix what the world broke. Asha can ride these lion eagle things and Ryder has a sky serpent - also extinct.
There’s a magic book that Asha has to find and figure out some shit. And there’s river, a nice boy who she likes but she needs Ryder because Ryder is where it’s at.
Moons keep disappearing and they find out that they are being taken to this secret mountain lab and experimented on. Turns out this bitch teacher lady at the sun school is making a new race of stars using sky serpent blood that they stole from this sky serpent they trapped 29 years ago - the son of ryders sky serpent. But the moons the experiment on aren’t responding well. They make a plan to go rescue everyone. Then they find out ryders adoptive father who leads the army is actually a bad guy. Shit hits the fan. They break out all the moons and the sky serpent but everyone gets recaptured and then they start taking Asha’s blood.
Ryders bad guy dad turns him into a weapon to kill Asha. But that doesn’t work. They have a whole fight and then she blasts the place open and flings Ryder around. Ryder doesn’t want to kill Asha so he kills homself. River finds Asha and she won’t leave a dead Ryder so River says he will carry him out before the place self destructs. The evil teacher and Ryders dad are dead.
They get outside and then she sees River and Ryder are all purple and shit and it turns out they’re twins - one moon and one sun and river saves Ryder with his twin energy. The serpents bow to Asha. The flying lion bows to Asha. Asha tells the people that they’re going to intermingle now and things will be good.
But Ryders eyes have some purple in them so that’s a little scary the end.
# In Between Darkness (The Starcrossed Saga #1)
# 1/5/2026 ~ 1/7/2026
# 5.0 / 5.0
There’s a magic book that Asha has to find and figure out some shit. And there’s river, a nice boy who she likes but she needs Ryder because Ryder is where it’s at.
Moons keep disappearing and they find out that they are being taken to this secret mountain lab and experimented on. Turns out this bitch teacher lady at the sun school is making a new race of stars using sky serpent blood that they stole from this sky serpent they trapped 29 years ago - the son of ryders sky serpent. But the moons the experiment on aren’t responding well. They make a plan to go rescue everyone. Then they find out ryders adoptive father who leads the army is actually a bad guy. Shit hits the fan. They break out all the moons and the sky serpent but everyone gets recaptured and then they start taking Asha’s blood.
Ryders bad guy dad turns him into a weapon to kill Asha. But that doesn’t work. They have a whole fight and then she blasts the place open and flings Ryder around. Ryder doesn’t want to kill Asha so he kills homself. River finds Asha and she won’t leave a dead Ryder so River says he will carry him out before the place self destructs. The evil teacher and Ryders dad are dead.
They get outside and then she sees River and Ryder are all purple and shit and it turns out they’re twins - one moon and one sun and river saves Ryder with his twin energy. The serpents bow to Asha. The flying lion bows to Asha. Asha tells the people that they’re going to intermingle now and things will be good.
But Ryders eyes have some purple in them so that’s a little scary the end.
# In Between Darkness (The Starcrossed Saga #1)
# 1/5/2026 ~ 1/7/2026
# 5.0 / 5.0
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2026
I stumbled across this book completely by luck on Instagram after seeing a video posted by the author, and the synopsis instantly hooked me. I shared it with friends, downloaded it, and ended up finishing the entire book within 24 hours — which says a lot on its own.
From the very beginning, the story had me completely engaged and I never found myself bored. It’s a highly entertaining read with a unique magic system that feels fresh, especially with its focus on the sun and moon as the core of the magical world. That twist alone gave the story a distinct identity and made the worldbuilding stand out.
Although the book is described as a dark romance, I personally don’t fully agree with that label. That said, I still absolutely loved the story. The relationship development is more of a slow burn, which worked really well and made the emotional connections feel earned rather than rushed. I also really enjoyed the creatures and the bonds formed with them — those elements added depth and intrigue to the world.
I’ve seen some negative comments about the author’s writing style being “young,” but I think that criticism misses the point. The story is written from the perspective of a teenage girl, and the voice fits that viewpoint perfectly. If anything, I’d say the author did a great job capturing that tone authentically.
One of the biggest highlights for me was the ending. There were several revelations that genuinely surprised me, which is rare since I don’t often get caught off guard by plot twists in books. Those moments really elevated the story and left me eager for what comes next.
Overall, I think this is a fantastic first installment in what has the potential to be an amazing series. So much happens in this book, yet it still feels very much like the beginning of a much larger journey. You can tell there’s a lot more in store for these characters, and I absolutely cannot wait to read more.
From the very beginning, the story had me completely engaged and I never found myself bored. It’s a highly entertaining read with a unique magic system that feels fresh, especially with its focus on the sun and moon as the core of the magical world. That twist alone gave the story a distinct identity and made the worldbuilding stand out.
Although the book is described as a dark romance, I personally don’t fully agree with that label. That said, I still absolutely loved the story. The relationship development is more of a slow burn, which worked really well and made the emotional connections feel earned rather than rushed. I also really enjoyed the creatures and the bonds formed with them — those elements added depth and intrigue to the world.
I’ve seen some negative comments about the author’s writing style being “young,” but I think that criticism misses the point. The story is written from the perspective of a teenage girl, and the voice fits that viewpoint perfectly. If anything, I’d say the author did a great job capturing that tone authentically.
One of the biggest highlights for me was the ending. There were several revelations that genuinely surprised me, which is rare since I don’t often get caught off guard by plot twists in books. Those moments really elevated the story and left me eager for what comes next.
Overall, I think this is a fantastic first installment in what has the potential to be an amazing series. So much happens in this book, yet it still feels very much like the beginning of a much larger journey. You can tell there’s a lot more in store for these characters, and I absolutely cannot wait to read more.
November 12, 2025
Good premise and world-building, but mixed execution
What worked well:
The concept of a world divided between “Sun-kind” and “Moon-kind,” and the idea of a protagonist who doesn’t fit the expected mold, is strong and engaging. The setting and its rules gave me plenty to imagine and care about. The magic system and the academy setting provide interesting conflict and stakes. The forbidden draw between Asha and Ryder adds emotional tension that works. It was an easy read, with a pace that kept things moving and a story I was curious to see through. Many readers will find enjoyment in the twists and the characters’ discoveries.
Where it fell short / why not 4 or 5 stars:
The writing style felt uneven at times. The prose leans toward the simpler side, with predictable phrasing, a high frequency of “I”-statements, and occasional over-explanation of what the characters are thinking or feeling. While the world and plot had freshness, the emotional connection between characters or the depth of some relationships didn’t always feel fully realised. I found myself wanting more from certain arcs before moving on.
Some parts of the narrative felt rushed or slightly under-developed (for example, back-story or certain plot transitions), which limited immersion for me.
Final thoughts:
If you’re looking for a light-to-medium fantasy romance with an interesting premise, lots of potential and a setting that offers scope for what might come next, this book delivers a satisfying start. However, if you prefer very polished prose, deep emotional exploration of characters or a fully self-contained arc, you might feel a bit of what could have been. I’m hopeful for what comes next from the author, and I’ll likely continue with the series.
Three stars — a solid read, and with some refinement it could be even stronger.
What worked well:
The concept of a world divided between “Sun-kind” and “Moon-kind,” and the idea of a protagonist who doesn’t fit the expected mold, is strong and engaging. The setting and its rules gave me plenty to imagine and care about. The magic system and the academy setting provide interesting conflict and stakes. The forbidden draw between Asha and Ryder adds emotional tension that works. It was an easy read, with a pace that kept things moving and a story I was curious to see through. Many readers will find enjoyment in the twists and the characters’ discoveries.
Where it fell short / why not 4 or 5 stars:
The writing style felt uneven at times. The prose leans toward the simpler side, with predictable phrasing, a high frequency of “I”-statements, and occasional over-explanation of what the characters are thinking or feeling. While the world and plot had freshness, the emotional connection between characters or the depth of some relationships didn’t always feel fully realised. I found myself wanting more from certain arcs before moving on.
Some parts of the narrative felt rushed or slightly under-developed (for example, back-story or certain plot transitions), which limited immersion for me.
Final thoughts:
If you’re looking for a light-to-medium fantasy romance with an interesting premise, lots of potential and a setting that offers scope for what might come next, this book delivers a satisfying start. However, if you prefer very polished prose, deep emotional exploration of characters or a fully self-contained arc, you might feel a bit of what could have been. I’m hopeful for what comes next from the author, and I’ll likely continue with the series.
Three stars — a solid read, and with some refinement it could be even stronger.
December 7, 2025
I actually really enjoyed this book and it was a breath of fresh air not reading the overdone (but loved) same fae/vampire fantasy worlds.
I liked the Moonkind and sunkind being enemies and having to live separately. The Sunkind are stronger and out during the day and Moonkind are stronger and out during the night. Even towns had curfews so they did not overlap, basically if they see each other someone is gunna die.
The setting is them in magic college/school for when they obtain their gifts from the gods on their 18th bday.
There were different gods for different powers and no sun and moon god were shared. There are two schools one for sun and moon but close together.
The forbidden enemies to lovers was exciting and had higher stakes than usual. It’s the same “she’s different she’s going to save the world!” Which I feel is what a lot of us enjoy. I 100% recommend this book and just try to get through the first bit if you can, it gets better.
There are some spelling issues I noticed, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the book at all. One thing I do wish was done differently is sometimes the author goes into great detail and really sets the scene before an event so you can really visualize it. Other times it feels like some are rushed and doesn’t give the same effect, a scene goes 40-100 real fast and it feels.. abrupt.
I do hope in the next book there’s more talk about the world outside of the schools.
I liked the Moonkind and sunkind being enemies and having to live separately. The Sunkind are stronger and out during the day and Moonkind are stronger and out during the night. Even towns had curfews so they did not overlap, basically if they see each other someone is gunna die.
The setting is them in magic college/school for when they obtain their gifts from the gods on their 18th bday.
There were different gods for different powers and no sun and moon god were shared. There are two schools one for sun and moon but close together.
The forbidden enemies to lovers was exciting and had higher stakes than usual. It’s the same “she’s different she’s going to save the world!” Which I feel is what a lot of us enjoy. I 100% recommend this book and just try to get through the first bit if you can, it gets better.
There are some spelling issues I noticed, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the book at all. One thing I do wish was done differently is sometimes the author goes into great detail and really sets the scene before an event so you can really visualize it. Other times it feels like some are rushed and doesn’t give the same effect, a scene goes 40-100 real fast and it feels.. abrupt.
I do hope in the next book there’s more talk about the world outside of the schools.
October 15, 2025
I first came across this book through the author’s TikTok as one of her videos showed up on my FYP. From the minute I saw her synopsis on the story, I knew it was going to be something I’d enjoy. Fantasy is a genre I’ve not really read a lot of since I was a kid but have started to again within the past year with the likes of the ACOTAR series and similar. I definitely put this first book in the trilogy up there with the others I’ve read recently.
I loved getting immersed in this new magical world. The author creates a colourful picture of Palidonia and the sun and moon kinds. There is no detail too small and I got lost in the story within the first few chapters. The FMC & MMC have great chemistry and their slow burn is 🥵
There were so many twists and things I wasn’t expecting. I’m usually good at being able to guess what’s coming next but I didn’t predict how this story was going to unfold. I loved not being able to already figure it out before things happened.
I definitely recommend giving this book a read. You will fall in love with Asha and Ryder and the story. 10/10 for me and I cannot wait for book two.
I loved getting immersed in this new magical world. The author creates a colourful picture of Palidonia and the sun and moon kinds. There is no detail too small and I got lost in the story within the first few chapters. The FMC & MMC have great chemistry and their slow burn is 🥵
There were so many twists and things I wasn’t expecting. I’m usually good at being able to guess what’s coming next but I didn’t predict how this story was going to unfold. I loved not being able to already figure it out before things happened.
I definitely recommend giving this book a read. You will fall in love with Asha and Ryder and the story. 10/10 for me and I cannot wait for book two.
December 2, 2025
Wow , I came across this book by chance and I was not disappointed.
From the beginning I was hooked , it has a magic system and world that I’ve not read of before . It centre’s around sun and moon people .
It follows Asha and her journey to find out who she is , which is the centre of the plot . I was rooting for her from the minute I met her . She wasn’t annoying and I didn’t feel frustrated or annoyed at her at any point . She is a child of the sun , but is she !!
As the story progresses we find out a little bit more about the world and Asha’s journey of self discovery.
There are enemies to lovers , both would burn the world for each other . We see friendship made and break along the way .
Plot twists in the world which I really don’t expect and some great magical creatures along the way .
For a first book from the author you can tell she loves fantasy and I’m so looking forward to book two to see how she can top this one .
This should be all over BookTok and would make a great movie franchise.
I definitely recommend as I read a lot of fantasy but didn’t expect this story and haven’t come across something like this before.
From the beginning I was hooked , it has a magic system and world that I’ve not read of before . It centre’s around sun and moon people .
It follows Asha and her journey to find out who she is , which is the centre of the plot . I was rooting for her from the minute I met her . She wasn’t annoying and I didn’t feel frustrated or annoyed at her at any point . She is a child of the sun , but is she !!
As the story progresses we find out a little bit more about the world and Asha’s journey of self discovery.
There are enemies to lovers , both would burn the world for each other . We see friendship made and break along the way .
Plot twists in the world which I really don’t expect and some great magical creatures along the way .
For a first book from the author you can tell she loves fantasy and I’m so looking forward to book two to see how she can top this one .
This should be all over BookTok and would make a great movie franchise.
I definitely recommend as I read a lot of fantasy but didn’t expect this story and haven’t come across something like this before.
September 24, 2025
If this book is not on your TBR it needs to be, my heart was stolen by the characters and the world of this book!
This book follows Asha Calloway and her journey discovering her powers. The magic each character gets will be discovered their 18th birthday, however the time they are born will matter greatly, if they are born during the day they will be sunkind, these powers are helpful, gifts!
If are born during the night they will be moonkind, which their powers can be destructive, harmful, only awake during the night which is where Ryder Stormwood resides.
The sunkind and moonkind are forbidden to interact!
Asha is born into sunkind but plaged with insomnia and sleepwalking, often finding herself places she shouldn’t be!
The romantic elements of this book are on point!
In between darkness has such an amazing plot and I loved every second of reading it, there are so many twists and turns you don’t see coming, that just pull you in.
Bonus there are magical creatures too !
This book follows Asha Calloway and her journey discovering her powers. The magic each character gets will be discovered their 18th birthday, however the time they are born will matter greatly, if they are born during the day they will be sunkind, these powers are helpful, gifts!
If are born during the night they will be moonkind, which their powers can be destructive, harmful, only awake during the night which is where Ryder Stormwood resides.
The sunkind and moonkind are forbidden to interact!
Asha is born into sunkind but plaged with insomnia and sleepwalking, often finding herself places she shouldn’t be!
The romantic elements of this book are on point!
In between darkness has such an amazing plot and I loved every second of reading it, there are so many twists and turns you don’t see coming, that just pull you in.
Bonus there are magical creatures too !
November 9, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. The premise is SO unique and unlike anything I have read before. I will absolutely be reading the next book in January when it releases.
The only reason I did not give 5 stars was due to the spicy scene. It was very wordy and really did not match the tone or writing of the rest of the book; there were too many variations in the descriptions of their sexual interactions and it just sounded a little off to me. I felt it was trying too hard to be spicy rather than just embracing Asha and Ryder’s attraction for one another and letting it come naturally. It felt forced and kind of threw off the build up to them finally getting together for me.
Apart from this, I really enjoyed MJ Castleton’s story telling and world building. The characters were fascinating, the world, magic, and creatures were easy to understand and visualize, and the story flowed well. Can’t wait for the next book!!
The only reason I did not give 5 stars was due to the spicy scene. It was very wordy and really did not match the tone or writing of the rest of the book; there were too many variations in the descriptions of their sexual interactions and it just sounded a little off to me. I felt it was trying too hard to be spicy rather than just embracing Asha and Ryder’s attraction for one another and letting it come naturally. It felt forced and kind of threw off the build up to them finally getting together for me.
Apart from this, I really enjoyed MJ Castleton’s story telling and world building. The characters were fascinating, the world, magic, and creatures were easy to understand and visualize, and the story flowed well. Can’t wait for the next book!!
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