A Slip Between Realms

by Darby Cox, Courtney Evans (Editor), Mariyana Swisher (Illustrator)

When Layla Ashford, an orphaned college girl with a loyalty to no one but her younger brother, Lucas, stumbles through a tear between worlds, she discovers a realm where magic is currency and desire is dangerous. Caught between the duty of finding her missing brother and the pull of the realm she has entered, she must risk everything to find Lucas, or bide her time with the mysterious half elves that took her in and learn the truth behind what actually happened to her brother---or who took him.

As Layla learns to navigate this perilous realm, she uncovers secrets that make her the key to its survival---and its destruction. But every second that ticks by has a price, and every breath she takes isn't just for Lucas, but for Aaren, the half elf leader with a burden too heavy to shoulder on his own. The longer she stays in this realm, the closer she is pulled to a destiny that could unravel both of their worlds. And not even fate knows what lies in store for Layla if she fails.

552 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 5, 2026

Reviews

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantasy and folklore are not my usual genres, but Darby’s writing pulled me entirely into the world she created. The mythology-rich storytelling, folklore influences, and atmospheric pacing (plus the bonus of super hot main characters!) made the experience immersive from the very beginning.

This is a mythic fantasy that beautifully balances emotional depth with world-building. The characters feel grounded and human, the themes linger quietly beneath the surface, and the sense of crossing between realms is handled with nuance rather than spectacle.

If you enjoy folklore-inspired fantasy, myth and legend, or stories that feel both intimate and otherworldly, A Slip Between Realms is absolutely worth reading.

[Tegan novelteereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t think you’re prepared to read this origin story, which takes you on a FULL magical journey. Layla’s life is relatable in the beginning, but when her younger brother disappears, she shows admirable strength through it all. Brace yourself for a new world that brings battle training, heated shows of affection (even if they tell themselves they’re just friends/ allies), underlying magic, epic quests, danger, and spice 🔥 The intensity of the last 15-25% of the book had me out of breath, speechless, and wholly intoxicated on the tale.

[Britney Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Next Tolkien

I don’t even know where to start. Darby is the new Tolkien with a mix of erotica. From the very first slip into Alveland, I was immersed. It’s impossible to untangle yourself from the characters as their rich story unfolds. No spoilers here, but I can’t wait for Winter 2027 and the second book of the series.

[Samantha Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great story! I read through the entire book in 2 days. I couldn't put it down. Highly recommend this book for fans of Sarah Maas (Rhrone of Glass) and Devney Perry (Shield of Sparrows).

[Michelle Deal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book! I bought this when I was on vacation and met the author in the shop. So fun to read something where I had met the author! Can’t wait for the next one!

[Regan Isles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met the author for this book at an Alex Warren concert, so I knew it was going to be good; however, this ending absolutely wrecked me. No one talk to me until I can recover.