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The Darkness Between Us: The Starcrossed Saga Book 2
Things are not as they seem in Palidonia...
When the fabric of Asha’s world begins to unravel, the madness spreading through the land becomes impossible to ignore—especially as it begins to claim the one person she cannot afford to lose.
Ryder’s eyes flare with a warning he never speaks, and the cure that might save him could be the very thing that dooms them all.
Desperate, Asha ventures into lands no sane person would enter, chasing a cure whispered about like a fairytale.
As Palidonia teeters on the edge of collapse, Asha must decide how far she is willing to go.
Can she save Ryder without destroying what remains of her world, or will everything she loves burn to the ground?
When the fabric of Asha’s world begins to unravel, the madness spreading through the land becomes impossible to ignore—especially as it begins to claim the one person she cannot afford to lose.
Ryder’s eyes flare with a warning he never speaks, and the cure that might save him could be the very thing that dooms them all.
Desperate, Asha ventures into lands no sane person would enter, chasing a cure whispered about like a fairytale.
As Palidonia teeters on the edge of collapse, Asha must decide how far she is willing to go.
Can she save Ryder without destroying what remains of her world, or will everything she loves burn to the ground?
- GenresFantasy
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 18, 2026
261 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 19, 2026
What started as a passing Insta post has turned in to a bit of an obsession. Don't get me wrong I absolutely love the known of a lot of romantasy tropes, it's very comforting, but M.J. has managed to include all of my fave tropes and turn it on its head in to something fresh. And that ending! OMG!!! I'm gagged!
What is also really lovely is that you also see her confidence as a writer grow with each book, I can't wait to see what's next for her but more importantly I can't wait to find out how the story ends!
What is also really lovely is that you also see her confidence as a writer grow with each book, I can't wait to see what's next for her but more importantly I can't wait to find out how the story ends!
January 19, 2026
That ending was diabolical, so excited for the next one. I have to wait so long. 😭
February 16, 2026
I really wanted to love this book, and in many ways, I almost did.
The first half was genuinely strong. It was immersive, well paced, and pulled me in quickly. The story started with momentum and depth, and I felt fully invested in the characters and the direction it seemed to be heading.
Then something shifted.
As the book progressed, the writing began to feel repetitive, with the same metaphors being used frequently, sometimes in ways that did not fully make sense. Rather than adding atmosphere, this repetition pulled me out of the story and broke immersion at key moments. At times, the prose felt oddly mechanical, which made it harder to stay emotionally connected.
Despite this, I still enjoyed the underlying storyline. The plot itself remained interesting, and the world and character arcs were compelling enough that I read right through to the end. However, for a second book, the cliff-hanger ending felt unexpected and slightly frustrating, especially given the unevenness of the latter half of the writing.
Overall, this was an odd one to review. A book that started strong, lost some cohesion along the way, and then ended on a cliff-hanger that left me conflicted. Flawed, at times distracting, but still built on a story I wanted to care about.
The first half was genuinely strong. It was immersive, well paced, and pulled me in quickly. The story started with momentum and depth, and I felt fully invested in the characters and the direction it seemed to be heading.
Then something shifted.
As the book progressed, the writing began to feel repetitive, with the same metaphors being used frequently, sometimes in ways that did not fully make sense. Rather than adding atmosphere, this repetition pulled me out of the story and broke immersion at key moments. At times, the prose felt oddly mechanical, which made it harder to stay emotionally connected.
Despite this, I still enjoyed the underlying storyline. The plot itself remained interesting, and the world and character arcs were compelling enough that I read right through to the end. However, for a second book, the cliff-hanger ending felt unexpected and slightly frustrating, especially given the unevenness of the latter half of the writing.
Overall, this was an odd one to review. A book that started strong, lost some cohesion along the way, and then ended on a cliff-hanger that left me conflicted. Flawed, at times distracting, but still built on a story I wanted to care about.
February 8, 2026
I loved this second instalment even more than the first! The magical aspect was really intriguing and the cliff hanger had me wanting more! Can't wait to read the next one.
March 20, 2026
The first book had more potential but in this second book, I think it missed the mark.
I liked Asha since she was such a strong female lead, but in this book, she came off as annoying. I’m not sure if it’s bad writing or poor character writing, but screaming at evil people to stop isn’t going to make them stop. Most of the writing was just talking about how she’s so scared and tensed. We get it, the excessive imagery and description was overkill.
Don’t even get me started about River. His crazy obsession with Asha. It’s not love. It’s obsession and control and not cute. What kind of ending was that? How could River do that to his own brother?
Also, the plot holes. If Asha was a restorer, couldn’t she just bring Ryder back to life, without having to go through all this trouble of finding him a cure? If Lunaris is some goddess, shouldn’t she know that the world is ending ? The plot felt super rushed and would have been better if there was more time to world-build the Hollow, develop side stories like Trina and Nala, more background on the elions, what happened to the Moon world during the apocalypse/war, the people who lived in Hollow, and that random Moon boy they saved, etc.
This concept had potential but execution fell a bit flat.
I liked Asha since she was such a strong female lead, but in this book, she came off as annoying. I’m not sure if it’s bad writing or poor character writing, but screaming at evil people to stop isn’t going to make them stop. Most of the writing was just talking about how she’s so scared and tensed. We get it, the excessive imagery and description was overkill.
Don’t even get me started about River. His crazy obsession with Asha. It’s not love. It’s obsession and control and not cute. What kind of ending was that? How could River do that to his own brother?
Also, the plot holes. If Asha was a restorer, couldn’t she just bring Ryder back to life, without having to go through all this trouble of finding him a cure? If Lunaris is some goddess, shouldn’t she know that the world is ending ? The plot felt super rushed and would have been better if there was more time to world-build the Hollow, develop side stories like Trina and Nala, more background on the elions, what happened to the Moon world during the apocalypse/war, the people who lived in Hollow, and that random Moon boy they saved, etc.
This concept had potential but execution fell a bit flat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2026
So I give this book 3.5 stars
What the flip was that ending?!
I don’t think I’ve ever been so angry with the 2nd to last pov..
wft, jealous are you river
Ok this book took me an embarrassing long time to finish 6 days in total.. for a second in a series I was a little disappointed considering book 1 started off so well
The world building was there but the pacing at times was a little slow then too quick
What the flip was that ending?!
I don’t think I’ve ever been so angry with the 2nd to last pov..
wft, jealous are you river
Ok this book took me an embarrassing long time to finish 6 days in total.. for a second in a series I was a little disappointed considering book 1 started off so well
The world building was there but the pacing at times was a little slow then too quick
March 1, 2026
The world has erupted into chaos and the sun is disappearing. Asha still has to figure out how to get the venom out of Ryder. She finally admits she’s afraid of him because when his emotions get high his eyes turn purple and he becomes scary venom guy that tried to kill her.
Then everyone disappears and they find them in this warehouse under a trance. So Ryder and Asha figure out that light wakes the up and they grab river and nala and beat feet.
Ryder brings Asha to the underground to see a psychic who says they have to find the gem to set everything straight. They thought the gem was a myth. The gem is in the spooky hollow woods or whatever. So the four of them are like ok let’s get some snacks and go get this gem.
But the woods fucks with you. And it has challenges. They have to kill some centipede thing. Then she has to face all of their worst fears. Then she has to go to the mountain alone. She faces the last challenge queen lady and gets the gem and things are looking up. The woods people are all we will come fight the shadow dude with you and they portal back to the warehouse area with a plan. Only know it’s not just the suns and moons students it like the whole city and everyone is in a trance to be soldiers for the shadow guy. Because the shadow guy guard nyxos the god of being bad in the dark and once the sun is gone he can be freed from god jail.
Bullshit ensues and Ziek the cool woodsman dies and it looks bleak but then Asha is like I still have them gem so fuck you and kills shadow guy. The sun comes out. Ryder and Asha make out. River gets jealous. He picks up the gem and then gem is like “how can I ruin this book and grant you a wish?” And River decides Asha should be his and has the gem wipe her memories of being in love with his twin brother Ryder and she instantly falls in love with him the end.
Then everyone disappears and they find them in this warehouse under a trance. So Ryder and Asha figure out that light wakes the up and they grab river and nala and beat feet.
Ryder brings Asha to the underground to see a psychic who says they have to find the gem to set everything straight. They thought the gem was a myth. The gem is in the spooky hollow woods or whatever. So the four of them are like ok let’s get some snacks and go get this gem.
But the woods fucks with you. And it has challenges. They have to kill some centipede thing. Then she has to face all of their worst fears. Then she has to go to the mountain alone. She faces the last challenge queen lady and gets the gem and things are looking up. The woods people are all we will come fight the shadow dude with you and they portal back to the warehouse area with a plan. Only know it’s not just the suns and moons students it like the whole city and everyone is in a trance to be soldiers for the shadow guy. Because the shadow guy guard nyxos the god of being bad in the dark and once the sun is gone he can be freed from god jail.
Bullshit ensues and Ziek the cool woodsman dies and it looks bleak but then Asha is like I still have them gem so fuck you and kills shadow guy. The sun comes out. Ryder and Asha make out. River gets jealous. He picks up the gem and then gem is like “how can I ruin this book and grant you a wish?” And River decides Asha should be his and has the gem wipe her memories of being in love with his twin brother Ryder and she instantly falls in love with him the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2026
I had to dive straight into this sequal
I literally couldn't breathe after book one—I had to dive straight into the sequel! If you thought the first book was intense, this one takes the emotional stakes to a whole new level.
This story picks up the pieces of our favorite characters. Seeing their individual trauma responses after the chaos of book one was heart-wrenching but so realistic. It was a beautiful, messy look at how grief and fear manifest differently in everyone—and how they still choose to come together despite the pain.
The stakes? Higher than ever.
The Mission: Save loved ones, save magic, save the entire realm.
The Enemy: A bigger, badder Foe that makes the first one look like a warm-up.
The Catch: The gods are silent. The quest is deadly.
Ryder: We finally get that deep dive into his past. It’s dark, it’s complex, and it explains a bit more.
Asha: Watching her evolve was my favorite part. She isn't just growing into her powers; she’s growing into herself and finding her voice.
The quest is a series of emotional and dangerous trials that test every single bond in the group. I was on the edge of my seat for the majority of this book—it is non-stop action from the very first page.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the dynamic between Ryder and River. Since they’re long-lost brothers, I was hoping for a bit more depth or a different connection there.
😱 THAT ENDING...
I am officially SHOOK. 🤯 That cliffhanger has me in desperate need of Book 3 immediately!
I literally couldn't breathe after book one—I had to dive straight into the sequel! If you thought the first book was intense, this one takes the emotional stakes to a whole new level.
This story picks up the pieces of our favorite characters. Seeing their individual trauma responses after the chaos of book one was heart-wrenching but so realistic. It was a beautiful, messy look at how grief and fear manifest differently in everyone—and how they still choose to come together despite the pain.
The stakes? Higher than ever.
The Mission: Save loved ones, save magic, save the entire realm.
The Enemy: A bigger, badder Foe that makes the first one look like a warm-up.
The Catch: The gods are silent. The quest is deadly.
Ryder: We finally get that deep dive into his past. It’s dark, it’s complex, and it explains a bit more.
Asha: Watching her evolve was my favorite part. She isn't just growing into her powers; she’s growing into herself and finding her voice.
The quest is a series of emotional and dangerous trials that test every single bond in the group. I was on the edge of my seat for the majority of this book—it is non-stop action from the very first page.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the dynamic between Ryder and River. Since they’re long-lost brothers, I was hoping for a bit more depth or a different connection there.
😱 THAT ENDING...
I am officially SHOOK. 🤯 That cliffhanger has me in desperate need of Book 3 immediately!
March 7, 2026
I'm not sure how I feel about this book.. I am glad to hear that there is another book bc if not I probably would've given this book a 1 ⭐️ lol sigh
what the hell is going on with River, he seemed kinda cocky but normal and then he turns into a love sick guy who is obsessed with a girl who went out with him for a split second.. Then he's Ryders twin and that makes him go even more mental.. Why did he have to become this guy.. I must say I'm disappointed
All in all the book was good and I'll probably be on the lookout for better ok 3 bc I will want to see what happens to this cluster of a forced love situation.. The more I think about it the angrier I get that that is how this book ended.. I LIKED RIVER.. I wanted him to bow out gracefully and then find someone.. I don't think there is any coming back from what he did to Asha and Ryder..
what the hell is going on with River, he seemed kinda cocky but normal and then he turns into a love sick guy who is obsessed with a girl who went out with him for a split second.. Then he's Ryders twin and that makes him go even more mental.. Why did he have to become this guy.. I must say I'm disappointed
All in all the book was good and I'll probably be on the lookout for better ok 3 bc I will want to see what happens to this cluster of a forced love situation.. The more I think about it the angrier I get that that is how this book ended.. I LIKED RIVER.. I wanted him to bow out gracefully and then find someone.. I don't think there is any coming back from what he did to Asha and Ryder..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2026
I’m genuinely disgusted at that ending. I hate that. “I think…I think I love you.” BITCH WHAT. Nah. That’s some fucking bullshit. But im so fucking invested in this plot. Honestly, if the plot wasn’t so good I would have DNF’d this book SO quick because of how it’s written. There were WAY too many times when scenes would completely change with no warning. One minute, they’re sitting down. Suddenly they’re across the room. Or one minute they’re in the Hallows and then all the sudden they’re at Sun Sovereign on the elion lift??? Tf?? Unfortunately, I’m still going to read the next book, because ain’t no fucking way there isn’t another book. But I REALLY hope the writing at least improves with this next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2026
Solid 4.5 stars
Let me start by saying....as I reached the 90% point of this book, I decided this was the end of my mini obsession with Ryder and Asha but then that ending had me internally screaming at a Costa because WTAF!!!
Once again, I flew through this, I struggled to put it down for any length of time and it sat in my mind when I had to put it down. I was desperate to know how it was going to progress: the story, the emotions, the growing love triangle conflict. At no point was I disappointed and the pacing was perfect.
And then that ending.....
I am praying the next book comes out soon because I don't know if I can wait ages for it with that cliffhanger!
Let me start by saying....as I reached the 90% point of this book, I decided this was the end of my mini obsession with Ryder and Asha but then that ending had me internally screaming at a Costa because WTAF!!!
Once again, I flew through this, I struggled to put it down for any length of time and it sat in my mind when I had to put it down. I was desperate to know how it was going to progress: the story, the emotions, the growing love triangle conflict. At no point was I disappointed and the pacing was perfect.
And then that ending.....
I am praying the next book comes out soon because I don't know if I can wait ages for it with that cliffhanger!
January 19, 2026
MJ has done it again. Somehow this series just keeps getting better—more adventure, more intensity, almost something gripping on every single page. Once I start her books, I’m completely consumed; putting them down is simply not an option.
And that ending… I was crying, spiralling, and absolutely wrecked, trying to piece together what on earth book three could possibly look like 😭😅
I already know it’s going to be a masterpiece, just like the first two. This might honestly be my favourite romantasy series yet—and that’s saying a lot 😍
September cannot come fast enough.
And that ending… I was crying, spiralling, and absolutely wrecked, trying to piece together what on earth book three could possibly look like 😭😅
I already know it’s going to be a masterpiece, just like the first two. This might honestly be my favourite romantasy series yet—and that’s saying a lot 😍
September cannot come fast enough.
January 19, 2026
After being hooked on the first book.
Reading this on launch day.
Her love for Ryder and his love for her is next level. They trials to save him and then the world is a lot for one person who is still coming to terms with their own self worth.
Once she can do one she certainly knows she can be the other. With Ryders own twin being confirmed in River - the love of both men - where will it end.
“It was always you… It’s always going to be you.”
Extra POVs - made my heart ache so much. Emotional rollercoaster of a book.
Reading this on launch day.
Her love for Ryder and his love for her is next level. They trials to save him and then the world is a lot for one person who is still coming to terms with their own self worth.
Once she can do one she certainly knows she can be the other. With Ryders own twin being confirmed in River - the love of both men - where will it end.
“It was always you… It’s always going to be you.”
Extra POVs - made my heart ache so much. Emotional rollercoaster of a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2026
I’m staring at a wall now
STARING AT A WALL WHAT WAS THAT ENDING?!?!? Is there another book??? There has to be. I’m in awe right now! Those last 50 or so pages. Wow. What a journey! Through trials and tests and obstacles and battle and heartbreak. I’m all over the place with feelings. Confusion, adoration, frustration, curiosity..the list goes on. Just when I thought I knew where this story was going BOOM I was thrown into something unthought of. How flipping fun this was to read.
STARING AT A WALL WHAT WAS THAT ENDING?!?!? Is there another book??? There has to be. I’m in awe right now! Those last 50 or so pages. Wow. What a journey! Through trials and tests and obstacles and battle and heartbreak. I’m all over the place with feelings. Confusion, adoration, frustration, curiosity..the list goes on. Just when I thought I knew where this story was going BOOM I was thrown into something unthought of. How flipping fun this was to read.
April 8, 2026
The second book took me a bit longer to get into. It didn’t immediately pull me in like the first one did, and I found myself needing some time to really connect with the story.
That said, once I reached the trials in the Hollow, I was hooked. Those parts were so engaging and fascinating to read — easily some of my favorite moments in the book ✨📖
And then the ending… wow. When River takes the gem, I genuinely did not see that coming at all 😲💎 That twist completely caught me off guard and definitely left an impression.
Overall, a slower start for me, but absolutely worth it in the end 💫
That said, once I reached the trials in the Hollow, I was hooked. Those parts were so engaging and fascinating to read — easily some of my favorite moments in the book ✨📖
And then the ending… wow. When River takes the gem, I genuinely did not see that coming at all 😲💎 That twist completely caught me off guard and definitely left an impression.
Overall, a slower start for me, but absolutely worth it in the end 💫
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2026
She really lost me with this one. Why is her only obsession with saving her boyfriend and not the overall downfall of the world and her friends? Why did the god speaking to her completely fall off this book? What is the point of Nala’s power in this squad? There were many plot holes that I felt made this book 2 stars. I also can’t understand rivers constantly obsession with Asha when she’s stayed true to Ryder. Dude get the hint. I actually thought the ending was intriguing but not sure if I’ll read the next book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
This second book in the series just keeps getting better. I could not put it down, and the only reason I stopped reading was because I looked at the clock at 2 a.m. and remembered I had work in a couple of hours.
The story deepens, the pacing is addictive, and the ending completely caught me off guard. That final twist had me feeling all kinds of emotions and left me thinking about it long after I finished. This series officially has its hooks in me, and I can’t wait to continue.
The story deepens, the pacing is addictive, and the ending completely caught me off guard. That final twist had me feeling all kinds of emotions and left me thinking about it long after I finished. This series officially has its hooks in me, and I can’t wait to continue.
February 18, 2026
Honestly, wow. This entire book kept me hooked from the start, I’ve loved this series!! but I’m telling you, that ending was an emotional ride. I am straight up yearning, hungry for book three. Thank the Gods there is a book THREE COMING!!! I cried bc of how angry I was at the ending… was it just me? I need to know!!! lol The series was sooo heart warming and on the edge of my seat intriguing.. and I couldn’t stop reading!! I think we all just root for Ryder, and ya’ll know what I’m praying for in book three. Seriously can’t wait for the 3rd book!!! Don’t make my heart wait too long..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2026
UGHHH EVER GET TO THE END OF THE BOOK AND YOU’RE MET WITH A HUGE CLIFFHANGER???? The 3rd book comes out in September and I’m dyinggg. Love/hate cliffhangers when the next book isn’t even out yet - (hence why I never finished reading Onyx storm🫣…)
This book was just as good as the first with a little less romance due to the circumstances Ryder is facing. Felt like a few chapter were really drawn out… a little frustrating with that like get to the point haha, but other than that, it was great!
This book was just as good as the first with a little less romance due to the circumstances Ryder is facing. Felt like a few chapter were really drawn out… a little frustrating with that like get to the point haha, but other than that, it was great!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2026
Ryder still owns my heart. The poor guy has suffered so much and judging by that cruel cliffhanger, his suffering has only just begun. Asha remains the strong FMC that she was in book one, only now suffering greater than I'd ever thought possible. I cannot wait to see where this series takes me. It is fastly becoming one of my all time favourite fantasy series.
February 6, 2026
I loved the first book in the series, but not sure about this one, as I feel like were missing a big chunk of the story because surely they wouldn't accept her back willingly after finding out she is a star. It would go against some of there moral.
also the ending i didn't quite understand why the author would end it that way. I would have left that power to die with that person.
also the ending i didn't quite understand why the author would end it that way. I would have left that power to die with that person.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2026
the writing is still not that good but the endingg........ diabolical, what the hell the scene took a 360 and riverrr did himself dirty because there is no way in the world he can go back to their good grace after this, i don't think he can even get in their grace anymore. but i am excited for the next book because it was an annoyingly tempting cliffhanger.
April 17, 2026
I think this was a great development compared to the first one, it was spooky, it was raw, and it was enticing. I was thoroughly entertained throughout the entire book. All I have to say on why I gave it four stars was way to take a great character and turn him into a POS, I thought he had a good heart but instead the ending ruined everything for me and honestly just pissed me off.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
I wasn’t ready for that ending!
Devoured this in 2 days. Possibly one of my favourite series! Honestly the characters are brilliant and are so well written.
Im so glad I found this Author and series!
That cliffhanger was unexpected and now I need to wait for book 3!
Devoured this in 2 days. Possibly one of my favourite series! Honestly the characters are brilliant and are so well written.
Im so glad I found this Author and series!
That cliffhanger was unexpected and now I need to wait for book 3!
January 21, 2026
I was not expecting that twist at the end! I’ve been anxiously waiting for this second book and MJ did not disappoint. I couldn’t put it down. This is up there with my all time favorite fantasy reads. Loved it and can’t wait to see what she has in store for us in book 3. ♥️
January 26, 2026
I have never been gripped by a series so much!! There have been tears, I've been on the edge of my seat multiple times, I've shouted in joy. So many emotions I have been through while reading this series and I don't regret a single one of them. Definitely a 5 star series in my eyes ❤️❤️❤️
February 3, 2026
An amazing part 2 to the story, the tension, the dread (in the best way), the nerves, it was amazing, I will say part 2 was quite long and felt a bit harder to be drawn into then book one but the ending was absolutely perfect 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹
March 7, 2026
loved it
Absolutely loved this, I thought given the size of this book compared to the 1st it would be a duo-logy but clearly not The ending omg River what the hell cannot wait for the next book
Absolutely loved this, I thought given the size of this book compared to the 1st it would be a duo-logy but clearly not The ending omg River what the hell cannot wait for the next book
March 23, 2026
this is such a downgrade from the first book 😭forced myself to continue because i love the characters, even though i wanted to dnf it halfway through. shocked by the ending though, so excited for book 3.
April 3, 2026
Oh my goodness!! This book had me hooked from the get-go. Action, love, fear, hope, tension. The character development was very fun in this one, can't wait to see what happens next. Such a fantastic read!! Bring on book 3 🔥💫🖤
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews