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The Nature of Shadow
- GenresFantasy
359 pages, Paperback
Published March 5, 2026
About the author
Emma R. Schofield
1 book4 followersBorn and bred in Yorkshire in the north of England, Emma.R.Schofield spent a decade or so moving her packing boxes between Germany, Switzerland, France and Ireland, where she was a lecturer in Trinity College, Dublin for several years. She finally settled in a town outside London where she lives with her family. When not ensconced with a story, she is a technical consultant, an LGBTQ+ ally and a viola player, any of which could explain a lot.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 16, 2026
The Nature of Shadow by Emma R. Schofield is a quiet, atmospheric fantasy that leans into introspection, emotional tension, and the blurred boundaries between light, identity, and inner darkness.
With limited external plot detail available, the novel presents itself as a character-centered work where thematic depth and psychological exploration take priority over large-scale spectacle. Schofield appears to construct a narrative grounded in mood and emotional transformation, using shadow as both a literal and metaphorical device to explore what is hidden, repressed, or unresolved within her characters.
The pacing suggests a reflective structure, one that likely favors gradual revelation and layered symbolism rather than rapid escalation. This approach typically appeals to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy that prioritizes atmosphere, introspection, and emotional payoff over constant external conflict.
At its core, the book seems to engage with questions of self-perception and duality, using fantasy elements to externalize internal struggle. The “shadow” motif implies a sustained focus on the parts of the self that are difficult to confront, and how those aspects shape choices, relationships, and growth.
While not much public reception detail is available yet, The Nature of Shadow positions itself within the tradition of literary leaning fantasy that values tone, psychological nuance, and thematic cohesion.
With limited external plot detail available, the novel presents itself as a character-centered work where thematic depth and psychological exploration take priority over large-scale spectacle. Schofield appears to construct a narrative grounded in mood and emotional transformation, using shadow as both a literal and metaphorical device to explore what is hidden, repressed, or unresolved within her characters.
The pacing suggests a reflective structure, one that likely favors gradual revelation and layered symbolism rather than rapid escalation. This approach typically appeals to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy that prioritizes atmosphere, introspection, and emotional payoff over constant external conflict.
At its core, the book seems to engage with questions of self-perception and duality, using fantasy elements to externalize internal struggle. The “shadow” motif implies a sustained focus on the parts of the self that are difficult to confront, and how those aspects shape choices, relationships, and growth.
While not much public reception detail is available yet, The Nature of Shadow positions itself within the tradition of literary leaning fantasy that values tone, psychological nuance, and thematic cohesion.
March 17, 2026
The joy of the book is its meticulous craft - one can feel the effort and creativity in its world building and characterisation. There is a cohesive unity in its style throughout the text and an attention to detail that is inspiring.
It is more in the vein of slow burn high fantasy - there is plot but the narrative drive is leisurely with the main tension coming from Lia's inner world. It does feel more in the vein of the older fantasy tradition of Anne Maccaffrey than the more modern fast paced style - and this isn't a bad thing.
The descriptions, especially of Anhame and it's natural surroundings are beautiful. Characters that stand out are Damaris and Maethin. In many ways this first book in this pentalogy is one of building relationships and establishing characters. It will be interesting to see more stakes and plot develop. It's difficult to say without reading the second but there is a possibility this book could have been the first half of one book but this also depends on the speed of pace one likes to read.
One aspect I struggled with in grounding in the novel is the totally new words describing the different crafts and affiliations and that all the characters have unique names. I had to keep going to the glossery to understand. But that ceases to become a problem as the book develops.
I admire anyone who creates a whole fantasty world with magic - it is not an easy beast. Even Sanderson talks about the struggles with this. Schofield's magical system does allow for some imaginative ways to move out of close third person pov to expand its scope, which is very clever.
Another aspect that works is it's grounding in a moralistic system - in many ways it feels influenced from a strong spiritual stance even possibly the many worlds and training grounds of spiritualism. There is emphasis on healing, will, permission and boundaries. At times the concentration on all the levels and who was what level did feel over emphasised but it is also the bones of the system and it does allow a lot of intricacy in description.
So, in conclusion, this is a slow burn early modern fantasy book with a charming naivety which showcases Schofield obvious writing talent and the hours she has dedicated to her craft, much like Lia. Definitely one to read, three stars in my reviewing is still a solid read.
It is more in the vein of slow burn high fantasy - there is plot but the narrative drive is leisurely with the main tension coming from Lia's inner world. It does feel more in the vein of the older fantasy tradition of Anne Maccaffrey than the more modern fast paced style - and this isn't a bad thing.
The descriptions, especially of Anhame and it's natural surroundings are beautiful. Characters that stand out are Damaris and Maethin. In many ways this first book in this pentalogy is one of building relationships and establishing characters. It will be interesting to see more stakes and plot develop. It's difficult to say without reading the second but there is a possibility this book could have been the first half of one book but this also depends on the speed of pace one likes to read.
One aspect I struggled with in grounding in the novel is the totally new words describing the different crafts and affiliations and that all the characters have unique names. I had to keep going to the glossery to understand. But that ceases to become a problem as the book develops.
I admire anyone who creates a whole fantasty world with magic - it is not an easy beast. Even Sanderson talks about the struggles with this. Schofield's magical system does allow for some imaginative ways to move out of close third person pov to expand its scope, which is very clever.
Another aspect that works is it's grounding in a moralistic system - in many ways it feels influenced from a strong spiritual stance even possibly the many worlds and training grounds of spiritualism. There is emphasis on healing, will, permission and boundaries. At times the concentration on all the levels and who was what level did feel over emphasised but it is also the bones of the system and it does allow a lot of intricacy in description.
So, in conclusion, this is a slow burn early modern fantasy book with a charming naivety which showcases Schofield obvious writing talent and the hours she has dedicated to her craft, much like Lia. Definitely one to read, three stars in my reviewing is still a solid read.
August 16, 2026
What an incredible world Emma has created! The world building in The Shadows of Nature was absolutely fantastic and so unique. I was completely drawn into this world and loved discovering it history and ways. The glossary and character description pages were so helpful, thank you!
Following Lia on her journey to become the person she was destined to be was such a great part of the story. I really enjoyed seeing her character develop and grow throughout the book, and I’m excited to see where that journey takes her next.
This was such a well-written story and my first book by Emma R. Schofield, but it definitely won’t be my last! I’m already counting down the days until book two.
Do I sense a little romance brewing in the future?
I definitely feel like book one was setting the foundations, building the world and characters before leading us towards the danger that awaits in the next book. Bring on book two!
Following Lia on her journey to become the person she was destined to be was such a great part of the story. I really enjoyed seeing her character develop and grow throughout the book, and I’m excited to see where that journey takes her next.
This was such a well-written story and my first book by Emma R. Schofield, but it definitely won’t be my last! I’m already counting down the days until book two.
Do I sense a little romance brewing in the future?
I definitely feel like book one was setting the foundations, building the world and characters before leading us towards the danger that awaits in the next book. Bring on book two!
August 17, 2026
The Nature of Shadow was a beautifully atmospheric fantasy that pulled me into its magical world from the very beginning. I loved the dark, enchanting feel of the story, with its mysterious elements, intriguing characters and gorgeous fairytale-like setting.
There’s a lovely sense of magic woven throughout the book, and I particularly enjoyed the way the story balances darker themes with moments of wonder. The world-building creates a strong visual image, and I could easily picture myself wandering through its castles, shadows and secrets.
The pacing took a little while to settle for me in places, but once I was fully immersed, I found myself wanting to uncover what was really going on and where the story would lead.
A captivating start to what promises to be an intriguing series. If you enjoy fantasy with mystery, magic, darkness and a touch of fairytale enchantment, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. ✨📚
There’s a lovely sense of magic woven throughout the book, and I particularly enjoyed the way the story balances darker themes with moments of wonder. The world-building creates a strong visual image, and I could easily picture myself wandering through its castles, shadows and secrets.
The pacing took a little while to settle for me in places, but once I was fully immersed, I found myself wanting to uncover what was really going on and where the story would lead.
A captivating start to what promises to be an intriguing series. If you enjoy fantasy with mystery, magic, darkness and a touch of fairytale enchantment, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. ✨📚
March 21, 2026
I really enjoyed this from start to finish. The writing is vivid and descriptive, bringing both the characters and settings to life in a way that makes them feel immediate and real. The magic system is a particular highlight—it sits in a really satisfying middle ground. It has enough structure and detail to matter to the plot, without becoming so rigid or over-explained that it loses its sense of wonder.
The characters also feel thoughtfully developed, with believable motivations and emotions that drive the story forward. Nothing feels forced, and I could imagine them all existing in the real world- although without the ability to do magic!!
Overall, it’s an engaging and well-crafted read that balances imagination with clarity. Definitely one I’d recommend!
The characters also feel thoughtfully developed, with believable motivations and emotions that drive the story forward. Nothing feels forced, and I could imagine them all existing in the real world- although without the ability to do magic!!
Overall, it’s an engaging and well-crafted read that balances imagination with clarity. Definitely one I’d recommend!
August 17, 2026
I loved, loved, loved The Nature of Shadow! The characters, the world-building, the story, all of it. It felt kind of Harry Potter combined with Percy Jackson but still with its own great voice, if that makes sense? Emma.R.Schofield did an amazing job with this story, showcasing a talent for creativity and storytelling and an imagination capable of building this whole world of Anhame and beyond. I am very excited for book 2! The Nature of Shadow Book 1: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 11, 2026
The Nature of Shadow✨️
What an utterly rich world has been built! It's high fantasy so strap in and enjoy that in depth world building!
It took me a bit of time to remember what all the different words mean. Now if you have a good memory (and not dyslexic 🤣) I'm sure you'd be fine! I feel the physical book would be so much easier for me to read as you could quickly flick back!
The characters had such depth that You really connected with the characters from the start! And couldn't help but root for them!
Lia has a "shadow" within her which she has been told is evil and she feels it needs to be kept secret! It's lovely to see her grow throughout.
The descriptions were brilliant and you could really imagine the world! Now this is 1 of 5! Also the first levels of magic are Healing, Empathy and Listening!! I mean we need more of that in the world!
It will be so interesting to see where the rest of the books take you!
What an utterly rich world has been built! It's high fantasy so strap in and enjoy that in depth world building!
It took me a bit of time to remember what all the different words mean. Now if you have a good memory (and not dyslexic 🤣) I'm sure you'd be fine! I feel the physical book would be so much easier for me to read as you could quickly flick back!
The characters had such depth that You really connected with the characters from the start! And couldn't help but root for them!
Lia has a "shadow" within her which she has been told is evil and she feels it needs to be kept secret! It's lovely to see her grow throughout.
The descriptions were brilliant and you could really imagine the world! Now this is 1 of 5! Also the first levels of magic are Healing, Empathy and Listening!! I mean we need more of that in the world!
It will be so interesting to see where the rest of the books take you!
August 22, 2026
My rating is actually 4.5 stars but Goodreads doesn't allow for partial ratings.
This is book one in the Nature of Shadows penology and we follow a teenager called Lia as she makes her way to Anhame Hall in the hope that the Master’s of the Craft can help her to use her dangerous power, she believes this is her last option.
OMG I loved this book, it’s full of magic including a school, and we have trails, oaths, crafts, secrets, lies, power, manipulation, frie4ndship, found family, joy, laughter, and so much more. It is giving Dragon Riders of Pern vibes, not from the dragon perspective, although there are dragons, but more from the craft hall side of things, like healers and harpers, which I really enjoyed as Anne McCaffrey was single handedly responsible for my love of all things fantasy when I was a kid.
I really enjoyed the world building and learning more about the unusual magic system. Despite its complexities the way Emma explained it made it easy to understand and really enjoyable. Emma’s writing style is really enjoyable too, it pulls you in immediately and keeps you invested in Lia and her new friends. The story is fast paced and keeps the momentum throughout. I loved the characters, even the side characters area great, may favourite is probably Maethin, and my least favourite hands down is Erwine, he even overshadows the maliciousness of the twin means girls. He is a truly odious little creature, I mean the way he treated that poor girls when he was supposed to be her teacher, her mentor, but he was nothing but a bully who took out his fear and disappointment in his own inadequacies on a child.
Anyway I really liked everything about this book and rated it 4.5 stars, I would highly recommend it. I can’t wait to see where Emma takes us next, and I am so glad there are another 3 books in this series.
This is book one in the Nature of Shadows penology and we follow a teenager called Lia as she makes her way to Anhame Hall in the hope that the Master’s of the Craft can help her to use her dangerous power, she believes this is her last option.
OMG I loved this book, it’s full of magic including a school, and we have trails, oaths, crafts, secrets, lies, power, manipulation, frie4ndship, found family, joy, laughter, and so much more. It is giving Dragon Riders of Pern vibes, not from the dragon perspective, although there are dragons, but more from the craft hall side of things, like healers and harpers, which I really enjoyed as Anne McCaffrey was single handedly responsible for my love of all things fantasy when I was a kid.
I really enjoyed the world building and learning more about the unusual magic system. Despite its complexities the way Emma explained it made it easy to understand and really enjoyable. Emma’s writing style is really enjoyable too, it pulls you in immediately and keeps you invested in Lia and her new friends. The story is fast paced and keeps the momentum throughout. I loved the characters, even the side characters area great, may favourite is probably Maethin, and my least favourite hands down is Erwine, he even overshadows the maliciousness of the twin means girls. He is a truly odious little creature, I mean the way he treated that poor girls when he was supposed to be her teacher, her mentor, but he was nothing but a bully who took out his fear and disappointment in his own inadequacies on a child.
Anyway I really liked everything about this book and rated it 4.5 stars, I would highly recommend it. I can’t wait to see where Emma takes us next, and I am so glad there are another 3 books in this series.
July 15, 2026
The Nature of Shadow is a quietly powerful high‑fantasy novel that draws you in with its atmosphere, its emotional depth, and its thoughtful exploration of what it means to carry darkness within you. Emma R. Schofield builds a world that feels ancient and sacred, yet warmly lived‑in — a place where myth, magic, and human vulnerability intertwine.
Lia is a compelling protagonist from the start. Her power is immense, frightening even, but her struggles are deeply human: fear of rejection, longing for belonging, and the constant tension between who she is and who she must pretend to be. Anhame — the Hall under the six‑point star — is the perfect setting for this kind of story. It’s both sanctuary and crucible, a place where every lesson, every trial, and every oath carries weight.
The novel’s strength lies in its atmosphere and character work. Schofield doesn’t rely on relentless action; instead, she lets tension build through secrets, quiet moments, and the looming question of what will happen if Lia’s true nature is discovered. The Masters, the trials, the whispered dangers — all of it creates a sense of slow‑burn suspense that fits beautifully with the book’s literary tone.
Fantasy readers who love dragons, sword bearers, and mythic resonance will find plenty to enjoy, but what sets this book apart is its emotional intelligence. It’s a story about power, identity, and the fear of being cast out of the one place that finally feels like home.
Elegant, immersive, and rich in world‑building, The Nature of Shadow is a promising start to a five‑book series — one that feels destined to grow deeper and more magical with each instalment.
with thanks to Emma R Schofield, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Lia is a compelling protagonist from the start. Her power is immense, frightening even, but her struggles are deeply human: fear of rejection, longing for belonging, and the constant tension between who she is and who she must pretend to be. Anhame — the Hall under the six‑point star — is the perfect setting for this kind of story. It’s both sanctuary and crucible, a place where every lesson, every trial, and every oath carries weight.
The novel’s strength lies in its atmosphere and character work. Schofield doesn’t rely on relentless action; instead, she lets tension build through secrets, quiet moments, and the looming question of what will happen if Lia’s true nature is discovered. The Masters, the trials, the whispered dangers — all of it creates a sense of slow‑burn suspense that fits beautifully with the book’s literary tone.
Fantasy readers who love dragons, sword bearers, and mythic resonance will find plenty to enjoy, but what sets this book apart is its emotional intelligence. It’s a story about power, identity, and the fear of being cast out of the one place that finally feels like home.
Elegant, immersive, and rich in world‑building, The Nature of Shadow is a promising start to a five‑book series — one that feels destined to grow deeper and more magical with each instalment.
with thanks to Emma R Schofield, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
August 20, 2026
There is a glossary at the start of this book and it took me some time to get used to the meaning of words and names etc so be aware of that if you are not used to reading high fantasy-once you get to grips with it though it becomes second nature whilst reading.
This literary high fantasy book starts with immediate action,having to fight for survival from a sea serpent and introducing us quickly to our main character plus theres a dragon and someone dies? All that in chapter 1 before we get into the greater depth of the book.
This is a very atmospheric read with fantastic world building and character development,great care and attention has been made to ensure us (the reader) are fully immersed into the story and really feel the tension as it builds and this takes time, this is at a slower pace than the high octane fantasy i’m used to but allows for more reflection.
I enjoy a ‘coming of age’ book whereby the FMC (Lia) is finding her place in a magical world and this one is exactly that,she is powerful and likeable and we also have found family-its just a really enjoyable read.
I am very much looking forward to continuing with this series with book 2 due out later in the year.
This literary high fantasy book starts with immediate action,having to fight for survival from a sea serpent and introducing us quickly to our main character plus theres a dragon and someone dies? All that in chapter 1 before we get into the greater depth of the book.
This is a very atmospheric read with fantastic world building and character development,great care and attention has been made to ensure us (the reader) are fully immersed into the story and really feel the tension as it builds and this takes time, this is at a slower pace than the high octane fantasy i’m used to but allows for more reflection.
I enjoy a ‘coming of age’ book whereby the FMC (Lia) is finding her place in a magical world and this one is exactly that,she is powerful and likeable and we also have found family-its just a really enjoyable read.
I am very much looking forward to continuing with this series with book 2 due out later in the year.
August 18, 2026
If you’re looking for a new high fantasy series to sink your teeth into then this is the book for you. The Nature of Shadow is the first in a five book series and is full of promise and potential.
The world building is rich and immersive. I normally struggle to picture things but the descriptions in this book are well written and I love a good map. I’d love to visit Anhame.
I enjoyed learning about the anar, soul forms and the magic system. I was confused at first and it took me a little while to remember everything but I found the glossary immensely helpful.
I really enjoyed Lia’s character. She’s young and very powerful with a dark secret. She has no idea who she can trust and she needs help to understand and control her powers. She had great character development throughout and I’m excited to see what’s in store for her next.
The pacing is a little slower than what I normally enjoy but I think it’s definitely setting the groundwork for an awesome series and I look forward to the next instalment.
Overall, I rate this 4⭐️
The world building is rich and immersive. I normally struggle to picture things but the descriptions in this book are well written and I love a good map. I’d love to visit Anhame.
I enjoyed learning about the anar, soul forms and the magic system. I was confused at first and it took me a little while to remember everything but I found the glossary immensely helpful.
I really enjoyed Lia’s character. She’s young and very powerful with a dark secret. She has no idea who she can trust and she needs help to understand and control her powers. She had great character development throughout and I’m excited to see what’s in store for her next.
The pacing is a little slower than what I normally enjoy but I think it’s definitely setting the groundwork for an awesome series and I look forward to the next instalment.
Overall, I rate this 4⭐️
August 24, 2026
I was kindly sent a free copy of this book as part of a book tour in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book in a series and the author has put a meticulous amount of detail and creativity into her world building and character development. The attention to detail is truly impressive. It was a bit slower than I would have liked and I did find it took a while for the plot to really get going but the descriptions of the world are really immersive and vivid and I think a lot of the major action is going to be in the next few books which I will certainly be interested in reading. There are quite a lot of characters and crafts and things to get to grips with so I did find this a bit difficult to get to grips with but the author has included a useful glossary of some of the terms. I did find the magical system quite unique and I thought it was very cleverly done - it’s very intricate and quite fascinating. Definitely an interesting new series - 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for Goodreads and Amazon.
August 19, 2026
Firstly, I am loving the cover of this book! The colour and foiling is so beautiful 😍
Full of rich world building, the first book in this unique high fantasy series sets the way for the story to continue. The vivid descriptions made it easy to picture the beauty of Anhame.
Lia, our FMC, sets off for Anhame, to take the oath and pass the trials but she is very powerful (more powerful that she realises) and is hiding a darkness that she needs to control.
I really enjoyed the friendships Lia makes and the self development she goes through given her harsh treatment from her previous master.
I did find the magic system quite hard to get my head around, there is a glossary at the front, which really helped and as the book progressed, I leaned on this less.
Looking forward to seeing what the next book brings
Full of rich world building, the first book in this unique high fantasy series sets the way for the story to continue. The vivid descriptions made it easy to picture the beauty of Anhame.
Lia, our FMC, sets off for Anhame, to take the oath and pass the trials but she is very powerful (more powerful that she realises) and is hiding a darkness that she needs to control.
I really enjoyed the friendships Lia makes and the self development she goes through given her harsh treatment from her previous master.
I did find the magic system quite hard to get my head around, there is a glossary at the front, which really helped and as the book progressed, I leaned on this less.
Looking forward to seeing what the next book brings
July 28, 2026
I love a good book that I can't put down and by the end of this book I was desperate to keep reading but alas I need to wait for book 2 which is out soon. I did find it took me a while to get used to the alternative world it's set in and the terms used but I kept reading and then got engrossed in the story. It's a complex world that Emma has invented but she has provided a detailed description of Anhame and the characters so I now I can see her some of her world in my mind. The first chapter of the next book was included at the end of the book and the start of the next book is a good one. Fortunately I don't need too wait long to read the next book and I will definitely be buying a copy
July 29, 2026
Thank you to Cameron Publicity and Marketing LTD and Netgalley for the ARC. Lia, who is "anar"-one with higher senses such as sight, speech, and healing- goes to Anhame with others to study their craft. Some "anar" only have one to two senses. Having all five is rare. Lia senses a shadow within her which she feels she needs to keep secret. She is afraid she has evil inside her. This is a coming of age story for Lia to find her true self. Cons of this book is the glossary and the fact that there was ample opportunity for Lia to be misguided instead of taught. The storyline was not propulsive. I probably won't read the rest of the series.
August 22, 2026
The nature of shadow is a unique world based in a magical school,following lia on her mafical journey to see her become who she is destined to be the most talented healer.
It draws you in from the start, leaves you wanting to help lia and show her understanding abd empathy and to reasure her.
Although it was aslow start for me but it did pick up to a slow-moderate pace for me. Its immersive, highly recommend for high fantasy readers, great character development and world progression. I think this is going to be a great series to read. I hoped that dragon image could be a hint to lias dark magic powers.
It draws you in from the start, leaves you wanting to help lia and show her understanding abd empathy and to reasure her.
Although it was aslow start for me but it did pick up to a slow-moderate pace for me. Its immersive, highly recommend for high fantasy readers, great character development and world progression. I think this is going to be a great series to read. I hoped that dragon image could be a hint to lias dark magic powers.
May 1, 2026
Like all great fantasy tales, the Nature of Shadow adeptly captures the profound human essence of its characters. Lia’s world of Anhame and her encounters are beautifully imagined and richly woven. The dialogue between the characters is excellent and all characters are convincingly drawn. I love this book and can’t wait for the next instalment.
March 10, 2026
I loved the beautiful, terrible, fantastical new world, and I want to know more about it
May 27, 2026
Really enjoyed this. Not usually a fantasy reader but felt enveloped by this story and the world that was built.
Very excited to read the next instalment and return to Anhame!
Very excited to read the next instalment and return to Anhame!
July 5, 2026
What a rich and emotive new world, with lots of original fantasy storytelling elements. This is a great book for young (and older!) readers. I look forward to reading the next instalment.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews