Shadows Of Thysia

by C.C. Martinez

Eleni believed her toughest battle was the loss of her grandmother. But after she discovers a hidden box containing a mysterious necklace, a strange creature drags her from her Wyoming ranch into Thysia—a brutal world where power is branded into flesh and oaths are sealed with blood. Here, survival is key, loyalty becomes a weapon, and Eleni finds herself caught in the middle of it all. As death closes in, her mysterious necklace awakens, revealing itself to be an ancient relic with the power to reshape kingdoms—or destroy them.

Now trapped in a ruthless world on the brink of war, Eleni is forced into two blood-bound one with a man she cannot trust, and another with a man she can’t escape. As her ties to Thysia grow stronger, so do the bonds that link her fate to theirs. Torn between desire and betrayal, the home she lost and a destiny she never wanted, Eleni stands on the edge of two worlds. Both demand sacrifice. The question is, which one will she choose?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

403 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 14, 2026

About the author

I’m a fantasy author and emergency room nurse who believes the best stories come from survival, grief, and the moments that change us forever. My writing explores elemental magic, blood-bound loyalty, slow-burn romance, and characters forced to choose between their past and who they must become.

I write for readers who love immersive worlds, morally gray love interests, slow-burning romance, found family, and heroines who fight with both fury and heart.

Based in Austin, Texas, I split my time between the ER, my writing desk, running with my dogs, riding motorcycles, and convincing myself that one more dirty chai is absolutely necessary!

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you netgalley and victory editing for giving me the opportunity to read this e-ARC in return for an honest review.

Shadows of Thysia is a stunning debut from C.C. Martinez, and I seriously need book two immediately because this was phenomenal and that ending.... ahhh! ✨

The story follows Eleni, a nurse who is transported from her home to the magical world of Thysia. We follow her through a journey of self-discovery, loss and romance. What makes this book stand out is how real the characters feel; they are beautifully flawed, and Martinez writes with pure emotion that is so relatable. I became so invested that I was literally shouting at the book over some of their decisions! 😲 The fantasy element takes centre stage with romance a sub-plot flowing throughout without overpowering.

I could not put this book down. The author absolutely tore my heart out with certain moments that had me in tears, that’s how much I cared. Between the strong world-building, clear magic systems, and lingering secrets, I was hooked. I also suspect there is more than meets the eye with one character in particular... 👀

I highly recommend picking this up, but be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster! 🎢

[Cris · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS WAS SO GOOD!!! If you enjoyed the nightmare in one dark window and a sarcastically funny, snarky, strong FMC with really cool magic system that resembles avatar but with its own unique spin with a well done paced plot and story, you would love this! I can’t believe this was a debut novel! I’m seething for book 2 😭 I also really enjoyed that this wasn’t so heavy on the romance so fast, it evolves as you keep reading. I loved that this was more focused on our FMC and the grief of the loss of her grandmother and how she raised her to be resilient. This was a great introduction to the series and I can’t wait for what comes next!! Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC copy of this, I will absolutely be recommending this to so many other readers.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows of Thysia is a fabulous debut novel that will surely keep your attention from beginning to end. I for one wasn't expecting to fall deeply in love but I did and I am so glad I got the opportunity to get my hands on a early copy! The imagery of the scenes and characters were truly a wonderful element.

We are introduced to Eleni who works in Denver as a nurse and constantly in a routine and mundane cycle of her everyday life. Unfortunately her grandmother passes away. When she goes to clean out her grandmother's house she finds a hidden box containinga necklace. From there she is then transported to another world.

She ends up Transported to the world of Thysia. She then discovers that her necklace is an ancient relic with the power to do good or even evil. Will she have the strengh to do good for a kingdom she had no idea existed?

[⋆˚࿔ Luiza 𝜗𝜚˚⋆]

DNF @ 15%

The author killed the FMC’s horse (which had enough character development and distinct personality to make me believe he wouldn’t die) in the most gruesome, unnecessary way, and to me that’s the equivalent of an author killing the MC’s dog, so I won’t be continuing with this book.
I truly believe this should have been mentioned in the trigger warning section. We can forgive almost anything in a book, just don’t touch the pet. That’s like an universal rule (and if it’s not, it should be).

[Margherita · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars. An ER nurse grieving the loss of her grandmother is suddenly thrust into a unfamiliar world filled with magic and danger.

Thank you NetGalley and C.C. Martinez for the opportunity to rate and review and advance copy of this book.

I'm not one for contemporary fantasy, so when this book started in a modern setting, I was hesitant to continue. I'm so glad I did. Once Eleni is abruptly transported to Thysia, the atmosphere shifts into a rich, immersive fantasy world. Even her modern slang gradually fades, helping to ease the contrast between her voice and the setting.

Eleni meets some interesting characters on her quest to return home, forced into blood-bound connections with two of them and struggling to let her guard down with either one.

The elemental magic gives strong Avatar The Last Airbender vibes, but with a more mature tone. One character in particular is giving me Zuko energy.

The romance is subtle for now, but there are small hints of what may develop in the next book.

The ending surprised me and left me eager to see what happens next.

Overall, a great debut from this author.

[Bookish Coffee UK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler free

Oooooh not gonna lie but this is much better than I thought it would be, like I don't mean that in a bad way, but the blurb don't tell you it's gonna be an epic adventure..

I love the concept of this storyline and not gonna lie I wouldn't wanna be dragged into a different time / world without my bestie.. 😅

This was a great savagely brutal story and I'm eager for the next book please 🙏

[Donna Payton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Fantasy with romance book and boy was I blow away with the story and its characters . It’s a real fast and easy read. I did not expect the ending at all and was very surprised. I am totally excited for her next book in this series.

[Tori Kamosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

I won this book in an indie author Romantasy giveaway, and it’s a unique one indeed.

An ER nurse finds a mysterious necklace while going through her grandma’s room and is soon after “yeeted,” as Eleni would say, into another world we now know as Thysia. This FMC is by far one of the funniest I have come across to date. I love her sarcasm and quick witted quips, she seriously gives no fucks and I love that for her.

I did find that this book is heavy on the world building and not so much on action, which made it feel slow paced at times, but the premise is very interesting, so it should pay off. It kind of gives me Nordic Avatar the last Airbender vibes and I’m here for it.

I did think that Eleni was thirsty as hell. We liked Cowboy Cody, then of course Velorn is giving shadow daddy MMC vibes but he’s not a main focus so much as a dirty lil skulker most of the time, and then Ehlark who gave me Gale vibes but we obviously know that’s not going anywhere. IYKYK👀

To sum it up, there are a lot of unanswered questions that seem to be setting up for book 2 and a dirty little cliff hanger ending, but overall I think it’s a good set up for a series and a great debut. I really appreciate the author for sharing her story with me!

Be warned she’s going to rip your heart out a few times but then also put it back together after. 🙌🏼

[Chelsea Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldnt put this book down and ended up finishing it in less than a day. I loved the world building and the different spin on magic. I already cant wait for a second book!

[Sasha Grojean · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for the eARC!
Rating 2.5 (rounded up to 3⭐)

This book starts off with us meeting Eleni, an ER nurse, when she gets the call that her estranged grandmother, the only family she has, has passed away in an accident. Immediately, I was already invested in Eleni and her story - the guilt, the regrets, and the way she handled the death all made her such a sympathetic heroine.

I really enjoyed the elemental magic system, and the different factions in play in the other world, Thysia. Our FMC is dropped straight into a world she doesn’t understand, seeing things that shouldn’t exist, and is rather immediately drawn into conflict. Throughout the book, she learns a bit more about herself, and the mystery of where she came from - although this is still largely unresolved due to the massive twist and cliffhanger the book ends on.

There were some small inconsistencies in Eleni’s character later on, as well as continuity errors, but all in all I found this to be a solid debut. There were so many interesting hints and teasers included that weren’t resolved or elaborated on by the end of the book that, while they definitely left me wanting more, also left me feeling a unfulfilled, as I had more confusion and questions about Thysia and Eleni’s story by the end than I had had at the start.

That said, some of the exposition and world building was done in quite a clunky way, with characters explicitly stating their intentions and reasons behind everyday situations in dialogue in a way that felt a bit unnatural.

I’m also personally not a fan of love triangles, and Eleni’s attraction to both Ehlark and Velorn, and her initial interest in Cody, gave me the impression that her interests in men are a bit flighty, although this is partially explained later in the book. Since our FMC seemingly shows interest in nearly every single man she interacts with, it made the romantic aspect feel a little bit flat to me, personally.

Although I was disappointed by the lack of resolution of any of the major plot points by the end of this book, which is clearly the first in a series, I did really like the mystery surrounding Velorn’s character. So many questions about his background, motivations, and to what extent he makes his own choices or is merely following orders, along with the contrasting personality traits that keep slipping through, is probably the main reason I am invested in the rest of the story to come!

All in all an interesting, if not technically sound, debut, which sets up the story for an intriguing sequel.

[Dragon Be Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadows of Thysia is a surprising debut from C.C. Martinez that dragged me in from the very first sentence. I'm not sure what exactly I was expecting from this book, but I ended up enjoying it immensely.

I was slightly hesitant as the start was a modern-day, contemporary setting, but that only truly set up how incredible the world of Thysia turned out to be. You were plunged into it the same way the FMC was, having to learn everything the same way she did, and it made it feel more real to me that way.

Speaking of the FMC, Eleni is something to behold. She's resourceful, full of wonderful snark and sass, and her career as an ER nurse makes it easy for her to care about the strangers around her despite her constant need to find a way home. I loved being in her head, knowing that how she thinks and feels about this crazy turn of events she's found herself plopped into is exactly how I'd hope to react to everything.

Let's be honest - I'd probably cry and somehow get myself killed by sitting on something sharp or poisonous.. or both.

The male characters she encounters and end up making alliances with are complex and intriguing. Both Ehlark and Velorn are puzzles that take time to unravel, one moreso than the other, and each has a full story to explore. Personally, I was far more interested in Velorn, but who doesn't love a dark, brooding guy who controls shadows, right?

The story itself is a wild ride, from start to finish.. or I should say cliffhanger. The theories and twists keep you guessing, and I, for one, have no idea which way I'm leaning. It definitely has me on the edge of my seat, wondering how and when Eleni will learn the truth, and what that ultimately means for her.

The exposition and info-gathering does feel somewhat heavy-handed at times, especially in the earlier chapters, which is understandable. A modern-day woman falls into a fantasy land where she knows absolutely nothing about its world, and the only way to gather information is to ask the questions directly. Some of it didn't feel natural, yet that didn't make the story any worse for it. My only other note: there is a pet death scene early on. I suspect this is something that will be pertinent later on in the series, yet I know many people would like to be aware before diving in.

Suffice to say, I'm hooked on Thysia, Eleni, and the entire mystery surrounding what she thought she knew before finding herself in a fantastical world she didn't know existed. I'm dying to read Rise of the Riftborn (book 2), and need to know when I can be portaled back to Thysia!

Thank you ever so much to the gracious C.C. Martinez for the physical ARC to a wonderful debut novel. This in no way influenced my review; these thoughts are my own.

[Abby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eleni is an overworked nurse who finds herself at her Grandmother's ranch after her grandmother suddenly passes away. Feeling grief and guilt over their estranged relationship, Eleni is struggling to go back to normal, to find the motivation to fix the ranch and live like her grandmother would’ve wanted. But after finding a mysterious necklace and going through another loss (TW animal death), she finds herself transported into the world of Thysia, where magic is not only real, but entwined into the people and world, and now her. The necklace is a long-lost relic that will bring either peace or war to the people.
Tied to both sides of the war, between Ehlark the Earthshaker and Verlon the shadow-weaving Tracker, Eleni must find the strength to survive, and find her way home. But along the way, she’ll have to navigate betrayal, passion and blood contracts.


This book pleasantly surprised me! I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but I ended up being very intrigued by the plot, and it took no time at all to get through. It was definitely an easy read for me, (though it does deal with themes of loss and grief), nothing was too complex and it was fast paced. The only thing that brought the rating down was some parts of the dialogue and writing, which can be developed, but honestly, I think for a debut novel, the author has knocked it out of the park!

I’m not a huge fan of love triangles, and it was developing that way with Eleni being around the brooding, morally grey Verlon and then the heroic rebel Ehlark, so while the romance wasn’t my favourite part, I definitely loved Eleni as a character and the plot. I loved her passion for healing and the way the author wrote her experience with grief. Also, the way she handled the journey in this new world and how she developed new relationships and tried to deal with the responsibility of her new power.

The portal trope is one of my favs because of the Medoran Chronicles series, and honestly, I could see a bit of that in this book. If you liked that series and love some Avatar last air bender magic vibes mixed with vampire-like blood contracts. It was a very unique read, and I enjoyed learning about the world and look forward to the next book when we hopefully delve into the history a bit more! I look forward to seeing what C.C Martinez writes next and recommend you pick this one up if it seems like something you'd like!

3.5-4 stars

[Angelina Titeryakova · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5


As always, I will try to keep my review spoiler-free.

Ok, so this book is still not out, yet I can not wait for the second one (I am hoping)!

I’ll be honest—when I started the book and saw it described as “romantasy” (which I’m fairly sure I hadn’t noticed when I requested it), I felt a bit disappointed. Romance and romantasy aren’t usually my thing. But I was pleasantly surprised: here, the romantic elements felt organic and understated, never overwhelming, and clearly not the main focus of the story.

The beginning was a bit slow for me, but around the 20% mark it really picked up, and from that point on I ended up finishing it in one sitting. The worldbuilding and plot felt familiar in some ways, but in a good, comforting way rather than a predictable one. I’ve mentioned in other reviews that when I read, the story kind of plays in my head like a movie—and here it honestly felt like a high-production film. The world was built beautifully. There are still a few things I’d love to see explored more, but this definitely feels like the start of a series (fingers crossed), so I’m hoping those things are being saved for the next books if that’s the plan. Another thing I really appreciated—especially because it sometimes bothers me in fantasy—was the character names. I really don’t like it when authors try too hard to make names super unique, and you can never remember or pronounce them. Here, the names still felt otherworldly, but at the same time, natural, which made it so much easier to just sink into the story.
The book gives me strong Lore (by Alxandra Braccken) vibes, but with elementals instead of mythology and fewer huge fights (for now).
I’d recommend it if you’re into this kind of fantasy world, but if you’re a big romantasy fan looking for a strong, central romance, you might feel a bit let down by how subtle it is here.

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC

[Eleonore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will start out by saying that I was given an ARC copy to read and am giving my own opinion.
This book is absolutely amazing and it needs to be your next read!!! I was immediately hooked from the first page and had a hard time putting the book down, especially after reading that first line! 
The story starts with Eleni (the FMC), who is a registered nurse at a hospital, finding out that her Gram just passed away and she returns to her grandmother’s ranch. When she does, she notices a couple of weird things happen, but it isn’t until she finds a mysterious necklace that her Gram had hidden that things really get crazy. She ends up being teleported to a different world where people are connected to the four elements of nature and channel their element as their form of power with only her necklace to help her. What she doesn’t realize is that she just stepped into a world that is on the brink of war, only needing someone to breathe the wrong way in order to kickstart it.
I loved getting to know more about the world and its magic system! I have never seen anything like it and I found it incredibly interesting! Eleni is such a fantastic character and I loved watching her discover new things about the world and interact with Velorn (one of the MMCs). I’m not going to lie, I have a soft spot for Velorn, the incredibly emotionally constipated shadow wielder.
I cannot wait to read the next book when it comes out! I need to know more about everything!!!
Thank you so much to C.C. Martinez and her team for letting me read the book! I really enjoyed it and appreciate the opportunity!
P.S. Run, don’t walk to buy this: there’s a special edition version with BEAUTIFUL sprayed edges! I don’t know if it’s only a pre-order incentive or only with this specific store, but the Amazon version doesn’t have it. Here’s the link to it: https://www.misamoresbookscafe.com/pr...

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding a good fantasy, with effective world building, and complex characters can be a difficult task. I was blown away by C.C. Martinez's debut novel! She takes a story thats starts in the real world as we know it and whisks you away into an unknown land, where you and Eleni get to discover its secrets and go on an adventure together. The characters are realistic, the plot is well-paced, and the premise will capture any fantasy lovers attention.

The beginning was raw and sad. Eleni finds herself grieving and with regrets. The author wrote this section well, showing true grief and the aftermath of loss. It drew me in to the main character and I was invested in her story.

There is a steady build up to when Eleni somehow travels from her ranch in Wyoming to an alternate world, Thysia. Once Eleni literally drops into Thysia, I found myself laughing out loud at some of her commentary and antics. It was funny to read about a modern woman being thrown into a medieval style fantasy world. I appreciated that she wasn't completely defenseless and that she presented as a strong woman. Her interactions with other characters were genuine and it was easy to grow attached to them too.

The romance was there, but by no means overwhelming. You can enjoy the tension and attraction between the characters without rolling your eyes. There is one part where things get heated, but nothing past PG-13 level, if that.

The ending has me excited to see what's in store for book 2. I feel like I've only had a small taste of Thysia and I can't wait to dive back in again. If you need a good book to get lost in, give this one a go. You won't regret it!

[Lilith's_Library_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadows of Thysia by C. C. Martinez is a masterclass in dark fantasy, weaving a story that is as beautiful as it is haunting. From the first page, I was drawn into a world where power is dangerous, secrets fester like shadows, and nothing—and no one—is quite what it seems.

Martinez’s world-building is breathtaking. Thysia itself feels alive: its streets, forests, and hidden corners pulse with history, magic, and menace. Every location, every whisper of lore, adds layers of intrigue and danger that keep you on edge throughout the story. The darkness in this novel isn’t just external—it’s in the hearts of its characters, in the choices they make, and in the consequences they cannot escape.

The characters are unforgettable. They are flawed, cunning, and achingly human, navigating a world that demands sacrifice and punishes weakness. Their struggles, desires, and secrets are painted with nuance, making every triumph, betrayal, and heartbreak hit like a dagger to the chest. Martinez doesn’t shy away from showing the cost of ambition and the weight of legacy, giving the story a depth that lingers long after the final page.

The prose is immersive, lyrical, and razor-sharp, balancing suspense, action, and emotional resonance. The tension is meticulously built, the stakes feel impossibly high, and the twists are as darkly satisfying as they are shocking. By the end, I was left both devastated and exhilarated, already aching to return to this shadowed, beautiful world.

Shadows of Thysia is perfect for readers who crave dark fantasy with intrigue, complex characters, and a story that refuses to let go.

[Todd Gatz · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Shadows of Thysia," C.C. Martinez crafts an enchanting tale that transcends the typical boundaries of fantasy literature. As someone who doesn't usually gravitate towards this genre, I found myself pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book.

The story follows a cast of relatable characters, each with their own unique quirks and motivations, making it easy to connect with them. Martinez's skillful character development allows readers to invest emotionally in their journeys. The protagonist, in particular, embarks on a compelling quest that is both thrilling and heartfelt, showcasing themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery.

What truly sets "Shadows of Thysia" apart is its vibrant world-building. The setting is rich with detail, immersing readers in a realm filled with magic, intrigue, and adventure. Martinez's descriptive prose brings the landscapes and creatures to life, creating a vivid backdrop that enhances the narrative without overwhelming it.

The pacing of the story is just right, with a perfect balance of action and introspection. I found myself eagerly turning pages, wanting to uncover the mysteries of Thysia alongside the characters. The humor woven throughout the story adds a delightful touch, making the reading experience all the more enjoyable.

In summary, "Shadows of Thysia" is a delightful read that captivates with its engaging characters and immersive world. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone, regardless of their usual reading preferences. C.C. Martinez has proven to be a promising new voice in fantasy, and I look forward to seeing what she creates next.

[JPreads7 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️, 🫑

Wow this was a great into novel! I really enjoyed this read.

The world building in this book was not too complicated and easy to follow. The actual magic system itself was understandable with the 4 houses and elements, and I feel like more info was given as needed and we found it out with the character. I also enjoyed the idea of her starting in a normal world, and then falling into the fantasy world. It felt like a good intro into a much bigger set up.

As for the plot was engaged pretty much the entire time. I felt like the pacing was done well for the most part and there weren’t really any times where it felt slow. I also liked where the plot was going with the war, and the mystery elements to who she is and why she ended up where she did. I do have quite a few questions though that I’m hoping will get answered in future books.

As for the romances we def had a love triangle thing going on and I’m interested to see how the romance goes in future books. There is definitely a true enemies to lovers situation happening that I am very intruded by and hope we get more of that MMC in future books because he is very mysterious. This is also definitely a slow burn as there was no spice and I feel like we still have a lot of development that needs to happen with the characters individually, as well as their relationships. I also really enjoyed the FMC and her inner monologue and I felt like she overall made pretty good decisions for the situation she found herself in.

With all of this being said I did enjoy it and will definitely be reading the other books in the series once the come out!

And thank you to the author for the gifted ARC 🥰

[Jade · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 🌟 / 5

Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC of this book.

This is a debut fantasy novel by C.C Martinez. It is initially set in modern day Wyoming whereby a portal opens up and our FMC, Eleni, is thrust into a new magical realm called Thysia, whereby tensions and political turmoil are rising.

Whilst I absolutely loved the concept, its reminding me of Lost in Austen except its some form of Lord of the rings middle earth/Merlin land, I felt there was something missing. This type of story is a like a fantasy readers dream of being whisked away into a magical land 🫣😊

I found I was being constantly told what my characters were feeling, explaining them directly instead of being shown and exploring them within the story. The pacing was overall manageable, however I think there needed to be lots more world building in certain situations/places - there is soo much potential to expand and provide readers with intricate tellings of the kingdoms etc which are provided on the map.

I quite enjoyed the love triangle and not knowing where my loyalties lie, however, again I didn’t feel the connection with the relationships, which I think is just because it needed some more time to develop as it escalated from 0-100 so quickly.

Overall:
I think for a debut novel, this has so much potential to be excellent.
Tropes ❣️: Shadow Daddy, magical realms, long lost power, love triangle, political unrest, vampire elements, blood contracts.

This review is entirely my own thoughts. Thank you Netgalley.

[Kianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had everything it needed to be an amazing read: a strong FMC, a super unique fantasy world, complex magic and lore, and amazing side characters. Seeing all of this right from the start, I was worried this story wouldn't deliver, but it absolutely DELIVERED! Eleni is an ER nurse experiencing the loss of her grandmother. She's suddenly portaled to a new world and finds herself immediately in danger. This book hits the ground running after this point, exploring the world and its history. There are definitely elements of romance to the story but it focuses plenty on action and character development, which was exactly what I needed from it!

This book flows so well! The prose is complex while not being overwhelming and the story just keeps you hooked! I would consider this a bit of an Avatar: The Last Airbender meets ACOTAR, though I haven't watched ATLA so I could be wrong but it is mentioned in the story! The magic system focuses on elemental magic while having a bit of an elven feel to it similar to ACOTAR's fae. This was a 4.5 star read for me instead of 5 because some of the wording choices were a bit too modern for my preference. I also think some things were a bit too overstated and it would've been nice to have to work a bit more to gather the intentions of the characters. However, even with my minor critiques, I just loved this read and could not put this book down!

𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺 • 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺 • 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 • 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[LeshaD Mylene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to CC Martinez and BookSirens for the ARC read of Shadows of Thysia. This was a great read! The melding of characters were familiar, but different. The introduction of magic, unique.

********POSSIBLE SPOILERS BELOW************







Our FMC, Eleni, is a human thrust into a world where magic is elemental - Air, Water, Fire and Earth. Each land within this realm possesses magic of these elements, but one - Earth - has been snuffed out. Eleni is captured and saved by out two MMCs, binding herself to both. I loved both MMCs. One brooding, the other cinnamon roll. Velorn, our warden shadow daddy - gives Xaden vibes, protective but with more hate than love, and Ehlark, gives rescuer Rhys vibes - protective but gentle. Both come to realize Eleni doesn't need their protection - she has protection of her own - a necklace that gives her the power to wield weapon with Earth magic. I adored these characters and am anxious to see how their story unfolds. The world building and the use of magic kept me intrigued. Eleni is a strong FMC, with sass, who doesn't want to or need to rely on anyone, let alone the MMCs. Even though she feels drawn to them, and I appreciate how she ultimately advocates for her own choosing. Wanting nothing more than to find home. The only thing that threw me off in this book was the transition from her home in America to this new magical world of Thysia. But I do understand that it was necessary considering that's where she may end up in Book 2. All in all- a very enjoyable read.

[Cheyenne Oleson · Rating 4 out of 5]

**★★★★☆ | Atmospheric, Intriguing, and Rich with Fantasy Depth**

*Shadows of Thysia* by C.C. Martinez is an immersive fantasy that draws you into a world layered with mystery, magic, and shifting loyalties. From the very beginning, there’s a sense that something larger is unfolding beneath the surface, pulling you deeper with each chapter.

The world-building is a clear highlight. Thysia feels vivid and alive, with enough detail to create a strong sense of place without overwhelming the story. There’s a depth to the lore and politics that adds weight to the narrative, making the stakes feel meaningful and well-developed.

The characters are complex and compelling, each navigating their own challenges and motivations. Their relationships evolve in interesting ways, adding both tension and emotional depth to the story. While there were moments where I wanted a bit more exploration into certain backstories or dynamics, the overall character work still keeps you invested.

The pacing is steady, balancing action, intrigue, and quieter moments of reflection. It allows the story to build naturally, though there are a few areas where tightening or expanding certain scenes could have elevated the impact even further.

Overall, *Shadows of Thysia* is a captivating and well-crafted fantasy that offers a strong blend of atmosphere, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling. It’s a rewarding read for fans of immersive worlds and layered narratives.

**Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**

[KT Tellez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay WOW what a whirlwind this book is! In a good way, like a roller coaster of emotions. I was about to cry and had no time before the action kept urging me forward and before I knew it I was giggling - kudos to the author for keeping me on my toes! Our FMC has a sarcastic wit that I can relate to, and I truly appreciated the lightheartedness and levity in a lot of the characters conversations. It is JAM PACKED with content and a fast paced story- so for a solid fantasy with all the best tropes (seriously, almost alllllllllll of them) you can’t go wrong with this book! The ONLY reasons I marked this 3 stars is just because it goes too fast! It’s a huge personal preference, I love details - and these characters are intriguing and enticing I just want more! Same thing for the plot, I feel like there is enough meat in this story that some situations could be more elaborate, there was a time or two where a “plot hole” was sealed SO quickly by an internal quick thought rather than maybe becoming a catalyst for further depth. Some piece felt a little skimmed over or unexplained. Like I am big into magic wielding and I want to explore more about these different elements within the overarching story because out of all the fantasy I have read in my time, this has some new ideas and types of magic I’ve never seen before- which is hard to do! Fantastic wonderfully exciting book- absolutely excited to see where this story goes! Will gladly devour the second one when it comes out.

[Leanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

(2.5🌟 rounded up)

This book had a pretty rough start, but I think it redeemed itself a little by the end. You can definitely tell this is a debut novel - the writing feels a little clunky, overtly literal, and uses 'trendy' language like "yeeted" and "gave me the ick"... 

My main issue with this book is that you can tell that every situation was contrived for the purpose of pushing certain characters together, or for very convenient info-dumping and plot progression. Again, I think that's something that tends to happen with debut novels, as the author is still exploring their own writing and story-telling style, but it can be jarring and can pull you out of the book. 

Right from the start, our main character, Eleni, seems to go through a lot of changes all at once. Her grandmother passes away, she returns home for the first time in a long while, she meets some familiar faces, she tries to protect her family farm against sleazy real-estate men, and then she falls through a portal into some fantastical alternate dimension. But all of this happens so quickly and in such quick succession, that I can barely understand the reason she eventually fights so hard to make it back home. It doesn't seem like she has strong enough reasons to go home, because it doesn't quite seem like she has a home to return to. 

Once we're in this new world, Thysia, everything seems to come together in an extremely convenient way for Eleni. We're confused as readers because Eleni is confused, but somehow, she finds people kind enough to explain the origin, workings, and magic system of this world to her like she's a child. To me, this seems wild, because she seems like such a stranger with weird clothes and an accent and no knowledge of this world - and that would immediately paint her as a threat to anyone else. 

Again, the story moves along perfectly in a way that gives her opportunity to build a relationship with a character, then falling in the clutches of a seemingly horrifying and deadly character, except he obviously has a soft spot for her even though she's extremely suspicious and done nothing to gain his trust yet? That's why I feel like everything is contrived - not to mention the convenient luxuries she receives that apparently make her forget that she's in danger and should not be freely handing out information that could be exploited when she's been held captive by people she doesn't trust. 

At times, reading this book felt like reading a checklist of tropes. It took some effort to get into the book, but I think the plot gets better towards the second half and you start learning more about the world and how it works. The author also did a good job of making me empathize with a seemingly awful character - though she still has a lil more convincing to do. Overall, the writing is clunky and awkward, the book focuses more on telling rather than showing, and it can feel like you're just being thrown into things and being strung along, but I think the plot is interesting and I think this author will be able to tell this story really well as she continues to hone her craft!

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows of Thysia by C.C. Martinez is a darkish romantic fantasy with coming-of-age-esque elements. The story follows a grieving Eleni as she navigates a world full of magic, betrayal, desire, and survival all while her choices threaten to reshape entire kingdoms. She gets pulled into this world at the heels of her grandmother’s death and after finding a mysterious necklace alongside other hidden trinkets. Bound by deadly contracts and hunted by forces that want her relic for themselves, she is caught between the home she lost and a destiny she never wanted, she’s forced to decide what, and who she’s willing to sacrifice.

I honestly loved almost everything about this book, and everything I want with a romantic fantasy. I cannot believe it is a debut novel. There is a unique magic system. A very slow burn romance with a bit of a love triangle. Heartbreak. Anticipation of some feminine rage for the next book…

Which leads me to what I didn’t love about this book… Anticipation. I don’t want to wait. I dying to see what happens next and I cannot wait to learn a bit more about Velorn (one of the MMCs), because I just know that there is so much more to him than what we’ve seen so far!

I highly recommend Shadows of Thysia to anyone that likes a fast paced and emotional romantic fantasy.

Thank you to C.C. Martinez, Victory Editing, and NetGalley for the eARC.

[Hayley Sorensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not typically a big reader and especially not fantasy but there’s something about Shadows of Thysia that has the ability to pull in any kind of reader. From the beginning, it draws you into its world in a way that feels effortless and immersive, even if fantasy isn’t usually your go-to genre.

I did see another review mention that some of the wording felt a bit too “trendy.” Personally, that didn’t bother me at all. If anything, I appreciated that the writing didn’t feel overly polished or overly edited to the point of losing its personality. It felt authentic, like the story was allowed to exist as it was meant to, rather than being reshaped into something overly commercial. It fit well with the language and personality of an ER nurse. That slight rawness actually made it feel more genuine.

What really sealed it for me was how impossible it was to put down. I was constantly wanting to know what would happen next, telling myself “just one more chapter” and then immediately starting another. The tension, the character dynamics, and the unfolding story kept pulling me forward in the best way.

This is the kind of book that reminds you why stories matter and proves that sometimes the right book can turn anyone into a reader.



I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review

[Hazel Grey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadows of Thysia is dark, immersive, and utterly spellbinding. C. C. Martinez crafts a world that feels alive with danger and secrets — a place where every shadow seems to whisper and every choice carries weight. From the very first chapter, I felt pulled into Thysia’s haunting atmosphere and didn’t want to leave.

The world-building is rich without being overwhelming, layered with history, tension, and a sense of looming fate. Martinez balances sweeping fantasy elements with deeply personal stakes, making the story feel both epic and intimate at the same time. The characters are complex and beautifully flawed, each carrying their own fears and ambitions that shape the path of the story in powerful ways.

What truly stood out was the emotional undercurrent woven through the darkness. Beneath the intrigue and danger is a story about loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of power. The relationships feel intense and earned, and the slow reveals kept me turning pages late into the night.

This is a five-star read for its atmosphere alone — moody, layered, and unforgettable — but it’s the emotional depth and sharp storytelling that make it exceptional. If you love fantasy filled with shadows, secrets, and high-stakes emotion, Shadows of Thysia is absolutely worth stepping into.

[Blitheroo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. Everything about it.

Eleni is an ER nurse in Wyoming with a background of taking care of a ranch with her grandmother, so she's super smart and already pretty outdoorsy. After losing her grandmother, the only family she has, she's swept away by a magical portal into the land of Thysia. And immediately captured haha.

What follows is Eleni discovering that her grandmother had plenty of secrets (along with an ancient relic that has a mind of its own), lots of political intrigue, a bit of a love triangle, and betrayal. And Eleni just wants to go home. She's not immediately amazing at everything, she's stumbling through a foreign world at a complete disadvantage so she has plenty of room for character growth, which I deeply appreciate.

Of course I loved Velorn from the very start with his broody shadow-daddy vibes. Morally grey, doesn't say much...I adore him lol.

Ehlark has serious golden retriever vibes, and he's sweet and helpful and kind of crazy about Eleni.

By the end, I still have so many questions that I'm excited to have answered in Book 2, we have a huge cliffhanger but I'm not mad about it! This book made me FEEL, and it kept me hooked. Totally 5 stars for me!!

[GheridenTheBookBard · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars
🌶️ 0 out of 5

This is one of those debuts where you can just feel the potential. It starts grounded, then pulls you into something much bigger, and by the time it clicks, you’re all in.

Eleni starts off in our world as an ER nurse dealing with loss, then gets thrown into Thysia and has to figure things out fast. Total fish out of water, but there’s a quiet strength to her that just works. Watching her try to survive while slowly realizing she might be way more important to this world than she ever asked to be was one of my favorite parts.

I loved that the characters feel flawed. Characters make mistakes, choices don’t always land, and it makes everything feel more realistic.

The worldbuilding was a standout and really worked for me. Well thought out, history, lore, and elemental magic… it all comes together naturally through story and conversations, without feeling like info dumps.

Pacing had a few minor dips, especially in some of the dialogue, but nothing that pulled me out of the moment. I really enjoyed some of the twists that actually caught me off guard, and I’m already trying to figure out what comes next.


I had a great time with this and I’m definitely excited for book two.

[kym ✨ the midnight review · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shadows of Thysia features some of my favorite tropes, from enemies to…something… to hidden magic and rebellions.

Eleni is an ER nurse whose life is turned upside down with the death of her grandmother. She returns home to take over her grandma's farm, and through a chain of events she finds herself thrust into a magical realm with nothing from home but an heirloom necklace.

All she wants is to get home, but she gets swept up in a rebellion and pulled in two directions by two very different elemental men.

I loved the portrayal of Eleni's family farm, her horse Eddie, and her life there. I'd love to see the loose ends with Cody, the local sheriff and her childhood friend, tied up.

The contracts in Thysia revolving around blood oaths was a fascinating concept, and explained some of the insta-love feelings our FMC has for the two men. I'm still curious about her initial connection to Ehlark, and curious about the Tracker's motives.

There were also some really fantastic one-liners, starting with the very first sentence. "I should've been a stripper." Talk about a hook!

Ultimately, this book worked to set up a series but answered very few of my questions 😂 I definitely will be waiting for book two!

⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you C.C. Martinez for the beautiful paperback ARC!