Daughter of the Night: Book One of The Shattered Divine Series

by Gemma Vale

She was never meant to be found.
For years, Seren has survived in the shadows, carving out a fragile existence far from the reach of the world that hunts her. But when she is taken and dragged into the heart of a powerful court, survival is no longer enough.
The court calls it protection.
Others call it mercy.
Seren knows better.
Because something inside her is waking.
As ancient forces begin to stir and buried truths claw their way to the surface, Seren finds herself caught between those who would control her and something far more dangerous—something that has been waiting for her.
Watching.
Whispering.
Claiming.
And the closer she comes to the truth, the more she begins to realise—
She was never meant to survive.
She was meant to become something else.

Genres: Fantasy, Magic

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication July 10, 2026

About the author

I am a dark fantasy author based in the UK, writing stories that live in the space between grief and becoming.
I came to writing late—not because the stories weren’t there, but because life had other plans first. Three profound losses across my thirties left me searching for who I was underneath everything I had survived. Writing turned out to be the answer to that question.

I write with synaesthesia, which means the worlds I build come to me in texture and temperature as much as image and sound. Darkness has a taste. Silence has weight.
The shadows in my stories aren’t metaphors—they’re as real to me as the words on the page. I don’t know how to write any other way, and I wouldn’t want to.

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review:

Daughter of the Night by Gemma Vale is a Dark lyrical fantasy. The world building and the descriptive writing whisks you straight into the pages of the book.

The FMC is serious one on my favorites! She is so strong and is so determined to take care of the people she loves, even if that means she goes without. While she is riddled with grief, going through such intense circumstances she still a badass in her own way! Side characters stand out and the villains are so easy to hate. You never truly know who you can trust or where these characters are going or what their motivations truly are. What I loved is that we get an inside view to different characters POV. Which to me really rounds out the experience of the story. When you want a true slow burn this story is delivering, and while it is a slow burn I think it moves at the perfect speed for the story being told. The ending had me staring at a wall for 10 mins straight… what wait What!! Was all I said! I cannot wait for book 2 I need more. I need to see where this goes and what’s to come.

Daughter of the night will whisk you away and leave you completely begging for more! This is by far the best read of the year for me! If I could rate it higher I would!

[Mellissa Connick · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Received an Advance Copy from the Author*


Okay so I told myself I wouldn’t binge… I binged.
Read it all in 4 hours.


Characters: 4/5 ⭐
World building: 4/5 ⭐
Plot: 5/5 ⭐

This book is dark and definitely has you guessing as to what is going to happen next.
Seren has been THROUGH it - I enjoyed the world building and magic system definitely unique. Really enjoyed the Greek mythology and the shadows being on the FMC - I don’t want to spoil anymore but I’m ready to see how this series goes and I definitely enjoyed book 1 - we love a good cliff hanger 😅

Overall, Daughter of the Night is a strong start, mixing dark fantasy with a bit of psychological tension. If you like gothic vibes and mysterious complicated characters you’ll enjoy this- can’t wait for book 2!

[Jenni | The Zesty Library 🧡✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ooooo this was GOOOOOD!
Gemma’s writing is so intricate that it evoked so many emotions I wasn’t expecting to feel!
The ending - WHAAAAAT! Book 2 needed!!

Thank you so much for the ARC and opportunity to read this!

[Nolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daughter of Night completely pulled me in with its prose alone. The writing is stunning—very lyrical in a way that makes you feel the world through every sense. You don’t just see the setting, you hear it, smell it, and move through it alongside the characters.

Seren stood out the most to me. Her POV was the easiest to follow, and I really appreciated how she fought for herself throughout the story. There’s a quiet strength to her that made me stay invested, even when the narrative shifted.

That said, the multiple POVs were a bit harder to track at times, especially when it came to the timeline. Some of the side character chapters left me more confused than curious—I found myself questioning why certain perspectives were included, particularly when their relevance didn’t fully come together by the end.

The atmosphere is one of the book’s biggest strengths. It leans fully into a dark, gothic aesthetic, and the prose does a lot of heavy lifting to make the world feel alive. However, some of the more complex geography was difficult to follow, which occasionally pulled me out of the experience.

The ending is very much a cliffhanger and clearly sets up a sequel. While I’m intrigued, I’m also left with a number of unanswered questions—especially regarding some of the smaller POV characters and their purpose in the larger story.

Overall, this is a beautifully written, slow-burn dark fantasy that prioritizes mood and journey over immediate clarity.

I’d recommend this to readers who love dark, gothic fantasy and don’t mind a slower, more atmospheric build.

Review given after reading ARC.

[Tyla 🧚 🗡️ ☠️ 🩸 🖤 · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC read from the author. 4.25 ⭐
First off, this authors writing is BEAUTIFUL. I found myself re-reading sentences maaaaaany times just because it was so poetic, so beautifully descriptive.
I could have quoted 90% of the book but no spoilers 🙅🏽‍♀️
My only issue really was that for a book with such a deep and interesting magic system & structure, it wasn’t a long book by any means. I really feel like this book could have been twice as long. Maybe delving into the world building slightly more at the start before it all kicks off. But saying that, it was still incredibly easy to understand & very unique. The system itself wasn’t unique but the way it was written & how it fits into the plot was very unique I haven’t read anything like it before. It genuinely had me hooked from the very start. The grief depicted in this really hit home for me on many levels but it just enhanced the reading experience. I liked the mix of the POVs without it being hard to keep up. I loved the darker elements to it. A better show of the relationship between the two MC’s would have been good but also, I think it has been set up extremely well for the next book. I will 10000% be continuing with the series & am devastated I have to wait so long for the next book 😭

[The Nerdy Bookshop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to author Gemma Vale for providing an advanced reader copy of Daughter of the Night in exchange for an honest review.

I was incredibly lucky to be chosen as an ARC reader for Daughter of the Night, the first installment in The Shattered Divine series. This novel is an exceptionally rich, poetic creation.. masterfully written, beautifully descriptive, and imbued with a dark, lyrical fantasy aesthetic. The prose is elegant and immersive, with intricate world-building that vividly pulls you into its atmosphere.

The story follows Seren, the FMC, who lives in the Hollow, a bleak realm devoid of sunlight, fresh air, and hope, surviving in the shadows. Her life is marked by emptiness and deep grief after the loss of her family, leaving her shattered and hollow.

Born with a mysterious shadow magic she doesn’t understand, she hides her power in a world where darkness has been suppressed, feared, and condemned as corruptive by the Luminaries, the ruling force of light.

Her life changes when the MMC, Kael, a light-wielder and Shadow-Scholar from the light city of Auria, captures her and brings her before the Luminary Guild and its ruling Triarch. As her abilities are tested, Seren begins to uncover the truth about the force within her.. and the Goddess of Night, who has long believed to be the enemy, may not be what they claim.

Seren may be the one who can restore the fragile balance between light and darkness, but such power never comes without sacrifice, so the question remains.. what will it cost?

The ending of this book had me speechless!! and completely desperate for more. Brilliant work, Gemma. I will be (impatiently) counting the days until book two!

[Chloe Downie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 0 🫑. I think this was the most unique narrative style I have ever read. I’ve read a lot of fantasy, romance and dark fantasy but never anything quite as poetic as this.

You feel every shift, every breath, and all the gravity of the situation that these characters are in. It was very descriptive in that regard. I did feel that the magic system description however left me puzzled the whole time. I think this is due to the nature of our fmc being kept in the dark (no literally) and it left us a reader constantly catching up until the end.

I liked the build up of the additions of other POVs, as this built our perspectives of how everything was coming together and gave us snippets of extra information.

It seems the power is very one sided in how those shadows can just snap anything in their path. I am yet to see a worthy opponent and I almost would like something to add to the action a little.

I would like more from Yara in our next book. Woman needs to give us some info about what the hell went on in that final scene exactly. Apart from the obvious. I also don’t totally understand the role Kael has in all this either. I’m sure we will find out.

I’m gonna need some art or maps of this world underneath situation… my brain can’t comprehend how this city below isn’t just crushed with all these unstable caverns. But that’s my practical brain talking. I’m a very visual person hahah.

Overall I enjoyed this unique read and I’m intrigued as to what naughty Nyx will have in store for us next. I hope, that Seren somehow gets a happy ending.

This book was kindly sent to me in advance by the author for an opportunity to read and review which has been left honestly and voluntarily.

[Maeve · Rating 2 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from the author. All thoughts are my own.

I first found Gemma on Instagram when she appeared in my reels, and I love following authors through their process, regardless of the path they choose: self-publishing, traditional publishing, or otherwise. Having watched her write this book, I was excited to finally read it. I've since seen that Gemma is reading through her Goodreads reviews, so whether she sees this: I want to be honest.

This book was not quite for me, and that's okay.

Before I get into specifics, a practical note: the author's content warning lists supernatural possession as a theme. If that's a hard pass for you, know that possession is not just a background element here. It is the central plot mechanism, and the ending hinges entirely on it. Nyx, the goddess, has been quietly taking pieces of Seren's autonomy across each of the four shrines throughout the book, methodically claiming her mind, her body, and finally her soul. Whether you categorise this as dark fantasy or veer more toward horror is a genuine question. The possession sequences, particularly the prologue where Nyx moves through the dream-world and the shrine ritual at the climax, read with a body-horror undertone that is more unsettling than the blurb suggests. Readers who are sensitive to loss of bodily autonomy or identity dissolution should take that content warning seriously.

Now, the writing itself. Gemma is unquestionably a gifted, lyrical writer, and her sensory prose is the strongest thing this book offers. The Hollow has real grit: the author describes canals as "a sluggish soup of sediment, plastic bottles, and other things I don't try to name," and Saul's stall hits you with "ale gone sour, damp soil and sweat" before you even see him. You feel the cold and the smell of that world. When Seren arrives at Yara's apothecary, and the air wraps around her with "dried herbs, smoke and a bite of lavender vinegar," you feel the relief of it with her. The contrast between the Hollow's rot and Auria's cold marble opulence is genuinely well done. This is a writer who experiences the world in texture and temperature, and it shows on every page.

Where I struggled was with character and chemistry. Seren and Kael share a significant portion of the book in alternating POV chapters, but their connection never felt earned to me. They are both interesting in isolation: Seren is pragmatic and grief-hollowed, Kael is an agent of the very court that hunts them, and who is questioning their faith. There is real potential in that friction, but the moments where the book gestures toward romance feel imposed rather than grown. When Kael stops Seren at the hatch near the end and "his hand lingers on mine, a heat radiating from his skin," the physical warmth does the work that emotional groundwork should have done. He holds her while she processes the vision of her mother's sacrifice, she notices the scent of parchment and honey beneath the tunnel water, and then she pulls away because it is "too much." These are not wrong instincts for where these characters are, but I needed more scenes of them actually working through something together, disagreeing and choosing each other anyway, before those moments could land. By the end, Kael's choices still feel like they belong to prophecy fulfilment rather than genuine investment in Seren as a person.

The S-name situation is also worth flagging as a reader experience issue. You have Seren as your protagonist, Sylas as her dying brother, Saul as the morally compromised trade contact, Solan as the opposing god, and Samson (in the prequel excerpt) as Kael's brother. In a book that asks you to track multiple POVs and a layered mythology, that cluster of similar names adds cognitive load that the story does not need. It is a small thing, but it interrupts the flow, particularly early on, before the characters are firmly established.

On pacing: this is marketed as a slow burn, and that is accurate. The first half of the book is largely Seren scraping by in the Hollow, tending to Sylas, and navigating Yara's quietly ominous guidance. Then Sylas dies, Seren is taken to Auria, and the book shifts register. The problem for me was less the pace and more that several moments of conflict were resolved before they generated tension. The Saul scene is a good example. Seren needs a better price for the psilo mushrooms, Saul refuses, her shadows stir slightly, and he immediately capitulates: "It's alrigh', here, take anotha bag." The confrontation is over before it begins. Given that the entire scene establishes how Seren's shadows make her dangerous and how precarious her position in the Hollow is, that quick fold deflates both the threat and the stakes. This pattern repeats: conflict arrives, and then a power or a prophecy smooths it away before the reader has felt the cost.

The ending is where I have the most complicated feelings. The final shrine ritual is the book's most ambitious sequence: Nyx fully claims Seren, Yara reveals that each previous shrine was already stripping away pieces of Seren's autonomy without her knowing, and Seren yields her soul voluntarily because she believes it will free her people. It is genuinely bleak, and the stakes are the highest they have been, but "She made her choice, Lightborne. Now you must make yours" as Seren stands there with eclipse-black eyes is less a hook than a challenge to the reader: are you willing to invest in a second book to find out what Kael does next? For readers who have felt the chemistry between these two deeply, that is probably enough. For me personally, I was not attached enough to Kael to feel the weight of his dilemma, and so the wall-stare moment did not arrive.

As a debut novel, this is a genuine achievement. The author has built the world with detail and confidence, the mythology has internal logic, the prose features an authentic voice, and the acknowledgements demonstrate that this book originated from a deep and real place for the author. Gemma writes that she came to fiction through profound personal loss and that this story began as a question about what it costs a person to become something greater than themselves. That intent is visible in the material. I just think the emotional cost to the reader needs more grounding in character before the thematic weight can fully land.

I want to be clear: I think Gemma's voice is something genuinely rare. The writing itself is the best reason to read this book. For a debut novel, it is a remarkable foundation. So, if lyrical atmospheric fantasy with a slow-burn gothic tone is your specific thing, there is a lot for you to love here.

[Jamie-Lei Ackroyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review.
If I could, I would rate this 10 stars, and I rarely say that.
It is dark fantasy and is so lyrically and beautifully written. You genuinely feel as though you have been transported into the world Gemma has created. The world-building is also insane, and each character stands out.
Seren, the FMC, is determined to put those she loves above herself. She has flaws that make her feel more real. You connect with her on such a deep level. She has already endured so much before finding out what she was made for. She is incredibly strong and driven.
Kael, MMC, has such a good character development. He is more than what we see on the surface in the beginning. His POV’s are placed really well, and his character is amazingly written. You understand his conflicts are though they are your own.
I absolutely loved the additional POV’s from people like Riven and Yara. They add so much more depth to the story and give you a better understanding about the plot, as well as their characters.
Yara’s character was so interesting to read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about her and her POVs.
I always take notes for my reviews, so I will write them below. There are no spoilers, mainly reactions and quotes out of context:
-“This void is not a place mortals understand.” Hooked already.
-…like the first time she understood that the light was never there to save her.” Still only in the prologue and I cannot get over how beautiful this writing is.
-“I catalogue her movements the way I was trained to catalogue threats.” So well-spoken.
-Even the simpler words/sentences makes me feel so deeply, as though I’m entwined with this book somehow.
-The shadows are very interesting!!!
-“Not everyone is accepting of the unknown.” This is such a powerful quote to me because it is so true, and fits this scene perfectly. It also makes me feel eerie.
-Sylas :(
-Loved chapter 3
-“When shadows shifts, the soul is soon to follow.” Just, wow.
-OMG, I cried !!! For him, and for her.
-I love yara, but I just have this feeling about her, something strange, as though she’s hiding something big.
-What the guards from her?
-“Death remains waiting.” Felt a chill.
-“Fear is a tool.” Very true. Love Yara for helping too, though…how does she know she needs the notebook…as though she’s knows what’s inside???
-So sad(will not write this quote out because it may reveal too much!!!)
-“You mustn’t give them what they want.” Hmmm…interesting. I always feel a shiver with these quotes, as though someone is whispering in my own ear; I love it.
-The stone scene=LOVE. Was truly perfect.
-Theories morphing even more. The women…hmmm…
-“My kind.” Oh my.
-NOOO, not the bags!!! But…everything inside…her things, not just the notebook…I had tears and they aren’t even sentimental to me !!!
-I LOVE that she still thinks about Sylas and he isn’t just forgotten.
-“So you’re just the hand. Not the mind.” Haaaa, the way I cackled. I LOVE how clipped she is.
-Kael…hmmm
-“A blemish they can never wash away.” Oh Seren, how I resonate with you.
-Woman…map??? Oh my.
-“They forget a blade can turn.” DANGGG.
-“…a truth I had buried.” WAIT WHATTT
-“Everything is a specimen.” WOAHHH, we do NOT like him, nooo wayyy!!!
-“…it’s wax is as crooked as Riven’s intentions.” Hahahah, this was hilarious.
-The library, the books, his mark=perf.
-Riven, when I see you !!!
-“Enough” ahah, I squealed.
-“Don’t. Ignore. Me.” HAHAHA, I screamed, blushed, everything !!! Gemma, you smart smart woman!!!
-THE NAME SHE SAID. Oh my. God!!!
-The lavender scent…I understand even more.
-“He isn’t mercy, Serene.” Well someone loves Serne retorts.
-“A goddess more like.” AHAHAHAH, Gemma, stop teasing me !!! I LOVE it!!! The way you have written them and their tension…eeekkk!!!
-DON’T fall for it Seren!!! HE IS BAD NEWS!!! He IS tricking you. (I’m speaking as though she is hearing me…)
-“In Auria, mercy and obedience is the same thing.” Oh I hate him!!! Gemma, he is so beautifully written though!!!
-“The wound they built the city over.” Oh NO they did not !!!
-“Seren. You’re Seren” hmmm…is he scared :).
-“It is who I will be when I reach the end.” I loved his whole POV here. Felt so deeply.
-“One I am happy to assist you in achieving.” Oh, fhe way my face screwed up when they first showed up. Don’t who I dislike more…
-The price. Ohhh…boy do I have a bad feeling.
-“He was my friend.” NOOO, so sad.
-SHE in his head is SO funny to me…she right though.
-Awh, Eria going to him.
-“No-one cared for your welfare.” Yeah well no one cares for your!!! Ughhhhhh!!!
-Revin…the anger in me is flaring !!! You don’t deserve it.
-“I’d rather not make them die for a faith I’m no longer sure I believe in.” DANGggg.
-WHAT…NO. Gemma…NOOO. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN.
-Awh Kael.
-WOAHHH. HOLD UP. I KNEW this was going to happen…but it’s worse. THE NAME. BOOK 2 NEOWWW!!!
Gemma, you should be so proud of this story and how far you have come. I know I am. It is incredible.
I recommend this book if you want a unique world-building, and magic system. If you want resonate with the characters on a deeper level. If you tension and a whole load of mystery.
The ending is insane. You will not want to put this book down (I know I didn’t).

[Kelly Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler free review. I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader’s copy of Daughter of the Night by Gemma Vale. Thank you, Gemma, for trusting me with your story.

As this is Gemma’s debut novel, this was my first experience with her writing. I knew going in that she leans into a lyrical prose style, which I enjoy but it can be hit or miss for me.

That said, this book takes lyrical prose to a level that really surprised me. As someone who typically reads quite quickly, I found myself slowing down on purpose, wanting to fully take in every detail. Her writing demands that kind of attention in the best way.

As someone with Aphantasia, I don’t naturally visualise images in my mind when I read. Because of that, more descriptive or lyrical writing can sometimes feel harder to connect with. But here, I had the opposite experience. I could feel the world: the atmosphere, the textures, the contrast between darkness and light. It came through in a way that felt immersive rather than abstract, which is incredibly rare for me.

At its core, the story follows Seren and Kael, and I really loved the slow-burn dynamic between them. There’s something quite raw about the way their connection develops, both of them feel lost in different ways, and that comes through in how they interact. It’s very much a slow slow-burn, and their relationship hasn’t fully unfolded by the end of the book, which I actually appreciated. It leaves space for more to be explored and understood in what’s to come, rather than rushing anything too soon.

I also really liked that not everything about Kael is explained straight away. It adds a quiet tension and sense of curiosity that keeps you invested without ever feeling frustrating.

Seren’s story, though, is the one that stayed with me the most. There’s a heaviness to her journey that builds throughout the book, and you can feel the weight of expectation and inevitability pressing in on her. There were a few moments, especially towards the end, where I just sat thinking about the choices she’s faced with and how little control she’s really had. It’s one of those arcs that doesn’t just make you sad, it makes you reflect.

The book is mainly told from Seren and Kael’s perspectives, with occasional additional POVs. Normally I’m not always a fan of shifting viewpoints, but it’s handled really well here. These moments are used sparingly and add depth without disrupting the flow.

The antagonistic forces are also compelling, there’s a complexity to them that goes beyond a simple good-versus-evil dynamic. I found myself both frustrated by and intrigued with certain characters, which always feels like a good sign that there’s more to uncover.

Overall, for a debut novel, this is an incredibly strong read. I’d especially recommend that fast readers slow down with it. You’ll get so much more out of the experience if you let the prose breathe.

I’m genuinely excited to see where Gemma takes this story next, because that ending definitely left me wanting more.

[Nicola Reynoldson (nics_timetoread) · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all thank you Gemma Vale for gifting me your story.

5/5 star ARC Review

Daughter of the Night by Gemma Vale is a beautifully haunting start to the Shattered Divine series—one that doesn’t just tell a story, it makes you feel every ounce of it.

Seren is the kind of heroine who settles deep into your chest. Marked by shadows she doesn’t understand, she lives in quiet fear, constantly hiding a part of herself that feels both like a curse and a shield. Yet beneath that fear is a fierce, aching love for her dying brother. Those early moments—watching her care for him while the inevitable looms—are almost unbearable in their tenderness. You can feel the exhaustion, the desperation, the fragile hope she clings to even when everything is slipping away.

And when her world finally shatters, it feels like something inside you breaks with her. Consumed by guilt, Seren flees to the darkest corner of Hollow, not just running from her past but from herself. The cavern she discovers—tied to forgotten gods—feels ancient, eerie, and heavy with something unknowable. It’s here that the story shifts into something even deeper, where grief collides with destiny and something long buried begins to stir.

Vale’s writing is stunning—lyrical, vivid, and deeply atmospheric. Every page pulls you further into Seren’s pain, her confusion, and the quiet, suffocating despair that lingers throughout the book. This is not a light read. It’s dark, emotional, and at times overwhelming in the best and worst ways, as if the sorrow is bleeding straight from the pages.

And then there’s him—the dark, dangerous presence watching over her. A man raised to believe the shadows are corrupt, only to find Seren and begin to question everything he was taught. His internal unraveling mirrors hers in such a compelling way. There’s tension in every glance, every unspoken moment. It’s a true slow burn—painfully slow, achingly so—but that only makes it more powerful.

The contrast between the Light Court and the lore of the old gods adds another rich layer to the story. You can feel the tension building, the quiet promise of rebellion simmering beneath the surface. It’s a world that feels alive, fractured, and on the brink of something explosive.

Seren herself is strong and resilient, but she never feels untouchable. She struggles, she breaks, she doubts—just like anyone would in the face of such overwhelming loss. That vulnerability makes her strength feel real, earned, and deeply human.

The side characters each leave their mark, standing strong in their own right, while the multiple POVs give the story depth and perspective that only enrich the experience. And the villains? Easy to hate in the most satisfying way—they embody everything that makes Seren’s journey so painful and so necessary.

And that ending… it doesn’t just hurt, it lingers. It leaves you raw, desperate, and reaching for more.
Daughter of the Night is a slow burn wrapped in grief, shadow, and quiet defiance—and I am already aching for book two.

[Kate G · Rating 5 out of 5]

A BRILLIANT & SHATTERING Dark, Gothic Fantasy 🥀

I want to scream from the rooftops about the brilliance of this debut novel by gifted author, Gemma Vale. This is dark, gothic fantasy at its BEST! By the end, I was reeling - I didn’t know which way was up or which way was down. I was literally stunned.

Gemma knows how to draw us in with her sensory-rich language that is completely emotive - you get to really ‘feel’ the world she is building in this first book of the Shattered Divine series. The words emerge from the pages like they’re a living entity - we are breathing in the putrid stench of the Hollow whilst the delusional opulence is searing our eyes in the City of Light: Auria.

We are introduced to our FMC, Seren, and exposed to the brutal and suffering reality of surviving underground out of sight from the ruling class above. There’s a divine prophecy that has touched Seren since she was a babe - to bring about balance, ending the systemic oppression of those marked as Shadowborne.

Seren is captured by Kael, our MMC, and taken to Auria to be tried and tested for what is living inside her. He’s a shadow-scholar with an astute, keen mind whose journey unveiling the truth behind his own faith, that of Solan, is mirrored in Seren’s as she uncovers her own suppressed history of the Veiled Mother. Their developing relationship, set against the backdrop of their own personal transformations, was a very slow-burn but somehow this provided the emotional connection that made them so convincing.

In terms of the plot, what we need to know was provided on a needs-by basis and this somehow sets up that cliffhanger ending perfectly. That leaves you stunned and staring at the wall for a long time. I’m still thinking about it!

My only slight would be that it could have been a bit longer - I felt like I wasn’t quite given enough to really sink my teeth into the story however this has upped my anticipation for the next instalment!

Thank you so much to the author for sharing an ARC with me. All thoughts are my own.

[Daria Kaczor · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review:

It's always a pleasure to be able to share something good.

I had taken some time after finishing Daughter of the Night to let my thoughts settle and write a review this book deserves. And I promise it deserves to be recognised and praised, because it's unique and beautiful.

Most importantly, the writing is amazing and a testament to the author's talent with words. The world was shown, not described. Each gritty detail painted, emotions conveyed so well I didn't have to process them - it spoke directly to my soul. That type of poetic, lyrical writing sets the mood, the tone, lets you immerse and lose yourself in the story.

The world and the lore slowly emerges from the bits and pieces of knowledge scattered among the characters. However, the story is not dragging one bit - it's pacing is absolutely spot on, it doesn't feel rushed, there's no information dumping, it's more of a learn as you go. There is a classic conflict between the light and the dark, and we immediately get the feeling that not everything is black and white. There's knowledge lost and there's a lot to be unearthed. I can't wait to find out more, because I'm sure there's a story of epic proportions brewing there.

As for the characters, they are beautifully tragic. Well written characters with depth and secrets of their own. Seren, the main protagonist, comes from the harsh, impoverished Hollow, but even among her people she's an outcast. She's a person who's been through a lot, and we get to experience the hardships she encounters with her. Then there's Kael and his inner conflict between what is right and what is expected of him. Other characters are introduced, with believable, intricate motives and agendas of their own.

This book isn't just another read. It's an intricate story that you experience and feel deep in your soul. This is a story that stays with you and I'll definitely be waiting for more.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

A haunting, lyrical masterpiece of dark fantasy!
This book is book one in The Shattered Divine series and follows Seren. Seren is a young woman that is marked by shadows. Shadows that move, react and protect her, without her understanding them. She has been hiding them for years while she is scraping by to care for her dying brother. When her world shatters she is consumed by guilt and grief and flees to the darkest corner of the Hollow where she discovers a hidden cavern tied to the forgotten gods of old...
This book is beautifully written using a lyrical style of writing. It is all so vivid. I wish I was so good with words that I could describe how beautiful it was like Gemma does in her book, but I lack in that department and you will have to take my word for it.
The world in this book is dark and feels claustrophobic. I can feel the despair coming of the pages especially in the parts where the Hollow's are described. Ever sensory detail that is described draws you into the world of Seren more. Then the lore of the old gods vs. the Light Court is intriguing and layered with a brewing rebellion (explosive developments in future books maybe?)
I loved our FMC, she is so strong! She is struggling with heartbreak over her brother. Searches for her own identity and has to deal with her shadows. Nevertheless she's still standing. She gave me the impression that she doesn't give up and I believed her. Each of the other characters in the book bring their own vision and thoughts into the book, and I loved that we have chapter that are from their own POV's/
The shadows in the book are like their own entity. Unpredictable, living, conscious. I love how they are connected to Seren her emotions.
The book ends with a cliffhanger that is massive, but still so good! I can't wait for the next book!

[Brittany Lowery · Rating 2 out of 5]

First, I want to say thank you to the author for allowing me to read this book. The writing is incredibly evocative. It felt as though I could feel how damp and dark the Hollow was, and the bright opulence of the city of Auria.

The premise of the book, namely the possesion elements, with the goddess Nyx, greatly intrigued me. Unfortunately, I did not fall in love with the characters, and the plot was lacking. I never understood why Seren was fighting to free a people who were scared of what she was. Side note, if you're concerned about the dark fantasy elements I would say that they're very mild in this book, comparatively speaking.

Seren and Kael had very little chemistry between them. They're both running in the same direction, so to speak, to free themselves, but I wouldn't call it working together necessarily. Especially in the end, there is just individual decision making based on prophecy fulfilment. I wish that Seren and Kael would have forged their own path, which was not dictated by darkness or light, but perhaps somewhere in between, and went against the prophecy.

At multiple points in the book there is conflict that abrubtly ends, which left me wanting for some additional element to make the conflict feel more real. First example was when Seren was trying to get a certain price for some psilo mushrooms. Saul, who Seren is selling them to, says he isn't going to give her the price she wants. After only a brief glimpse of the shadows curling around Seren he relents and pays her, her asking price. The conflict would have felt more real if the shadows had done something in order to garner the fearful reaction from the man. At this point in the book the villagers are fearful of those with shadows, but we don't really know why they are fearful.

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the advanced reader’s copy Gemma and for having the chance to read your story before you sent it out into the world. I am so proud of you for continuing to pursue your dreams of turning this into a novel despite the many rejections along the way. You’re an inspiration for following your dreams and I loved how I can see pieces of your own story within Seren’s.

Wow! What an incredible debut novel! I am blown away by Gemma’s story and I cannot wait to continue with “The Shattered Divine” series. I took this book slowly because I loved the lyrical writing that was so beautiful with its descriptions. You felt that you were within the pages of this book and experiencing the world around you with your senses. The world building and magic system were completely unique and you get little tidbits that have you guessing where the series is going to progress next. Seren is our FMC who is forced to live within the dark and she is battling through the shadows to survive and gain her freedom. Kael is our MMC who is living in the light, but is starting to question what is exactly the truth within his own life. We get multiple POVs from side characters and it all brings the story together and has you questioning what everyone’s motivations really are. The ending had me yearning for the second installment immediately. This book was a masterpiece of dark lyrical fantasy.

“When light conquers, it forgets its own darkness, yet the shadows remember.”

“Don’t worry, stirs are useful. They bring what’s buried to the surface.”

“Dreams are fascinating things, are they not? Projecting our hidden thoughts until we’re lost in our own landscape. A silent conversation with the soul. It’s quite poetic, don’t you think?”

[Toby · Rating 5 out of 5]

God Tier and Immediately adding Gemma to my Auto Buy Author List!!!!

I have just finished the ARC of Daughter of the Night and I am honestly still sitting here trying to process everything I just experienced.

This isn’t just a story… it’s a journey of survival, transformation, and becoming something far greater than you ever thought possible.

Our FMC?
She refuses to break.
She is grit and loss and fire wrapped into one unstoppable force. Every step she takes is driven by survival, but beneath that is a quiet, simmering rage that fuels everything she becomes.
And when we learn she is Shadowborne… part of something so much bigger than she understands?
Watching that realisation unfold was so satisfying.

Now let’s talk about HIM.

Our MMC is Lightborne… but shadow-touched 👀
A man who has spent years in service to the Gods, only to begin questioning everything he thought he knew.

And yes… he captures her.

The tension?
Immaculate.
The dynamic?
Addictive.

We get that slow, delicious shift from
enemies to uneasy allies to something more and I ate up every second of it.

Set against a backdrop of Gods and Goddesses battling for dominion, with the Goddess of Darkness standing firm for balance, the world feels expansive, powerful, and layered with meaning.

But at its core, this story is about:

✨ resilience
✨ identity
✨ growth
✨ and how far someone will go to rise into their power

It’s raw, it’s emotional, lyrical and it lingers long after the final page.

If you love:

🖤 Enemies to allies to lovers tension
🖤 Morally conflicted MMCs
🖤 Powerful, rage-filled FMCs
🖤 Gods, goddesses & divine conflict
🖤 Stories of growth and transformation

…this one will absolutely pull you in.

[Nick Newing · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be invited by Gemma to her ARC group for her upcoming debut novel and would like to thank her for the opportunity.

First the light.. Gemma is an incredible wordsmith, her turn of phrase, her use of language is simply stunning. Reading her work is like standing in a flowing stream, metaphors and similes flow around you as a reader without effortless grace, never drowning or leaving you parched, simply dripping elegance and a unique style that has a nostalgic yet somehow fresh feel. Make no doubt this is an author that pours her emotions into every word. Reading her words is a sensory experience, sounds, smells, textures all become very genuine and real feelings, to say descriptive would be to understate the talent that is demonstrated.

Then comes the dark.. Please understand that this is my personal feel. I found the story, to be honest, a little flat. The characters, the journey, while beautifully presented felt like the aforementioned steam was just winding a very gentle journey that never offered any heart racing excitement or genuine emotional connection. Now to be fair and transparent, Gemma has always stated the book was a slow burn and given it is (I hope this is ok to say) book one of a series, it may be that this is more of a scene setter which will bring the story into its own in later books. The pacing for me was just too static, moments where, for me, there could have been genuine tension fell away into very well written moments where nothing seemed to develop.

All that aside, if you enjoy some of the best descriptive writing I have read in a long while and are prepared to invest what I am confident will become an enjoyable and rewarding journey that I would certainly recommend Daughter of the Night.

[Roomtobreathehq · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review: I officially started this book last night and it is about a 3.5 to 4 hour read in total.

I usually give my books a rating out of 10 (not your standard out of 5) and I would give this a solid 9.5/10.

This book took me by surprise, I expected it to be a book similar to what I’ve seen before in terms of the fantasy style and easy to understand.

I was so incredibly impressed by the writing style, the detail, the way it had all be structured and articulated was truly a sight to behold. I enjoyed every stage of this book, it had me wanting more and constantly trying to predict what would happen next and in turn surprise me at each stage.

The characters break a lot of stereotypes that have been built in the book/reading world and really embody something new and exciting.

I highly recommend this book to you if you are interested in something a little darker, that makes your question everything yet seeing a strong FMC face the cards she’s been dealt in the only way she know how.

I have been honoured with the opportunity and pleasure to read this book prior to its release and it’s one I encourage you to grab with both hands and dive into.

The art and talent of creating a new world, being able to deliver it into your writing so that it can be visualised and imagined in detail and to build a world that has never been seen before just makes you truly crave more. I am already anticipating the reading of book 2!

It’s new yet easy to grasp and build with the detail in which the writing goes to.

Gemma is truly wonderful and as an author she is beyond talented. This is work and writing unlike I’ve ever seen before and I say this with compassion and appreciation for the piece of art she has produced.

Daughter of the night is not one to miss out on!

[Stacey Fitzpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Gemma Vale the author.

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6 if it was allowed)
Available: 10/07/2026

I was lucky enough to be chosen to read Daughter of the Night as an ARC and why an opportunity it was!!

Was I ready for this book NO! (Shouty capitals needed for emotional emphasis purposes) have I ever read anything like it also NO!!! Is it a complete lyrical masterpiece, one million percent YES!!!!!

Gemma Vale - the incredibly talented author apparently possesses some form of literature super power, where she’s able to draw you in from the first line and keep you there until the last word - where I may add that you find yourself low key devastated that the journeys over.

I feel like I’ve experienced every emotion following Seren our MFC through this novel and my goodness doesn’t she go through it!! Seren is at the absolute top of my MFC list for 2026 so far! Gemma’s descriptive writing allows you to feel all the feels for our leading lady while equally fuelling all the hate towards the villains…and there’s a few! My emotions were everywhere haha.

The ending - Gemma…THE ENDING (shouty capitals are back) had me sat in silence for longer than I care to admit, before internally shouting NO…..WHAT….THAT CAN’T BE IT!

In short Daughter of the Night completely blew my mind, it’s a perfect slow burn and an exceptional first novel!

Gemma be immensely proud of the world you’ve created and allowed us to experience. PLEASE don’t leave us waiting too long for book 2, we all need to know where this goes.

The Shattered Devine Series….Im waiting to read you

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to sit on this overnight before deciding what I thought of it. The reasons being it’s a first book in a series and full of world building, drops of lore, of setting the scene. But no massive high stakes / excitement.

I had to sit to separate what I’ve been conditioned to need in a book (high stakes, action, massive cliff hangers) to evaluate this book on its own merit.

This book is beautifully written. The descriptions are full of similes and metaphors and ever so lyrical. It took me a little while to get into the writing but once I was there I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The further into the book the world opens up more and more and you get more of an understanding of what has been happening in this world and what our main characters are there for.

That being said, Gemma had also expertly not given us all the answers. I still have so many questions about several characters. You get multi POV towards the end of the book which all add to these questions building in your head.

I know some people have found the ending dramatic, and it was to an extent. However I found it more interesting exciting to then want to jump into the next book. I have theories on theories and need to know whether we will see a certain character come back/ fight against the goddess?

This book goes back to what we all traditionally had as a first book in a series. It sets the scene, introduces us to what’s going on, gives us some information on the history and lore but leaves us wanting more.

Well done Gemma on this debut novel. This is perfect for anyone who are fans of When the Moon Hatched, The Silversmith and Anathema.

[timeleftinbook · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review 📝

For starters, I absolutely loved Seren! She's suffered so much heartbreak, she's shunned by her community partly because of what she is but also because she has segregated herself in fear of her own abilities. Despite everything she's been through she still manages to find happiness in the little things. ♀️🫶

From the dark, putrid depth of the Hollow to the gleaming, haunted corridors of Auria, the world-building for me takes the biscuit - or beet rootcake! Every touch, scent and sight was described in so much detail through the authors lyrical prose it felt like you were living it. 🌎

The magic system was unique, I enjoyed the battle of light v dark with the mix of shadows, rune magic and experimentation and the pieces of lore we picked up along the way from other characters. Meeting the Triarch for the first time felt like something from a horror film! ☀️🌙

The relationship between the MC's felt really genuine, I liked that even at the start we learn more of Serens personality through her interactions with Kael despite her grief. She playfully taunts him, speaks out more and shows her vulnerability behind her mask of defiance. It makes for a great slow-burn and I was obsessed with Kaels POV! 🖤

The story kept you on your toes wondering what would happen next and who had hidden agendas. The pacing was brilliant throughout and that ending was... 😭🤯

Looking forward to Son of the Fractured Light! Hats off to the author, this was an exceptional start to the series 🌙✨️

[Eternity's Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Gemma for the ARC edition of this book to read. I am leaving this review for free and completely of my own thoughts and opinions.

This book is an AMAZING start to a new fantasy series. It's slower pace and lyrical writing draws you in and does not let you go.

The prose is some of the best I have read in a fantasy book. The way Gemma layers descriptions of scents, physical feelings, emotions and sight into a scene fully transports you into the book and really enhances the story.

Seren, the FMC, was amazing. Her emotions were so evocative and visceral, it just brought her to life beautifully. She is a character who, for all intents and purposes, should have been beaten down by the world. Yet she had a strong will and a desire for freedom that kept her fighting.

Kael, the MMC, was compelling for the mystery behind him and also his desire to see corruption exposed, even when it would probably benefit him to see it remain. He was steadfast throughout the book with his desires and I appreciated how he could admit his own fear to himself.

The overall story is fantastic and I never quite knew what was going to happen next. Which meant I was constantly on the edge of my seat and it kept me rapidly turning the pages, desperate for more.

Overall I cannot recommend this book enough, this is a series to watch for.

[Jade Wootton · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 🌟
I may have DNF’d this book, but I still wanted to leave a review because I can really appreciate the talent behind it.

Gemma is clearly a very talented author and that definitely comes through in Daughter of the Night. The world building is so detailed and immersive, you can tell how much effort has gone into creating the world and atmosphere of the story.

I also really liked the overall concept of the book and there were parts of the writing that I genuinely thought were beautiful. Unfortunately though for me personally, I found the world building a little too heavy at times. I do struggle to visualise immersive world building- which is a me problem.
I also struggled to fully connect with the characters, which sadly made it hard for me to stay invested enough to continue reading.

I can definitely see a lot of fantasy readers loving this though, especially if you enjoy really detailed worlds and lore. Just because it wasn’t fully for me doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate how well written it is. I’d definitely consider reading what Gemma writes in the future, as her writing style is genuinely beautiful.

Thank you so much Gemma for allowing me to read your book before release. I wish you, and Daughter of the Night all the luck in the world and don't doubt it will be a success for you ❤️

[fmj_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

****Advanced reader Copy received for honest review ****
Daughter of the night is a dark and twisty tale with all of the good describing words guaranteed to suck you in!

From the beginning the author sets the tone for a descriptive, lyrical, world building story that hooks you in and eats you up! Filled with intrigue, magic, shadow wielding and so much angst you will not be able to put this down.

I have always been a dark reader but I am being drawn more to the dark/gothic fantasies lately and this one sits right up in my top 5!!

Seren is so relatable to me, putting everyone before her self and risking it all for her loved ones.
Other characters emerge strong, filling the book with so many twists you do not know who to trust, even yourself! Getting different pov’s really deepened the hook with this book!

I have thoroughly enjoyed the authors writing style, it made the plot easy to follow and incredibly addictive. The world building sets out an array of senses, so beautifully crafted you can almost smell the streets yourself! The romance is slow and I’m not mad about it! I am all for a good slow burn, especially when the plot is plotting!

And the ending! Gaaahhhh give me more immediately! Amazing debut book, you would not know this was a new author!

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daughter of the Night by Gemma Vale is a beautifully dark, atmospheric fantasy that pulls you in from the very first pages. The writing is rich and immersive, making the world feel vivid and alive without ever feeling overwhelming.

The female main character quickly became a standout for me. She’s resilient, fiercely loyal, and driven by her need to protect the people she cares about—even at her own expense. Despite carrying so much grief and facing relentless challenges, she remains incredibly strong in a way that feels real and earned.

The side character depth, and the antagonists are written in a way that makes them impossible not to dislike. There’s a constant sense of uncertainty—trust is fragile, and motivations aren’t always what they seem, which kept me hooked throughout. I especially enjoyed the multiple points of view, as they added layers to the story and gave a fuller picture of what’s really going on.

If you enjoy a true slow-burn, this delivers. The pacing feels intentional and suits the story perfectly, allowing everything to unfold in a satisfying way. And that ending… I was genuinely stunned.

I’m already eager for the next book—I need to know what happens next.

Thankyou Gemma for the chance to read this ARC 😊

[Bookdreamer.nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for this ARC, these opinions are all my own.

I have officially decided that I love lyrical writing. Gemma's descriptions give you sights, sounds and smells of the world she has built throughout the book that just absolutely pulled me in. Every word she has written is important to the story (no skimming here, and you will not want to). We go on a journey of growth and discovery with our FMC, Seren. We are given just enough in the first third of the book to keep us wondering "who is she, who are these shadows, what is going to happen?". It felt like delightful little breadcrumbs. Then the book really picks up pace and takes us on a wild adventure through both realms to culminate in an ending that sets us up for book two! I am waiting desperately for the cover reveal and I NEED to see a map of this world!! Gemma Vale promised an amazing debut novel, and she has delivered.

"And somewhere far below this void, under a sky that does not know her name, the girl inhales-and the world shifts."

"Pots bubble on stones. Someone stirs bone tea with a rusted spoon. Fermented broth and scorched oil sting my nose, sharp enough to make my stomach clench."

"I am the sole architect of this void, and the silence in this room screams my name."

[Mescha · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was an amazing book and after that ending I need the 2nd one as soon as possible!

It was beautifully written and made me think about how history is written by the victors, Serens people had to suffer so much because shadows were deemed impure by those who won the war of Sun and Shadows.

The extra POVs of Yara and others really helped understanding and depth of the story and it made the ending more emotional.
"Not everyone is accepting of the unknown" was one of my favourite quotes in the book because I really connected with it and it's so true

Such a strong fmc after losing so much and still arguing for her people after they let her get taken. I loved Seren and felt heartbroken for everything she had endured and still had to endure.

There were a few surprises as the story about Serens path unravels and the ending really shocked me.

It's definitely a book I would recommend you look out for when it gets released. If you like dark fantasy with a strong female main character that can control shadows, a male main character that questions authority and is well-read and a journey to fulfill a prophecy that slowly reveals the truth and empowers a vengeful and wronged goddess

[Joy Metzger · Rating 4 out of 5]

FMC Serren is a shadowborn living in the slums of the Hollow. Shadow-scholar Kael from is tasked to bring her to Auria the city of light for testing. Serren’s imprisonment triggers the awakening of the goddess Nyx- she is slowly taking over Serren’s body. Fingers crossed for Serren to turn into a morally grey vessel of vengeance in book 2 and 3 🤞🤞

My favorite thing about this book aside from the beautiful rewriting is this is an actual honest to goddess slow burn. We get very brief moments of yearning from Kaels POV but by the end of the book, we’re still in enemies territory. There are hints of a potential something to come between Kael and Serren but I absolutely loved that there wasn’t even a kiss in this book!

Ok, now to the writing. Such descriptive world building- the Hollows feels dark and grimy especially in comparison to the light and brightness of Auria. We have some Very Bad Guys in charge. I already despise Uri and Riven.

I have two very important questions: 1. Will there be a map bc there wasn’t one in the ARC and 2. What is the correct pronunciation of Kael bc I kept reading his name a Kale (which I also did with Chaol from ToG).

[Beatriz H · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I no longer see a monster, but a goddess."

I needed a day to sit with this review. Gemma's lyrical writing shifted my internal visualization of reading and my emotions needed a break. 😭

We follow Seren's journey from hiding in the shadows of her life and into trials to free herself from them. Shadow and Light have been at war for a very long time, and she's the subject meant to fulfill a prophecy that's suppose to restore balance to her world.

Her captor Kael, also has subtle but significant character growth. He's always struggled between duty and doubt, and it feels like he’s finally choosing something more personal.

While reading I felt Seren's loss, cringed at her humiliation, imagined her in all the etherial dark settings, experienced intense anger, and felt the hurt in the scheming and betrayal toward her.

This story was so rich, immersive and extremely vivid! A true slow burn, with much to be desired. You’ll be put into an intensely captivating world, just wait! I can't wait to find out the rest of Seren's journey!

Gemma, thank you for letting me be part of your ARC team! 🫶🏼 I am also envious of the first 100, that get to be imprinted in such a masterpiece.😉