Standing in Shadows

The Dark Fey Trilogy #2

by Cynthia A. Morgan

After escaping captivity, Gairynzvl has been rescued by the Light-loving Fey. Now, he wants to return into the dark realm of The Reviled and rescue the innocent childfey trapped there.

But it will take strength, courage and more than one Fey to breach the borders of The Uunglarda, and to slip past the legions of Dark Fey who abide there. The daring mission will shake the foundations of everything The Fey of The Light have accepted as truth for thousands of years, but Gairynzvl knows the secret ways in and out of the dark realm.

Slipping into the darkness through darkness is easy; escaping with the childfey is another matter. Should they be captured, his band of liberators will pray for death long before it comes. Even is success, their deeds could spark a full scale war, unleashing the barbaric hatred and viciousness of The Reviled upon the peace-loving Fey of The Light.

Will the Fey of the Light risk a savage war in order to rescue the innocent childfey, and who are prepared to join Gairynzvl's quest to the realm of shadows and fear?

Genres: Fantasy, Fae

244 pages, Kindle Edition

About the author

Cynthia A. Morgan is an award-winning author; free-lance columnist, blogger, and poet. Author of the dystopian fantasy Mercy Series and the young adult fantasy Dark Fey Trilogy, Morgan’s captivating tales serve as a backdrop for powerful messages like ‘show thankfulness through kindness and appreciate blessings through generosity’ and ‘the only way to achieve peace is by becoming peace’.

Morgan is also the creator of the popular blog Booknvolume where over 18,000 followers regularly explore Morgan’s own brand of poetry, musings about life, photography, book reviews and more. Morgan’s writing has been featured as a monthly column in Fresh Lifestyle Magazine and she is an active member with Artists 4 Peace as well as supporting the ASCPA since 2008.

Upcoming projects include a fictional drama in Regency Period England, a non-fiction exploration of the supernatural/paranormal and beliefs around the world, and a return to the realms of Dark Fey in a mind-bending prequel.

Some of her other interests includes a deep love for animals and the environment. She is frequently heard laughing, finds the mysteries of ancient times, spirituality, and the possibilities of life elsewhere in the cosmos intriguing, and believes in the power of love, hope and forgiveness.

When asked how she feels about writing, Morgan has said: “To write; to paint with words as an artist bedecks his canvas with hues and shades and layers of pigmentation; to sing a melody upon which the gaze may linger and over which the heart may muse again and again: to create visual splendor with grammar and language is the most beguiling form of intoxication in which I could ever take pleasure.”

You can find Morgan through social media in the following places:

Blog / website: www.booknvolume.com
All Things Dark Fey Website: https://allthingsdarkfey.wixsite.com/...
Amazon Author Page: Author.to/CAMorganAuthor
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MorganBC728
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/booknvolume
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/creativiapu...
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Publisher’s Author Page : https://www.creativia.org/cynthia-mor...

Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Accepted into the loving embrace of the Light Fey, Gairynzvl knows he must return to the dark realm and rescue the childfey trapped there in a brutal living hell. He needs strength, support and the faith of the Light Fey that he WILL succeed. Not warriors by nature, how can the Light Fey stand against the warriors of the Reviled? Their journey will be treacherous, the possibility of discovery an capture far too great, but this band of rescuers are determined to bring the precious youth of the Fey home to their families before they have been either killed or turned.

Standing in the Shadows by Cynthia A. Morgan is a tale of dark fantasy, new beginnings and the power of love over hate. As characters return in this addition in the Dark Fey Trilogy, there is a definite feeling of growth and awareness of others this time out. I visualized a world as giving as the Light Fey, who welcomed a former enemy back into their fold and then entrusted their lives and the lives of their precious young to his hands, knowing the possibility of a retaliatory war could be on the horizon.

Once again, each scene comes to life, as Ms. Morgan details the good, the bad and the terrifying. Unlikely allies join forces to protect the innocent at their own peril. Some secrets may be divulged as characters reveal themselves and a new trust is formed with love and respect as one Fey is willing to risk and accept his own death to protect his newfound “family.” Brilliant timing, high tension and bravery as the Light and Dark Fey prepare for the third and final act of this captivating trilogy. Travel through enemy caverns, through the dark and twisted maze of tunnels with death and discovery around every corner.

I received this copy from Cynthia A. Morgan in exchange for my honest review.

My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Series: The Dark Fey Trilogy - Book 2
Publisher: Creativia; 2 edition (December 4, 2015)
Publication Date: December 4, 2015
ISBN-10: 1533044899
ISBN-13: 978-1533044891
Genre: YA Fantasy
Print Length: 244 pages
Available from: Amazon |  Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Connie Lacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The battle between good and evil – light and dark – picks up steam in book two of the Dark Fey Trilogy. Gairynzvl, who escaped from the cruel, dark world of The Reviled in book one, is now determined to save other “younglings,” like him, who were snatched from their parents in the world of the Light Fey and dragged into a truly brutal existence. (As horrible as the treatment is of these “childfey,” the author bases this part of the story on a real-life nightmare in Uganda, where children were kidnapped and forced to carry out violence against each other.)

Gairynzvl and his band risk everything by sneaking into the world of the Dark Fey. The level of tension escalates as they venture into dangerous territory. There's also the jealousy between Gairynzvl and Mardan, who both have their hearts set on the beautiful and gifted Ayla. The writing is lyrical and the scenes well drawn as our understanding of the characters deepens.

I look forward to reading book 3 to find out whether the light fey are willing to follow Gairynzvl’s lead by risking their cushy existence to save the innocent victims of the depravity inflicted by The Reviled.

[Fiona · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly recommend to fantasy readers and while not strictly necesary I would suggest reading the first book in the series, The Reviled.
This type of fantasy isn't normally my cup of tea but having been surprised by how much I enjoyed the first book earlier this year, I took the plunge. I think I'm enjoying this series for two reasons, the high standard of writing and the clear and strong themes behind the story.
The author uses skilful writing to describe the two worlds she has created, one of darkness and one of light so they really come to life.
I related so well to Gairynzvl whose aims drive the story. Having escaped the darkness into the light he wants to return to the darkness to rescue the stolen children, knowing they will be suffering the same abuses he did. To me his character stood head and shoulders above his supporting cast.
Although I related to one character the rescue of the children involves team work, trusting the unknown, putting aside personel differences and several characters discover new strengths.
A very enjoyable read.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Fey: Standing in the Shadows, is a moral tale that encompasses romance, action, and drama. The author offers richly detailed settings in both Uunglarda, the dark world inhabited by the Reviled, a grotesque, loveless race, and Jyndari, the world of the Fey of Light. The primary story revolves around Ayla, Guardian of Childfey, who rescues kidnapped, tortured, Childfey from Uunglarda. Over time, she grows in strength and character. Secondary characters, Marden and Gairynzul, struggle with a rocky relationship, fraught with jealousy. Because this is the second book of a trilogy, I was grateful for the descriptive introduction.

[J.R. Vaineo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cynthia A. Morgan’s Dark Fey Trilogy is breathtaking! I’ve listened to all three books and have read The Reviled and Standing in Shadows. This review is for Standing in Shadows. It is a shining continuation of Ayla and Gairynzvl’s story. I can’t wait for you to see how they grow in this second book. Morgan has added to her cast of characters and I couldn’t be happier. Evondair, one of the Healers, Ilys, and Rehstaed are my favorite additions to the world Morgan has created. Rehstaed is sarcastic, kind when it counts, and an overall deep character. Ilys adds spice to the cast with her abrasive outspokenness. And Evondair is that character who brings the group together. Wisdom amongst chaos best describes him.

Characters aside, the story is captivating; at times, a tear-jerker, especially the last two pages. The group prepares for the journey, eventually setting out for Uunglarda to rescue the kidnapped childfey. Interestingly enough, I didn’t feel the same emotions listening to the book when compared to reading it for myself. This series is best read alone, in the dark, with only lamplight nearby. The immersiveness is greatly amplified in this type of setting.

If you love the style and romance of Jane Austen’s books, as well as the epic fantasy story undertones of Tolkien, you MUST read this trilogy. Morgan’s style continues to have that classic ambiance. Sure, there are typos in the physical books. But they don’t matter. The tale is far too wonderful to even be bothered by the irritation that can come with spotting typos. I get it! I hate finding typos. With these books, however, I don’t care. I love the story. If you suffer from past trauma, this series just might patch up a piece of your broken heart by the end of book 3 – Breaking into the Light. Read it, fall in love with it, then share it with those you know will be captured by the tale as well. It’s a beautiful story of light versus dark, good versus evil. This story hasn’t been done before, though. And that is why I plan on reading it again and again.

[Cynthia Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the Author of the Dark Fey Trilogy, it would be inappropriate for me to review my own book (at least, I think so) However, you are in Luck, because Standing In Shadows was recently reviewed by Steve Johnson of Book to the Future Blog. You can read all about it here: https://bookmust.wordpress.com/2016/0...

[Reviewer King · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm shocked. The sequel completely blew me away and I'm left standing, speechless. Cynthia Morgan is a BADASS WRITER. She can evoke any emotion, feelings and sighs from her readers with a wave of her hand. So this was my review for book 1 of the series:

"OMG!! I JUST FINISHED THE BOOK! It was so so amazing. I actually want to scream out loud to the whole world and tell everyone how good it was. I'm astonished, happy and so excited for the next one! I stayed up all night to read because it was so addicting and I couldn't stop myself from turning the pages. I have an exam on Tuesday, but I'm like "Who cares??" This book was a gem, a beautiful gem. I actually have tears in my eyes because the way the author writes, literally every single word is beautiful and epic.

I kept highlighting and making notes all over the book because every word was special. Every word was delicate. Every word made me feel an emotion. Actually, this book has perfect grammar, perfect everything. And you know what? Her writing reminds me of Cassandra Clare. She's one of my favorite authors and I've never read another book with the same writing technique. She is truly talented. I loved the world-building, plot, action and the characters whom were so so swoon-worthy! The mysteriousness surrounding the book and I just can't stop gushing! It's so hard for me to truly love a book, but I must say! This was a FANTASTIC book!!

Gorgeous and there was never a single dull moment in the book. Everything moved along in a fast pace, a pace that worked perfectly for me. I am so thankful that Ms. Morgan has written this brilliant story and have given us readers a book with characters that we can enjoy and cherish reading about. I literally can't wait for the sequel!!

In addition to that, the characters were marvelously portrayed and the essence of the story is so deep it felt as though I was losing myself in the world of The Fey. I felt the world come alive before my very own eyes. I could clearly visualize every detail and it all felt so tangible. Again, the author's writing is exquisite and magnificent all on its own.

Ayla & Gairynzvl honeslty are so cute and their attraction was whoooohooo!! I can't wait to read more about them. I love them. I want moreeee!! I need more!! I can't wait to read the sequel!!"


Read this and multiply it by 50 because that's how wild the second book was to me. Once again, I stayed up the entire night frantically reading and turning the pages. The plot, the characters,
the story within the world Ms. Morgan created were all compelling and exceptionally done. What can I say? I'm a helpless romantic but I need, NEED another book to the series. Stop reading my review and go grab yourself a COPY RIGHT NOW.

[Madeleine Holly-Rosing · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Standing in Shadows" starts where book one ends.

Celebrant Fey Marden is still unconscious recovering from his ordeal while a newly "reborn" Gairynzvl tries to adapt to his new life as a Light Fey. But the years of being a Dark Fey have taken it's toll and he carries an heavy emotional burden from the trauma. The only way he can think to redeem himself is to rescue the Childfey who still suffer in Uunglarda. Meanwhile, Ayla is torn between her old love, Marden, and her new love for Gairynzvl.

I would rate this a 3.8. It is a well-thought out and epic fantasy world with bigger than life characters. The reading can get a bit dense at times, but it's part of the world building. The quibble I have which I thought was a formatting mistake in the first book is the lack of proper punctuation of dialogue. Often the dialogue of one speaker is part of the same paragraph of the thoughts/actions of another character instead of starting a new paragraph for the new character. It becomes a mish-mash at times and I often had to stop to figure out if the character who was speaking was the one doing the action or if it was a new character. It was a little annoying.

However, I did find the characters to be engaging and the conflict organic. Nothing comes easy for them which is great and you definitely want to find out how it ends!

[Richard Ankers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cynthia Morgan demonstrates a complete mastery of the dark fairytale she has created drawing us the reader into this second book in the world of The Fey. The feeling of authenticity is quite literally spellbinding from the new take on the genre to even the pronunciation’s of the character’s names.
Gairynzvl, Standing in Shadows' dark antihero, is a man on a mission, a loner by nature, who must seek out the help of others.
Centred around saving the childfey, Gairynzvl must enter The Uunglarda to save them, the home of The Reviled - they aren’t too nice at all. Ayla, the protector of the light and would-be love interest, and others, must join forces to aid him in both entering and escaping a realm few would dare tread.
Never less than compelling and with a decided darkness throughout., Standing in Shadows is a book any Fantasy aficionado would relish. Sufficiently sprinkled with delicious descriptions and a sprinkling of romance, the final line leaves us salivating with its ominous undertones.
More, we shout! We want more!

[C.A. King · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the pronunciation lesson! I had a lot of fun trying to say some of these names out loud!

High fantasy isn't my go-to genre, but a little Fey in one's life never hurts even if it is dark. This one was the perfect length for me! I'm looking forward to more!

The game rules were hilarious
:
"You cannot intentionally knock your opponent over the head; you cannot kick him, bit him, or tear his feathers out."

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Fey: Standing in Shadows is book number two in the Dark Fey trilogy. Because Standing in Shadows gives light to the characters and the plot, I would recommend that Dark Fey: The Reviled be read first.
The story opens with an introduction to The Uunglarda and the torment found there inflicted upon Childfey by the Reviled, a grotesque, loveless, and evil population that lives in the realm of dark shadows.
On the other side, in the mystical realm of Jyndari, where the Fey of Light live, we learn of a former Dark One, who has undergone the Integration, the process to renounce the Reviled and join the Fey of Light. Gairynzvl enlists the help of the confidence of the Temple Elders and Ayla, a Guardian of Childfey, to rescue those kidnapped, neglected, and tortured Childfey living in The Uunglarda against their will.
What I loved about this second book is that the characters have developed greater maturity. Yes, we see some jealousy between Marden and Gairynzvl, but they are able to rise above that and work together. Ayla has found an inner strength she didn’t previously possess for the sake of the Childfey. The descriptions are rich and detailed though not to the point that the reader becomes bored. On the contrary, they give depth to the story so the reader can visualize Jyndari and The Uunglarda and those who live there. I loved the easy flow of words in this and the previous book, which is so characteristic of the author, whether writing fiction or poetry or, just telling about her day.
What I didn’t like about Dark Fey: Standing in Shadows is the manner in which the Child Malefey and Shefey were treated, even though a lot was through intimation, such treatment was difficult reading, but this is my personal view and it does not impact my review. There are a lot of movies that I don’t watch for the same reason. I won’t go into more detail to avoid giving away spoilers.
I recommend Dark Fey: Standing in Shadows to anyone who enjoys fantasy or young adult fantasy. On a scale of 1-5 stars, I would award this book 4 ½ stars. I am looking forward to reading book three in the Dark Fey Trilogy.
This is my honest review.

[Brienne Dubh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This picks up where book one leaves you. Mardan is unconscious and Gairynzvl is adapting to being a fey of light again while he and Ayla grow closer. The elders are preparing to share with the other fey, news of his miraculous change from the dark as Gairynzvl plans to return to Uunglarda and attempt to rescue the stolen childfey.
I enjoyed this book so much more than the first. Several times while reading I had to pause just to admire the work gone into creating the way the fey spoke and the language they used. I'm not sure if it's because I already knew the characters going into this book or if it was that the author really found her feet with Jyndari when writing this, either way something clicked into place making it an extremely enjoyable read. The fey introduced in this one brought humour to the story and were extremely likeable.
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At times while reading this I got a lord of the rings vibe with a sprinkling of Harry potter on top, yet it still managed to be original. I wasn't ready for this book to end and I look forward to the third instalment.
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I do however, have two negative points. The first being the length of the book, it should have been longer, I felt like it wasn't the right place for it to stop and should have gone on a little longer. My second point is that there wasn't enough interaction between Ayla and Gairynzvl. They have a connection and chemistry and there wasn't enough between the two of them for me. I understand the completed relationship between Mardan, Ayla and Gairynzvl and I enjoyed the like, hate, respect aspect of their relationship but I felt there needed to be more interaction between Ayla and Gairynzvl to balance it all out. I just wanted them to talk more. The series is going from strength to strength and I would definitely recommend this one to fey lovers.
8 out of 10
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Review by Brienne Dubh @ Escapology Reviews . com

[Cherime MacFarlane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Morgan writes like a good wine tastes, there are wonderful notes of things in it and sometimes you must re read a passage to get all you can from it. Lyrical and rich, it beckons you to go further, take more. And this is from the individual who does not like, hates?, cliff hangers. But I am so into this series. I really do want the next installment now.

[David Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

For my take on the setting of 'Standing in Shadows' (Dark Fey Book 2) see my review of 'The Reviled' (Dark Fey Book 1). You absolutely have to have read the first book in the sequence before starting the second. The narrative continues almost without a break.

In book 2, our heroes are assembled, and their quest to rescue children kidnapped by the forces of evil gets under way. I thought the first book was really excellent, but this is better. There is more action and the characters have developed. The writing is of the same high standard. What's not to like? Bring on volume 3!