What do you think?
Rate this book
Into the Glittering Dark
*How do you control something that cannot be tamed?*
As magi apprentices, Everis and Wren have led a relatively peaceful life. But when the king dies under suspicious circumstances and Everis foils an assassination attempt on the princess’ life, the pair are sent by their master to investigate the only lead they have. In a city far away ruled by the dead king’s brother, they need to find answers—fast.
As an unlikely group of allies forms around them in the chaos, the apprentices will have to tap into everything they’ve been taught while relying on the likes of assassins, an eccentric shopkeeper, and an otherworldly avian to go up against an enemy unlike any they’ve encountered before.
But nothing about this plot against the royal family is what it seems. There’s blood magic at the root of it, and its seductive pull is something Everis has struggled to resist since he was a child. A struggle which makes things complicated…and dangerous. Wren has always pulled him back from the edge when he’s needed it, but what happens when they need fire to fight fire, and Everis is forced to bring out his darkness and learn to tame the untamable?
As magi apprentices, Everis and Wren have led a relatively peaceful life. But when the king dies under suspicious circumstances and Everis foils an assassination attempt on the princess’ life, the pair are sent by their master to investigate the only lead they have. In a city far away ruled by the dead king’s brother, they need to find answers—fast.
As an unlikely group of allies forms around them in the chaos, the apprentices will have to tap into everything they’ve been taught while relying on the likes of assassins, an eccentric shopkeeper, and an otherworldly avian to go up against an enemy unlike any they’ve encountered before.
But nothing about this plot against the royal family is what it seems. There’s blood magic at the root of it, and its seductive pull is something Everis has struggled to resist since he was a child. A struggle which makes things complicated…and dangerous. Wren has always pulled him back from the edge when he’s needed it, but what happens when they need fire to fight fire, and Everis is forced to bring out his darkness and learn to tame the untamable?
374 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2023
16 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Kelley York
23 books604 followersKelley resides off the coast of Northern California with her wife, dogs, cats, and birds. In addition to writing, she has her A.S. in Anthropology, and is a graphic designer with a successful book cover design business called Sleepy Fox Studio. She spends her spare time playing video games and tabletop games like the nerd she is. Her specialty is LGBT+ fiction, usually with a dark twist.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 10, 2025
I love everybody because I love you / I don’t need the city and I don’t need proof / All I need, darling, is a life in your shape / I picture it soft and I ache (Strawberry Blond - Mitski).
I LOVED THIS!!! Oh, sorry for yelling… I loved this. I’m usually really bad at keeping track of who wrote what, but Kelley York is one of those authors who I’m always keeping a look out for. I’m still eagerly awaiting the fourth installment in the Dark is Night series! I'm holding out for a hero! But Into the Glittering Dark has everything needed to perfectly to hold me over in the meantime. The romance, the action, the magic, it’s all there in excess! Of course, the standout element of the story for me is the relationship between Everis and Wren. I liked how there wasn’t really one specific moment you could point to where they were like, “oh! I’m in love” but they rather just kind of fall into step with each other. It's as natural as I’ve ever seen in a Young-Adult book of this genre. I’m glad that the narrative never felt the need to go out of the way to highlight their romance because the chemistry between the two already shines throughout while also managing to never get in the way of the main conflict. Unfortunately, sometimes their relationship being written so perfect was a bit of a double-edged sword because some of the other story elements didn’t quite match up to the same high standard. My main problem was that there were about a million different point-of-view chapters sprinkled throughout. It’s the damn Simon Snow books all over again! Like, do we really need to see everybody’s thoughts? From their mentor, Orin (who I swear gets more screen-time than Wren!), to the guard captain they were traveling with!? I’d be enjoying a Wren or Everis chapter then… boom, I'd have to read from the perspective of some person I barely remember! Frustrating to say the least. I know it seems like a small nitpick to complain about, but I actually think some of the narrative weight is diminished by the fact that we find out certain plot-points before the main duo, rather than alongside them. Man… could you imagine the emotional impact certain scenes could have had if we weren’t in the know! I shiver at the thought. All I needed for this book to be perfect were fewer POV chapters.
Small complaints aside, I also had a bit of an issue with the main conflict, which means I should probably mention that Everis is secretly a blood mage. Which is magic-speak for “it's-the-most-amoral-magic-out-there-probably.” And you know what that means, I have to compare with the Dragon Age series. And while the usage of this taboo magic is actually pretty similar in both stories, there is a key difference. Bear with me for a second, please. In Dragon Age, mages are whisked away from their families at a young age when they start to show an aptitude for magic, and then they’re forced to join the “Circle of Magi” so that they can learn how to control magic (but also so the people in power have an easier time keeping an eye on them). At the Circle, they’re assigned a “Templar” to “guard” them, but they’re really there to kill them if they end up going rogue… like using blood magic. But because of how oppressive the system is, and the fact that they’re basically kept as prisoners at all times, this will often lead to mages ending up using blood magic anyway as a last resort to escape their captors. It’s cyclical. Okay, so why did I feel the need to explain the plot of some unrelated series? Personally, I think blood magic being more of a social issue within the lore, and magi being forced to use it due to a corrupt system is more interesting to me than being portrayed as an unambiguously evil magic that means you’re evil if you use it, as shown here.
But for what it’s worth, it really isn’t fair of me to try to say that a book is worse for using similar concepts from another property differently. And for the story told here, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with the way it’s used. In fact, I can even appreciate how Everis is constantly told that a very real part of him is evil and “wrong” only for it to end up being one of the most beautiful and powerful parts of who he is. Sound familiar? I’m sure a lot of queer folks can relate and even find immense comfort in reading stories with a lovely message like the one shown in this book. Ah… I’m pretty sure I just talked myself out of my own criticism in the last paragraph. In two sentences… huh. You know, I guess a Young-Adult fantasy doesn’t need to have the most complicated fantasy world out there for it to be able to tell a compelling narrative, and since I can’t stop comparing things, I can honestly say that in terms of character writing and poignant moments, it doesn’t get much better than this! I’m not normally the guy to ask for an endless number of sequels to the books I love, especially when they work perfectly as a standalone… but man, this would make a really good trilogy, don’t you think? And it’s not just because this book looks really nice on my bookshelf! I promise that it's (mostly) because I’d really just love to see more of Everis and Wren! I just think that there’s so much more that could be done with them and this wonderful fantasy world. Let’s keep it going! Don't you stop it, don't you stop, don’t stop the music!
I LOVED THIS!!! Oh, sorry for yelling… I loved this. I’m usually really bad at keeping track of who wrote what, but Kelley York is one of those authors who I’m always keeping a look out for. I’m still eagerly awaiting the fourth installment in the Dark is Night series! I'm holding out for a hero! But Into the Glittering Dark has everything needed to perfectly to hold me over in the meantime. The romance, the action, the magic, it’s all there in excess! Of course, the standout element of the story for me is the relationship between Everis and Wren. I liked how there wasn’t really one specific moment you could point to where they were like, “oh! I’m in love” but they rather just kind of fall into step with each other. It's as natural as I’ve ever seen in a Young-Adult book of this genre. I’m glad that the narrative never felt the need to go out of the way to highlight their romance because the chemistry between the two already shines throughout while also managing to never get in the way of the main conflict. Unfortunately, sometimes their relationship being written so perfect was a bit of a double-edged sword because some of the other story elements didn’t quite match up to the same high standard. My main problem was that there were about a million different point-of-view chapters sprinkled throughout. It’s the damn Simon Snow books all over again! Like, do we really need to see everybody’s thoughts? From their mentor, Orin (who I swear gets more screen-time than Wren!), to the guard captain they were traveling with!? I’d be enjoying a Wren or Everis chapter then… boom, I'd have to read from the perspective of some person I barely remember! Frustrating to say the least. I know it seems like a small nitpick to complain about, but I actually think some of the narrative weight is diminished by the fact that we find out certain plot-points before the main duo, rather than alongside them. Man… could you imagine the emotional impact certain scenes could have had if we weren’t in the know! I shiver at the thought. All I needed for this book to be perfect were fewer POV chapters.
Small complaints aside, I also had a bit of an issue with the main conflict, which means I should probably mention that Everis is secretly a blood mage. Which is magic-speak for “it's-the-most-amoral-magic-out-there-probably.” And you know what that means, I have to compare with the Dragon Age series. And while the usage of this taboo magic is actually pretty similar in both stories, there is a key difference. Bear with me for a second, please. In Dragon Age, mages are whisked away from their families at a young age when they start to show an aptitude for magic, and then they’re forced to join the “Circle of Magi” so that they can learn how to control magic (but also so the people in power have an easier time keeping an eye on them). At the Circle, they’re assigned a “Templar” to “guard” them, but they’re really there to kill them if they end up going rogue… like using blood magic. But because of how oppressive the system is, and the fact that they’re basically kept as prisoners at all times, this will often lead to mages ending up using blood magic anyway as a last resort to escape their captors. It’s cyclical. Okay, so why did I feel the need to explain the plot of some unrelated series? Personally, I think blood magic being more of a social issue within the lore, and magi being forced to use it due to a corrupt system is more interesting to me than being portrayed as an unambiguously evil magic that means you’re evil if you use it, as shown here.
But for what it’s worth, it really isn’t fair of me to try to say that a book is worse for using similar concepts from another property differently. And for the story told here, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with the way it’s used. In fact, I can even appreciate how Everis is constantly told that a very real part of him is evil and “wrong” only for it to end up being one of the most beautiful and powerful parts of who he is. Sound familiar? I’m sure a lot of queer folks can relate and even find immense comfort in reading stories with a lovely message like the one shown in this book. Ah… I’m pretty sure I just talked myself out of my own criticism in the last paragraph. In two sentences… huh. You know, I guess a Young-Adult fantasy doesn’t need to have the most complicated fantasy world out there for it to be able to tell a compelling narrative, and since I can’t stop comparing things, I can honestly say that in terms of character writing and poignant moments, it doesn’t get much better than this! I’m not normally the guy to ask for an endless number of sequels to the books I love, especially when they work perfectly as a standalone… but man, this would make a really good trilogy, don’t you think? And it’s not just because this book looks really nice on my bookshelf! I promise that it's (mostly) because I’d really just love to see more of Everis and Wren! I just think that there’s so much more that could be done with them and this wonderful fantasy world. Let’s keep it going! Don't you stop it, don't you stop, don’t stop the music!
October 13, 2023
✰ 3.25 stars ✰
“People can do awful things for love.”
I'm never one to shy away from reading something new by Kelley York and the gorgeous cover of Into the Glittering Dark was enough to reel me in. 😍😍 While a lot of the ideas and main themes were not quite new to me, it was the relationship and the dynamics between the central characters that made her first foray into fantasy such a promising read.
“One question had been answered. One door closed. A hundred more opened wide.
Why, why, why…”
I liked how we're immediately immersed into the tension of the magical world; there is something amiss, something brewing in the shadows, as the main characters get pulled into a political turmoil and upheaval that challenges the foundations of their positions as magical apprentices. At the heart and heat of it are Wren and Everis - two young men who met under unfavorable tidings, but grew up together and trained under the tutelage of their mentor, Master Orin - and the ones who find themselves caught up in a deadly game that will not only test their own abilities as magi, but the strength of their friendship.
A lot happens that keeps the ball rolling, while at the same time, a few of the writing techniques could have worked a little better. I did not mind that an explanation for each magical ability was included at intervals, but I think it could have benefited better to the fluidity of the story if it was mentioned in a glossary form in the beginning of the story. 🙁 I did not mind the multiple perspectives as each contributed something significant to the events unfolding. The writing does really envelop you into the realm where blood magic exists and morally grey characters are plotting political coups and schemes that will benefit them, alone.
“A deep, undeniable urge to love and protect him, no matter the cost, because Everis couldn’t live in a world where Wren did not exist. Any time he’d slipped up, stumbled too close into that which was forbidden, Wren had been there to gently guide him back and see him through it.
Wren was his light when the darkness felt so tempting.”
I loved how Wren and Everis were so fiercely concerned and loyal to one another; the sacrifices Ever would do for Wren's safety, the concern and care Wren wielded for him, the loyalty to each other was more than just of friendship. Their inner thoughts for each other was the pull to my heartstrings that ached to see them happy, because they were so afraid to take the next step. 🥺🥺 But, as the danger to their lives increased, it became impossible to deny how much they meant to each other. The romance may not be the integral part of the plot, but the beauty of her writing is how she always makes you the love and bond between her key characters have so much feeling to them. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
To see how protective Wren was of Everis, how it helped manifest his own powers into being, how Everis came out of the darkness, because Wren was guiding the way out with his light. It is that dance of feelings and yearning between the two - the light-hearted touches and hesitant caresses when 'the warmth of his lips, pressed so insistently against his, felt more right than anything ever had' that make me feel so soft and mushy for how you can care for someone without being explicit in nature. 🥹 That fundamental feeling of belonging and sharing your heart with another that her style of writing always shines in depicting - something so very soft and comforting. It starts off as such as a warm beautiful friendship that when the moment arises for it to be even more meaningful, they each take that brave step forward. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
There existed a sort of shared link between their hearts, the strings of magic that wove them together. They were more than master and apprentices. They were family, and that bond was one Orin felt to his very core.”
The magic system may not have been very original for me, but I enjoyed the fight of good vs evil an how the various supporting cast played their specific roles in each part. Master Orin's love for his apprentices was one of the highlights, along with Faulk, a mysterious but helpful ally Everis and Wren made along the way. What made it engaging, however, was how each next chapter had their moments of danger and suspense that Kelley York elevated with her beautiful prose and intriguing dynamics that still kept me turning the pages till the very end. ✨✨
“Please. Don’t go to someplace I can’t follow. If you have a burden to bear, I will bear it with you.”
And that ending -- phew, it felt like closure, but it still felt like I was on the brink of something potentially more. There was that lingering feeling of things left unsaid and unresolved - or maybe it was how deeply ingrained I had become with the characters that I was reluctant to part ways. And the cover art did an excellent job capturing Wren and Everis perfectly - exactly as I would picture them. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 And if it's left as a stand-alone, it was certainly a worthwhile one, but if Kelley York does aim to revisit them, I would not mind in the slightest. 😊
“People can do awful things for love.”
I'm never one to shy away from reading something new by Kelley York and the gorgeous cover of Into the Glittering Dark was enough to reel me in. 😍😍 While a lot of the ideas and main themes were not quite new to me, it was the relationship and the dynamics between the central characters that made her first foray into fantasy such a promising read.
“One question had been answered. One door closed. A hundred more opened wide.
Why, why, why…”
I liked how we're immediately immersed into the tension of the magical world; there is something amiss, something brewing in the shadows, as the main characters get pulled into a political turmoil and upheaval that challenges the foundations of their positions as magical apprentices. At the heart and heat of it are Wren and Everis - two young men who met under unfavorable tidings, but grew up together and trained under the tutelage of their mentor, Master Orin - and the ones who find themselves caught up in a deadly game that will not only test their own abilities as magi, but the strength of their friendship.
A lot happens that keeps the ball rolling, while at the same time, a few of the writing techniques could have worked a little better. I did not mind that an explanation for each magical ability was included at intervals, but I think it could have benefited better to the fluidity of the story if it was mentioned in a glossary form in the beginning of the story. 🙁 I did not mind the multiple perspectives as each contributed something significant to the events unfolding. The writing does really envelop you into the realm where blood magic exists and morally grey characters are plotting political coups and schemes that will benefit them, alone.
“A deep, undeniable urge to love and protect him, no matter the cost, because Everis couldn’t live in a world where Wren did not exist. Any time he’d slipped up, stumbled too close into that which was forbidden, Wren had been there to gently guide him back and see him through it.
Wren was his light when the darkness felt so tempting.”
I loved how Wren and Everis were so fiercely concerned and loyal to one another; the sacrifices Ever would do for Wren's safety, the concern and care Wren wielded for him, the loyalty to each other was more than just of friendship. Their inner thoughts for each other was the pull to my heartstrings that ached to see them happy, because they were so afraid to take the next step. 🥺🥺 But, as the danger to their lives increased, it became impossible to deny how much they meant to each other. The romance may not be the integral part of the plot, but the beauty of her writing is how she always makes you the love and bond between her key characters have so much feeling to them. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
To see how protective Wren was of Everis, how it helped manifest his own powers into being, how Everis came out of the darkness, because Wren was guiding the way out with his light. It is that dance of feelings and yearning between the two - the light-hearted touches and hesitant caresses when 'the warmth of his lips, pressed so insistently against his, felt more right than anything ever had' that make me feel so soft and mushy for how you can care for someone without being explicit in nature. 🥹 That fundamental feeling of belonging and sharing your heart with another that her style of writing always shines in depicting - something so very soft and comforting. It starts off as such as a warm beautiful friendship that when the moment arises for it to be even more meaningful, they each take that brave step forward. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
There existed a sort of shared link between their hearts, the strings of magic that wove them together. They were more than master and apprentices. They were family, and that bond was one Orin felt to his very core.”
The magic system may not have been very original for me, but I enjoyed the fight of good vs evil an how the various supporting cast played their specific roles in each part. Master Orin's love for his apprentices was one of the highlights, along with Faulk, a mysterious but helpful ally Everis and Wren made along the way. What made it engaging, however, was how each next chapter had their moments of danger and suspense that Kelley York elevated with her beautiful prose and intriguing dynamics that still kept me turning the pages till the very end. ✨✨
“Please. Don’t go to someplace I can’t follow. If you have a burden to bear, I will bear it with you.”
And that ending -- phew, it felt like closure, but it still felt like I was on the brink of something potentially more. There was that lingering feeling of things left unsaid and unresolved - or maybe it was how deeply ingrained I had become with the characters that I was reluctant to part ways. And the cover art did an excellent job capturing Wren and Everis perfectly - exactly as I would picture them. 🤌🏻🤌🏻 And if it's left as a stand-alone, it was certainly a worthwhile one, but if Kelley York does aim to revisit them, I would not mind in the slightest. 😊
November 28, 2023
If I am being honest, this was a much stronger fantasy book than I had anticipated and I really enjoyed it. This story had political intrigue, action, magic and a dash of emotional heart.
The world building was pretty traditional mage magic systems, not really breaking the barrier on that, but it’s classic for a reason. I did enjoy the elements of how blood magic and blood magi was woven into the world and it led to some actually quite dark scenarios and actions needing to be taken.
Also there was a secret society of assassins with fun and sassy personalities. Still a little murky on why they were involved but I’m not questioning it cause I had a good time.
I know, reading the authors note, that this was meant to be a story which focuses more on the elements on familial love and connection than romantic love, and I respect that choice and enjoyed the sentimentality of the moments between Orin, Ever and Wren. But I don’t think romantic relationships needed to be sacrificed thematically at the cost of Everis and Wrens developing relationship. The little flirty moments early on when they were developing their relationship from friends to lovers were some of my favourites in the story and ultimately my desire to see more of their chemistry and dynamic and feeling the missing place of it is what made this a 4 star read for me and not a 5 star one (two teenage boys go from best friends to lovers, you can’t tell me they wouldn’t be running at an 11/10 love drunk- I don’t even need spice I just want the devotion and cute moments).
Also I am 100% convinced there was a spark between Imaryllis and the assassin Gwyn and my mental head cannon is they end up together after the end of the story. The end.
The world building was pretty traditional mage magic systems, not really breaking the barrier on that, but it’s classic for a reason. I did enjoy the elements of how blood magic and blood magi was woven into the world and it led to some actually quite dark scenarios and actions needing to be taken.
Also there was a secret society of assassins with fun and sassy personalities. Still a little murky on why they were involved but I’m not questioning it cause I had a good time.
I know, reading the authors note, that this was meant to be a story which focuses more on the elements on familial love and connection than romantic love, and I respect that choice and enjoyed the sentimentality of the moments between Orin, Ever and Wren. But I don’t think romantic relationships needed to be sacrificed thematically at the cost of Everis and Wrens developing relationship. The little flirty moments early on when they were developing their relationship from friends to lovers were some of my favourites in the story and ultimately my desire to see more of their chemistry and dynamic and feeling the missing place of it is what made this a 4 star read for me and not a 5 star one (two teenage boys go from best friends to lovers, you can’t tell me they wouldn’t be running at an 11/10 love drunk- I don’t even need spice I just want the devotion and cute moments).
Also I am 100% convinced there was a spark between Imaryllis and the assassin Gwyn and my mental head cannon is they end up together after the end of the story. The end.
March 21, 2024
4.0 stars ...
Not as engrossing as the 'Dark is the Night' trilogy by this author but still quite enjoyable. If you like this genre, I can recommend it. At times I did some skimming so I consider it a little too "wordy" for my tastes, but the characters (if not the plot) are original and intriguing.
Not as engrossing as the 'Dark is the Night' trilogy by this author but still quite enjoyable. If you like this genre, I can recommend it. At times I did some skimming so I consider it a little too "wordy" for my tastes, but the characters (if not the plot) are original and intriguing.
February 15, 2024
Loved every minute of this YA fantasy adventure. Great male and female characters both, Machiavellian scheming, unexpected plot turns ... I could go on but I won't. 4.5 stars.
January 17, 2024
DNF @ 15% / 5 chapters
I'm really not sure why this failed to hold my attention. Writing style? My mood? The current phase of the moon?
Truly, I feel like it is an interesting story, there is *something* here. But... maybe it is the how the chapters end? Like, we get into the story and then immediately have a POV change-- and as I look at the Table of Contents, I see we are getting so, so many POVs. I finished chapter 5 going "Ohhhh????" to see that we have an excerpt of magic information which I'm SURE is interesting, but ruined the flow.
Again, maybe if I was in a more giving mood or had more patience... I can't remember the last time I read higher fantasy without romance (which I honestly see no hint of soooo) so this is probably more of a me thing.
UGH that cover is just so awesome and I'm so bummed I couldn't get into this.
I'm really not sure why this failed to hold my attention. Writing style? My mood? The current phase of the moon?
Truly, I feel like it is an interesting story, there is *something* here. But... maybe it is the how the chapters end? Like, we get into the story and then immediately have a POV change-- and as I look at the Table of Contents, I see we are getting so, so many POVs. I finished chapter 5 going "Ohhhh????" to see that we have an excerpt of magic information which I'm SURE is interesting, but ruined the flow.
Again, maybe if I was in a more giving mood or had more patience... I can't remember the last time I read higher fantasy without romance (which I honestly see no hint of soooo) so this is probably more of a me thing.
UGH that cover is just so awesome and I'm so bummed I couldn't get into this.
July 13, 2024
No idea how you can make a book about blood magic, court intrigues and undead birds boring, but... yeah.
July 16, 2023
*ARC Review*
5 stars, I absolutely loved this story! I haven’t read fantasy in a while and this book reminded me why I love it so much. Both the plot and characters are so wonderfully written you can’t help but get hooked and feeling all the emotions, Everis and Wren aren’t perfect but they are pure souls trying their best no matter what gets thrown their way❤️ I look forward to reading more by Kelley in the future!
5 stars, I absolutely loved this story! I haven’t read fantasy in a while and this book reminded me why I love it so much. Both the plot and characters are so wonderfully written you can’t help but get hooked and feeling all the emotions, Everis and Wren aren’t perfect but they are pure souls trying their best no matter what gets thrown their way❤️ I look forward to reading more by Kelley in the future!
September 29, 2023
Ten years ago the devastating Silent Plague came to Balerno. At 9 years old, Everis Noctur, stayed by his sick mothers side. There was no one, not even doctors would help either of them. As more died and people left, even the guards that came left Everis and his mother. He barricaded himself inside and then one day two people entered the home. Even though he hid, he was discovered. Magi Orin Sorrel and his apprentice Wren Lumina came from the capital of Midmere, with the King’s order to give aid where needed.
Everis’ mother had passed and she looked at peace. Being just a boy Everis doesn’t understand why Magi Orin would take him in. He was just a normal boy with no magic abilities. For ten years, Everis studied the basics of magic. He did well in his studies but he was shy, very sensitive and often felt bullied. He had a rough time socializing and making friends. Although he often annoyed Wren, he still came to Everis’ needs. Wren was the one Everis looked to in his difficult times.
As Everis took on the task of organizing old texts, scrolls, any and all history in the upper level library, he discovers a book. A strange book written in blood red ink “True Magic for the True Magi.” He had no idea what he was getting into with Blood Magic.
As there were Magi and apprentices employed by the Royal Family of Midmere they resided in the castle. They were well aware of King Faramund Starlings long time illness, but were often joined by Queen Danica and Princess Cassia. Princess Cassia as a young child made friends with Wren and Everis. When Everis witnesses an attempt being made on the Princess Cassia’ life, he rescues her, using a oddly strange magic. A dagger with odd markings is found and it leads to the questioning of Duke Ryland Starling, the King’s younger brother, who has been estranged for a long time. By Orin’s request both Wren and Everis, with guards and Capt Analiese are sent to city of Patish. They have two missions one to escort Duke Ryland to see his dying brother and discover if the dagger has anything to do with the Duke himself.
Everis and Wren have no idea what they are up against and what is happening at Midmere. When they find out their journey will take them through: danger, tragedy, secrets and the fight for survival and justice.
Kelley York creates an epic novel of magic history, starting with the Rules of the Citadel, The Basics of Magic and Blood Magic. The author delves and explains levels of the Magi and their expertise of magic and the difference in scribes and carvers. It tells of a world filled with magic and spells used for good but also injustice and those who are evil and want more power to destroy for their own gains. It’s a novel of: heroism, unlikely allies, love, betrayal and corruption and more. It’s a tale of those
willing to fight for justice, to protect the next ruler and heart wrenching sadness for those that were lost.
I loved the relationship that grew between Wren and Everis. The author builds the novel with intervening chapters of Wren and Everis as they grow up together in Midmere. There’s a special connection that also grows with Magi Orin Sorrel as their mentor and somewhat of a father figure and the wonderful Nova.
I was especially taken with Faulk and Asher. Faulk is a larger presence in the story but I hope that there may be plans to reveal more about him and Asher.
The journey takes readers to the city of Patish and Duke Ryland and Magi Ivy Amaranth. Patish is also the home of The Owls of the Dusk Court: Faulk, Asher Blemont, shop owner of oddities, Stryder, Elias, Jade, Gwyn, Sevin, Vesir, Marcel and Paul.
The Magi and Guards of Midmere: Magi Orin Sorrel, Magi Amaryllis Leif, Swordsmaster, Magi Gilbert Galliel, Magi Rue Brevil, guards Artesia, Brant, Sanda and Capt. Analiese Maybury of the Royal Knights.
“Into the Glittering Dark” has been a spectacular and immersive novel for me. It is wonderfully written by Kelley York and the entire novel is precise explained and colorfully descriptive. It’s a rollercoaster ride of: excitement, suspense, tragedy, a budding romance, surrounded with magic and spells. I highly recommend, “Into the Glittering Dark” it is a dramatic page-turner and not what I expected. This is an outstanding novel and I was thoroughly captivated and never disappointed.
Everis’ mother had passed and she looked at peace. Being just a boy Everis doesn’t understand why Magi Orin would take him in. He was just a normal boy with no magic abilities. For ten years, Everis studied the basics of magic. He did well in his studies but he was shy, very sensitive and often felt bullied. He had a rough time socializing and making friends. Although he often annoyed Wren, he still came to Everis’ needs. Wren was the one Everis looked to in his difficult times.
As Everis took on the task of organizing old texts, scrolls, any and all history in the upper level library, he discovers a book. A strange book written in blood red ink “True Magic for the True Magi.” He had no idea what he was getting into with Blood Magic.
As there were Magi and apprentices employed by the Royal Family of Midmere they resided in the castle. They were well aware of King Faramund Starlings long time illness, but were often joined by Queen Danica and Princess Cassia. Princess Cassia as a young child made friends with Wren and Everis. When Everis witnesses an attempt being made on the Princess Cassia’ life, he rescues her, using a oddly strange magic. A dagger with odd markings is found and it leads to the questioning of Duke Ryland Starling, the King’s younger brother, who has been estranged for a long time. By Orin’s request both Wren and Everis, with guards and Capt Analiese are sent to city of Patish. They have two missions one to escort Duke Ryland to see his dying brother and discover if the dagger has anything to do with the Duke himself.
Everis and Wren have no idea what they are up against and what is happening at Midmere. When they find out their journey will take them through: danger, tragedy, secrets and the fight for survival and justice.
Kelley York creates an epic novel of magic history, starting with the Rules of the Citadel, The Basics of Magic and Blood Magic. The author delves and explains levels of the Magi and their expertise of magic and the difference in scribes and carvers. It tells of a world filled with magic and spells used for good but also injustice and those who are evil and want more power to destroy for their own gains. It’s a novel of: heroism, unlikely allies, love, betrayal and corruption and more. It’s a tale of those
willing to fight for justice, to protect the next ruler and heart wrenching sadness for those that were lost.
I loved the relationship that grew between Wren and Everis. The author builds the novel with intervening chapters of Wren and Everis as they grow up together in Midmere. There’s a special connection that also grows with Magi Orin Sorrel as their mentor and somewhat of a father figure and the wonderful Nova.
I was especially taken with Faulk and Asher. Faulk is a larger presence in the story but I hope that there may be plans to reveal more about him and Asher.
The journey takes readers to the city of Patish and Duke Ryland and Magi Ivy Amaranth. Patish is also the home of The Owls of the Dusk Court: Faulk, Asher Blemont, shop owner of oddities, Stryder, Elias, Jade, Gwyn, Sevin, Vesir, Marcel and Paul.
The Magi and Guards of Midmere: Magi Orin Sorrel, Magi Amaryllis Leif, Swordsmaster, Magi Gilbert Galliel, Magi Rue Brevil, guards Artesia, Brant, Sanda and Capt. Analiese Maybury of the Royal Knights.
“Into the Glittering Dark” has been a spectacular and immersive novel for me. It is wonderfully written by Kelley York and the entire novel is precise explained and colorfully descriptive. It’s a rollercoaster ride of: excitement, suspense, tragedy, a budding romance, surrounded with magic and spells. I highly recommend, “Into the Glittering Dark” it is a dramatic page-turner and not what I expected. This is an outstanding novel and I was thoroughly captivated and never disappointed.
August 4, 2025
DNF at the beginning of chapter 5.
Reasons:
- info dumps
- info dumps
- did I mention info dumps?
- switching POVs
- flashbacks
- the story moves merrily along with the mind blowing speed of the banana slug. I can't even... 🙄
2 stars
Reasons:
- info dumps
- info dumps
- did I mention info dumps?
- switching POVs
- flashbacks
- the story moves merrily along with the mind blowing speed of the banana slug. I can't even... 🙄
2 stars
September 19, 2023
I loved everything about this book! The magic, the characters, and the plot. My favorite characters were Everis and Cassia. I liked how this book mixed good and evil and how the line between them was so thin. I´d really love to read more about Ever and Wren and how they learn more about their powers, I want to see Cassia rule the kingdom and see their relationships growing tighter.
This is a friends to lovers book, but the romance subplot is not a huge part of the story, regardless, I loved the dynamics between Ever and Wren, the way their relationship developed and the little cute romantic scenes were all to me.
Eventhough I loved this book so much, it was a bit hard for me to get into it, and it was a bit hard to follow and continue reading.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a friends to lovers book, but the romance subplot is not a huge part of the story, regardless, I loved the dynamics between Ever and Wren, the way their relationship developed and the little cute romantic scenes were all to me.
Eventhough I loved this book so much, it was a bit hard for me to get into it, and it was a bit hard to follow and continue reading.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2023
This isn't a capital-R Romance Novel, but the MMCs do fall in love. Other than kissing and cuddling anything physical is off-screen.
- Fantasy, made-up world
- the MCs are "magi" (magicians)
- MMCs are 19 and 26
- a world apparently without homophobia or sexism
- few triggers I can think of other than lots of fighting/violence, both sword-based and magical
- longish book but paced well, I was never bored
I really hope York does a sequel. Maybe Orin's origin story?? With gay kissing obv
- Fantasy, made-up world
- the MCs are "magi" (magicians)
- MMCs are 19 and 26
- a world apparently without homophobia or sexism
- few triggers I can think of other than lots of fighting/violence, both sword-based and magical
- longish book but paced well, I was never bored
I really hope York does a sequel. Maybe Orin's origin story?? With gay kissing obv
February 16, 2024
This book took me unusually long to get through and I have a hard time putting my finger on why that is. In the beginning I really enjoyed that the book forced me to slow down. It gave me the time to really digest the delicate world building and the big cast of characters and their relationships.
At some point I wanted the plot to pick up on pace though. Not a whole lot of things happen in this book. Sometimes the plot is literally traveling back and forth. That did get a little tiring. It wasn’t that bad though, since the pages were still filled with character work and further establishing the world building.
I can’t stop mentioning the world building because it is so intricately done. I love the magic system. The politics and people involved in it work so well together. The world felt very real very quickly. The world building was also built into the story really well. It often bothers me when a fantasy book is just a confusing mess the first 100 pages and drops all the world building on you. That isn’t what happened here. It was threaded through everything else. I was made to care about the characters and their story very quickly.
I expected this story to be mostly about Wren and Everis. I was surprised to see chapters from so many other characters at first, but quickly got into it. This story is first and foremost about political intrigue and betrayal. It’s not a romance, although the love the characters feel informs all their choices.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, with amazing world building, characters, and relationships.
At some point I wanted the plot to pick up on pace though. Not a whole lot of things happen in this book. Sometimes the plot is literally traveling back and forth. That did get a little tiring. It wasn’t that bad though, since the pages were still filled with character work and further establishing the world building.
I can’t stop mentioning the world building because it is so intricately done. I love the magic system. The politics and people involved in it work so well together. The world felt very real very quickly. The world building was also built into the story really well. It often bothers me when a fantasy book is just a confusing mess the first 100 pages and drops all the world building on you. That isn’t what happened here. It was threaded through everything else. I was made to care about the characters and their story very quickly.
I expected this story to be mostly about Wren and Everis. I was surprised to see chapters from so many other characters at first, but quickly got into it. This story is first and foremost about political intrigue and betrayal. It’s not a romance, although the love the characters feel informs all their choices.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, with amazing world building, characters, and relationships.
July 4, 2023
ARC Review
Pros:
Might appeal to fans of A Darker Shade of Magic
Found family-ish?
Plot-driven
Multiple POVs might be a pro to some readers
It's refreshing to see magic to be accepted even if it is just to some degree
I need to make something clear, because I was not aware when I began it myself. This is NOT a love story. This is not 50% a love story with their struggles and romantic moments and 50% magic and delving into dark magic/world building. There is very little romance, or even friendship shown on-screen, between the two boys, ALTHOUGH they are together most of the time.
There is something many seem to love in stories, but I wish I was warned before I picked it up. That the "assasin/monster" actually had a heart. No, actually... A whole bunch of assasins with hearts.
There is a bit of a dark theme and beautiful aeathetic at the beginning. I mean, Everis' magic is beautifully explained and no one can deny that. Even their relationship was rather interesting to read about, I was eager for that one to be honest, because I expected a lot, and the more I read the longer I was convinced their romance was gonna be epic. However I would say there's like only one cute moment they shared, that weren't "I love you's" or "I'm worried about you" and even those weren't all that often, and when they were I can't say it was all that impactful because...well, there was no "building it up". They were just inlove and unaware of that, never monologuing it or speaking about it, before their first (and last) kiss. I literally do not know why they stopped interacting romantically for like 200 pages (or friendship moments that aren't plot-related conversations) after their first, rather awkward and disappointing, kiss.
I dislike the references of now vs then when it comes to the two boys. It feels like Wren is still "taking care" of Everis (like when a kid goes to someone else because of nightmares, small things like that) even years later when they are both grown up.
I am not big on character developments, but I did expect a lot more (and not rushed) of a character development to come from Everis.
Orin's POV wasn't bad and it was informative to see what happens at the castle, but that lasted for a few chapters. Later, I didn't care much about him as the plot progressed, because a ton of side characters took the stage and the plot happened but not in a shocking new fascinating way that has you gripping the edge of your seat, stuff just... Happened in 50 chapters, that could have easily happened in 20 instead.
I like their mentor isn't Holier-than-thou like in other stories where the mentor is a very kind person that dies in like chapter 1. Orin's story was different.
At the first half the book was interesting and fast paced, I really loved the first half, but from then it slowed down. Side characters were more present that I did not care for, plot that was moving slowly was more present, and the two boys' friendship/relationship was slowed down to a halt, until the end. The way I see it, there weren't any fillers the first half of the book. Any aesthetic or conversations or monologue was important. Afterwards... Not so much. The plot twist in chapter 26 felt dull, a lot boring actually. It's connected to one of the side characters and I don't want to give away any spoilers, but that's exactly when I stopped enjoying the book. I hoped it will get better, but I barely finished the second half of it.
It kind of feels like any sense of "danger" befalling anyone passed (for a long while) once I made it halfway through the book. The first half was really perfect. The scene with even random soldiers and assasins not fighting but sighing and smirking and getting it all resolved? And the chapter before that there was a literal sentence towards the assasin with heart "Did you never try asking nicely for anything?'
The plot twist wasn't bad, it just wasnt executed well I think, ESPECIALLY with that OTHER small plot-twist that was right down disappointing, when it comes to the reason of why that character did that thing. It felt like an excuse for their actions rather than a plot-twist, and it killed the small special thing the story held to this specific storyline from chapter 26. When first mentioned It didn't have the shocked factor (or the caring one perhaps so it might be my fault) that plot twists are usually meant to have. And it's a bit annoying how Orin says they should do something but then monologues "but that is up to the 16 year old because I am such a good person." Was I meant to see him as a good reliable mature one for manipulating or? I think so. The 16 year old on question is supposed to be seen as strong and smart, and mature... But it doesnt go through that way, it feels fake and a little forced.
After that so called plot-twist it only became worse and hardened my opinion of my distaste for it. Happens in chapter 32. (for me, but probably would not be a problem for most because people also liked Hotel Magnifique and I couldn't finish that one for a hundred pages. What annoys me is a little detail in both for main character's powers, so probably not a deal breaker for most.) This was a new take to see, so to speak, because not many allow their main characters to act and think like Everis does, and yet... That small moment partly made him, like any other main character and any "mystery" died right then and there.
After then it DEFINITELY slowed down even more, and not only for Orin, but for the two main boys as well, which is something I didn't expect.
And the excuse to get them (almost) alone again... Will I be too cringe if I just go *sighs*? I spoke of the assasin earlier so I'm not gonna delve into it, but it was painful.
Imarillys's character, thought, reactions, actions and traits were... nothing special. I hate it. I hated every second wasted on that girl.
I like Everis' unique character, because it is not often seen in books. But ultimately, the ONLY character I came to like and care for, and feel compassionate about until the end, was Wren.
Pros:
Might appeal to fans of A Darker Shade of Magic
Found family-ish?
Plot-driven
Multiple POVs might be a pro to some readers
It's refreshing to see magic to be accepted even if it is just to some degree
I need to make something clear, because I was not aware when I began it myself. This is NOT a love story. This is not 50% a love story with their struggles and romantic moments and 50% magic and delving into dark magic/world building. There is very little romance, or even friendship shown on-screen, between the two boys, ALTHOUGH they are together most of the time.
There is something many seem to love in stories, but I wish I was warned before I picked it up. That the "assasin/monster" actually had a heart. No, actually... A whole bunch of assasins with hearts.
There is a bit of a dark theme and beautiful aeathetic at the beginning. I mean, Everis' magic is beautifully explained and no one can deny that. Even their relationship was rather interesting to read about, I was eager for that one to be honest, because I expected a lot, and the more I read the longer I was convinced their romance was gonna be epic. However I would say there's like only one cute moment they shared, that weren't "I love you's" or "I'm worried about you" and even those weren't all that often, and when they were I can't say it was all that impactful because...well, there was no "building it up". They were just inlove and unaware of that, never monologuing it or speaking about it, before their first (and last) kiss. I literally do not know why they stopped interacting romantically for like 200 pages (or friendship moments that aren't plot-related conversations) after their first, rather awkward and disappointing, kiss.
I dislike the references of now vs then when it comes to the two boys. It feels like Wren is still "taking care" of Everis (like when a kid goes to someone else because of nightmares, small things like that) even years later when they are both grown up.
I am not big on character developments, but I did expect a lot more (and not rushed) of a character development to come from Everis.
Orin's POV wasn't bad and it was informative to see what happens at the castle, but that lasted for a few chapters. Later, I didn't care much about him as the plot progressed, because a ton of side characters took the stage and the plot happened but not in a shocking new fascinating way that has you gripping the edge of your seat, stuff just... Happened in 50 chapters, that could have easily happened in 20 instead.
I like their mentor isn't Holier-than-thou like in other stories where the mentor is a very kind person that dies in like chapter 1. Orin's story was different.
At the first half the book was interesting and fast paced, I really loved the first half, but from then it slowed down. Side characters were more present that I did not care for, plot that was moving slowly was more present, and the two boys' friendship/relationship was slowed down to a halt, until the end. The way I see it, there weren't any fillers the first half of the book. Any aesthetic or conversations or monologue was important. Afterwards... Not so much. The plot twist in chapter 26 felt dull, a lot boring actually. It's connected to one of the side characters and I don't want to give away any spoilers, but that's exactly when I stopped enjoying the book. I hoped it will get better, but I barely finished the second half of it.
It kind of feels like any sense of "danger" befalling anyone passed (for a long while) once I made it halfway through the book. The first half was really perfect. The scene with even random soldiers and assasins not fighting but sighing and smirking and getting it all resolved? And the chapter before that there was a literal sentence towards the assasin with heart "Did you never try asking nicely for anything?'
The plot twist wasn't bad, it just wasnt executed well I think, ESPECIALLY with that OTHER small plot-twist that was right down disappointing, when it comes to the reason of why that character did that thing. It felt like an excuse for their actions rather than a plot-twist, and it killed the small special thing the story held to this specific storyline from chapter 26. When first mentioned It didn't have the shocked factor (or the caring one perhaps so it might be my fault) that plot twists are usually meant to have. And it's a bit annoying how Orin says they should do something but then monologues "but that is up to the 16 year old because I am such a good person." Was I meant to see him as a good reliable mature one for manipulating or? I think so. The 16 year old on question is supposed to be seen as strong and smart, and mature... But it doesnt go through that way, it feels fake and a little forced.
After that so called plot-twist it only became worse and hardened my opinion of my distaste for it. Happens in chapter 32. (for me, but probably would not be a problem for most because people also liked Hotel Magnifique and I couldn't finish that one for a hundred pages. What annoys me is a little detail in both for main character's powers, so probably not a deal breaker for most.) This was a new take to see, so to speak, because not many allow their main characters to act and think like Everis does, and yet... That small moment partly made him, like any other main character and any "mystery" died right then and there.
After then it DEFINITELY slowed down even more, and not only for Orin, but for the two main boys as well, which is something I didn't expect.
And the excuse to get them (almost) alone again... Will I be too cringe if I just go *sighs*? I spoke of the assasin earlier so I'm not gonna delve into it, but it was painful.
Imarillys's character, thought, reactions, actions and traits were... nothing special. I hate it. I hated every second wasted on that girl.
I like Everis' unique character, because it is not often seen in books. But ultimately, the ONLY character I came to like and care for, and feel compassionate about until the end, was Wren.
October 10, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This one was hard to rate because I enjoyed it, and it kept my attention, but some aspects needed development.
The characters were interesting, but the short chapters and constant POV changes didn't really allow me to feel connected to them. Spending more time in the heads of Everis, Wren, and a limited number of supporting characters like Orin and Imaryllis (maybe Faulk) would have provided better insight into their motivations and relationships. Sanda, Cassia, Artesia, Stryder, and Brant's POV chapters weren't needed because they didn't add anything to the narrative and interrupted the flow of the story. Longer chapters from fewer characters would have made a world of difference. I did like the occasional interlude chapters that explained some of the magic.
I love queer fantasy and the characters, world-building, and magic system in this have a lot of potential. I'm intrigued enough to read more if this will be a series.
This one was hard to rate because I enjoyed it, and it kept my attention, but some aspects needed development.
The characters were interesting, but the short chapters and constant POV changes didn't really allow me to feel connected to them. Spending more time in the heads of Everis, Wren, and a limited number of supporting characters like Orin and Imaryllis (maybe Faulk) would have provided better insight into their motivations and relationships. Sanda, Cassia, Artesia, Stryder, and Brant's POV chapters weren't needed because they didn't add anything to the narrative and interrupted the flow of the story. Longer chapters from fewer characters would have made a world of difference. I did like the occasional interlude chapters that explained some of the magic.
I love queer fantasy and the characters, world-building, and magic system in this have a lot of potential. I'm intrigued enough to read more if this will be a series.
dropped-dnf
July 30, 2023DNF at 35%.
This is one I want to come back to, I'm just not in the right mood or headspace for something in this genre.
The writing is great, as always for York in my experience, but I'm not connecting with any of the characters or the story itself. There's starting to be hints that the main two MCs are in love but there's a dozen other characters and multiple POVs that, not only does the romance take a backseat to the world building, it's all the way in the back of the bus.
This bums me out because this was an ARC from a writer I usually really enjoy. Just not the story for me, right now.
This is one I want to come back to, I'm just not in the right mood or headspace for something in this genre.
The writing is great, as always for York in my experience, but I'm not connecting with any of the characters or the story itself. There's starting to be hints that the main two MCs are in love but there's a dozen other characters and multiple POVs that, not only does the romance take a backseat to the world building, it's all the way in the back of the bus.
This bums me out because this was an ARC from a writer I usually really enjoy. Just not the story for me, right now.
October 2, 2023
A sweeping tale of forbidden magic, found family, loss and sacrifice.
The book follows Everis and Wren, two magi apprentices who get mixed up in a plot against royal family and have to do a lot of growing up fast, not just to save their kingdom but also to not lose each other before their friendship can grow into something more. It's more of a fantasy with romantic elements than romance in a fantasy setting, and that's the first thing about this book that could make it or break it for some people. To be fair, it does feel kind of open-ended, like a beginning of a series rather than a standalone novel, and if it really is so I'm assuming that Everis and Wren's budding relationship would be explored further along the line, but for now I'm pretty sure romance readers will be left unsatisfied.
Another thing is, the story is told from several POVs, in short chapters that are almost like snapshots. And while I'd say it's totally justified as the events happen simultaneously in different places and every perspective brings something new to the table, in the end it's really a matter of how many POVs does it take to annoy you.
The strong point of the story is definitely the wide cast of interesting characters. I especially liked how none of them is perfect. In fact, quite a few of them are pretty morally ambiguous. They struggle, make mistakes, carry a lot of guilt, but don't flinch from hard decisions. There's the ultimate question of how many lines will you cross to protect the ones you love, and while I was a bit surprised at how dark the answers get at times, it was also kind of refreshing.
All in all, it might be a bit too light on romance for romance readers, but if you're in the mood for a beautifully written YA fantasy about finding your family and your way in the world that sees you as too different, with an intriguing magic system and a wide cast of interesting characters, this is the book for you.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review.
The book follows Everis and Wren, two magi apprentices who get mixed up in a plot against royal family and have to do a lot of growing up fast, not just to save their kingdom but also to not lose each other before their friendship can grow into something more. It's more of a fantasy with romantic elements than romance in a fantasy setting, and that's the first thing about this book that could make it or break it for some people. To be fair, it does feel kind of open-ended, like a beginning of a series rather than a standalone novel, and if it really is so I'm assuming that Everis and Wren's budding relationship would be explored further along the line, but for now I'm pretty sure romance readers will be left unsatisfied.
Another thing is, the story is told from several POVs, in short chapters that are almost like snapshots. And while I'd say it's totally justified as the events happen simultaneously in different places and every perspective brings something new to the table, in the end it's really a matter of how many POVs does it take to annoy you.
The strong point of the story is definitely the wide cast of interesting characters. I especially liked how none of them is perfect. In fact, quite a few of them are pretty morally ambiguous. They struggle, make mistakes, carry a lot of guilt, but don't flinch from hard decisions. There's the ultimate question of how many lines will you cross to protect the ones you love, and while I was a bit surprised at how dark the answers get at times, it was also kind of refreshing.
All in all, it might be a bit too light on romance for romance readers, but if you're in the mood for a beautifully written YA fantasy about finding your family and your way in the world that sees you as too different, with an intriguing magic system and a wide cast of interesting characters, this is the book for you.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review.
September 29, 2023
I love Kelley York’s writing, so I was overjoyed to read her new fantasy book after seeing the teasers and the gorgeous artwork! And wow… what a wonderful, gripping story this turned out to be!
Into the Glittering Dark is a captivating tale of magic, friendship, found family, and an epic love that will not be denied.
I read with bated breath about the intrigues at the court and beyond, harrowing battles, tentative new alliances, and … horribly unexpected betrayals.
I was a little surprised, though not in a bad way, to find Wren and Everis a bit more morally ambiguous than I’d expected, but that only helped to make them more real perhaps, and quite fascinating! These two young men grow from unlikely friends to devoted lovers and had me rooting for them from the start. Their love for each other is undeniably strong, all-consuming, enchanting … and is definitely a driving force, helping them grow but also nurturing their almost ruthless determination when it comes to protecting their soulmate.
The worldbuilding is detailed and intriguing, and I loved every minute of learning about Wren’s and Everis’s world. The entire cast of secondary characters is impressive, complex and well-written—both the heroes and the villains.
I adored Wren and Ever, of course, but I also found myself growing to care quite a bit about several of the other characters. I loved Faulk, for instance. He’s such a great character! A man of mystery… Imarilyss is another favorite. And of course, Orin... the wise mentor with the troubled past, kind and caring an insightful. I even found myself really liking Brant. A lout with a great moral code, who is willing to risk his life for what he believes is right. He’s quite the hero too, in his way.
I so hope the author has more books planned in this great universe!
Into the Glittering Dark is a captivating tale of magic, friendship, found family, and an epic love that will not be denied.
I read with bated breath about the intrigues at the court and beyond, harrowing battles, tentative new alliances, and … horribly unexpected betrayals.
I was a little surprised, though not in a bad way, to find Wren and Everis a bit more morally ambiguous than I’d expected, but that only helped to make them more real perhaps, and quite fascinating! These two young men grow from unlikely friends to devoted lovers and had me rooting for them from the start. Their love for each other is undeniably strong, all-consuming, enchanting … and is definitely a driving force, helping them grow but also nurturing their almost ruthless determination when it comes to protecting their soulmate.
The worldbuilding is detailed and intriguing, and I loved every minute of learning about Wren’s and Everis’s world. The entire cast of secondary characters is impressive, complex and well-written—both the heroes and the villains.
I adored Wren and Ever, of course, but I also found myself growing to care quite a bit about several of the other characters. I loved Faulk, for instance. He’s such a great character! A man of mystery… Imarilyss is another favorite. And of course, Orin... the wise mentor with the troubled past, kind and caring an insightful. I even found myself really liking Brant. A lout with a great moral code, who is willing to risk his life for what he believes is right. He’s quite the hero too, in his way.
I so hope the author has more books planned in this great universe!
September 22, 2023
'Into the Glittering Dark' revolves around the two apprentices of a mage who are sent out to gather information from the king's brother after the king is killed.
The first part of the story flows smoothly. We are introduced to Wren and Everis, two close friends who have both been taken under the wing of magi Orin. It is subtly revealed that their friendship goes deeper than an ordinary friendship. Without much fuss, their relationship grows into more. For lovers of romance, it may all be a bit subtle, but I liked how their feelings were shown in little details. Their bond is close and they are two characters with flaws, but as a reader, you sympathize with them. Through flashbacks from both Wren, Everis and Orin, the backgrounds of all three are well explored.
The second half of the story is told from an array of side characters, none of whom I found really interesting. As a result, the story flowed a bit more stiffly and even became drawn out towards the end. I even skimmed the last pages; this story could have been told in half the number of pages.
So, I have mixed feelings about this book: it had a strong start with interesting characters, but towards the end, these characters stepped further and further into the background and were replaced by less well-developed characters that sometimes added very little to the plot.
The first part of the story flows smoothly. We are introduced to Wren and Everis, two close friends who have both been taken under the wing of magi Orin. It is subtly revealed that their friendship goes deeper than an ordinary friendship. Without much fuss, their relationship grows into more. For lovers of romance, it may all be a bit subtle, but I liked how their feelings were shown in little details. Their bond is close and they are two characters with flaws, but as a reader, you sympathize with them. Through flashbacks from both Wren, Everis and Orin, the backgrounds of all three are well explored.
The second half of the story is told from an array of side characters, none of whom I found really interesting. As a result, the story flowed a bit more stiffly and even became drawn out towards the end. I even skimmed the last pages; this story could have been told in half the number of pages.
So, I have mixed feelings about this book: it had a strong start with interesting characters, but towards the end, these characters stepped further and further into the background and were replaced by less well-developed characters that sometimes added very little to the plot.
September 30, 2023
Into the Glittering Dark was a book I had a hard time putting down! I really found myself rooting for the main characters on their quest, and was excited to see where everything was going to go. I also loved the connections between the characters as well as the trust and care they had for each other.
While I normally love books having multiple POVs, that was actually one of the few things I didn’t love about this one. It was interesting to focus on different characters, but with the length of the story and how many POVs there were, it made things feel a little underdeveloped to me. I would have liked to have gone deeper into more of the main characters’ backgrounds and feelings rather than switching to other characters quite so often. In some ways, with this many character POVs, I felt like the book could’ve been longer in order to flesh them out some more. Still, as a whole, this did not do too much to hinder my enjoyment of the story.
Overall, this was a great read for someone like me who enjoys books with multiple main characters, a good, somewhat mysterious plot, and just a bit (but not too much) romance!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While I normally love books having multiple POVs, that was actually one of the few things I didn’t love about this one. It was interesting to focus on different characters, but with the length of the story and how many POVs there were, it made things feel a little underdeveloped to me. I would have liked to have gone deeper into more of the main characters’ backgrounds and feelings rather than switching to other characters quite so often. In some ways, with this many character POVs, I felt like the book could’ve been longer in order to flesh them out some more. Still, as a whole, this did not do too much to hinder my enjoyment of the story.
Overall, this was a great read for someone like me who enjoys books with multiple main characters, a good, somewhat mysterious plot, and just a bit (but not too much) romance!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2023
*I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
I found this book to be easy to read, easy to put down and pick back up. The characters are interesting and the magic is neat. The story was entertaining and exciting.
Minor spoilers: I wish the ending was stretched out a bit more. I personally think the climax battle was the best part, but it felt rushed. There were more copy errors near the end, and the action all happened quickly. I loved the way the magic was being used, and would have loved to see more of it.
Bigger spoilers: Likewise, I would have loved a more in depth look at Ever and Wren's relationship. Most of the book built a great friendship, and then it just jumped into romantic relationship. I would have liked the romance expanded a bit. I would have loved to see E&W learning more about Orin. It felt like a tease to know there was so much background in the journals, and not get to learn about it. I would have liked to learn more about what Cassia ended up doing after the boys left.
Overall review: 4/5 stars. I really enjoyed this, but would have loved some expansion on most of it.
I found this book to be easy to read, easy to put down and pick back up. The characters are interesting and the magic is neat. The story was entertaining and exciting.
Minor spoilers: I wish the ending was stretched out a bit more. I personally think the climax battle was the best part, but it felt rushed. There were more copy errors near the end, and the action all happened quickly. I loved the way the magic was being used, and would have loved to see more of it.
Bigger spoilers: Likewise, I would have loved a more in depth look at Ever and Wren's relationship. Most of the book built a great friendship, and then it just jumped into romantic relationship. I would have liked the romance expanded a bit. I would have loved to see E&W learning more about Orin. It felt like a tease to know there was so much background in the journals, and not get to learn about it. I would have liked to learn more about what Cassia ended up doing after the boys left.
Overall review: 4/5 stars. I really enjoyed this, but would have loved some expansion on most of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2025
This was just a waste of my time😭 I really wanted to like it and there were a few elements that I did like, but it was so boring and bland. You find out the main mystery like not even half way through the book so there’s no anticipation. I kept thinking maybe there was some mystery that had yet to be revealed… but no. I really liked Wren and Everis separately, but together? They had no real chemistry. There was barely any building romance between the two of them, and when they finally kissed (out of nowhere) its just never brought up again and out of the blue they’re in a relationship? I was expecting a whole scene unpacking what happened but no it was just disregarded. Wren and Faulk had more chemistry.
Some things that I did like: I really liked Orin and his storyline and it was pretty sad when he died. Orin and Drake’s whole dynamic was fun to read about. The writing was overall very good and not cringey (my biggest pet peeve). The main idea of the book—Ever struggling with darkness/blood magic and blood magic all around being this big evil—was intriguing, it was just executed very poorly.
Some things that I did like: I really liked Orin and his storyline and it was pretty sad when he died. Orin and Drake’s whole dynamic was fun to read about. The writing was overall very good and not cringey (my biggest pet peeve). The main idea of the book—Ever struggling with darkness/blood magic and blood magic all around being this big evil—was intriguing, it was just executed very poorly.
August 15, 2023
#IFASummerChallenge23
#chaosparty
Into the Glittering Dark by Kelley York
350
With chapters shifting between various characters, this story allowed readers to follow disparate groups and moved backwards and forward in time. I enjoyed this as it enabled me to see not just the various places and actions of characters but what led to them. (Though I would like to see more of Faulk. Maybe another book?)
The story is complete as is, but the worldbuilding is such that if Author York wants to revisit it, I’ll be there right alongside!
It’s found family and of people comfortable enough with each other that there doesn’t have to be romance spoken of. It’s there in the background. There’s a creative magic system with areas of magic that ‘we don’t talk about’ (but yet, we do).
I read an ARC and the book itself will be coming out in October or so.
IF you like multiple characters getting followed, basic worldbuilding, and an interesting take on magical systems, this might be the book for you.
#chaosparty
Into the Glittering Dark by Kelley York
350
With chapters shifting between various characters, this story allowed readers to follow disparate groups and moved backwards and forward in time. I enjoyed this as it enabled me to see not just the various places and actions of characters but what led to them. (Though I would like to see more of Faulk. Maybe another book?)
The story is complete as is, but the worldbuilding is such that if Author York wants to revisit it, I’ll be there right alongside!
It’s found family and of people comfortable enough with each other that there doesn’t have to be romance spoken of. It’s there in the background. There’s a creative magic system with areas of magic that ‘we don’t talk about’ (but yet, we do).
I read an ARC and the book itself will be coming out in October or so.
IF you like multiple characters getting followed, basic worldbuilding, and an interesting take on magical systems, this might be the book for you.
September 10, 2023
Into the Glittering Dark - Loyalty in Magic
‘Everis had never allowed himself to think of what it would feel like to kiss Wren. Yet the warmth of his lips, pressed so insistently against his, felt more right than anything ever had. It took no thought at all to kiss him back, to wrap his arms around Wren and drag him closer. He still felt as weak as a kitten. Wren understood, though, all but crawling into his lap, leaning over him as he slumped against the pillows, holding Ever’s face between his hands like something delicate.‘
Kelley York’s Epic Magical Saga highlights how caring and friendship leads to loyalty that brings about change.
Everis is found as a child and brought into Master Magi Orin’s fold, where Wren is an apprentice. As these three grow into an unexpected family unit, secrets are hidden that could change the course of their futures.
The journey, happy at times and crushingly painful at others, is unexpected. York creates an atmosphere of wonder and fear, pleasure and pain, and everlasting and deeply abiding love for these characters.
‘Everis had never allowed himself to think of what it would feel like to kiss Wren. Yet the warmth of his lips, pressed so insistently against his, felt more right than anything ever had. It took no thought at all to kiss him back, to wrap his arms around Wren and drag him closer. He still felt as weak as a kitten. Wren understood, though, all but crawling into his lap, leaning over him as he slumped against the pillows, holding Ever’s face between his hands like something delicate.‘
Kelley York’s Epic Magical Saga highlights how caring and friendship leads to loyalty that brings about change.
Everis is found as a child and brought into Master Magi Orin’s fold, where Wren is an apprentice. As these three grow into an unexpected family unit, secrets are hidden that could change the course of their futures.
The journey, happy at times and crushingly painful at others, is unexpected. York creates an atmosphere of wonder and fear, pleasure and pain, and everlasting and deeply abiding love for these characters.
October 1, 2024
The characters and prose are this novel's strong points, and made for a satisfying (if a bit predictable) read. The multiple pov's worked in the story's favor, with short but well written chapters that make the reader feel close to and interested in the narrators, even if we don't know much about their past or private lives aside from what's happening in real time. Furthermore, although romance is not the focus, the main characters love and dedication to each other is ever present and quite endearing.
I understand this was the author's first time writing fantasy and found it really enjoyable, with a lot of potential for future works in the same universe. This surely can be read as a standalone, but the ending leaves a lot of possibilities open (I really want to know more about Faulk, the Owls, and Everis and Wren's future).
The magic system is not particularly original and this was not a story that left me on the edge of my seat, but again, I felt like the characters made up for it, and the rhythm was great. I fully intend to read some of Kelley York's other novels.
I understand this was the author's first time writing fantasy and found it really enjoyable, with a lot of potential for future works in the same universe. This surely can be read as a standalone, but the ending leaves a lot of possibilities open (I really want to know more about Faulk, the Owls, and Everis and Wren's future).
The magic system is not particularly original and this was not a story that left me on the edge of my seat, but again, I felt like the characters made up for it, and the rhythm was great. I fully intend to read some of Kelley York's other novels.
June 17, 2023
ARC Review
I loved the Dark is the Night series so I was excited to read York's first foray into fantasy. On the whole, there was a lot about it that I really enjoyed. I liked the magical system, and the MCs Everis and Wren, plus most of the supporting characters were interesting and engaging. I had a few minor niggles: the world building felt a little underdeveloped and the villain was the usual power-greedy crazy that's pretty much standard in fantasy. The chapters were very short and kept switching between multiple POVs (some of which were wholly unnecessary and added nothing extra to the narrative IMO) and timelines, which meant the story was quite choppy. But I still romped through it and if the author is going to write in this world again, I'd love more about the Dusk Court (Faulk was one of my favourite characters, even before his big reveal). A solid 4/5.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the Dark is the Night series so I was excited to read York's first foray into fantasy. On the whole, there was a lot about it that I really enjoyed. I liked the magical system, and the MCs Everis and Wren, plus most of the supporting characters were interesting and engaging. I had a few minor niggles: the world building felt a little underdeveloped and the villain was the usual power-greedy crazy that's pretty much standard in fantasy. The chapters were very short and kept switching between multiple POVs (some of which were wholly unnecessary and added nothing extra to the narrative IMO) and timelines, which meant the story was quite choppy. But I still romped through it and if the author is going to write in this world again, I'd love more about the Dusk Court (Faulk was one of my favourite characters, even before his big reveal). A solid 4/5.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2023
Elements of this novel really shine: the system of magic is interesting and there’s carefully constructed scaffolding for some immersive-without-being-overwhelming world building. It feels like there’s scope for so much here, and within all that vast potential there are some true gems (did I mention the world building is fascinating? And there are tons of interesting characters as well) as well as some missed opportunities (the “romance” is more shadow than substance here, a casualty, perhaps, of multiple perspectives and many other things happening). The narrative can sometimes feel a bit disjointed, moving back and forth as it does, but in some ways that turbulence fits the story, so I think you can make the argument that it’s just as much feature as bug. Overall, I’d call this book interesting, mostly in the best possible ways, and I would definitely up for more stories set in this world.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2024
YA fantasy is my jam and two of my favorite YA books are written by Kelley York, so I had to read this.
It’s really good. The magical elements aren’t that original, but they’re easy to understand and used well in the story. The universe is very easy to understand without too much exposition.
I love all the characters. They’re complex and flawed. I thought I’d be annoyed by the number of different POV characters, but the POVs provide very helpful perspectives and allow us to get to know the world and pieces of the conflict.
Ever and Wren’s relationship is very well-handled too. It doesn’t have any forced miscommunications, breakups, and love triangles. They understand each other very well from growing up together for 10 years. They have a lot of disagreements, but they’re mostly out of concern and affection for each other. The way the romance builds up feels natural and doesn’t distract from the main political conflict.
I highly recommend this underrated story.
It’s really good. The magical elements aren’t that original, but they’re easy to understand and used well in the story. The universe is very easy to understand without too much exposition.
I love all the characters. They’re complex and flawed. I thought I’d be annoyed by the number of different POV characters, but the POVs provide very helpful perspectives and allow us to get to know the world and pieces of the conflict.
Ever and Wren’s relationship is very well-handled too. It doesn’t have any forced miscommunications, breakups, and love triangles. They understand each other very well from growing up together for 10 years. They have a lot of disagreements, but they’re mostly out of concern and affection for each other. The way the romance builds up feels natural and doesn’t distract from the main political conflict.
I highly recommend this underrated story.
October 20, 2025
Into the Glittering Dark was actually pretty good. I quickly fell in love with the characters, flawed (and potentially dangerous for their entourage) as they may be. The story, while not being anything revolutionary, pulled me in and kept me invested.
I didn't understand some of the narrative choices (at some point, the cast gets separated in two groups, and they all learn basically the same things but in different timelines, which felt a little redundant). Yet I still enjoyed both storylines, thanks to the big and interesting cast, villains and protagonists alike. Some twists at the beginning were a little too easy to see coming in my opinion, but other ones later were better pulled off.
As an editor, the printing quality and general layout of the book were a little painful to witness, especially with so many grey surfaces and beautiful illustrations inside, but that's ultimately a detail.
I didn't understand some of the narrative choices (at some point, the cast gets separated in two groups, and they all learn basically the same things but in different timelines, which felt a little redundant). Yet I still enjoyed both storylines, thanks to the big and interesting cast, villains and protagonists alike. Some twists at the beginning were a little too easy to see coming in my opinion, but other ones later were better pulled off.
As an editor, the printing quality and general layout of the book were a little painful to witness, especially with so many grey surfaces and beautiful illustrations inside, but that's ultimately a detail.
July 4, 2023
An okay read. This book revolves around investigating the king's death and fighting back to reclaim the throne. The plot, at times, can be too predictable and it lacks tension: the two protagonists wasted their time investigating something that the readers already knew through another character's POV; other characters tried really hard to get the princess to Patish, which did not play a role in the book. I got the sense that much of what they did was pointless and I got annoyed sometimes. I also did not like the use of multiple POVs (of insignificant characters), which made me lose interest sometimes because I did not care enough about the characters. Everis and Wren were also too similar: it was hard to tell them apart. However, I did like the light romance in the book. Overall, this was an okay read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews