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Born of Light #1
First Magic
“Some things are worse than death.”
Keep your head down. Don’t cause a scene. And never make friends.
These are the rules I have to live by to survive. After Vykens, mutated and soulless vampires killed my parents, I know they will come for me next.
As an Aura, I can manipulate the light within me, the same ancient light Vykens feed on. It’s supposed to be a sacred power, one used only for good and to help others.
But if I want to survive, I’ll have to defy the Auran Council and learn to use my rare ability as a weapon.
Now I’m caught in something even bigger than I can understand, with a power I can’t wield, and no one I can trust, except, just maybe, a mysterious stranger who’s captured my heart, making him the biggest danger of all.
In this full-length, urban fantasy series, Steele introduces readers to a dark and exciting world full of magic, mutated vampires, and romance. If you like Cassandra Clare, Stephanie Meyers, Sarah J. Mass or Kami Garcia, you will LOVE this new series! Scroll up and grab this gritty urban fantasy TODAY!
* This is the first book in a series of three and is set in the same world as the Rouen Chronicles. Occasionally, other beloved characters will make an appearance. It was originally published as Fractured Light but has since been updated with new content.
Keep your head down. Don’t cause a scene. And never make friends.
These are the rules I have to live by to survive. After Vykens, mutated and soulless vampires killed my parents, I know they will come for me next.
As an Aura, I can manipulate the light within me, the same ancient light Vykens feed on. It’s supposed to be a sacred power, one used only for good and to help others.
But if I want to survive, I’ll have to defy the Auran Council and learn to use my rare ability as a weapon.
Now I’m caught in something even bigger than I can understand, with a power I can’t wield, and no one I can trust, except, just maybe, a mysterious stranger who’s captured my heart, making him the biggest danger of all.
In this full-length, urban fantasy series, Steele introduces readers to a dark and exciting world full of magic, mutated vampires, and romance. If you like Cassandra Clare, Stephanie Meyers, Sarah J. Mass or Kami Garcia, you will LOVE this new series! Scroll up and grab this gritty urban fantasy TODAY!
* This is the first book in a series of three and is set in the same world as the Rouen Chronicles. Occasionally, other beloved characters will make an appearance. It was originally published as Fractured Light but has since been updated with new content.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2020
382 people are currently reading
689 people want to read
About the author
Raven Steele
99 books175 followersJoin my private Facebook group where you can talk about everything Rouen: Raven Steele and the Rouen World Readers Group
Born at the stroke of midnight, Raven Steele grew up in a home bordering a graveyard as old as time. Ghosts became her only friends and whispered tales of a world that existed between night and day. In this place, monsters roamed the lands, magic curled in the wind, and good and evil fought over the hearts and minds of humans. Desperate to not let those dark and brave creatures be forgotten, Raven wrote down the words of the ghosts, knowing their stories of triumph and sorrow would give strength and comfort to those in our world.
And so, when the sun sets, Raven retreats to the cemetery at the edge of the woods, where she sits and listens to the dead speak their tales of Rouen and all of its inhabitants. Because one day, our two worlds may collide, and when they do, we must be ready. For when their darkness bleeds into ours, we will be fighting for more than our lives. We will be battling for our souls.
Raven Steele is a pen name to USA Today's bestselling author Rachel McClellan.
Born at the stroke of midnight, Raven Steele grew up in a home bordering a graveyard as old as time. Ghosts became her only friends and whispered tales of a world that existed between night and day. In this place, monsters roamed the lands, magic curled in the wind, and good and evil fought over the hearts and minds of humans. Desperate to not let those dark and brave creatures be forgotten, Raven wrote down the words of the ghosts, knowing their stories of triumph and sorrow would give strength and comfort to those in our world.
And so, when the sun sets, Raven retreats to the cemetery at the edge of the woods, where she sits and listens to the dead speak their tales of Rouen and all of its inhabitants. Because one day, our two worlds may collide, and when they do, we must be ready. For when their darkness bleeds into ours, we will be fighting for more than our lives. We will be battling for our souls.
Raven Steele is a pen name to USA Today's bestselling author Rachel McClellan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
added-it
August 31, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/4/2020)! 🎁
September 26, 2020
This story was hard to put down. It kept you wanting to know what will happen next. We have mystery, suspense, some action, magic dark and light, and of course forbidden love for all. You will love the characters in this book. Llona lost her parents and does not want to go to the Lucent Academy. She lives with her Uncle Jake and always on the run. She keeps to herself. Christian has become her friend and more, but will not let it get more. May is different and finally befriends her, but has her own secret. Matt what's more from Llona, then just friends. What will Llona do to stay alive and not let the Vyken find or feed on her? Can her friends help? Will she have to move again after she finally making friends? I so can't wait for the next book in the series if it is written half as well as this one.
February 22, 2021
Great book
January 19, 2025
These 302 pages kept reminding me of a similar book and a similar tv show of sorts (just wait until you realise that I did remember but decided to keep the intro in place). But I cannot grasp it, and thus, let's pretend I haven't begun this with an indicator of something worthy, and go back to basics: Auras. People of light with the immense sense of healing? But hey, darkness is around chasing this people out, killing them, and our main character is on the list.
Llona, a high schooler, with six months left to graduate is open to opening her inner circle of one, to a few friends in a matter of a few chapters. And what an adventure. However, this adventure is nice, but the looming, evasive killer/hunter is around, and damn, maybe it's a whodoneit gone twisty, cause while I thought the guilty party was weird, I certainly didn't see them as the complete bad guy, until it was revealed. But hey? That is not all, Llona is assigned a guardian that REMINDED me a lot of Leo/Piper in Charmed. But with teenagers, instead of fully grown adults.
Their romance isn't the only forbidden thing: the need to fight is. And this girl grit will certainly make this book entertaining and show some growth, if you're into it. Also, be prepared to deaths. Like, not even a handful but a few that will certainly make you question if you should be crying or not. I didn't. It was shocking, yes, but it's a secondary character with little pagey time, but I digress.
A fury and an Aura are about to be Harry Potter'd and if you're interested, book 2 should be grabbed. I have a list. I need to finish that, but hopefully will return to book 2 soon!
Llona, a high schooler, with six months left to graduate is open to opening her inner circle of one, to a few friends in a matter of a few chapters. And what an adventure. However, this adventure is nice, but the looming, evasive killer/hunter is around, and damn, maybe it's a whodoneit gone twisty, cause while I thought the guilty party was weird, I certainly didn't see them as the complete bad guy, until it was revealed. But hey? That is not all, Llona is assigned a guardian that REMINDED me a lot of Leo/Piper in Charmed. But with teenagers, instead of fully grown adults.
Their romance isn't the only forbidden thing: the need to fight is. And this girl grit will certainly make this book entertaining and show some growth, if you're into it. Also, be prepared to deaths. Like, not even a handful but a few that will certainly make you question if you should be crying or not. I didn't. It was shocking, yes, but it's a secondary character with little pagey time, but I digress.
A fury and an Aura are about to be Harry Potter'd and if you're interested, book 2 should be grabbed. I have a list. I need to finish that, but hopefully will return to book 2 soon!
October 10, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "FIRST MAGIC" OMG!!!! What an amazing adventure in a world of dark magic & Light, suspense, intrigue, deceipt, secrets, angst, betrayal, forbidden love, danger, mistrust, action, evil forces, twists that make for a very addicting book one you can't out down.
Llona lost her mother to the Vykens they killed her creatures who only live in the darkness when her father dies her Uncle Jake more like an older brother keeps moving them around.
Liona keeps pretty much to herself at highschool not wanting to bring any attention to herself but she's friends with May who has secrets of her own and she has three guys who want her attention Christian, Mr. Steele & Matt but she cautious not knowing who to trust.
Things start to occur to much unknown are the same Vykens after her that killed her mother Ella she's been expierencing strange things happening to her so much happens you don't know what to expect next then a shocking ending you don't see coming.
I definitely recommend to get this amazing start to this new series Raven Steele never disappoints so well written so well worth the read I can't wait for the next book to see what's going to happen. PHENOMINAL BEGINNING!!!!!
Llona lost her mother to the Vykens they killed her creatures who only live in the darkness when her father dies her Uncle Jake more like an older brother keeps moving them around.
Liona keeps pretty much to herself at highschool not wanting to bring any attention to herself but she's friends with May who has secrets of her own and she has three guys who want her attention Christian, Mr. Steele & Matt but she cautious not knowing who to trust.
Things start to occur to much unknown are the same Vykens after her that killed her mother Ella she's been expierencing strange things happening to her so much happens you don't know what to expect next then a shocking ending you don't see coming.
I definitely recommend to get this amazing start to this new series Raven Steele never disappoints so well written so well worth the read I can't wait for the next book to see what's going to happen. PHENOMINAL BEGINNING!!!!!
September 30, 2020
What a great series starter. I loved the twist on the vampire and the bit of a good vs evil feel to the story. It combines mystery, suspense, danger, teens, high school, and a danger hidden from the normal humans. I loved the mythology and thought Llona was a great character that captures the angst of a senior with a secret that can get her killed with the usual teenage angst. The rest of the characters were just as good and added to the story in multiple ways. Just a well written story and a start to a series that is so hard to put down. Once I started reading I had to see how it would end and who would end up being a good guy and a bad guy. I honestly loved it and thought it was an amazing story.
August 22, 2021
guardians
SPOILERS!!!
Who is Llona?
Who is Jake?
What is the relationship between the two of them?
Will Llona find a friend in May and Tracy?
Will May save day?
Will Christian follow the rules?
Will Llona be able to fight the darkness?
I will say this for the book and story; Rave Steele is breath of fresh air in fiction for me!
I highly recommend this if you don't know what a "Vyken" is and how they came into existence!
The Aura can surprise you as well!
It is a must read if you love to shout for the underdog, will light win or will Mr. Steele win?
I must get the second book!
SPOILERS!!!
Who is Llona?
Who is Jake?
What is the relationship between the two of them?
Will Llona find a friend in May and Tracy?
Will May save day?
Will Christian follow the rules?
Will Llona be able to fight the darkness?
I will say this for the book and story; Rave Steele is breath of fresh air in fiction for me!
I highly recommend this if you don't know what a "Vyken" is and how they came into existence!
The Aura can surprise you as well!
It is a must read if you love to shout for the underdog, will light win or will Mr. Steele win?
I must get the second book!
September 29, 2020
With a secret that must keep hidden and a deadly threat hunting her Llona was trying to keep a low profile. No closer friends and no mayor activities to call attention. But, as a teenager, boys were drawing her attention and suddenly strange and disturbing things were happening to her. She was afraid she had been discovered! Distrust was making her falter. Who to trust? Too much unknown to her that had her vulnerable. Action, suspense, intrigue, betrayal, an evil force, mystery, secrets, violence and romance. Interesting and intriguing first book that had me eager for the next.
October 12, 2020
I received a free book and the views and opinions are my own. We are learning about Llona and what happened to her. Without knowing it she is going against the rules of the Auras just like her mother did. She is of the light but she is learning how to fight. This is her senior year of high school and the first time she is making friends. However a Vyken that killed her parents is now after her. This was an action packed read, lots going on a page turner. I truly enjoyed reading the first book and cannot wait for the next one. I recommend this book to all.
February 11, 2021
Fighting & never give up spirit for the win!
I love Llona! Nothing like a heroine with a fighting spirit, who doesn't follow the rules. She is also extremely cautious and that has kept her alive so far. Because of her species she's not supposed to want to fight back. She's supposed to cower & hide. Let her sexy guardian do all the fighting. Oh & she can't have any feelings for said guardian. That would infuriate me. All these rules, too many to keep track of. True I believe her Aunt should have been visiting & teaching her on & off. At least that since, she avoided Lucent.
I love Llona! Nothing like a heroine with a fighting spirit, who doesn't follow the rules. She is also extremely cautious and that has kept her alive so far. Because of her species she's not supposed to want to fight back. She's supposed to cower & hide. Let her sexy guardian do all the fighting. Oh & she can't have any feelings for said guardian. That would infuriate me. All these rules, too many to keep track of. True I believe her Aunt should have been visiting & teaching her on & off. At least that since, she avoided Lucent.
December 3, 2021
A mouse becoming more
Always hiding and being invisible, moving whenever there was a threat, kept her alive but lonely. Deciding to engage more gives her many more friends but can they all be trusted. A Guardian, a Fury and others are just some of the friends...but there is a darkness stalking her...could it one of her friends? A teacher? Or someone else. Great pace, wonderful characters and a story that holds you all the way through...you can't put it down. I can't wait to continue the adventure and see how she copes in her next step of the journey!!
Always hiding and being invisible, moving whenever there was a threat, kept her alive but lonely. Deciding to engage more gives her many more friends but can they all be trusted. A Guardian, a Fury and others are just some of the friends...but there is a darkness stalking her...could it one of her friends? A teacher? Or someone else. Great pace, wonderful characters and a story that holds you all the way through...you can't put it down. I can't wait to continue the adventure and see how she copes in her next step of the journey!!
September 27, 2020
Tough lady with the heart of a fighter but still has room in her heart for love. And a dedicated young gentleman struggling to balance his calling with his love. The world and characters Raven has created will keep you reading to see what happens next. What an awesome start to a series. It's exciting to think that this was book one...
Looking forward to more of the story of May and Llona and Christian.
Looking forward to more of the story of May and Llona and Christian.
September 29, 2020
Exciting! A light and dark magic story, that sucks you in and needing more!
A little romance, some drama, a scoop of action and a dash of crazy makes up this incredible story!
Llona is a very quiet, yet independent girl who knows very little about her gifts and some serious trust issues, with reason. Christian, May and all the other characters are fantastic, with a great character development. I'm really looking forward to reading this series!
A little romance, some drama, a scoop of action and a dash of crazy makes up this incredible story!
Llona is a very quiet, yet independent girl who knows very little about her gifts and some serious trust issues, with reason. Christian, May and all the other characters are fantastic, with a great character development. I'm really looking forward to reading this series!
November 10, 2020
Llona knows she is being stalked. She's just not sure at first who it might be. A fellow student? A teacher? A ztranger? She has no idea, but she can feel someone watching her. She thought she was safe here, at least until she graduated high school. She carries the Light and darkness is coming for her....This story is full of action, twists, and a bit of romance, with wonderful characters and storyline. A fantasy must read!
I received a complimentary copy and freely give my honest review.
I received a complimentary copy and freely give my honest review.
September 21, 2020
OMG this was one thrilling read! Strange, suspenseful, and mysterious! I loved it!
Llona's life is more than a little complicated, dangerous and tragic! She is a super strong character that is easy to connect too.
I really hope that Raven Steele writes this series quickly as I need more right now!
Highly recommended.
Llona's life is more than a little complicated, dangerous and tragic! She is a super strong character that is easy to connect too.
I really hope that Raven Steele writes this series quickly as I need more right now!
Highly recommended.
September 28, 2020
First let me state that I received an advanced reader copy, (ARC), but this in no way influences my review. I always leave an honest review.
Holy shiznet!!! What a gr8 story. From the first page I was enthralled and was held within it's grasp until the end. I cried right along with Llona and felt her pain. I can't wait to read the next part. I recommend this read. 5 Thumbs up
Holy shiznet!!! What a gr8 story. From the first page I was enthralled and was held within it's grasp until the end. I cried right along with Llona and felt her pain. I can't wait to read the next part. I recommend this read. 5 Thumbs up
October 8, 2020
Another captivating story by Raven Steele. This book was a good length—I've found some of the books by this author a bit brief and short on details, but this one filled in nicely and felt long enough. Though I am a bit confused by the comments saying vampires are based on vyken... don't they both exist in this universe? Anyway, fun learning some new lore and getting to know these characters!
October 13, 2020
As a spin off from her Rouen series, I was a bit apprehensive. Having read this though, so well done. This is the first in the series and was a complete page turner. I couldn’t put it down. You do not need to read the Rouen series, although you should, in order to read this one. Can’t wait for the second one to come out
July 22, 2022
unusual
This is an unusual world the author has built. She does a good job explaining the premise, but I think more explanation. Is needed on the negative effects the bad guys have. I’m not excited about an 18 year old finding one true love, but it is more YA so that probably makes sense. Overall it was a good read, but I’m not sure I’m going to follow the series
This is an unusual world the author has built. She does a good job explaining the premise, but I think more explanation. Is needed on the negative effects the bad guys have. I’m not excited about an 18 year old finding one true love, but it is more YA so that probably makes sense. Overall it was a good read, but I’m not sure I’m going to follow the series
November 1, 2020
Originally read as Fractured Light and re-read with the new content and let me say this author never fails to keep me pulled into her world building and characters. I love how the new content is now set in the same world as Rouen Chronicles so we can see the characters from there as well.
November 4, 2020
Wow, what a series beginning!! It's part of the Rouen world but not necessary to read it first, it will enhance the story but not necessary. This story has magic both light & dark, romance, intrigue, action and excitement. This story and this author should not be missed!!
September 9, 2021
Although I liked the character, I felt like the story world and premise was over-used. I would have liked it better if the main character was consistent. Things happened that she didn't react as she TOLD us she would. So is she an unreliable narrator? I'm not a fan of those either.
September 24, 2021
With lower expectations, I dived right in and was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying this new world full of magic, light and dark, a bit of teenage drama, action, mystery, suspense and of course the forbidden love!
Definitely a must read!
Definitely a must read!
November 13, 2021
This book was all over the place. Not enough of a straight line with all the ideas that was thrown in the book. I guess the villain right away and only kept reading to find out if I was right. I will not be going on with this series.
April 20, 2022
First Magic Review
Raven Steele is a new author to me. First magic was a well written paranormal book with great characters. It has suspense, thrills, and great plot twists. I am looking forward to reading more of this series and Ms Steele's books.
Raven Steele is a new author to me. First magic was a well written paranormal book with great characters. It has suspense, thrills, and great plot twists. I am looking forward to reading more of this series and Ms Steele's books.
April 29, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book, however I found it a bit predictable. I was able to pick who the bad guy was fairly early on in the piece. The ride was pretty good, but I am not sure if I will continue with the series.
November 20, 2022
What a story teller
I loved this book I highly recommend this author her world building and characters are brilliant I read the devil's box at first and I was hungry for more I can't get enough a well deserved 5 stars
I loved this book I highly recommend this author her world building and characters are brilliant I read the devil's box at first and I was hungry for more I can't get enough a well deserved 5 stars
December 27, 2023
Ducked me right in!
Exceptional book! I loved reading it and playing guessing games on the bad guy! Looking forward to starting book 2! Not tonight though because I won't be able to put down!
Exceptional book! I loved reading it and playing guessing games on the bad guy! Looking forward to starting book 2! Not tonight though because I won't be able to put down!
October 15, 2025
Just ok
Tons of plot holes. How many times a month is the moon still full? Does Christian drive a car or a truck? (Both are mentioned in the same sentence when describing his vehicle). I don't know that I'll read the next one.
Tons of plot holes. How many times a month is the moon still full? Does Christian drive a car or a truck? (Both are mentioned in the same sentence when describing his vehicle). I don't know that I'll read the next one.
September 30, 2020
This is a great book. It is captivating from start to finish. The characters are intriguing and entertaining. I am excited to read the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews