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Maiden Voyage #4

Shadow's Light

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You never know what hides behind sad eyes.

For Javier Jimenez, aka Shadow, drummer for the award-winning metal band, Maiden Voyage, life off stage isn’t all glitters and rainbows. He plays the part of the Devil May Care drummer when he’s in the spotlight, but outside of it, the only person who knows the real Javier besides his family is his bodyguard, Tony.

Lucas Shane never expected to run into his ex, Joey Hayes, lead singer for Social Sinners. In fact, he did his best to ensure their paths never crossed yet here he stood, face to face with Joey and his husband, Stoli. Yes, Lucas made a huge mistake when it came to Joey, a regret he must live with. But no one really knew how or why it happened.

Shadow doesn’t question love, as he loves so few, but he does question loyalty. The two should go hand in hand but he learned the hard way early in life that they don’t always align. Finding out that those two key elements Lucas had failed at led him to walk away, though his heart felt otherwise.

Maiden Voyage series must be read in order as each book starts where the last one ended but from another band members point of view.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 28, 2022

5 people are currently reading
44 people want to read

About the author

T.L. Travis

94 books627 followers
TL Travis is the published author of a plethora of LGBTQ+ Erotica and Romance musings that have earned her a “Best Selling Author” flag in the US as well as Internationally.

In her spare time, when she’s not weaving steamy webs, she enjoys fishing, wine tasting and people watching. Everyone has a story to tell, half the fun is conjuring what it is.

TL’s surrounded by her 4-legged rescue family, her sons and adorable grandson.
She will continue saving furry friends in need for as long as she can. Tl would like to remind you to “Adopt, not shop.” Saving that lost soul may very well save yours.

tltravis@tltravis.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Lisa Klein.
1,054 reviews10 followers
May 8, 2025
Oh wow. This book was absolutely incredible. I've read most of TL Travis' books, but this is one of my favorites. Fair warning, have tissues nearby when you read, and pay attention to the triggers warnings. This was such a beautiful story, though, and so well written, I couldn't put my kindle down. It's best read after the rest of the Maiden Voyage series so you have a better idea of the back story, plus each book takes place one after the other. It's definitely a must read!

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
Profile Image for Jay.
383 reviews67 followers
February 9, 2022
The band members of Maiden Voyage are riding high on their success and one by one enhancing this high with each finding love. Guitarist Ryder Hampton was first to succumb with his security guard, Max Hightower, in Ryder’s Guardian. Next was lead vocalist Derek Masters when schoolteacher Logan Bell fell into his lap during Derek’s Destiny. Then annoying neighbor Shephard Newsome captures bass player Jaxson Duvall’s heart in the enemies-to-lovers romance Jaxson’s Nemesis. Now, in Shadow’s Light by TL Travis, it’s drummer Shadow (Javier Jimenez)‘s turn with the scandalous young bartender, Lucas Shane.

Let’s get the housekeeping out of the way: You could probably read Shadow’s Light without starting at the beginning of the Maiden Voyage series but, it’s not a wise decision. As the blurb states “each book starts where the last one ended but is from another band members point of view,” and without the context of each book there will be confusion. There are also several triggers to be aware of: self-loathing, thoughts of suicide, human sex trafficking, murder, and borderline non-con sex scenes (in my opinion these are defiantly non-con). If these are triggers for you, stay away. However, if they aren’t, immerse yourself in one of the best books of 2022.

Meet the guys… Shadow (Javier Jimenez) to anyone other than his bodyguard, Tony, and his family, is an enigma with his devil may care attitude. On the surface he is brash and rough around the edges. But the man behind the façade is a loyal, kind, and generous guy who will do anything, sometimes to an unhealthy extreme, to protect those in his inner circle. Lucas Shane is a survivor craving for one person to see the man underneath the surface. Lucas’ life has been a series of nightmares, one after another. From his horrific homelife with his father, to his scumbag club boss, Grant Adams.

For the Lucas haters out there hold onto your backside. I agree Lucas’ actions previously were less than becoming and the situation with Joey and Stoli (Behind the Lights (Social Sinners #1) & In the Shadows (Social Sinners, #2)) painted Lucas negatively. And yes, his actions were repulsive… but, guess what, Lucas deserves your forgiveness and a chance at redemption. You will see what I mean.

Readers are thrown right into the scandal that is Lucas when Shadow brings Lucas to Ryder’s wedding as his plus one. Immediately Shadow’s protective nature kicks in, shielding Lucas. Promptly following, however, Shadow’s actions are a huge disappointment leaving Lucas confused and feeling rejected. It doesn’t take Shadow long to realize what an ass-hat he was and he begins consuming a boat load of humble pie.

There is never a dull moment with Shadow’s Light. We are immediately thrown into the chaos with a series of gripping and emotional revelations, discoveries, and unbreakable connections leading to ugly, sad, and ecstatic tears. Biological and chosen family is a major theme with Shadow’s transformation front and center. The scenes unfold with all shades of testosterone – camaraderie, protection, and love. Muscle bound bodyguards come to the rescue, tatted musicians defend what is theirs, and several sweet and deserving young men get the break that brings hope and joy back into their souls. While I think of it, we need to know what is going on with bodyguard Tony and Lucas’ BFF Damian.

I know I recently said that Jaxson’s Nemesis joined my list of all time favorite TL Travis stories with Greyson Fox and See Me, guess what, add Shadow’s Light right there with them. Until now Shadow was just that, a shadow in the background. Bringing him into the light is sheer perfection. Holly crap, Javier Jimenez is an amazing individual with a heart of gold.
Profile Image for Sue Milkovich.
1,754 reviews18 followers
January 29, 2022
THE SHADOW FALLS

This is MAIDEN VOYAGE Book #4. This is behind the scenes of Rock when they find their forever. Rock legends need forever too. Shadow is the hot, quiet drummer. His past has enough trouble to fill a book. Lucas is a blast from the past and not a good memory. Caught up in circumstances beyond his control, Lucas has a bad reputation in the industry. His dealings with Shadow were set in a one and done world. These two men are too broken for public consumption. TL TRAVIS has a talent for song writing as well as Rock Stars lost in the business. This Book shows that you can overcome insurmountable odds. We ALL look for our one, sometimes the one finds you. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS MAIDEN VOYAGE SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,586 reviews48 followers
February 3, 2022
Shadow and Lucas, not sure which one of them needed the other more, but Lucas certainly needed major work by this author to be redeemed after what we've seen of him in the past. Travers pulls it off perfectly. We totally understand him and through him we also see Shadow open up and realize he's worthy of a long term relationship. Super character development and growth in this one.
Profile Image for Fay MMBookworm.
3,106 reviews69 followers
January 28, 2022
4.5 stars A good start for the book as Shadow defends his date against harm at Ryder's wedding.
Shadow and Lucas have both got past baggage they nether can forget.
For Shadow a past event when he was younger witnessing and an assault on his mother. Lucas life had been a struggle right for the beginning with his parents especially his father which was included in past books in this series.
I loved the story progressing for these guys as things and communication get in there ways.
Shadow has some eating humble pie to suck up to Lucas to get in the good books.
Trigger Warnings included.
When something bad happens Shadow and Tony steps in and turns it into something positive for all involved.
This is a great book for the series with all the guys from Social Sinners and Maiden Voyage bands and their love ones.
Both pov's included with a HEA ending.
#sexyscenes #triggers #dramas #HEA
Profile Image for Tracy Perry.
1,543 reviews46 followers
January 30, 2022
This book…. Amazingly Heartbreakingly Beautiful! I loved this so much even though the tears flowed throughout the whole book. Many tissues needed and read trigger warnings because, goodness my heat broke and I wanted to hug Lucas so many times, I loved him so much. Shadow, what a grump and a**hole at beginning then a sweet sappy guy to fall for. He and Lucas were so meant to be and I’m happy for them both and Shadow gave Lucas and his friends a family and love they all so deserved . The painting with the poem… my freaking heart exploded and I cried a river, such powerful words written by Lucas to Shadow. I hope Damian and Kieran get a book and a HEA like Lucas got with Shadow!
Profile Image for Laura ~Passion flower.
561 reviews1 follower
January 26, 2022


"A Gripping, Prideful, Heartwarming Story"

Shadow's Light, by T.L. Travis, is such a gripping, heart-wrenching story with numerous nail-biting to the nub moments and so many triggers that ugly-crying was inevitable.  I tightly squeeze-loved all of the adorable, brave, and worthy young men and frequently squealed for the inked musicians and their mountainous bodyguards and laughed at their down-to-earth nature.  I found myself bowing down to their heroic and loyal persona on many occasions.

Even though Shadow's Light is a bit of a continuation from the stories from the Social Sinners and Maiden Voyage Series, I still felt like I came in mid-story and for this, at this stage of it's development, needed more character and plot development as it needed a tad more editing as a whole.  It took this reader a little bit to get into the flow with a beautiful connected purpose, but, when it was made, I didn't want it to end.  

Shadow's Light is an emotionally full and engaging story, but it is also a very heartwarming, humorous, and prideful one as well.  The characters were loyal and loving, selfish and brutal, and actually medicinal and beyond welcoming.  I not only ugly-cried but also had all kinds of warm fuzzies interspersed with giggle-snorts throughout this addicting read.  I loved Shadow's Light and look forward to more from this mighty rocker world.



*star rating:  4.45 'I really, really liked this story' stars*


 
Profile Image for Brei-ayn.
603 reviews6 followers
June 29, 2022
I loved this book. This one really shocked me. Javier Jimenez (Shadow) is the drummer in the band Maiden voyage. Shadow is the quiet guy who is happy not being the center of attention and he's happy that way. He brings a date with him to his friends Ryder and Max's wedding. Shadow didn't expect for Joey and Stoli to get upset but Lucas hurt Joey in the past. Lucas never told the things he's been through. The trauma he has suffered and why he did the things he did. He knows it doesn't make it right. When Shadow gives him a chance and saves him along with his friends from a bad situation he can't believe its real. Will Shadow be the one to see the true Lucas and both find love they both need?
316 reviews1 follower
February 3, 2022
With this interconnected series, I love the way one book picks up straight after the next but focuses on a different romance. With this book, what I really loved was Shadow's huge heart. He goes from someone just out for a fun hookup to someone who gives his all to his new romance. Lucas has been so damaged and mistreated that he never expects to find someone who loves him unconditionally and is willing to help him with no strings attached, even given his difficult past with one of the Social Sinner's. I love how Shadow instinctively understands the parallels between the two men and how easily their roles could be reversed. I also love the way that Shadow strives to help the other men caught up in a mess that is not of their own making.
Profile Image for Sarah Mitcham.
1,296 reviews8 followers
January 29, 2022
The Ying to his Yang.

MM, Hurt/Comfort, Rockstar Romance. Easy to read page-turner, best read in series order as the books follow on from each other story wise. Action throughout with some angst and heat as well as a sweet Rockstar falling fast. Thoroughly enjoyed reading their story. Guaranteed HEA.
Profile Image for Rebecca Park.
913 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2022
Lucas ❤️ Shadow

I’ve been waiting for Shadows book from the beginning of the series and it was so worth the wait!
TL was a new to me author before I started this series & it’s been such a journey! I hate all the pain Lucas and shadows go through but their happy ending was well deserved! I can’t for tony & Damien’s story next! 😀❤️
Profile Image for DLB2572.
3,281 reviews26 followers
June 20, 2022
Shadow & Lucas

I appreciate that this unlikely pair came together. I am also glad that Lucas finally got a redemption story. You could tell that something was off for him in Behind the Lights from the Social Sinners Series and that he wasn't just a completely horrible person. With this story, we got the chance to hear his true story.
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,959 reviews3 followers
February 6, 2022
Good

I love these guys but then I have weakness for rock and roll bands. I didn't want like Lucas at all but as they say there are always two side then the truth. Read but read all in order
16.8k reviews163 followers
February 21, 2022
This series follows the lives of the band members and each book will deal with involve different people. It will take you on a journey to see where they will take you. See how it all goes
Profile Image for Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews.
2,698 reviews140 followers
January 31, 2022
Shadow's Light is the fourth book in the Maiden Voyage series. This TL Travis read is definitely best read in order, but could be read as a standalone.


This story starts with Shadow bringing Lucas to a band wedding, only to discover that Lucas is someone he shouldn't be involved with. Lucas' past is ugly and he has many regrets.

Overall, Shadow and Lucas are two "bruised souls in need of healing." And together, they just might be able to find the healing they each need.

The heart of this story revolves around Lucas's horrific past. His father controlled his life, making it a living hell. He's made a bad reputation for himself as a result, which will leave your heart damn near breaking for him.

This is the ultimate illustration that things are not always as they seem.

Seriously, Shadow steps up and shows a side to him that will leave you loving this rocker. He's supportive, caring, and loving. He's protective, strong, and just what Lucas needs.

Their story is an emotional rollercoaster that's full of pain, pain and more pain. It's a story that left me gutted, yet ultimately left me happy with the ultimate tale of survival and healing.

Written in alternating pov, I easily feel into this story, the complex characters, and the compelling storyline. Once again, the author manages to impress with broken men who fight the light with the help of one another.

Be sure to check out the trigger warnings if that is a concern for you.

Shadow's Light is a great addition to this world of rock stars. TL Travis brings a slew of emotions to this amazing story. Be prepared to fall in love with these men while shedding some tears along the way.
Profile Image for Amys Bookshelf Reviews.
898 reviews71 followers
January 30, 2022
Very powerful, and magnificent conflicted emotional story!

What a raw and intense story in Shadow’s Light by TL Travis. I am a big fan of this author! Whatever this author writes, I read. I love reading Travis' work, and Shadow's Light shows the story of the relationship between Lucas and Shadow. The reader gets to know both sides of their story, and from the beginning, the reader instantly can see a deep conflict (and that's putting it lightly) between Shadow and Stoli, and then through Joey into the mix, and his previous involvement with Lucas, and it definitely wasn't pretty. It is a very interesting story to follow along with, seeing the relationships, and being reminded of the past, and the heartbreak that still stings. More like "heart ripped out of chest" burning. I've read other books in the Maiden Voyage series, and I must say this is probably my favorite. Filled with secrets, haunting pasts, and conflicted and down-right hurtful relationships, this story is filled with greatness, and great writing. I do like what Lucas said, and it resonated with me, "If I could erase my past, I would do it in a heartbeat. Every. Last. Bit. Unfortunately, life doesn’t come with a giant eraser." If you love a good, scratch that, great MM title, this book should be next on your list. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. Shadow’s Light is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more books by this author.
257 reviews4 followers
February 3, 2022
5++ stars!
Wow, what a fantastic finish to a wonderful series. We have Shadow, who is the drummer for Maiden Voyage, and we have Lucas, the boy who broke Joey's heart from the book Behind The Lights, Social Sinners, Stoli's man. I have been waiting for Lucas's story since he was introduced to us in the Social Sinners' first book. And I was wondering how the author was going to redeem him since he was portrayed as the bad guy for breaking Joey's heart, thus sending him in a dark downward spiral. The author does a fantastic job redeeming Lucas, you better have tissues at hand. I loved Shadow and the faith that he did have in Lucas. I would definitely recommend this book and this whole series. I would read them in order though since each book takes place right after each other.
76 reviews5 followers
February 7, 2022
Must read the other books in the series first. This picks up for the last one leaves off at the wedding. I have to say I think Shadow story is my favorite. Oh no you was a giant teddy bear. Even though he's a man of few words he has a lot to say with his actions. We also get to see Lucas again and he has the story to tell. All the band members get a happily-ever-after finally.
Profile Image for ReadingAddict.
199 reviews6 followers
February 1, 2022
Shadow's Light is the fourth book of the Maiden Voyage series by T.L. Travis.
I definitely recommend reading the series in order.

We got to know Shadow and the story with Joey and Lucas in one of the previous books. But in this book, you get to know the whole story of what happened between Joey and Lucas. Just because of this the book was worth reading.
Shadow has a troubled past like Lucas. The whole story is really good, but I just didn't feel the connection between the two of them.

*I received this book as an ARC. I chose to leave an honest review.*
206 reviews5 followers
January 28, 2022
I will say up front that the enjoyment of this book will be enhanced if you’ve read the prior books and the Social Sinners series. Shadow is the drummer for Maiden’s Voyage. He has kept to himself so when he shows up at Ryder’s wedding with Lucas, all hell almost breaks out and sets these two off on a road of forgiveness, redemption and a new path for both of them. Lucas’s life has been an awful merry go round of abuse and is so hesitant to believe that he deserves anything good. With Shadows help and support they start forging a new path. I throughly enjoyed watching them get their HEA. They had good chemistry and watching them work for it was special. Shadows Mom and Dad were AMAZING. I want to be invited to her dinners. She’s my kind of Mama. Fierce, Strong, Loving and True. She’s shows the world that Love is Love.
Profile Image for Janet Hunt.
3,538 reviews46 followers
February 1, 2022
Ohh wow!! This was fantastic!! I’ve real all in the story line to date, although it helps to read all in order you can read it as a standalone. This is about Shadow the drummer of Maiden Voyage and Lucas. Both have garbage in their past, although Lucas’s past about broke my heart! The story is fast paced and will keep you glued to the pages. Overall, a phenomenal read. The story was really well written, the pacing flowed smoothly, highly recommend. I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received. My review is solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
Profile Image for Mandy.
1,023 reviews
January 28, 2022
I have loved every book in this series about the men who make up Maiden’s Voyage. Finally, we get Shadow’s story and it was worth the wait. While he’s mostly been quiet up until now Shadow is a big character and getting to know him was terrific. Lucas who we met in the Social Sinners series is lovely and it wasn’t hard to feel for him after everything he has gone through in his life. I was so glad that he got to have his happy ending especially with gruff but amazing Shadow and his wonderful family both made and by blood.
This was a fabulous read full of emotion, heat, some humour and angst and was a great way to finish the series.
I received a copy of this book from GRR to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
2,232 reviews6 followers
January 29, 2022
Very well done.

Shadow really came out of his shell in this book. He isn't know for relationships. Just one time relations. At least until Lucas enters his life. Being the protector Lucas needs and the person he's destined to become. Especially the history Lucas has from a previous book. Both stories come full circle. A much better understanding of Lucas's past which reflected his actions of the present.

While these books are standalone, I do recommend reading the others for a better experience.

**I received this ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback.**
1,761 reviews7 followers
February 2, 2022
Shadow's book is my favorite of the series. I loved seeing his softer side with Lucas. They were perfect for each other. Great storytelling overall.
821 reviews6 followers
January 30, 2022
I adore Lucas and Shadow! Both men have had hardships in their past. I love Shadow's family. I really like how supportive they are. I like that they immediately accept Lucas and Lucas' friends, Damian and Kiernan. I would love to read more about Damian and Kiernan in the future as well. (Spin-off series, maybe???)
859 reviews7 followers
January 28, 2022
Ok so I'm going to start by saying that I am a huge fan of this series by T.L Travis. They are well crafted and this book is no different to the previous ones. Some of the circumstances discussed are heart breaking and the strength in the characters effected jumps off the pages. But it's the two main characters Lucas and Shadow who really command the story. I can't praise this book enough and the magnificent writings of T.L. Travis. Can't wait for the next books in the series
Profile Image for Jennifer Reilley.
1,147 reviews29 followers
January 28, 2022
Shadow’s Light is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone. Please pay attention to the trigger warnings. There are some difficult parts of the book.

Shadow is the drummer. He’s a one night only kind of guy. Lucas has had a rough life and a crappier family. He’s working to survive.

This book is a fast paced story of Shadow clicking with Lucas but also being the support Lucas needs when events turn really bad. Shadow is the one to fix it all. Lucas my heart just broke for him for what he has endured but he comes out stronger than ever.

I adored the side characters as much as I enjoyed Shadow and Lucas. Everyone needs a mom like Mama. Lol.
Profile Image for Sarah Sargent.
Author 2 books12 followers
January 20, 2022
This book quickly picks up where the last of the Maiden Voyage Book left off. Anyone who has read the Social Sinners books from TL. You probably loathe Lucas. But in this book, we realize the why behind his actions and why he needs redemption. We get it here. Not going to lie; you need tissues for this book. I was crying throughout this book. The amount of pain that both characters go through is just heartbreaking. However, Shadow is the one who puts this world back together. There are some darker elements to this book, and yes, I will say read the warnings at the beginning. Shadow's Light is my most anticipated read this year, and I will say that Lucas most definitely gets his redemption in this book.
Profile Image for Ashley.
494 reviews4 followers
January 21, 2022
This book picks up right where Jaxon's book left off at the wedding and the awkward introduction to Lucas as Shadow's date. Coming into this book everyone already hates Lucas for his past with Joey from Sinners but there is more to the story that comes out and it is heartbreaking what Lucas as well as his friends have had to go through. Shadow went from grumpy to the most caring and nurturing character and his insta-love and change was a bit too quick for me. I really liked the flow of the book and it was one of the strongest books in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

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