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Dark World Trilogy #1
Tide of Darkness
They say the land flourished once, ripe with wealth and blessed by nature, but those are only stories. There is no light now—there is only the Darkness.
Mirren has grown up hearing tales of the Dark World from the safety of Similis, a utopian society with no poverty, no violence and no choices. Rumors of the horrors that writhe in the darkness keep anyone from venturing further than the Boundary, but when a mysterious illness befalls her brother, Mirren is desperate to save him—desperate enough to cross into the wild land to find the cure he needs to survive.
Raised beyond the Boundary, Shaw has only ever known violence. With no laws to inhibit the cruel reign of warlords and a curse that keeps the land on the edge of starvation, he understands the only way to survive is by being more ruthless than everyone else. When he finds a panicked woman escaping Similis, he realizes he’s been granted a rare gift of fate: a way to get back what was stolen from him.
Infuriatingly enchanting and not at all what he expected, Mirren challenges Shaw at every turn. But the pair soon discover their greatest fight may not lie with each other. A prophecy has been unearthed, and if it speaks the truth, one of them may be the key to breaking the curse.
But light is a dangerous thing to wield in a land ruled by the dark. Together, they must decide if love and freedom are worth the cost.
Mirren has grown up hearing tales of the Dark World from the safety of Similis, a utopian society with no poverty, no violence and no choices. Rumors of the horrors that writhe in the darkness keep anyone from venturing further than the Boundary, but when a mysterious illness befalls her brother, Mirren is desperate to save him—desperate enough to cross into the wild land to find the cure he needs to survive.
Raised beyond the Boundary, Shaw has only ever known violence. With no laws to inhibit the cruel reign of warlords and a curse that keeps the land on the edge of starvation, he understands the only way to survive is by being more ruthless than everyone else. When he finds a panicked woman escaping Similis, he realizes he’s been granted a rare gift of fate: a way to get back what was stolen from him.
Infuriatingly enchanting and not at all what he expected, Mirren challenges Shaw at every turn. But the pair soon discover their greatest fight may not lie with each other. A prophecy has been unearthed, and if it speaks the truth, one of them may be the key to breaking the curse.
But light is a dangerous thing to wield in a land ruled by the dark. Together, they must decide if love and freedom are worth the cost.
495 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2022
162 people are currently reading
2517 people want to read
About the author
Amarah Calderini
5 books132 followersAmarah Calderini grew up in the Rocky Mountains, and spent her time imagining magic living in the shadows of the peaks. She writes fantasy imbued with equal parts magic, angst, and steam, featuring strong yet flawed heroines and the fierce-hearted men who love them. When not writing, she can be found soaking up the sun and singing along to the same dramatic songs she’s listened to since high school. She currently lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado with her husband, two children, and their geriatric German Shepherd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
April 25, 2024
Okay wait!!!! I liked this so much more than I thought I would. It officially cured me of my book slump 😭 at first, it was giving Divergent vibes… which if you’ve read those and know how it ends… well, i was a bit skeptical about continuing lol. But it really becomes its own book after the first 10-15%. Think post apocalyptic urban fantasy, with magic and a lot of sword fighting 🗡️
Similis is a perfect utopian society. A place where everything is done according to laws called The Keys in order to protect the peace. In Similis, you have a partner only to procreate. You read books only for learning. You train to work in a specific craft, and not for passion. Community is always above self. You don’t laugh, you must be kind, and above all else: you don’t love. This is how Similis has been protected all these years from the dark curse. A curse that ravages the land outside of Similis’ boundary wall.
Mirren has grown up in Similis all her life and has never truly fit in. She feels too much and too deeply, but has always put in effort to not stick out, if only for the sake of her younger brother. But after finding out her brother is dying, she decides she must venture beyond the boundary walls (and away from the safety of the only place she’s ever known) in order to find her outcasted parents. They’re her only hope for healing her brother, the only person left in the world that means something to her.
Upon escaping Similis, she is immediately captured by a tall, dark and handsome warrior.. and well you can imagine things take a turn from there. 😌 I love Shaw. I love Cal. I love Max. Their found family was to die for.
A few things that I had qualms with…
I would have loved to have gotten more backstory about the society she grew up in. A lot of what we learn about Similis is through her inner monologue once she’s already left it. Again. She’s only in Similis for the first 10% of the book.
Like I said, there’s magic!!! But whyyyy did the FMC have to come into her magic so quickly? One minute she didn’t know she even HAD power, the next she was drowning people where they stood. 🫠 a pet peeve of mine forever and ever
The ending!?!?! Mirren leaving Shaw behind to go back to her vanilla lifestyle did NOT align with her character at all. And you cannot convince me otherwise lol. This girl went on an impossible journey to try and find parents that she wasn’t even sure were still alive to heal her brother? But she so easily accepts that the man she loves has lost his soul and there’s no hope for him?? You cannot tell me she willingly left Shaw with his father… who mutilated and abused him to go back and live her normal life. Yeah, no. I DONT BUY IT 😤
Overall, I really enjoyed this! Only one spice scene, but the banter was impeccable. A true enemies to lovers (she actually stabs him, but then saves him. Don’t you love when that happens??) that was super unique and fun to read. Starting book 2 asap!!
Similis is a perfect utopian society. A place where everything is done according to laws called The Keys in order to protect the peace. In Similis, you have a partner only to procreate. You read books only for learning. You train to work in a specific craft, and not for passion. Community is always above self. You don’t laugh, you must be kind, and above all else: you don’t love. This is how Similis has been protected all these years from the dark curse. A curse that ravages the land outside of Similis’ boundary wall.
Mirren has grown up in Similis all her life and has never truly fit in. She feels too much and too deeply, but has always put in effort to not stick out, if only for the sake of her younger brother. But after finding out her brother is dying, she decides she must venture beyond the boundary walls (and away from the safety of the only place she’s ever known) in order to find her outcasted parents. They’re her only hope for healing her brother, the only person left in the world that means something to her.
Upon escaping Similis, she is immediately captured by a tall, dark and handsome warrior.. and well you can imagine things take a turn from there. 😌 I love Shaw. I love Cal. I love Max. Their found family was to die for.
A few things that I had qualms with…
I would have loved to have gotten more backstory about the society she grew up in. A lot of what we learn about Similis is through her inner monologue once she’s already left it. Again. She’s only in Similis for the first 10% of the book.
Like I said, there’s magic!!! But whyyyy did the FMC have to come into her magic so quickly? One minute she didn’t know she even HAD power, the next she was drowning people where they stood. 🫠 a pet peeve of mine forever and ever
The ending!?!?! Mirren leaving Shaw behind to go back to her vanilla lifestyle did NOT align with her character at all. And you cannot convince me otherwise lol. This girl went on an impossible journey to try and find parents that she wasn’t even sure were still alive to heal her brother? But she so easily accepts that the man she loves has lost his soul and there’s no hope for him?? You cannot tell me she willingly left Shaw with his father… who mutilated and abused him to go back and live her normal life. Yeah, no. I DONT BUY IT 😤
Overall, I really enjoyed this! Only one spice scene, but the banter was impeccable. A true enemies to lovers (she actually stabs him, but then saves him. Don’t you love when that happens??) that was super unique and fun to read. Starting book 2 asap!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2023
"... it's time to see the beauty in the Darkness.”
Tide of Darkness had me hooked from the first chapter. The dystopian setting drew me in, and the additional magic kept me guessing. Mirren is a resilient FMC, and I enjoyed all of the character’s arcs. Having a dual POV was excellent and helped with the pacing. The touch her and you die moments were my favorite.
Favorite Character: Shaw, Max
October 23, 2023
"He is the adventure I've always craved, the darkness I've always longed for, and the desire to plunge into his depths spirals through me hot and potent."
I'm getting reading to start Flame of Shadow and I'm so excited. The title just sounds amazing from where book 1 left off. That last line in the epilogue so was good.Mirren's journey through book 1 was so good. She becomes so strong that even through her path led her back to the beginning, she was a different person at the end. I was completely gripped in chapter 1 with Mirren in her utopia community set in a dark world. Amarah writing describing the darkness in Shaw, broke my heart for him. And that epilogue 😭 This was a perfect read for me. I am so excited about the 3rd book coming out in November!
Read for
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Found family
Great side characters
Dual POV
Light vs. darkness
Prophecy
Hidden powers
"My heart breaks open at his confession and I see him clearly for what he is-a boy trying desperately to be good in a world that has not been good to him. A man who tries to earn love through self-sacrifice, even when he doesn't think he deserves it."
I'm getting reading to start Flame of Shadow and I'm so excited. The title just sounds amazing from where book 1 left off. That last line in the epilogue so was good.Mirren's journey through book 1 was so good. She becomes so strong that even through her path led her back to the beginning, she was a different person at the end. I was completely gripped in chapter 1 with Mirren in her utopia community set in a dark world. Amarah writing describing the darkness in Shaw, broke my heart for him. And that epilogue 😭 This was a perfect read for me. I am so excited about the 3rd book coming out in November!
Read for
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Found family
Great side characters
Dual POV
Light vs. darkness
Prophecy
Hidden powers
"My heart breaks open at his confession and I see him clearly for what he is-a boy trying desperately to be good in a world that has not been good to him. A man who tries to earn love through self-sacrifice, even when he doesn't think he deserves it."
September 6, 2022
This new series starts off with a fantastic bang! The characters are complex & well-rounded, each with their own flaws & redeeming qualities that makes them relatable and entertaining. A dual POV is always a hit with me - especially when I'm unsure which perspective I enjoyed reading more! Overall, wonderful writing that leaves the reader craving for more with each chapter. I can't wait to see what the remainder of this trilogy will bring.
November 19, 2024
I loved this dystopian adventure through the Dark World. Amarah Calderini does a wonderful job building these stark worlds with raw and authentic characters. You cannot help but root for them as they go on their journeys.
Calderini really uses the character development and exploration to drive the plot along. It was really fun watching Shaw and Mirren influence each other the more they interacted. I loved watching both of their characters grow and fight for what they wanted. I also enjoyed the side characters of Max and Cal. They were just so fun and tried to steal so many scenes.
The plot starts off with a simple quest to find Mirren's parents and save her dying brother, but as she collides with Shaw and sees more of his world -- the plot grows into something much bigger with dangerous foes everywhere.
Calderini really brings the drama in the final 20 percent and leaves the reader gasping at the outcome. It is the perfect (and cruel cliffhanger) to leave you hungry for more of this world and see what will happen for each of the characters next.
4.5/5
Calderini really uses the character development and exploration to drive the plot along. It was really fun watching Shaw and Mirren influence each other the more they interacted. I loved watching both of their characters grow and fight for what they wanted. I also enjoyed the side characters of Max and Cal. They were just so fun and tried to steal so many scenes.
The plot starts off with a simple quest to find Mirren's parents and save her dying brother, but as she collides with Shaw and sees more of his world -- the plot grows into something much bigger with dangerous foes everywhere.
Calderini really brings the drama in the final 20 percent and leaves the reader gasping at the outcome. It is the perfect (and cruel cliffhanger) to leave you hungry for more of this world and see what will happen for each of the characters next.
4.5/5
March 14, 2025
This book is another absolute win. I was sucked in immediately and just devoured it. And the end? THAT ENDING. 😫
The premise is super interesting and gives me big divergent vibes but add magic. I liked the FMC right off the bat and related to her immensely. The MMC is dangerous and broody and absolutely delicious.
The romance in the story is a slow burn with tons of tension and yearning which was done so well. Amarah writes the BEST MMC's. The things he says and how he thinks of the FMC? 😮💨 I was DYING.
The last couple chapters were INSANE. I was stressed, and the book ends on a big cliffhanger of events. So be prepared!
The premise is super interesting and gives me big divergent vibes but add magic. I liked the FMC right off the bat and related to her immensely. The MMC is dangerous and broody and absolutely delicious.
The romance in the story is a slow burn with tons of tension and yearning which was done so well. Amarah writes the BEST MMC's. The things he says and how he thinks of the FMC? 😮💨 I was DYING.
The last couple chapters were INSANE. I was stressed, and the book ends on a big cliffhanger of events. So be prepared!
April 17, 2024
This is the first book in the Dark World trilogy, a dark dystopian fantasy series. Tropes include enemies to lovers (like, legit enemies), found family, stabby FMC, hidden magic, hurt/comfort, and slowburn. There is minimal explicit spice but do check the content warnings for dark themes and violence.
The Lovely: I loved that this book hit me in the feels, the main characters come alive through their emotions and narration as they struggle to understand themselves and what they feel. It was easy to laugh along with them (ok, sometimes at them), cry with them and rage at the injustices of the world.
Also Lovely: The other piece I loved was the author’s writing style. It has a flowy sort of poetic quality to it that just pulls you along and through the story. She uses beautiful metaphors that blend into her writing and make you forget you’re reading.
Rating: 5/5 Stars 1/5 Flames
Recommendation: That ending *hurt* and left me feeling a gutted level of empty. I started book two immediately as I’m worried for the characters. The author really makes you care about them and feel like you’re part of their family. What an incredible read!
The Lovely: I loved that this book hit me in the feels, the main characters come alive through their emotions and narration as they struggle to understand themselves and what they feel. It was easy to laugh along with them (ok, sometimes at them), cry with them and rage at the injustices of the world.
Also Lovely: The other piece I loved was the author’s writing style. It has a flowy sort of poetic quality to it that just pulls you along and through the story. She uses beautiful metaphors that blend into her writing and make you forget you’re reading.
Rating: 5/5 Stars 1/5 Flames
Recommendation: That ending *hurt* and left me feeling a gutted level of empty. I started book two immediately as I’m worried for the characters. The author really makes you care about them and feel like you’re part of their family. What an incredible read!
March 30, 2024
Oh my goodness that ending! I can’t wait for the next one. I mean the magic system was so interesting. The characters were fun, and I love how the FL developed through out the story. It was like a dystopian fantasy mash up that I have been waiting for.
December 2, 2023
This was a definite surprise for me. I am not normally one for slow burn or a slower-paced book, but Amarah is a talented author, and her world-building and characters sucked me in completely. If you are looking for a story unlike any you have read before (at least that is how I felt) then you need to read this book. If you are into dystopian settings, magic, corrupt power-hungry warlords, a naive FMC who comes into her own, and betrayal and sacrifice, this is the book for you. While there were slower parts in the story, overall it is pretty action-packed and will leave you on the edge of your seat. I will immediately dive into the next book, that cliffhanger was a doozy!
5 stars
.5/5 spice level
5 stars
.5/5 spice level
July 5, 2025
Update: after thinking about it for about 24 hours, I’m upping my rating to 3.75 stars, so I’m rounding to 4. The end is really in my head, so it changed my overall opinions. I’m likely reading the next book.
I can absolutely see the appeal. It’s full of action, romance, found family, adventure, magic. But something was missing for me.
It took me an absolute eternity to read the first half of this book. I found myself just not wanting to read it. I love Amarah and her other work Carrion, so I was super excited to dive into this one. But something was just missing for me, and I really don’t know what. It took me 5 days of vacation to read 200 pages, which is absolutely unheard of for me.
I’ll update this review if my thoughts change, but for now, I’m giving it 3 stars and a sad face
I can absolutely see the appeal. It’s full of action, romance, found family, adventure, magic. But something was missing for me.
It took me an absolute eternity to read the first half of this book. I found myself just not wanting to read it. I love Amarah and her other work Carrion, so I was super excited to dive into this one. But something was just missing for me, and I really don’t know what. It took me 5 days of vacation to read 200 pages, which is absolutely unheard of for me.
I’ll update this review if my thoughts change, but for now, I’m giving it 3 stars and a sad face
March 31, 2024
⭐️: 4.25/5
🌶️: 1/5
Oh man. I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into when I decided to get into this series. Didn’t even bother to read a summary. Came across fan art on instagram and said yes please.
I won’t lie, this started off very slow. That being said, it was incredibly intriguing. You end up connecting and loving the characters even more thanks to the build up.
Usually I’m very good at theorizing plot twists well before they happen, but this surprisingly caught me off guard. Excited to get into the next book.
🌶️: 1/5
Oh man. I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into when I decided to get into this series. Didn’t even bother to read a summary. Came across fan art on instagram and said yes please.
I won’t lie, this started off very slow. That being said, it was incredibly intriguing. You end up connecting and loving the characters even more thanks to the build up.
Usually I’m very good at theorizing plot twists well before they happen, but this surprisingly caught me off guard. Excited to get into the next book.
March 18, 2025
This book, this writing, is absolutely phenomenal!
I have over 120 tabs in my book of important and favorited lines.
Something about Amarah's writing just makes her fantastic. She entirely immerses you into the story and the world. And WOW does she know how to write a MMC! Shaw is entirely broody, but swoony. He says all the right things. There is so much angst and tension between Mirren and Shaw and the slow burn is simply divine.
I loved the dystopian element- think Divergent vibes! But then you add the elemental magic parts in and I couldn't put the book down! Cannot wait to read the next two!!
Read if you love:
-Slow burn
-Elemental Magic
-Enemies to lovers
-Dystopian
I have over 120 tabs in my book of important and favorited lines.
Something about Amarah's writing just makes her fantastic. She entirely immerses you into the story and the world. And WOW does she know how to write a MMC! Shaw is entirely broody, but swoony. He says all the right things. There is so much angst and tension between Mirren and Shaw and the slow burn is simply divine.
I loved the dystopian element- think Divergent vibes! But then you add the elemental magic parts in and I couldn't put the book down! Cannot wait to read the next two!!
Read if you love:
-Slow burn
-Elemental Magic
-Enemies to lovers
-Dystopian
Read
October 16, 2024I’m DNFing the book rn because frankly I find the characters inner dialogue very confusing, conflicting and altogether irritating . Maybe I’ll pick it up in a while but I’ve given up on it for now.
May 17, 2025
Team. This was so so good. There were some issues with pace and repetition BUT the emotion beats that all back. It made me angry, heartbroken, and in love all at the same time. I loved both main characters, which is a feat in itself. I’ll be devouring the rest of the trilogy. What a hidden gem. 4.5 stars.
November 6, 2022
This book is by a new author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it really took me by surprise… and it was a great read! It also contained some of my favorite tropes… it’s also a dual pov.
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Found Family
✔️Hidden/Unknown Powers
The FMC, Mirren, is living in a strange utopian “society” (more like a prison, really) where emotions and individuality are forbidden. Within its walls they are protected from the warlords and horrors of the Dark World beyond their boundary… A seemingly lawless world where only the strongest survive after a curse was placed on the land. When Mirren finds herself escaping into the Dark World on a desperate search for a cure for her dying brother, she encounters Shaw. He’s ruthless and cunning… essentially a human weapon - a product of the cruel world he was raised in. He sees Mirren as a means to an end - a way to save someone important to him. He certainly doesn’t expect what he finds in Mirren, and a slow burn enemies to lovers romance begins.
This book took me a little while to get into initially… At first I was trying to figure out why it was labeled in the fantasy genre. That became much more apparent in the later half of the book. Once I got into it though, I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed the world building and the stark contrast between the Dark World and Mirren’s ultra-structured home of Similis. The banter and tension between Mirren and Shaw was fun, and I loved the “found family” dynamic that was introduced with Shaw’s friends.
Mirren’s character growth seemed less about actual growth and more about finally being able to express what’s been inside of her all along, but was still enjoyable. It was great to see her find her voice and her “actual self”. Shaw turns out to be less of a villain than we are initially lead to believe, and is really a selfless guy with a lot of unhealed trauma who’s willing to be the monster to protect those he cares about. Despite there being a significant romance presence in the plot, there was very little spice.
The book doesn’t end on a sudden cliffhanger, but does leave a lot unresolved, opening the door for the next book. Which is it’s own sort of cliffhanger. I will definitely be looking for the second book when it comes out in December.
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Found Family
✔️Hidden/Unknown Powers
The FMC, Mirren, is living in a strange utopian “society” (more like a prison, really) where emotions and individuality are forbidden. Within its walls they are protected from the warlords and horrors of the Dark World beyond their boundary… A seemingly lawless world where only the strongest survive after a curse was placed on the land. When Mirren finds herself escaping into the Dark World on a desperate search for a cure for her dying brother, she encounters Shaw. He’s ruthless and cunning… essentially a human weapon - a product of the cruel world he was raised in. He sees Mirren as a means to an end - a way to save someone important to him. He certainly doesn’t expect what he finds in Mirren, and a slow burn enemies to lovers romance begins.
This book took me a little while to get into initially… At first I was trying to figure out why it was labeled in the fantasy genre. That became much more apparent in the later half of the book. Once I got into it though, I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed the world building and the stark contrast between the Dark World and Mirren’s ultra-structured home of Similis. The banter and tension between Mirren and Shaw was fun, and I loved the “found family” dynamic that was introduced with Shaw’s friends.
Mirren’s character growth seemed less about actual growth and more about finally being able to express what’s been inside of her all along, but was still enjoyable. It was great to see her find her voice and her “actual self”. Shaw turns out to be less of a villain than we are initially lead to believe, and is really a selfless guy with a lot of unhealed trauma who’s willing to be the monster to protect those he cares about. Despite there being a significant romance presence in the plot, there was very little spice.
The book doesn’t end on a sudden cliffhanger, but does leave a lot unresolved, opening the door for the next book. Which is it’s own sort of cliffhanger. I will definitely be looking for the second book when it comes out in December.
September 18, 2022
I absolutely loved reading this book and found myself unable to put it down! I was completely engrossed in the storyline and fell in love with so many of the characters. The dual perspectives of the main characters Mirren and Shaw had me completely intertwined with their emotions and left me wanting more. I laughed, I cried and I truly felt connected to the book. Tide of Darkness is full of excitement, adventure, magic, and love. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
May 8, 2024
Enjoyed the first half of the book & found the storyline/ plot really interesting.
It lost me towards the end, some of the dialouge between characters & their actions made me want to skim the last chapters.
It lost me towards the end, some of the dialouge between characters & their actions made me want to skim the last chapters.
Read
May 22, 2024I gave up at the 40% mark… it did not grip me or intrigue me enough to keep reading. I thought the premise of Covinus was really cool but anyway, it wasn’t enough.
July 7, 2025
Dual POV
Enemies-to-lovers/grumpy and sunshine
Banter for days
Ride or ☠️ best friends
Dangerous world/cursed lands
Vague prophecy
Elemental magic unlocking
Dystopian chaos
Read this gem on the airplane. Wow. I have been wanting to read more dystopian books and this one was fantastic. I immediately downloaded book 2.
“…𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔.”
𝗠𝗶𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻 and her brother have grown up in Similis, a walled society that has strict rules about feelings and violence. When she was seven, her parents were suddenly cast out into the Dark World because they showed feelings/love and left her and her brother alone. Several years later, when her brother becomes unwell with a mysterious illness that cannot be cured without her parents, she decides to go into the Dark World to find them and bring them back to save him. Her arc is fabulous, and I cannot wait to see what is in store in book 2. I was not impressed with her dad in this book. I hope he does better in book 2.
𝗦𝗵𝗮𝘄 has grown up in the Dark World and was trained as a child to be a monster by his father who has an unhealthy quest for brutal power. He left for the Similian border on the vague direction of a prophecy. This is where his path crosses with Mirren. He is our broody MMC, but he is also sooooo swoony with his actions and words. 🔥 Their banter is the best. The way he sees her strength before she sees it herself. Ugh. So good. Ultimate book boyfriend. But this guy doesn’t catch a break. I need book 2 asap to find out what happens!
The magic was unique in this book. Magic had all but disappeared when the world was cursed but something unlocked it. It seems the elemental magic is tied to/attracted to strong emotions.
I highly recommend 𝑇𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝐷𝑎𝑟𝑘𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 for fans of romantasy and dystopia!
Rating: 4.5/5
Enemies-to-lovers/grumpy and sunshine
Banter for days
Ride or ☠️ best friends
Dangerous world/cursed lands
Vague prophecy
Elemental magic unlocking
Dystopian chaos
Read this gem on the airplane. Wow. I have been wanting to read more dystopian books and this one was fantastic. I immediately downloaded book 2.
“…𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔.”
𝗠𝗶𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻 and her brother have grown up in Similis, a walled society that has strict rules about feelings and violence. When she was seven, her parents were suddenly cast out into the Dark World because they showed feelings/love and left her and her brother alone. Several years later, when her brother becomes unwell with a mysterious illness that cannot be cured without her parents, she decides to go into the Dark World to find them and bring them back to save him. Her arc is fabulous, and I cannot wait to see what is in store in book 2. I was not impressed with her dad in this book. I hope he does better in book 2.
𝗦𝗵𝗮𝘄 has grown up in the Dark World and was trained as a child to be a monster by his father who has an unhealthy quest for brutal power. He left for the Similian border on the vague direction of a prophecy. This is where his path crosses with Mirren. He is our broody MMC, but he is also sooooo swoony with his actions and words. 🔥 Their banter is the best. The way he sees her strength before she sees it herself. Ugh. So good. Ultimate book boyfriend. But this guy doesn’t catch a break. I need book 2 asap to find out what happens!
The magic was unique in this book. Magic had all but disappeared when the world was cursed but something unlocked it. It seems the elemental magic is tied to/attracted to strong emotions.
I highly recommend 𝑇𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝐷𝑎𝑟𝑘𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 for fans of romantasy and dystopia!
Rating: 4.5/5
December 14, 2022
Wow! 5 stars. I am blown away by this series! (As if you can’t tell by my highlights alone) by Amarah Caderini’s writing style was magical, poetic and whimsical. Her sweeping prose had my heart swooning over the beautiful metaphors she was able to weave with her words. I felt so many feelings reading this book. I can’t believe there aren’t more reviews - this series is underrated!
This story is set in a dystopian world reminiscent of Divergent series. We follow Mirren who lives in a sheltered world where emotions are forbidden. When events bring her outside of the boundaries of the only world she has ever known, she begins to learn more about who she is, the world she lives in and most importantly, with the help of the MMC, allows herself to feel emotions that she has held in her entire life.
Overall:
dual POV
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
🌑🌑🌑🌑
This series has enemies to lovers, forced proximity, one horse, fabulous new found friendships, delicious slow burn, outspoken FMC, dark and broody MMC, dark themes and a good about of spice.
Disclaimer: my only disclaimer was that I was at one point, in the very beginning, annoyed of the FMC and felt her frequent run away attempts were repetitive but her growth was worth it in the end and it did show a more realistic enemies to lovers with the inclusion.
This story is set in a dystopian world reminiscent of Divergent series. We follow Mirren who lives in a sheltered world where emotions are forbidden. When events bring her outside of the boundaries of the only world she has ever known, she begins to learn more about who she is, the world she lives in and most importantly, with the help of the MMC, allows herself to feel emotions that she has held in her entire life.
Overall:
dual POV
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
🌑🌑🌑🌑
This series has enemies to lovers, forced proximity, one horse, fabulous new found friendships, delicious slow burn, outspoken FMC, dark and broody MMC, dark themes and a good about of spice.
Disclaimer: my only disclaimer was that I was at one point, in the very beginning, annoyed of the FMC and felt her frequent run away attempts were repetitive but her growth was worth it in the end and it did show a more realistic enemies to lovers with the inclusion.
August 9, 2025
Had to take a mini break while reading this bc I was stressed about moving so I feel like I didn’t enjoy it to its full potential but still almost cried at the end so success!!
I loved the dystopian feel of this book with similis vs ferusa- it felt like tris going from abnegation to divergent. I also loved how this felt like a true enemies to lovers like he kidnapped her and she stabbed him - my dream date, cute!! Also love when a fantasy MMC has a new scent instead of just pine and snow so peppermint and woodsmoke was fun. I definitely saw the twist of Denver being her dad coming just because of the nonstop mention of their eye color but it was still fun to watch it come to life. Mirren going to Nadjaa felt very reminiscent of Feyre going to Velaris which I loved. Getting to see more and more of Max and Cal’s personalities was perfect and I felt like they added so much to the book. The ending was so good (even though I feel like Easton doesn’t truly appreciate what mirren did for him) and I can’t wait for Mirren and Shaw’s reunion hehehehehe
“I am bared,” he says reverently, “only to you.” Ajnsnandbsjbdbxbdjdhbdbd yes anrai!!!!!
Side note- the nickname lemming was not my favorite and for some reason I imagined a lemur every time I read it so didn’t love that but glad that slowly stopped
I loved the dystopian feel of this book with similis vs ferusa- it felt like tris going from abnegation to divergent. I also loved how this felt like a true enemies to lovers like he kidnapped her and she stabbed him - my dream date, cute!! Also love when a fantasy MMC has a new scent instead of just pine and snow so peppermint and woodsmoke was fun. I definitely saw the twist of Denver being her dad coming just because of the nonstop mention of their eye color but it was still fun to watch it come to life. Mirren going to Nadjaa felt very reminiscent of Feyre going to Velaris which I loved. Getting to see more and more of Max and Cal’s personalities was perfect and I felt like they added so much to the book. The ending was so good (even though I feel like Easton doesn’t truly appreciate what mirren did for him) and I can’t wait for Mirren and Shaw’s reunion hehehehehe
“I am bared,” he says reverently, “only to you.” Ajnsnandbsjbdbxbdjdhbdbd yes anrai!!!!!
Side note- the nickname lemming was not my favorite and for some reason I imagined a lemur every time I read it so didn’t love that but glad that slowly stopped
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2024
My Rating⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Amount of spice:🔥
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️
❤️Slow Burn
❤️Twists and Turns
❤️Found Family
❤️Magic and Prophecies
❤️Dystopian Fantasy Setting
It did take me a little while to get into this but once I got going I was definitely hooked. The plot was so intriguing and had me on the edge of my seat for most of the book which is always a good sign. There were twists and turns and loads of action so there really was never a dull moment.
It took me a really long time to connect with the MCs as a romantic partnership, even though I enjoyed them as individual characters. I think the romance could have been more explosive and could have drawn me in more but I am really interested to see what happens with them in the next book.
All in all it was a fantastic story and the characters were all interesting and loveable (or in the case of the villains, completely unlovable) and I will definitely be reading more.
I would recommend it if you like a fantasy with lots of action, that is just the right amount of dark and mysterious, and meaningful, well developed relationships.
Amount of spice:🔥
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️
❤️Slow Burn
❤️Twists and Turns
❤️Found Family
❤️Magic and Prophecies
❤️Dystopian Fantasy Setting
It did take me a little while to get into this but once I got going I was definitely hooked. The plot was so intriguing and had me on the edge of my seat for most of the book which is always a good sign. There were twists and turns and loads of action so there really was never a dull moment.
It took me a really long time to connect with the MCs as a romantic partnership, even though I enjoyed them as individual characters. I think the romance could have been more explosive and could have drawn me in more but I am really interested to see what happens with them in the next book.
All in all it was a fantastic story and the characters were all interesting and loveable (or in the case of the villains, completely unlovable) and I will definitely be reading more.
I would recommend it if you like a fantasy with lots of action, that is just the right amount of dark and mysterious, and meaningful, well developed relationships.
April 4, 2024
My heart 💔💔
“Because in this moment, I know with undying uncertainty, that my choice will forever be her. Through fire and darkness, storm and blood, I will always choose her.” 😩
“I don’t care if you swear to him in blood and Darkness, Anrai Shaw, you are mine! Do you hear me?! You can never be his because you are mine. Now and forever.” 💔
My heart. This story was so incredible. The journey Mirren takes is just beautiful. The beginning was a little slower (first couple chapters) but then it picked up and I couldn’t stop. I loved every minute she was with Shaw. He was broken, cruel, sweet and just such a lovable MMC. The way he talks about her is just…. SWOON! I highlighted nonstop in this book because the writing was so gorgeous. That ENDING 💔💔💔 I can’t wait to dive into the second book!
These are a few of my favorite things:
👫Dual POV
🔪Stabby FMC
🖤She’s feisty
😈 Morally gray MMC
🖤He falls first
🖤He’ll do anything to protect her
🤍She saves him
🤍She heals him
🐎One horse
🥵Slooow burn
💖Found family
“Because in this moment, I know with undying uncertainty, that my choice will forever be her. Through fire and darkness, storm and blood, I will always choose her.” 😩
“I don’t care if you swear to him in blood and Darkness, Anrai Shaw, you are mine! Do you hear me?! You can never be his because you are mine. Now and forever.” 💔
My heart. This story was so incredible. The journey Mirren takes is just beautiful. The beginning was a little slower (first couple chapters) but then it picked up and I couldn’t stop. I loved every minute she was with Shaw. He was broken, cruel, sweet and just such a lovable MMC. The way he talks about her is just…. SWOON! I highlighted nonstop in this book because the writing was so gorgeous. That ENDING 💔💔💔 I can’t wait to dive into the second book!
These are a few of my favorite things:
👫Dual POV
🔪Stabby FMC
🖤She’s feisty
😈 Morally gray MMC
🖤He falls first
🖤He’ll do anything to protect her
🤍She saves him
🤍She heals him
🐎One horse
🥵Slooow burn
💖Found family
January 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ This is a very well written book. It’s an interesting world set in a dystopian setting where there’s one small area within a boundary with electricity and safety but at the cost of following strict laws that essentially forbade any emotion. Anything outside the boundary they are taught is only darkness and chaos.
Our main character, Mirren starts out slightly immature and naive and for good reason. I feel a lot of times you get annoyed with a character like that but for this author she wrote it very well. And her character gains so much maturity, strength, and growth throughout the story. Our MMC Shaw is also very well written and I appreciated having both POVs. It’s easy to understand why each character thinks the way they do.
The only thing I would say took me from a 5 star is that occasionally the details started feeling unnecessary in places and slowed the pacing a little.
I’m excited to see what happens in book 2!
Our main character, Mirren starts out slightly immature and naive and for good reason. I feel a lot of times you get annoyed with a character like that but for this author she wrote it very well. And her character gains so much maturity, strength, and growth throughout the story. Our MMC Shaw is also very well written and I appreciated having both POVs. It’s easy to understand why each character thinks the way they do.
The only thing I would say took me from a 5 star is that occasionally the details started feeling unnecessary in places and slowed the pacing a little.
I’m excited to see what happens in book 2!
September 12, 2022
This takes fantasy to a whole new level. What an adventure! A magical place, for sure. Perfection and I love it!
Mirren is raised in a place where they are not allowed to have emotions. Of course, Mirren meets someone. She shows her emotions, grow as a person and is important to the plot. The feelings ring true - hate, love, happiness, devestation. Some smut but not too much.
I can't rave about this enough. It's truly a masterpiece! Also, a 12 hour read and still not boring. A dual point of view where they overlaps each other in some chapters. It's written in such a great way. Everything happens for a reason.
I'm always up for an adventure, magic and romance! I'm not a big fan of politics though but it isn't that imminent so it's not an issue.
Seriously, this is amazing!
Mirren is raised in a place where they are not allowed to have emotions. Of course, Mirren meets someone. She shows her emotions, grow as a person and is important to the plot. The feelings ring true - hate, love, happiness, devestation. Some smut but not too much.
I can't rave about this enough. It's truly a masterpiece! Also, a 12 hour read and still not boring. A dual point of view where they overlaps each other in some chapters. It's written in such a great way. Everything happens for a reason.
I'm always up for an adventure, magic and romance! I'm not a big fan of politics though but it isn't that imminent so it's not an issue.
Seriously, this is amazing!
June 24, 2023
I’ve been meaning to read this book for ages and it was so good!
I really liked the world building and the setting of this book. It made me realise how much I miss dystopian books.
I loved Mirren and Shaw. I loved seeing Mirren go from being meek and quiet because of how she grew up to allowing herself to feel her emotions. She was a really strong heroine. Shaw is our cold villain until we learn he is actually very selfless, has a lot of unhealed trauma and sees himself as a monster.
Their relationship development was so good and they truly started off as enemies and their relationship developed so naturally. I loved how in awe Shaw was of Mirren.
I also really liked the side characters Max and Cal and the found family aspect.
That cliffhanger was brutal though!
I really liked the world building and the setting of this book. It made me realise how much I miss dystopian books.
I loved Mirren and Shaw. I loved seeing Mirren go from being meek and quiet because of how she grew up to allowing herself to feel her emotions. She was a really strong heroine. Shaw is our cold villain until we learn he is actually very selfless, has a lot of unhealed trauma and sees himself as a monster.
Their relationship development was so good and they truly started off as enemies and their relationship developed so naturally. I loved how in awe Shaw was of Mirren.
I also really liked the side characters Max and Cal and the found family aspect.
That cliffhanger was brutal though!
May 30, 2024
Legitimately one of the best books I have read this year(and ever), after endless months of mediocrity I have discovers this freaking book series and am beyond speechless for the world that Amarah Calderini has created…
I couldn’t put this book down. Not one was there a paragraph or a page that I didn’t want to lay my eyes on or skip.
I am truly baffled why I have never seen this book be read before?!
🙌🩵
The characters. The setting. The pace. EVERYTHING start to end was a piece of perfection.
I’ve left a piece of my heart with this book and wish for more readers to discover this truly beautiful world and immerse themselves in this impeccable crafted story.
👀
Also the ending, how fxing dare you.
My baby.
My poor baby.
I couldn’t put this book down. Not one was there a paragraph or a page that I didn’t want to lay my eyes on or skip.
I am truly baffled why I have never seen this book be read before?!
🙌🩵
The characters. The setting. The pace. EVERYTHING start to end was a piece of perfection.
I’ve left a piece of my heart with this book and wish for more readers to discover this truly beautiful world and immerse themselves in this impeccable crafted story.
👀
Also the ending, how fxing dare you.
My baby.
My poor baby.
September 8, 2024
I'd give this 4.5 stars mainly for lack of a map. However, there is a map for the second book, so I stand appeased! The world-building was very detailed, and everywhere the characters went felt lived-in. The FMC was everything we want in these books: someone who thinks she's a conformer when really she's the square peg trying to fit into a round hole. And the MMC is also everything we want in these: tortured, broody, handsome but all as a front covering a squishy inside. He's the one who tells her to stop trying to be a round peg but embrace the square (to extend the metaphor.) I had to keep reading directly into the second book after the ending this one which means I was well and truly hooked.
September 14, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
🔥.5 / 5 (pretty explicit but not fully)
Ok this is such a solid sci-fi romantasy. The beginning didn't feel very original, a typical dystopian feel, but then the story and characters became their own thing and I was pretty invested by the end.
I think the strongest part of this book was the growth of relationships between characters. Oh and the FMC is stabby. 😌
I did feel some parts of this book just felt less exciting to get through - it took me a while to finish it. The ending was a bit theatrical, too, but overall I had a good time.
🔥.5 / 5 (pretty explicit but not fully)
Ok this is such a solid sci-fi romantasy. The beginning didn't feel very original, a typical dystopian feel, but then the story and characters became their own thing and I was pretty invested by the end.
I think the strongest part of this book was the growth of relationships between characters. Oh and the FMC is stabby. 😌
I did feel some parts of this book just felt less exciting to get through - it took me a while to finish it. The ending was a bit theatrical, too, but overall I had a good time.
November 7, 2022
Okay, so this was an incredible start to a new series!!! Mirren was a strong and capable heroine who was willing to do anything to save her brother, even venture into a forbidden land no one knew much about. I also loved Shaw, a man who had so much on his plate but was did his best to do right by those ha cared about. The word building was incredible as well, and as for that ending… I can’t wait to see what happens next! I highly recommend!
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