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Scepter and Crown #0.5
Shield of Shadow
A woman afraid of her magic. A lord with secrets to hide.
Alyana Barron fears the magic pulsing in her veins and attempts to hide it from watching eyes. However, when disaster strikes, she's forced to use her magic in public. To Aly's surprise, a young nobleman offers to train her as a Master Sorcerer, and she finally gets what she's always the chance to learn the truth about her magic.
When Aly enters the world of kings and courts, an old vendetta awakens that will alter her future in ways she never expected. As she grows more powerful, Aly will face secrets and losses and a choice that will change her life forever.
Read the prequel to the YA epic fantasy series , Scepter and Crown. Perfect for fans of fierce heroines and unique magic systems.
Alyana Barron fears the magic pulsing in her veins and attempts to hide it from watching eyes. However, when disaster strikes, she's forced to use her magic in public. To Aly's surprise, a young nobleman offers to train her as a Master Sorcerer, and she finally gets what she's always the chance to learn the truth about her magic.
When Aly enters the world of kings and courts, an old vendetta awakens that will alter her future in ways she never expected. As she grows more powerful, Aly will face secrets and losses and a choice that will change her life forever.
Read the prequel to the YA epic fantasy series , Scepter and Crown. Perfect for fans of fierce heroines and unique magic systems.
174 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2022
68 people are currently reading
1513 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
October 27, 2024
3 stars ✨
Good time to read this as it’s set during harvest time! That was a funny coincidence.
I think I was able to follow along well enough on the magic parts. I probably could have done better but I was lacking brain power when I was reading this prequel novella. I will admit that I was slightly uncomfortable with the words sorcerer and spells being used. The Christianity take on the topic was interesting, that Theod (who I assume is supposed to be God) has created people with their magical gifts and you can become stronger by reading the book Verad (assuming that’s the Bible). There’s High Priests and cathedrals, so it reminded me of my Korean Manhwas that you can tell are inspired by the Catholic Church but don’t have actual Jesus in the stories.
Honestly wasn’t sure what to think of Grey? 🤨 he’s not the male character in the first book and when we are introduced to who I think is the ML, he’s four years younger than Aly? Basically I was confused about Grey and if he was trustworthy the entire time I was reading it.
I’m curious to read the first book now and see if I really needed to read this prequel because while it set-up the magic details well, I’m so confused on the relationships and who the male lead is. 😅 This book flowed well though and I’ll have to try the first book soon…when my sleep-deprived brain can handle it.
Main Content-
A few phrases are said that imply Scripture references; Alyana prays asking the “Maker above” for something to not happen; Alyana has magic that she has tried to keep hidden, which in this world many view magic as from Theod (God) with it being a gift from him to sorcerers, though some believe it can fight against evil magic, and others that think it was good before but is corrupted now (Aly hears a debate on these options).
Alyana and other sorcerers are able to pull on people and object’s energies (called their “Truthwell”) to be able to use the magic (such as for repairing a bridge, comfort someone’s injuries, turning themself and others invisible, ); The book that the clergy uses in sermons is called the Verad and sorcerers are able to call on the words in it to heighten their magic; Alyana isn’t sure about her own faith but wants to believe her magic is good because she can’t think about what it would mean if it’s bad; Some say that magic came from a canyon that is very dangerous and has evil shape-shifting creatures (evil magic did come from here and Aly is told to never call on it as everyone who has has become corrupted); Aly and other sorcerers move their fingers to cast their spells; Sorcerers can’t lie or it will effect their magic abilities for the worse; When Aly comments on angels being the departed spirits since that’s what the Verad says, Grey corrects her that the Verad says no such thing; It’s said that because some sorcerers do not use the Verad that’s why there are so much twisted magic in this world; A High Priest says that anything good can be twisted into something bad; Aly is able to talk to someone in his mind due to magic; A Royal sorcerer has lived over two hundred years & Ally imagines what that must have been liked (as many sorcerers live double the length of normal humans); Two women argue about Theod doing miracles (one says he does and the other says he doesn’t).
Mentions of Theod, sermons from an abbey about magic being a gift from Theod, & the Bible-like book called the Verad; A mention of someone being good at killing beasts and others looking at him like he was holy or something.
No major language but the phrase “toss me” or “toss him” as a mild oath is said (Aly takes a “nasty pleasure” in saying it at one point to show her frustration towards a person); “Idiot” and “dumb” are also said; Some sarcasm & eye rolling.
Seeing someone nearly attacked/assassinated & shot at; Aly’s father wanted to “remove [her] from the world” after the death of her mother; Aly spent her childhood afraid that someone would punish her or try to steal her away because of her magic; Aly is concerned that she is going to be backhanded by a man; A bridge starts to collapse with people and animals on it (Aly sues her magic to help); Animals have to be branded because evil creatures can shape-shift into different animals (we see this happen on-page and Aly chase it).
Mentions of a violent murder of a loved one; Mentions of a father making a sorcerer use his children for protection (which hurt the children and is called abuse); Mentions of battlefields, fighting, & blood; Mentions of wine & drinking at parties/dinners; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of stuffed (hunted) animals; A couple mentions of illnesses & deaths; A mention of magic that killed Alayna’s birth mother; A mentions of someone smoking a pipe; A mention of stepping in cow poop.
1 forehead kiss,
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Nearness, Smelling, Noticing, & Blushes (up to a few sentences); Remembering touches & nearness (up to a few sentences).
Aly starts to fall for a handsome young man and wonders if he thinks of her in that way; Aly wears a dress with a neckline that doesn’t have “much” to accentuate on her (which she’s grateful for because of a guy); Aly wears a dress that hugs her body and chest (though it’s added she doesn’t have much to hug) and has a daring neckline (which Grey ordered for her to wear); An evil creature turns into a naked human (no details besides the lack of clothing); A misunderstanding/comment about stripping someone (meaning their energy but is could also mean clothing).
Good time to read this as it’s set during harvest time! That was a funny coincidence.
I think I was able to follow along well enough on the magic parts. I probably could have done better but I was lacking brain power when I was reading this prequel novella. I will admit that I was slightly uncomfortable with the words sorcerer and spells being used. The Christianity take on the topic was interesting, that Theod (who I assume is supposed to be God) has created people with their magical gifts and you can become stronger by reading the book Verad (assuming that’s the Bible). There’s High Priests and cathedrals, so it reminded me of my Korean Manhwas that you can tell are inspired by the Catholic Church but don’t have actual Jesus in the stories.
Honestly wasn’t sure what to think of Grey? 🤨 he’s not the male character in the first book and when we are introduced to who I think is the ML, he’s four years younger than Aly? Basically I was confused about Grey and if he was trustworthy the entire time I was reading it.
I’m curious to read the first book now and see if I really needed to read this prequel because while it set-up the magic details well, I’m so confused on the relationships and who the male lead is. 😅 This book flowed well though and I’ll have to try the first book soon…when my sleep-deprived brain can handle it.
Main Content-
A few phrases are said that imply Scripture references; Alyana prays asking the “Maker above” for something to not happen; Alyana has magic that she has tried to keep hidden, which in this world many view magic as from Theod (God) with it being a gift from him to sorcerers, though some believe it can fight against evil magic, and others that think it was good before but is corrupted now (Aly hears a debate on these options).
Alyana and other sorcerers are able to pull on people and object’s energies (called their “Truthwell”) to be able to use the magic (such as for repairing a bridge, comfort someone’s injuries, turning themself and others invisible, ); The book that the clergy uses in sermons is called the Verad and sorcerers are able to call on the words in it to heighten their magic; Alyana isn’t sure about her own faith but wants to believe her magic is good because she can’t think about what it would mean if it’s bad; Some say that magic came from a canyon that is very dangerous and has evil shape-shifting creatures (evil magic did come from here and Aly is told to never call on it as everyone who has has become corrupted); Aly and other sorcerers move their fingers to cast their spells; Sorcerers can’t lie or it will effect their magic abilities for the worse; When Aly comments on angels being the departed spirits since that’s what the Verad says, Grey corrects her that the Verad says no such thing; It’s said that because some sorcerers do not use the Verad that’s why there are so much twisted magic in this world; A High Priest says that anything good can be twisted into something bad; Aly is able to talk to someone in his mind due to magic; A Royal sorcerer has lived over two hundred years & Ally imagines what that must have been liked (as many sorcerers live double the length of normal humans); Two women argue about Theod doing miracles (one says he does and the other says he doesn’t).
Mentions of Theod, sermons from an abbey about magic being a gift from Theod, & the Bible-like book called the Verad; A mention of someone being good at killing beasts and others looking at him like he was holy or something.
No major language but the phrase “toss me” or “toss him” as a mild oath is said (Aly takes a “nasty pleasure” in saying it at one point to show her frustration towards a person); “Idiot” and “dumb” are also said; Some sarcasm & eye rolling.
Seeing someone nearly attacked/assassinated & shot at; Aly’s father wanted to “remove [her] from the world” after the death of her mother; Aly spent her childhood afraid that someone would punish her or try to steal her away because of her magic; Aly is concerned that she is going to be backhanded by a man; A bridge starts to collapse with people and animals on it (Aly sues her magic to help); Animals have to be branded because evil creatures can shape-shift into different animals (we see this happen on-page and Aly chase it).
Mentions of a violent murder of a loved one; Mentions of a father making a sorcerer use his children for protection (which hurt the children and is called abuse); Mentions of battlefields, fighting, & blood; Mentions of wine & drinking at parties/dinners; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of stuffed (hunted) animals; A couple mentions of illnesses & deaths; A mention of magic that killed Alayna’s birth mother; A mentions of someone smoking a pipe; A mention of stepping in cow poop.
1 forehead kiss,
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Nearness, Smelling, Noticing, & Blushes (up to a few sentences); Remembering touches & nearness (up to a few sentences).
Aly starts to fall for a handsome young man and wonders if he thinks of her in that way; Aly wears a dress with a neckline that doesn’t have “much” to accentuate on her (which she’s grateful for because of a guy); Aly wears a dress that hugs her body and chest (though it’s added she doesn’t have much to hug) and has a daring neckline (which Grey ordered for her to wear); An evil creature turns into a naked human (no details besides the lack of clothing); A misunderstanding/comment about stripping someone (meaning their energy but is could also mean clothing).
December 31, 2021
A great start to the Scepter and Crown series. Very excited to read the next book!
July 13, 2022
Awww Grey is a big cinnamon roll and needs all the love and protecting. Seriously, sign up for CFE Black’s newsletter and grab this prequel ebook. It’s adorable!
Want to read
October 25, 2022FREE for Today Only ;) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B...
Book 1 is ALSO FREE for Today Only > https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
(I've beta read for this lovely author the year, so this is a fantastic opportunity for me to snatch up and read Books 0.5 & 1)
Book 1 is ALSO FREE for Today Only > https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
(I've beta read for this lovely author the year, so this is a fantastic opportunity for me to snatch up and read Books 0.5 & 1)
March 12, 2023
I LOVED THIS. Idk the last time I shipped a duo this much, meaning I don’t know how to finish the actual series now—if she’s with someone else what is the POINT 😭😭😭 overall this was a fantastic novella that stood alone amazingly and I cannot WAIT to read the sequels!
November 10, 2023
I was hoping for a quick read with some fantasy romance vibes and I did get that here. :)
Rambles:
I would have liked the writing style to be less easy to read. I wanted to find things out instead of it being told to me. To be shown more of the things that Aly felt instead of told why she felt the things. I also felt like she could have been smarter for 16 even for being kinda isolated? Idk.
And more conflict might have been nice, but this is the prequel to the series so I understand it is more of a setup before the main action happens. We did get some conflict that I feel will greatly increase in the series and I'm excited for that!
Aside from one kinda awkward moment with an evil clothesless human-creature, this was completely clean and actually has some allegorical vibes with Christian themes in the magic system. The magic was my favorite!
SPOILERS:
but one of the main reasons I read it was because I know there is a romance later on in the series and I was like oh no with the almost romance that happened here. Also, she is 16 and he is 20. Like if age doesn't matter like that in this world, I wish she hadn't kept thinking how much older he was then her.
And then I realized that the young prince is the king in the main series who I know they get together with and I was like oh no because she will be much older than him. I realize sorcerers live twice as long as regular humans so maybe it is fine but also... she sees him as a child at first. Sees him growing up before I know they will fall in love in the main series and idk I feel possible uncomfy vibes with that but we shall see.
END SPOILERS
If you are in the mood for a fast read with cool magic and a 16 year old girl learning her powers and how not to hide, this could be it!
Rambles:
I would have liked the writing style to be less easy to read. I wanted to find things out instead of it being told to me. To be shown more of the things that Aly felt instead of told why she felt the things. I also felt like she could have been smarter for 16 even for being kinda isolated? Idk.
And more conflict might have been nice, but this is the prequel to the series so I understand it is more of a setup before the main action happens. We did get some conflict that I feel will greatly increase in the series and I'm excited for that!
Aside from one kinda awkward moment with an evil clothesless human-creature, this was completely clean and actually has some allegorical vibes with Christian themes in the magic system. The magic was my favorite!
SPOILERS:
but one of the main reasons I read it was because I know there is a romance later on in the series and I was like oh no with the almost romance that happened here. Also, she is 16 and he is 20. Like if age doesn't matter like that in this world, I wish she hadn't kept thinking how much older he was then her.
And then I realized that the young prince is the king in the main series who I know they get together with and I was like oh no because she will be much older than him. I realize sorcerers live twice as long as regular humans so maybe it is fine but also... she sees him as a child at first. Sees him growing up before I know they will fall in love in the main series and idk I feel possible uncomfy vibes with that but we shall see.
END SPOILERS
If you are in the mood for a fast read with cool magic and a 16 year old girl learning her powers and how not to hide, this could be it!
August 12, 2023
I don’t have a large enough vocabulary to rave long enough about how amazing this book is!
November 13, 2024
This novella is so much fun. This is my first introduction to this series by Black, but it's my second book from her. This is my favourite thing I've read from her so far. It's well told, well written, and utterly captivating for its 160 pages. I'm definitely more interested in the series this is part of now.
March 17, 2023
I really liked this backstory on Aly! I found her character enjoyable in Blade of Ash and there were a few things about her that I was curious about since I didn't read this first.
I read this rather quickly since it's a novella, and I can't wait to finish the whole series!
I read this rather quickly since it's a novella, and I can't wait to finish the whole series!
September 20, 2022
Fast-paced prequel
This story is a prequel to Blade of Ash, and in it we follow Aly, from when she's still living in a small town and hiding her magic to her training to be a Master sorcerer.
It's absolutely charming, and it deep dives into the magic, which was one of my favorite parts of Blade of Ash. It's a fascinating magic system, with the sorcerers relying on other people as their 'magical battery', so to speak. I really enjoyed learning more about it.
Beyond that, it was so fun seeing Aly more, and getting to know Grey--he's such a mysterious figure, but the dynamic between them was super fun, and great set-up for where we see both of them(and Red) in Blade of Ash.
All in all, a fast-paced, quick read. I highly recommend it. 🙂
This story is a prequel to Blade of Ash, and in it we follow Aly, from when she's still living in a small town and hiding her magic to her training to be a Master sorcerer.
It's absolutely charming, and it deep dives into the magic, which was one of my favorite parts of Blade of Ash. It's a fascinating magic system, with the sorcerers relying on other people as their 'magical battery', so to speak. I really enjoyed learning more about it.
Beyond that, it was so fun seeing Aly more, and getting to know Grey--he's such a mysterious figure, but the dynamic between them was super fun, and great set-up for where we see both of them(and Red) in Blade of Ash.
All in all, a fast-paced, quick read. I highly recommend it. 🙂
October 9, 2022
The ending feels unresolved and angsty. I get that it's supposed to make you want to read book 1 of the series, and it worked because I will, but I just didn't care for the ending. The writing and concept and story and characters were all great, and that cover is gorgeous! ❤
September 20, 2022
I received this book following a link in book one, which I received for free as an ARC reader in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger Warning: child abuse (not on the page)
I love this series. C.F.E. Black has captured my heart and made me a lifetime fan.
If you're questioning if you need to read the prequel, yes, you absolutely do. It introduces characters and the world in a way that you don't get to see during book one. You get to see some interesting points in Aly's backstory in detail.
The world is amazing and the magic system is unique and cleaver. The characters are endearing and I can't wait to see where this series goes. It had me laughing and crying, in the best way possible.
Trigger Warning: child abuse (not on the page)
I love this series. C.F.E. Black has captured my heart and made me a lifetime fan.
If you're questioning if you need to read the prequel, yes, you absolutely do. It introduces characters and the world in a way that you don't get to see during book one. You get to see some interesting points in Aly's backstory in detail.
The world is amazing and the magic system is unique and cleaver. The characters are endearing and I can't wait to see where this series goes. It had me laughing and crying, in the best way possible.
January 15, 2023
Clean, romantic YA fantasy. A prequel to the actual series, but I'm glad I read it before book one I think.
I'd never read anything by this author yet and was seriously surprised by how much I loved it.
Loved the social manoeuvring, the build-up of the magic system and the growth of the MCs. Can't wait to read more.
Although the romantic plot is a pretty integral part of the story, it's not a 'kissing book', so if that's what you're looking for, move on :)
I'd never read anything by this author yet and was seriously surprised by how much I loved it.
Loved the social manoeuvring, the build-up of the magic system and the growth of the MCs. Can't wait to read more.
Although the romantic plot is a pretty integral part of the story, it's not a 'kissing book', so if that's what you're looking for, move on :)
March 22, 2022
***3.5 stars***
This is an interesting novella. Aly is a young woman who has been hiding her magical gifts. The people do not trust magic wielders.
This novella sets up the description of magic and how it is used. The idea of pulling "truth" out of another was unique. It didn't take long to figure out that this was a religious connotation for the use of magic. Lying weakens magic. There are so many ways to compare this symbolism.
This is a very quick read and sets the stage nicely for "Blade of Ash."
This is an interesting novella. Aly is a young woman who has been hiding her magical gifts. The people do not trust magic wielders.
This novella sets up the description of magic and how it is used. The idea of pulling "truth" out of another was unique. It didn't take long to figure out that this was a religious connotation for the use of magic. Lying weakens magic. There are so many ways to compare this symbolism.
This is a very quick read and sets the stage nicely for "Blade of Ash."
January 13, 2022
A nice prequel to kind of show what's going to be driving Aly in the next book. Was a little slow for me cuz I was reading more physical books and had gone into a reading slump for a few days.
I wondering if the almost relationship could happen still despite things but I guess I'll see in the next one. Actually excited to see if there's anymore people that Aly actually ends up friends with to kind of let her relax and what more will be done with the magic system.
I wondering if the almost relationship could happen still despite things but I guess I'll see in the next one. Actually excited to see if there's anymore people that Aly actually ends up friends with to kind of let her relax and what more will be done with the magic system.
November 10, 2025
I want to know the thought process behind the fmc being 16 and the mmc being 12, why is it so hard to make them both the same age? (unless it makes sense for the rest of the books, in that case I’ll come back)
July 7, 2022
Review to come soon!
November 13, 2023
This is an interesting beginning to the series and a well deserved back story to Aly's part in the series. I really loved Aly and things progress perfectly for her. The possibly romance was interesting, that mentor and student trope. Having read the first book in the series, it was a great backstory for her and made me understand much about her romantic misgivings and to feel more of what she was going through.
All in all a great, fast paced and interesting back story to a main character in the series!
All in all a great, fast paced and interesting back story to a main character in the series!
February 26, 2023
magical fantasy Novella: prequel
3.5 stars rounded up. This was a fun introduction to Alyana a 16 year old mage with great power and how she was discovered by Lord Weston Grey to become the greatest sorcerer in the land. I wish it were longer, but I understand that is the whole point of prequel novellas so you are enticed to read more.
3.5 stars rounded up. This was a fun introduction to Alyana a 16 year old mage with great power and how she was discovered by Lord Weston Grey to become the greatest sorcerer in the land. I wish it were longer, but I understand that is the whole point of prequel novellas so you are enticed to read more.
September 20, 2022
This was a great start to this series!
In this novella, we get to meet and learn about Alyana Barron and how she came into her magic and the position she gains in the next book.
Alyana, or Aly, has been in hiding with her adopted mother for sixteen years. She can use magic, but keeps it hidden until an incident occurs that causes her to use her magic to save lives. She is noticed by a Lord Weston Grey who states he can train her to become a Master Sorcerer. And thus, Grey takes her under his wing and begins her training.
This novella explains a lot about the magic system in this world and how it’s used, which I think is important to know, especially before reading the next book. Sorcerers can take energy from anything to use for magic use, but inanimate objects do not maintain that well of energy forever. And so humans are what they use for their magic use. It is called Truthpulling from a human’s Truthwell inside of them. Aly learns all this when Grey is training her and she learns also about the history of Sorcerers and what her role will be down the road.
I also really like the world. It is a fantasy with an historical and steampunk vibe to it. I like what I was picturing in my mind.
I also adore Aly! She’s so green when it comes to her magic, and a bit naive at times, but her personality is so much fun! She’s never been raised as a proper lady, and so she can be very forward, blunt, overly casual, and un-ladylike. I would have gotten along with her. I love how she didn’t allow how proper others acted make her change her ways. She’s so refreshing and I love her bluntness 😂
I already read the next book, but I read this one first and I’m really glad I did to understand more about the magic system in this world and to learn about Aly and how she came to be where she is in the next book. Thank you to the author for a free digital copy to read.
In this novella, we get to meet and learn about Alyana Barron and how she came into her magic and the position she gains in the next book.
Alyana, or Aly, has been in hiding with her adopted mother for sixteen years. She can use magic, but keeps it hidden until an incident occurs that causes her to use her magic to save lives. She is noticed by a Lord Weston Grey who states he can train her to become a Master Sorcerer. And thus, Grey takes her under his wing and begins her training.
This novella explains a lot about the magic system in this world and how it’s used, which I think is important to know, especially before reading the next book. Sorcerers can take energy from anything to use for magic use, but inanimate objects do not maintain that well of energy forever. And so humans are what they use for their magic use. It is called Truthpulling from a human’s Truthwell inside of them. Aly learns all this when Grey is training her and she learns also about the history of Sorcerers and what her role will be down the road.
I also really like the world. It is a fantasy with an historical and steampunk vibe to it. I like what I was picturing in my mind.
I also adore Aly! She’s so green when it comes to her magic, and a bit naive at times, but her personality is so much fun! She’s never been raised as a proper lady, and so she can be very forward, blunt, overly casual, and un-ladylike. I would have gotten along with her. I love how she didn’t allow how proper others acted make her change her ways. She’s so refreshing and I love her bluntness 😂
I already read the next book, but I read this one first and I’m really glad I did to understand more about the magic system in this world and to learn about Aly and how she came to be where she is in the next book. Thank you to the author for a free digital copy to read.
July 15, 2024
This book was the start to a good series. I’m about to start several books from her. The character development is great. I also like the theological themes between light and darkness; and the chosen people and the ones not. The character Aly knows she cannot rely on her own strength.
September 16, 2022
What a great start to the Scepter and Crown series by C.F.E Black. Shield of Shadow is the prequel novella to Blade of Ash. I am so glad I read this story because it really sets you up for Blade of Ash by telling Aly’s story of how she came to be the Master Sorcerer for the King. I was totally sucked into this world and the lives of these characters! I loved Aly and Grey and their relationship. I’m really looking forward to reading Blade of Ash to find out what happens to Aly next!
I received a complimentary copy of this story from the author. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this story from the author. All opinions are my own.
October 2, 2023
Found this author on IG and I'm so glad I did. This is the prequel to Blade of Ash. Great start to the series, excited to start book 1! And all the books are out which is how I like to read my series. 😁
July 5, 2024
3.75 rounded up
October 24, 2023
If you go through my reading log(s) - be they fanfiction or original fiction - you'll see I have a certain...trend towards stories that are less 'the world is sunshine and cheerful', that I prefer stories with a darker edge because I view things that way. Often these stories have smut and/or violence.
Which isn't to say everything I read is adult-themed, but there's a balancing act that I think some writers find hard to navigate without being...judgemental. Which has for a long time turned me off from books that are labeled "clean" "sweet" "closed door". However as part of an ongoing venture to branch out and find new authors, I am doing the "Bright Fantasy for a Dark World" challenge (hosted by Sarah K.L. Wilson - https://www.sarahklwilson.com/bright-...). All of the authors involved write "closed door fantasy", either their whole catalog or as part of their catalog, and I've enjoyed some of them in the past.
That all being said brings us to our book today...Shield of Shadow by C. F. E. Black
First up this is a prequel novella, so not a full book. As such this was a much quicker read and not meant to be a full novel's worth of information. Which is fine, I needed something quick and as I haven't read Black before I wanted some kind of introduction.
That said...yeah no this was not a great introduction as such. The characters didn't feel "real", the interactions were flat out weird and I'm wondering if the relevant information will be covered in the main series because it was so confusing here. For a story meant to set-up context, it was really lacking its own. And this isn't particularly short (about half the length of the first full novel in the series, Blade of Ash) so it had room to grow into some of the choices made.
I did not enjoy the not-quite-romance nor do I Think I'll enjoy romance in the main series (I accidentally spoiled myself here by reading the summary of the next two books). I don't mind age gaps in theory, but there was something...not quite comfortable about this one. Maybe because he was her mentor and she came across much younger then 16, or the emotional weight was off, but I would have either liked it to be given more room or not been part of it. Especially as he's not Endgame. I appreciate a MC who has a history just as much as I appreciate a MC without one, but unless gives some weight to the future romance, I'm not sure why it was entirely necessary.
(which wouldn't be an actual issue if I didn't know the LI for the future books)
Anyhow, looking forward to the first real book in the series.
Which isn't to say everything I read is adult-themed, but there's a balancing act that I think some writers find hard to navigate without being...judgemental. Which has for a long time turned me off from books that are labeled "clean" "sweet" "closed door". However as part of an ongoing venture to branch out and find new authors, I am doing the "Bright Fantasy for a Dark World" challenge (hosted by Sarah K.L. Wilson - https://www.sarahklwilson.com/bright-...). All of the authors involved write "closed door fantasy", either their whole catalog or as part of their catalog, and I've enjoyed some of them in the past.
That all being said brings us to our book today...Shield of Shadow by C. F. E. Black
First up this is a prequel novella, so not a full book. As such this was a much quicker read and not meant to be a full novel's worth of information. Which is fine, I needed something quick and as I haven't read Black before I wanted some kind of introduction.
That said...yeah no this was not a great introduction as such. The characters didn't feel "real", the interactions were flat out weird and I'm wondering if the relevant information will be covered in the main series because it was so confusing here. For a story meant to set-up context, it was really lacking its own. And this isn't particularly short (about half the length of the first full novel in the series, Blade of Ash) so it had room to grow into some of the choices made.
I did not enjoy the not-quite-romance nor do I Think I'll enjoy romance in the main series (I accidentally spoiled myself here by reading the summary of the next two books). I don't mind age gaps in theory, but there was something...not quite comfortable about this one. Maybe because he was her mentor and she came across much younger then 16, or the emotional weight was off, but I would have either liked it to be given more room or not been part of it. Especially as he's not Endgame. I appreciate a MC who has a history just as much as I appreciate a MC without one, but unless gives some weight to the future romance, I'm not sure why it was entirely necessary.
(which wouldn't be an actual issue if I didn't know the LI for the future books)
Anyhow, looking forward to the first real book in the series.
September 19, 2022
‘Magic was a beast, hard to tame’
Welcome to the world of ADHD. Whether the author intended to make these connections or not, this was the first thing I related to when reading. Some of the examples that spoke to me were:
A youth who is ostracized due to (in this case) her differences, even when those differences are beneficial to the ‘typical’ people around her.
Yet, her differences are lauded in the Masters, people who have proven their powers (think the Einsteins and the Steve Jobs’ of the world)
She is expected to mask her talents, so as not to call attention to them
The typicals don’t understand her differences nor do they really try to (they’d rather argue about them amongst themselves)
Alyana was quickly able to be herself once her differences were acknowledged as beneficial
She has various sources of ‘fuel’ from which to pull and is aware of the cost of each
Hyperfocusing is a major assent; distractions are a bane
Expending too much energy (especially in a very short amount of time), is not only draining, but can lead to overload
The divergent ways of thinking and doing need knowledge and training
Neurodivergence can be a GIFT
I also picked up on some internalizing…:
‘If magic is bad, then so am I.’
…and accountability:
‘Because magic like this shouldn’t be left to your whims.’
The author provides us with a map – thanks!
We’ll find out how Alyana puts her talents to even more use in ‘Blade of Ash’.
Welcome to the world of ADHD. Whether the author intended to make these connections or not, this was the first thing I related to when reading. Some of the examples that spoke to me were:
A youth who is ostracized due to (in this case) her differences, even when those differences are beneficial to the ‘typical’ people around her.
Yet, her differences are lauded in the Masters, people who have proven their powers (think the Einsteins and the Steve Jobs’ of the world)
She is expected to mask her talents, so as not to call attention to them
The typicals don’t understand her differences nor do they really try to (they’d rather argue about them amongst themselves)
Alyana was quickly able to be herself once her differences were acknowledged as beneficial
She has various sources of ‘fuel’ from which to pull and is aware of the cost of each
Hyperfocusing is a major assent; distractions are a bane
Expending too much energy (especially in a very short amount of time), is not only draining, but can lead to overload
The divergent ways of thinking and doing need knowledge and training
Neurodivergence can be a GIFT
I also picked up on some internalizing…:
‘If magic is bad, then so am I.’
…and accountability:
‘Because magic like this shouldn’t be left to your whims.’
The author provides us with a map – thanks!
We’ll find out how Alyana puts her talents to even more use in ‘Blade of Ash’.
May 22, 2024
Good story, very imaginative
I like it well enough to try the next book in the series . There was something about the beginning that I didn’t like, but it was very hard to put my finger on it. Also, the cover does not match the book. The heroine is hardly that seductive or show-off-y. (That’s a good thing.) Also, I rather think that the author repeated herself too much, telling us things that I already knew as a reader. That could be because she wrote it so fast or so slowly that she didn’t remember she already said that.
Grammar tip to everyone: use “as“ or “as if“when comparing non-nouns. Use “like “ only when comparing nouns. I’m 72 years old and the constant use of like instead of as is grating on my my nerves, plus it makes the writer sound like a kid or as if they come from the sticks, the slums, or the Bronx (not nothing against people from the Bronx, ya know). Just saying.
I like it well enough to try the next book in the series . There was something about the beginning that I didn’t like, but it was very hard to put my finger on it. Also, the cover does not match the book. The heroine is hardly that seductive or show-off-y. (That’s a good thing.) Also, I rather think that the author repeated herself too much, telling us things that I already knew as a reader. That could be because she wrote it so fast or so slowly that she didn’t remember she already said that.
Grammar tip to everyone: use “as“ or “as if“when comparing non-nouns. Use “like “ only when comparing nouns. I’m 72 years old and the constant use of like instead of as is grating on my my nerves, plus it makes the writer sound like a kid or as if they come from the sticks, the slums, or the Bronx (not nothing against people from the Bronx, ya know). Just saying.
September 6, 2023
Summary: This is a prequel story, telling us how the sorcerer in the first book BECAME the sorcerer and explores the mysteries of another side-character/potential love-interest.
Pros: Okay, I REALLY liked this book. It just filled in the background and made a lot of things I was confused about in the first book make a lot more sense.
And it kind of makes me wish I read this book first.
So this is me telling all the internets that if you are a reader that wants to know ALL OF THE THINGS (no matter HOW cool the romance is), then perhaps you would be better reading this book first as well. :P
It also is a good story all on its own—even if the romance fizzles out (to make room for the main romance in the first book).
Cons: No real cons for this one. It just NEEDS to go first. I have decreed it. Lol
Conclusion: Like I said, I liked this prequel a lot, and it makes me more excited to dive into the main series again with some added understanding/insight into ALL THE THINGS.
Pros: Okay, I REALLY liked this book. It just filled in the background and made a lot of things I was confused about in the first book make a lot more sense.
And it kind of makes me wish I read this book first.
So this is me telling all the internets that if you are a reader that wants to know ALL OF THE THINGS (no matter HOW cool the romance is), then perhaps you would be better reading this book first as well. :P
It also is a good story all on its own—even if the romance fizzles out (to make room for the main romance in the first book).
Cons: No real cons for this one. It just NEEDS to go first. I have decreed it. Lol
Conclusion: Like I said, I liked this prequel a lot, and it makes me more excited to dive into the main series again with some added understanding/insight into ALL THE THINGS.
August 27, 2023
This book was a solid beginning to the series. It was a little slow for me, which may have to do with the fact that I'm going into a reading slump, and less to do with the book; it was introducing and setting everything up, so it makes sense that it wasn't plot-heavy. I was influenced to read this book by the author's Instagram; saying it was a clean romance fantasy book, so I didn't know too much going into it. Overall, I think this series has the potential to be good and exciting. I think people looking for an easy-to-understand fantasy book that doesn't have any spice, this book (and series, I assume) would be good for you.
September 20, 2022
I loved this novella! It was short, but the story was amazing!
Aly and Grey were great main characters and I really enjoyed seeing them evolve with each other! I was hoping for them to be endgame, so the ending was quite sad, I my opinion. 🥺
The revelation of who Aly's dad is was really well written and I'm really excited to see how that plot point develops in Blade of Ash!
I definitely recommend this novella if you love fantasy and witchy books!
Trigger warnings:
-Child Abandonment
-Murder (off screen)
-Attempted murder
-Violence
Aly and Grey were great main characters and I really enjoyed seeing them evolve with each other! I was hoping for them to be endgame, so the ending was quite sad, I my opinion. 🥺
The revelation of who Aly's dad is was really well written and I'm really excited to see how that plot point develops in Blade of Ash!
I definitely recommend this novella if you love fantasy and witchy books!
Trigger warnings:
-Child Abandonment
-Murder (off screen)
-Attempted murder
-Violence
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