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In death, there is life…
With their godhood restored, Jess and Rune must build an army to defend Umbra and Earth from Queen Mara and the invading darkness. Will sharing the truth about the darkness’s origins unite the clans, covens, and courts, or is discord too entrenched? Furthermore, how do you protect your world against an enemy nourished by destruction?
When the deep magic of the Between is illumed, a way to overcome the darkness seems possible. Yet all magic comes at a price. One that even gods aren’t exempt from paying. For the sake of multiple worlds, will Jess have to make the ultimate sacrifice?
Lux is the final book in a four-book series, The Dark Between. With New Adult themes, blood and soul magic, this series will throw you into the darkest Depths and the headiest Heights. Fans of Kuang’s Poppy Wars and Taylor’s Daughter Of Smoke and Bone will love this series.
With their godhood restored, Jess and Rune must build an army to defend Umbra and Earth from Queen Mara and the invading darkness. Will sharing the truth about the darkness’s origins unite the clans, covens, and courts, or is discord too entrenched? Furthermore, how do you protect your world against an enemy nourished by destruction?
When the deep magic of the Between is illumed, a way to overcome the darkness seems possible. Yet all magic comes at a price. One that even gods aren’t exempt from paying. For the sake of multiple worlds, will Jess have to make the ultimate sacrifice?
Lux is the final book in a four-book series, The Dark Between. With New Adult themes, blood and soul magic, this series will throw you into the darkest Depths and the headiest Heights. Fans of Kuang’s Poppy Wars and Taylor’s Daughter Of Smoke and Bone will love this series.
- GenresFantasy
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 30, 2022
About the author
Rae Else
15 books83 followersRae Else is an Urban Fantasy author, most at home in the spaces between reality and the imaginary. When in the real world, she resides with her husband in Plymouth. The Arete Trilogy is her Young Adult, Urban Fantasy debut. Her upcoming series, The Dark Between, is a decadently dark YA Fantasy, featuring a whole cast of paras - shifters, vamps, witches, mages, fae ... and lots of soul magic.
Rae studied Classics at university and a lot of her stories draw on mythology and ancient worlds. In her twenties, Rae worked as a teacher and now writes full time. When not reading or writing, Rae loves to scuba dive and sail. She finds the big blue to be like a good book – a portal to a different world.
The Lost Assassin novella and two companion e-shorts to The Arete Series can be downloaded for FREE, as well as Doors To The Dead, the companion novella to The Dark Between Series. To grab them, go to http://raeelse.co.uk
Rae studied Classics at university and a lot of her stories draw on mythology and ancient worlds. In her twenties, Rae worked as a teacher and now writes full time. When not reading or writing, Rae loves to scuba dive and sail. She finds the big blue to be like a good book – a portal to a different world.
The Lost Assassin novella and two companion e-shorts to The Arete Series can be downloaded for FREE, as well as Doors To The Dead, the companion novella to The Dark Between Series. To grab them, go to http://raeelse.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 26, 2023
How to make me a very happy reader:
1. Rae Else writes a book.
2. I read said book.
3. Jess ends up with the best person ever.
4. Success!!!
NOW, I AM NOT HAPPY THAT THE SERIES IS OVER, BUT. BUT BUT BUT. I do love this book and how it all ended even though a portion of it was painful for me and I will need 35688547 business days to recover.
Jess and Rune are now gods, and it's up to them, and some of their friends, to save the world one last time.
I didn't want this to end, I tried to read slowly and did manage to stretch it out a bit, but all good things must come to an end. Unless if we get a spinoff? I hope so. Because there's so much more of this world to explore.
Like I said at the start, Jess ended up with the person I've been rooting for since book one which made my year and my whole life. I can die peacefully now.
THEY'RE SO PERFECT TOGETHER, I REQUIRE A CUTE DOMESTIC NOVELLA RIGHT NOW!!! No monsters, no evil, just good vibes. I cried when they finally got together dear reader, they're one of my favourite couples EVER. I WILL NEVER SHUT UP ABOUT THEM.
The other person in the love triangle also found someone to love so I don't feel bad about being happy.
Then we get to the emotional damage part relating to my favourite villain...WHY DID IT HAVE TO END LIKE THAT FOR HIM WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY??????????? I WANT TO CURL UP INTO A BALL AND SOB UNCONTROLLABLY. I AM HEARTBROKEN, RUINED, GOODBYE.
Theo will also live forever in my heart, he was the real victim in all of this and never did anything wrong in his entire life. A little meow meow, if you will. JUSTICE FOR THEO!!!
It's now that time of year (and review) where I yell at you to start reading this series, especially since it's complete now so you can binge it in one go.
PLEASE READ THE DARK BETWEEEN, IF YOU DON'T, YOU'RE MISSING OUT ON AMAZING WORLD BUILDING, CHARACTERS, ROMANCE, DIALOGUES, MYTHOLOGY, WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO YOURSELF HUH? DON'T MISS OUT, START THIS N-O-W.
*Thank you to the lovely author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
1. Rae Else writes a book.
2. I read said book.
3. Jess ends up with the best person ever.
4. Success!!!
NOW, I AM NOT HAPPY THAT THE SERIES IS OVER, BUT. BUT BUT BUT. I do love this book and how it all ended even though a portion of it was painful for me and I will need 35688547 business days to recover.
Jess and Rune are now gods, and it's up to them, and some of their friends, to save the world one last time.
I didn't want this to end, I tried to read slowly and did manage to stretch it out a bit, but all good things must come to an end. Unless if we get a spinoff? I hope so. Because there's so much more of this world to explore.
Like I said at the start, Jess ended up with the person I've been rooting for since book one which made my year and my whole life. I can die peacefully now.
THEY'RE SO PERFECT TOGETHER, I REQUIRE A CUTE DOMESTIC NOVELLA RIGHT NOW!!! No monsters, no evil, just good vibes. I cried when they finally got together dear reader, they're one of my favourite couples EVER. I WILL NEVER SHUT UP ABOUT THEM.
The other person in the love triangle also found someone to love so I don't feel bad about being happy.
Then we get to the emotional damage part relating to my favourite villain...WHY DID IT HAVE TO END LIKE THAT FOR HIM WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY??????????? I WANT TO CURL UP INTO A BALL AND SOB UNCONTROLLABLY. I AM HEARTBROKEN, RUINED, GOODBYE.
Theo will also live forever in my heart, he was the real victim in all of this and never did anything wrong in his entire life. A little meow meow, if you will. JUSTICE FOR THEO!!!
It's now that time of year (and review) where I yell at you to start reading this series, especially since it's complete now so you can binge it in one go.
PLEASE READ THE DARK BETWEEEN, IF YOU DON'T, YOU'RE MISSING OUT ON AMAZING WORLD BUILDING, CHARACTERS, ROMANCE, DIALOGUES, MYTHOLOGY, WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO YOURSELF HUH? DON'T MISS OUT, START THIS N-O-W.
*Thank you to the lovely author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
January 2, 2023
Jess and Rune are now the restored Umbran gods Lady Silva and Lord Alba. They need to round up all their allies to defend Umbra and Earth against queen Mara and her dark followers. Even if they succeed they're not sure it will be enough to unite the clans, covens and courts that's been ripped apart for thousands of years by the enemy. Does Jess need to do the ultimate sacrifice?
I'm not ready for this series to be over! It makes me sad to know I won't be spending any more time with all the shifters, vamps, witches, mages and faes that we've gotten to know during these four books. I've truly enjoyed spending time in the world Rae Else has created, and I'm grateful to have been a part of her ARC team for the Dark Between series. Despite the fact I have received the books in advance and for free, my thoughts are independant of that.
It's been a true pleasure to follow the characters and their growth through out the series. Even if a lot that happened in this last book was expected, the author surprised me a couple of times. I'm quite satisfied with the ending, and I will buy myself a physical copy of the book eventually - as I have with the previous books!
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
I'm not ready for this series to be over! It makes me sad to know I won't be spending any more time with all the shifters, vamps, witches, mages and faes that we've gotten to know during these four books. I've truly enjoyed spending time in the world Rae Else has created, and I'm grateful to have been a part of her ARC team for the Dark Between series. Despite the fact I have received the books in advance and for free, my thoughts are independant of that.
It's been a true pleasure to follow the characters and their growth through out the series. Even if a lot that happened in this last book was expected, the author surprised me a couple of times. I'm quite satisfied with the ending, and I will buy myself a physical copy of the book eventually - as I have with the previous books!
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
December 14, 2022
Lux by indie author Rae Else is the final instalment to The Dark Between series, & *spoiler alert* it’s an absolutely gripping NA fantasy! There is so much high intensity within these pages, I was captivated from the very beginning.
In this last part of the adventure, Jess & Rune have had their godhood restored. But it’s at a cost, as Rune now controls both the Heights & the Depths, leaving Jess unsure of her domain. Umbra & Earth are under threat from all sides, with the oncoming darkness & Queen Mara forming an unholy alliance. And the betrayal of Theo continues, with his plan to capture Jess’ soul for his sluagh horde. Can anyone unite the clans, covens & courts? Or is this divide too deep to cross? Even Gods must pay a price for a miracle, & the cost could be Jess’ life & soul…
Okay, no spoilers (I promise). *BUT* can we talk about the earth connections? And just how integral nature is to this intense battle for Umbra & Earth? I’ll fully admit, I’m not so in love with nature that I can appreciate things like leeches. But trees & their massive power, strength & endurance? YES. I am here for it! Lux is an ambassador for nature & the balance it brings to our lives. I couldn’t be happier to read about that.
I also love the Storm-born. Shapeshifters, trapped in their winged horse forms, have a major part to play in this NA fantasy. And Rae’s description of their incredible presence in Lux has me wishing for more stories about them...
Lux by indie author Rae Else has everything you could want in NA fantasy: high stakes, massive battles, as well as strong relationships that are tested beyond measure. This finale to The Dark Between gave me more than I expected, & I expected a lot!
~ To read my full review, you can read it on my blog via this link: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/lux-r... ~
In this last part of the adventure, Jess & Rune have had their godhood restored. But it’s at a cost, as Rune now controls both the Heights & the Depths, leaving Jess unsure of her domain. Umbra & Earth are under threat from all sides, with the oncoming darkness & Queen Mara forming an unholy alliance. And the betrayal of Theo continues, with his plan to capture Jess’ soul for his sluagh horde. Can anyone unite the clans, covens & courts? Or is this divide too deep to cross? Even Gods must pay a price for a miracle, & the cost could be Jess’ life & soul…
Okay, no spoilers (I promise). *BUT* can we talk about the earth connections? And just how integral nature is to this intense battle for Umbra & Earth? I’ll fully admit, I’m not so in love with nature that I can appreciate things like leeches. But trees & their massive power, strength & endurance? YES. I am here for it! Lux is an ambassador for nature & the balance it brings to our lives. I couldn’t be happier to read about that.
I also love the Storm-born. Shapeshifters, trapped in their winged horse forms, have a major part to play in this NA fantasy. And Rae’s description of their incredible presence in Lux has me wishing for more stories about them...
Lux by indie author Rae Else has everything you could want in NA fantasy: high stakes, massive battles, as well as strong relationships that are tested beyond measure. This finale to The Dark Between gave me more than I expected, & I expected a lot!
~ To read my full review, you can read it on my blog via this link: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/lux-r... ~
June 17, 2023
Would definitely NOT recommend reading this book-
-or this series
I‘m just sooo happy that I am finallyyyyyyy done with this Wattpad series, it was a torture to get it done in the end- ✨
-or this series
I‘m just sooo happy that I am finallyyyyyyy done with this Wattpad series, it was a torture to get it done in the end- ✨
December 31, 2022
Lux is the fourth, and final, book in Rae Else's 'The Dark Between' series. This series holds a very special place in my heart, and I've enjoyed every single addition to Jess's journey throughout the series, and the final instalment is no different.
Jess, throughout the series, has been in some dark spots, some tight spots, and some rough spots. She's found herself and lost other parts of herself, and finally, finally, in Lux, she's come into her own. She's claimed her powers, her place in the world, and she knows what she wants moving forward.
All that's left now is to fight for it, and fight for it she does.
With her friends backing her, and her love to bolster her, Jess has to face her biggest challenge yet; An ancient war with creatures that fractured her soul in a previous life. And this time she has to face it alone.
As with all the previous instalments, Lux had me on the edge of my seat throughout. I devoured the whole book in one sitting, sped through the pages like water through my fingers, soaking in Jess's journey and challenges, and constantly routing for the strength of Fort Matteo to come through and help her in the end.
I refuse to spoil the ending of this masterpiece by mentioning how that final challenge ends, but suffice it to say I cannot recommend this book, or this entire series, highly enough. It leaves us with an epilogue that gives complete satisfaction, and hope for the remaining character's futures.
I will miss visiting the world of the Dark Between with Jess, Matteo, Astra, and all the others, but I can always revisit them, and I greatly look forward to whatever works Rae Else gifts us with next!
Jess, throughout the series, has been in some dark spots, some tight spots, and some rough spots. She's found herself and lost other parts of herself, and finally, finally, in Lux, she's come into her own. She's claimed her powers, her place in the world, and she knows what she wants moving forward.
All that's left now is to fight for it, and fight for it she does.
With her friends backing her, and her love to bolster her, Jess has to face her biggest challenge yet; An ancient war with creatures that fractured her soul in a previous life. And this time she has to face it alone.
As with all the previous instalments, Lux had me on the edge of my seat throughout. I devoured the whole book in one sitting, sped through the pages like water through my fingers, soaking in Jess's journey and challenges, and constantly routing for the strength of Fort Matteo to come through and help her in the end.
I refuse to spoil the ending of this masterpiece by mentioning how that final challenge ends, but suffice it to say I cannot recommend this book, or this entire series, highly enough. It leaves us with an epilogue that gives complete satisfaction, and hope for the remaining character's futures.
I will miss visiting the world of the Dark Between with Jess, Matteo, Astra, and all the others, but I can always revisit them, and I greatly look forward to whatever works Rae Else gifts us with next!
December 21, 2022
Just, wow! This was such a beautiful ending to a fun, engaging series - everything I hoped it would be. There's a clear vision, an epic battle, a tying together of worlds. The relationships are wonderful and it's so great the way they all unfold (not going to say too much for fear of spoilers but it certainly doesn't disappoint!) I thought all the main characters were given a good amount of consideration too, so you feel all their stories come together really well.
Some incredible imagery throughout - you get to appreciate the nature of the 'dark between' finally and it's kinda mind-blowing. I loved the mythical edge and how raw, elemental and powerful everything became. Some excellent, dramatic demonstrations of Jess' and Rune's capabilities as gods - absolutely brilliant and really creative.
It was deeply emotive and sensitive too, which I adored - lots of consideration for the experiences of souls and the passing of time. Some really fantastic (and darkly moving) descriptions which totally draw you in.
Rae Else has created such a wonderful fantasy world and wrapped up this story to perfection. I cannot wait to see what she does next.
Some incredible imagery throughout - you get to appreciate the nature of the 'dark between' finally and it's kinda mind-blowing. I loved the mythical edge and how raw, elemental and powerful everything became. Some excellent, dramatic demonstrations of Jess' and Rune's capabilities as gods - absolutely brilliant and really creative.
It was deeply emotive and sensitive too, which I adored - lots of consideration for the experiences of souls and the passing of time. Some really fantastic (and darkly moving) descriptions which totally draw you in.
Rae Else has created such a wonderful fantasy world and wrapped up this story to perfection. I cannot wait to see what she does next.
December 25, 2022
So sad to see this series end! Such a great series from start to finish! It was a bit slow through the book building up to the epic finale, and I don’t fully agree with some of the romances, but I’m glad everyone found their happy ever after, especially Rune(my favorite 🥰), and I will miss the lovely Theo, one of my favorite villains ever!
I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2022
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 21, 2023
Great series
Okay I actually put this book down several times so that I wouldn't get to the end of it. Loved the characters, they were not perfect but they were likeable. The villains were the kind that you don't feel bad about when things happen to them. World building was good and cohesive across the series. Very enjoyable.
Okay I actually put this book down several times so that I wouldn't get to the end of it. Loved the characters, they were not perfect but they were likeable. The villains were the kind that you don't feel bad about when things happen to them. World building was good and cohesive across the series. Very enjoyable.
December 28, 2022
Coming into Lux, I had a heavy heart for the love lost between Rune and Jess. Diving further into it, I felt the despair and disappointment the characters have for things they can’t control. And it was absolutely heartbreaking. But of course, life goes on. Moving forward, seeing them come into the people they were meant to be gave us hope. A lot of hard earned hope, but hope nonetheless.
Love was lost. But love was gained once again. I’ve always been so addicted to this epic love that goes against all odds. That epic love that spans great lengths of time and countless brick walls to build and erupt. But seeing Jess and Fort Matteo, love this simple is just as epic. Completing. Quiet and blossoming.
Real love, true love.. is seeing your best friends now happy with the future unfolding for them. And this is truly the only future one can hope for.
This war of worlds was unnecessary and yet you can see the unity of species that were once divided as a great result. Setting aside their, in the grander scheme of things, petty rivalry to stand alongside each other and fight for what’s right. Fight for their world and their salvation. And the future is so much brighter for the good.
On a side note, I feel like there is still some redemption for Theo in the end. Knowing there was still some heart left in him. He is definitely the antagonist that you can’t help but still feel for!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews