Firstly, I’d just like to kindly thank the publishers and Jessica Thorne for giving me the chance to review the e-arc audiobook of A Touch of Shadows. Going into this audiobook, I was quite intrigued by the concepts of shadow and light magic, as well as the general gist of the book. To me, I was also initially keen on listening to this because of the hinted romance between Finn and Wren. However, I’m sad to say that the storyline didn’t exactly live up to what I was expecting.

For starters though, I’d like the discuss the worldbuilding first. I thought the was actually quite promising; the kingdoms were well established and I could make sense of the general rulers and conflict between Asteroth and Lianthus. (I hope I’m spelling it right!) The magic system of the Aureum and the Shadows were also intriguing and as concepts, they seemed to offer a lot of options to explore throughout the storyline, such as the origin, the types of wielders, and how they would be confined to certain terrains or kingdoms. Unfortunately there were definitely issues with world building and some plot holes, and I had a lot more questions unanswered. For example, (please note some spoilers up ahead) how is the Knox supposedly Wren’s mother? Is it a sentient being or does a goddess control it? How did the two dominant magic systems come to be? How did light magic heal Finn, and if this is possible, why couldn’t it theoretically be used for other soldiers?

These are only a few questions I had in mind, so in the future I hope they’re addressed properly in the sequel!
The pacing of the book was decent in the sense that I understood what was happening and it was fluent in a chronological manner; this made the book easier to read and envision, although it was definitely slower paced at the start.

One of my biggest issues would probably be the little-to-no true romantic development between Wren and Finn. Literally, after their first meet, they kiss? It felt very awkward and unnatural. Whilst this may have just been the author’s intention to show that perhaps magic or some connected desire between them was at play, it just didn’t execute well and I could not get invested in their relationship. There was no basic foundation other than this odd in-born yearning the two had. I would have liked to see a lot more quality interactions and heart-to-heart conversations in this book (and I feel it did have room for these), because that way we could have at least learnt a little bit more about the characters’ interests, personalities and etc as well as have seen some actual authenticity in their relationship.

Moreover, the characters fell a little flat for me as a result. There was a lot more telling and mentions of what they felt rather than actually showing me. And in particular, the villain prince confused me. I didn’t understand whether he was evil for the sake of being evil, under control of the Knox or if he even had any clear motivations to bring back the Knox. Was it that simple that he only wanted his ‘ruler’ back? Or did he have other intentions? I’m not sure, but his villainous presence felt as if it were merely more of a plot device to add more action into the story rather than cause something meaningful in the story and the development of the characters. The only characters I truly found interesting were Roland and Elordi. Their actions felt most consistent to their character and I actually enjoyed the interactions they had in the book as well as their opposing approaches. In fact, I hope their potential second chance romance is a plot point in the sequel alongside the main arc.

As a side note, I noticed a potential grammar error in the audio in 023 — it said “When did it got so long?” and I believe it should be “When did it get so long?” Just a note in case it is a true error!

Some aspects I did like include the glossary (I found this very useful to refer back to when I got confused with the world and the rulers), the intriguing subplot backstory of Elordi and Roland, and some questions that I believe were purposefully posed, such as: Why did Elordi supposedly steal Wren and flee? Is she the true birth mother and if not, why does Wren look so similar to Roland? Why was Finn supposedly chosen to be the sacrifice? These questions would probably be one of the only reasons I go to attempt the sequel. Unfortunately, I fon’t think I was connected to the characters enough to really want to know what happens to them in the future. I quite liked the writing style of Thorne, however, as I felt her words were clear and effective at helping me sort of switch off and stay rooted in the main story and atmosphere.

Overall, not a bad attempt at all, but I definitely think with some revisions focusing on worldbuilding, character development and a focus on more quality discussion between characters, it could have been even better. I hope the sequel will only get better from here on out! :)

I really enjoyed the narrator of this audiobook. My attention was immediately grabbed at the start and I felt that it was a very strong start. I wished there was a little more in terms of the world-building as I was struggling to picture what the world may look like at times. That said I could not put the book down and will be continuing with the series.

I really enjoyed this story in audio book format. The narrator did a great job in helping to distinguish the characters.
As for the story, it was good, fun, Romantasy with plenty of tension and high stakes. Does it do anything really original? No, but it was an entertaining place to escape for a few hours with characters I begun to truly root for. I loved the use of Rapunzel as the basis for the story, but that it also stood on its own merits. Coming away from it, I’ve been left wondering what will happen next between Elodie and Roland (my two favourites) And I will gladly pick up a copy of the two remaining books in the series.

Thank you to Second Sky and Net Galley for the advanced copy

Netgalley book reviews
A touch of shadows
In a world where their magic can put them in forced servitude Wren, a witch raised with a secret past struggles against a magic that neither her or her mother understand. Growing up her mother enforces strict rules around how she lives and how she uses her magic. But secrets and half truths begin to spark doubt in Wren, when she falls for a handsome stranger and wants to live her life as she sees fit.
This is an interesting story about the choices of a mother and how keeping secrets even with the best of intentions can be costly. I enjoyed listening to this story, the narrator did a wonderful job.
I would say I wish I had been reading the physical book sometimes because I did want to reference back to the glossary at the beginning from time to time to sort out who was who. But other than that the audiobook was great.

The beginning was a bit slow but by the end I was very curious to learn more about the characters and where the next book will take them!

This is a great first book in the series! I appreciate that the world-building wasn’t overwhelming and the story was easy to follow. I really enjoyed the characters and the overall story. Can’t wait to read the next one!

A Touch of Shadows
The Lost Queen Book 1
by Jessica Thorne
narrated by Helen Keeley

***Five Fantasy Stars***

I really thought this was a good start to a new series. The story was easy to follow along with and it wasn't overwhelming with world building. That freaking cliff hanger! Holy Dang Crap!!!

I immediately requested book 2 from NetGalley but at most I have until September 5th to read on. I honestly don't know how anyone who read this book didn't immediately wish for book 2!

Wren has always felt the magic but it has to remain a secret to keep her life. She only uses it in secret to help people in need. Of course this means the secret comes out.

Finn serves his kingdom and swears to hunt down any who use the shadow magic. Of course this leads him into a pickle from which Wren saves him.

These events lead us on many twists and turns. Can they trust each other and work together? Or will their doubts ruin everything?

This story is an Adventure! It isn't YA because of one open door scene. I wouldn't call it spicy but that isn't to say it won't become more NA in the next two installments.

I highly recommend this book if you enjoy Fantasy. The world building isn't as all encompassing as some (which I actually really appreciate) and it's easy to follow the story without getting tripped up trying to remember a lot.

Huge thank you to NetGalley, Second Sky, and the author for the opportunity to read and review this story. Helen Keeley did a FANTASTIC job at narrating this story.

#ATouchOfShadows #JessicaThorne
#TheLostQueenBookOne #NetGalley
#SecondSky #ALCReview #Audiobook
#HelenKeeleyNarrator #Fantasy
#CliffHanger #ReadThisBook #Romance
#Magic #Royalty #ReadAllTheBooks

This was a solid start to a series, but I think it could have gone deeper and been longer. The magic system did fascinate me though and I’m intrigued by what may happen next. It just needed more depth to the characters and more conversation. I’m very interested in Elodie’s story and hope we get more of her in the next book. I listened to this on audio and the narration was fantastic. I personally don’t think the story gets muddled in audio for those who tend to steer away from fantasy on audio.

While the character development was decent, I found myself wanting more of Finn's backstory. Being the first book in a series, I'm hopeful that the gaps I noticed will be filled in future installments. I appreciated how the romantic connection between the main characters intertwined with the magic, making the insta-love trope feel questionable, even to them. The book left me curious about the origins of the war, and the magic had a Rapunzel vibe that wasn't fully explained. I'm definitely eager to continue the series to delve deeper into the characters and world-building. It's a great read for anyone who enjoys a damsel in distress, lost heir, insta-love, and magic. I'd give it a 3.5

Thanks to NetGalley for this ALC.

Thank you to Net Galley #netgalley and Second Sky for my advance audio copy. The narration was fantastic. The book was easy to get into and I enjoyed the story. I almost never say this, but the book was perhaps too short? I don't think enough time and attention was provided in the world building or the character development or the romance. I give this book 3 stars.

Although I enjoyed this story, it is quite verbose.
The world building is necessary in a fantasy, and it was well written, but it was a bit much. There was so much internal dialogue that the story seemed to drag at times.
I enjoyed the audiobook version, and it was well performed by a single narrator.

2.5/⭐
2/🌶️

#arc netgalley
#romance
#fantasy

It's a love at first sight novel about the balance between good and evil
A young witch living in the forest with her guardian until everything starts to change ...

What i loved :
I listened to the spoken version of this book and i love the voice who tells the story
It's calming, has intonation when needed and it really adds to the story

A small plot twists
I wont exactly tell you what but i liked that what she thought was Elodie's turned out to be something else.

What u didn't love:
Besides that there is sadly nothing i can say i truly loved
The book is not bad, but the story has holes in it, we miss a lot of the background stories
The entire book feels like the middle of a story where i missed book 1 already to set the scene

Next to that i am not a lover of love at first sight at least not in this way
We talk about a young girl who never really had contact with boys and to do these kinds of things out of nowhere? How does she even know this ? I do love the way the loning is written just not the way it developed

Sad to say i would not recommend it

**I RECEIVED A FREE ARC OF THE AUDIOBOOK FROM NETGALLEY. THANK YOU A TON. THIS HAS NOT IMPACTED MY REVIEW IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM. **

**NO MAJOR SPOILERS WERE HARMED IN THIS MAKING OF THIS REVIEW**

When i started a Touch of Shadows, I did not know exactly what to expect. I sort of went in blind and wow, it was a wild ride. The narrator does an amazing job at enticing and enchanting you to the story. The writing just lends itself to a storytelling perspective. The world slowly unfolds through the eyes of multple characters. At first I was annoyed at the pov switches, but then just got used to it. I was immediately pulled into this magical realm. At first it almost seemed like a darker reverse version of Rapunzel. We got a girl with supposedly magic hair? but it needs to stay cut and she hides in a tower. But then stuff happens and she meets a cute boy andddd, yeah.

Honestly I was surprised at how fast this novel went. I could not believe my ears devoured it in such a short amount of time. For a hot second I was worried that I had primarily zoned out with this novel. To the point where I even replayed several scenes, but no. This book is really just that fast paced. It was a divine ride and I am glad the travel scenes werent long and boring. I dislike travel scenes to begin with. I am unsure if this is a debut novel, but it is still pretty good. It lays the ground work of the series and while there is room for improvement, I thought it was well done.

I will say I had a difficult time connecting to the characters. In all honestly, I think I liked the second mains more than the first. . . but it just may take time to warm up truly to the characters. Their world is lovely, but they themselves...well, obviously you want to admire Wren, she is the heroine of this story. But she definitely has alot of growning up and maturing to do. I know she is hit with some big secrets and stuff, but....well it will be interesting to see who she copes and handles it in the second book.

Finn is the main male and to be honest, I was a little confused by him but I loved his energy and spirit and immense loyalty. I would not want anyone else guarding my back.

The villain is/was intriguing, and a semi mystery? I kept waiting for true natures to reveal themselves and such. My dumbass kinda wanted her to get with the 'villain' , but thats just me, aha. I thought it was a good build up and good 'reveal'.

Overall, I enjoyed this story. I devoured it and I look forward to the next. Remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, read/listen to the book.

There were some great things about this audiobook. The audiobook narrator was excellent. Her voice was perfect for the book. Additionally, the writing was beautiful. It made the whole book feel very ethereal. I also liked that, in addition to the love story between two young adults, there was a romance storyline with people in their 30s and 40s. After all, we deserve love too!

There were some issues, though. The book started with A LOT of definitions introducing the reader to several aspects of the fictional word. Because I listened to the audiobook, I couldn't flip back to read the definitions so I spent half the time wondering what certain things were. Also problematic--instalove. The instalove is (potentially) explained/excused by certain aspects of the story, but it didn't work for me. I have no idea why these people are in love, so why should I care about their relationship? All in all, there is room for improvement on this one. Maybe in book 2?

Super cute and addictive! The characters are easy to love and the villains are easy to hate! I am excited to see what happens next for Wren and Finn!
4/5 stars because I thought there were a few spots where something was missing in the story line, but still excited to continue the series!

First, I want to say Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers of A Touch of Shadows for early access to its pages. I was beyond excited to press play and listen to this tale of shadows and light with not-so-subtle allusions to Rapunzel.

Next, I genuinely enjoyed this novel, and I will read the next in the series. Before I began the book, I did peruse the previous reviews which had led me to believe that I would be left in a place. I was. But it wasn’t as bad as I was expecting. The primary plot line is concluded, and you get the pay off promised. There are some lingering questions of importance, but I wasn’t super pissed at where I was abandoned. I wasn’t super pleased either.

There were a lot of things I enjoyed about the story. I liked Wren and Finn. I rooted for them. I had some trouble understanding the social norms of the world, but I feel like Finn is the only character who cared about them, so he was how I was trying to ground myself in it. The problem with that is that Finn is flighty and very impulsive and doesn’t spend a lot of time thinking about what he is going to do before he does it. Wren, on the other hand is very naïve and doesn’t have any information and so her decisions are also made with little deliberation. I had no idea how to predict either of their actions. Their love story felt a little out of their control and therefore not as enjoyable for me, I am hoping in the next book we will get to see them really choose each other.

I did have some trouble with the two sides of magic and how they interact, at times it seemed contrary and confusing, but the people made sense and that is what is important to me ultimately.

The other two important characters in the story are the woman who raised Wren and I am assuming the Paladin who raised Finn. My guess is that they are darker, older versions of Finn and Wrenn. We do get some backstory and it is indeed grim. I liked both of them, I am still struggling to understand their relationship and I am hoping that I will get more information about that in the next novel as well.

In general, this is a good Romantsy with a fair amount of spice for this “closed door” girly, it has some complex characters that are begging for more development and a storyline that on the surface feels common but once you are deep within it, you will find is quite unique and magical.

I enjoy the narrator and felt she did a good job. The story itself had a good concept and great start, however, I feel the flow could have been better to keep my interest. I wish there was more character development

Great quality audio book. While I enjoyed what I listened to, I DNF’d after 30%. For me, this is one of those books that need to be read due to the complex world building.

Fairly good read. The story was a lot to keep up with but I enjoyed the read. I got a little board with the story line. It's definitely a fantasy novel with interesting characters.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced audio copy of A Touch of Shadow in exchange for an honest review.

A Touch of Shadow is a quick, romantasy book with a complex magic system. I struggled with the first 55% of the book, but I kept listening in hopes of something, anything to help me finish it. The story started to pick up and held my interest. I'm not sure how I feel about a second book. I'm interested in knowing what happens next, but the book didn't leave me wanting more of the story now.

The glossary is extremely helpful, and that's where I think the missing/lack of world building is located. The characters were okay, but I would have liked more character development. Typically, I enjoy multiple POVs, but it felt like too many POVs being such a short story.

Overall, I think this is a good read for people who enjoy simpler, fast fantasy/romantasy stories.

**Enchanting, Fun, Fast-Paced, Suspense, Steamy**
Jessica Thorne is a master of slowly revealing key details that keep you begging for more! This book has everything a romantasy reader could dream of hidden identities, beautifully written *spicy* scenes, tons of suspense, and action galore. The MMC is to die for (strong, kind, a little mysterious, and a bit dangerous) and the FMC is fabulous. She doesn't have street sense, in the sense that she was raised sheltered, but she's aware of this and her naivety and how it may be impacting her decisions; which is a breath of fresh air compared to the plethora of just plain stupid FMCs I've read recently. The world-building was also done well for the size of the book, it didn't leave me wanting.

One of my favorite things about this book is that at the end of the book I have absolutely NO idea where the second one will take us! TBH, I'm not really even sure if I know who the *real* villain(s?) are. Everyone seems suspish and I have the sneaking suspicion that nothing is as it seems, even at the end.
I cannot wait for the second one and to learn more about Elodie's past and Wren's future.
A Touch of Shadows is a captivating tale of Wren, a sheltered young woman, who is suddenly thrust into an adventure of newfound power, lust, peril, and tons of mysteries to unfold.

I listened to the audio version so here are my audio-specific thoughts:
My only downside to listening to this as an audiobook as opposed to reading it, is the glossary. There is a decent amount of world-building and I found myself having to pause and write down where I was pausing to switch back to the beginning to re-listen to the glossary for the first half of the book until all of the information stuck in my brain. This may be a personal problem (hello nursing school brain fog), but I would have really appreciated a written glossary to whip out when needed.

The narrator does a fabulous job of weaving this story and enchanting the readers (the accent certainly doesn't hurt!). She has a wide range of inflections and dialects to give depth to all of the characters and her timing is impeccable.