Reviews

Light the Shadows (Under Elfhame’s Stars – Book Review

by Lucia Laurence 

I was excited to read Light the Shadows (Under Elfhame’s Stars), Lucia Laurence’s most recent book, because I love romance and fae mythology. This enthralling story captured my attention from the first page on, and I couldn’t help but become lost in the fantastical world Laurence so masterfully crafts.

The novel opens with Tam, Lyra’s closest friend, being abducted by the menacing Wild Hunt on Midwinter’s Night, a night of extreme darkness and danger. As the only person who knows where Tam might be, Lyra sets out on a treacherous quest to find the Huntsman, motivated by loyalty and unshakable determination. Lyra is determined to get the most out of her final ten days of Yule, even if it means negotiating a hazardous deal with the mysterious and brooding púca Umbriel.

Laurence writes extremely captivating pieces. I was drawn in by the evocative descriptions and painstaking attention to detail, which gave me the impression that Lyra and I were strolling through the gloomy fae realms and frozen woods together. I could practically feel the chill of Midwinter’s Night and hear the wind whispering through the trees since each scene is drawn with such rich imagery.

Lyra is an incredibly relatable lead character. She is an incredibly likable character right from the start because of her bravery, devotion, and intense drive. Her strength of character is demonstrated by her steadfast determination to locating Tam, which is both genuine and sincere. On the other side, Umbriel is a fascinating and nuanced character. His enigmatic personality and enigmatic past give the narrative additional layers of intrigue. I was pulled to his character just as much as Lyra was, when she discovers the sweetness concealed beneath his sinister façade.

There is an electromagnetic chemistry between Lyra and Umbriel. From wary allies to something deeper and more meaningful, their connection changes. Laurence creates a slow-burning romance that is both sensual and endearing by expertly balancing moments of flirting, drama, and adventure. Although I couldn’t help but be enthralled with their trip together, I could sense the tension between them.

Light the Shadows’ masterful blending of fae mythology is one of its most notable features. The fairy realm is brought to life by the amazing world-building, which is full of enthralling details and intriguing mythology. Laurence skillfully combines romance, mystery, and magic in a story that had me turning pages with bated breath, wanting to see how Lyra’s journey would pan out.

Lyra’s quest for Tam has a gripping and deeply emotional fundamental conflict. Laurence does a wonderful job of capturing Lyra’s motivation and desperation, giving her journey a sense of urgency and intimacy. I’m kept on the edge of my seat by the high stakes and increasing tension with every turn the plot takes.

In addition, the book offers a sneak peek at Laurence’s next companion book, The Huntsman and the Spellweaver, which is supposed to tell Tam’s story. I’m looking forward to the upcoming series chapter and can’t wait to see how the main story will develop after seeing this teaser.

Light the Shadows (Under Elfhame’s Stars) is a masterfully written romance that envelops readers in a magical, perilous, and romantic universe. Fantasy romance enthusiasts should not miss this book because of Laurence’s exceptional storytelling skills, which are evident in each and every chapter. I wholeheartedly urge you to go on the brave, passionate, and discovering path that Lyra and Umbriel have taken. I’m eager to read more from Lucia Laurence and follow her captivating stories to new places!

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