Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks

Series: Realm Riders
Author: Ashley Jasmin
Publisher: Indie
Released: December 16, 2021
Received: Reedsy

The Stars Beneath the Shadows is the first in Ashley Jasmin’s Realm Riders series, and it is a book that immediately snagged my attention. It’s that ideal blend of paranormal romance and fantasy that I just can’t get enough of.

How would you react if one day you found out that you had a twin you never knew about? What if that revelation came with a second, potentially bigger secret?

Melina Jones and Robert Thompson are two fairly typical teenagers – or so they thought. Both were struggling with family issues. It wasn’t until they accidentally crossed paths that their entire worlds were changed – literally.

Melina and Robert are twins, separated all these years. What’s more, they have a rare gift – a gift that could grant them great power or put them in great danger.

“Please don’t let this be happening now. I can still fix this. I can still fix this.”

Wow. I went into The Stars Beneath the Shadows expecting one thing and was surprised by everything else that I got. It was such a thrilling read, from start to finish. And I really do mean that! If you’re looking for an indie fantasy novel with coming of age (a la magical abilities) vibes, this is the perfect read for you.

I love the blending and merging of several different tropes here. Melina and Robert are twins separated at birth – check. They have secret abilities only discovered when they find each other – check. They must learn to control their powers – check. The list goes on. But here’s the thing – these tropes exist for a reason. They’re good! And they work brilliantly with the world that Ashley Jasmin has created here.

Okay, the addition of rebels, monstrous creatures, and a corrupt king certainly helps flesh out the plot as well. It makes for a full story that moves along at a rapid pace. You know how I love a book that keeps my mind busy!

Ultimately, I found The Stars Beneath the Shadows a fun and compelling read. It was easy to sit right down and read it all in one go. And I’m so happy that this is the first in the series so that there will be more to come! I can’t wait.

Thanks to #Reedsy for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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