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Wars of Suns and Shadows

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Prudence has spent most of her life hidden in the darkest corners of the city of Erobred, evading Defenders, while surviving on petty theft and dark magic.

But all it takes is one misstep to get caught…

She is taken from her sister, her friends, and everything she knows and locked in the most secure prison in the Kingdom.

Just when she thinks she’s hit rock bottom, the chief warden presents her with a Help him infiltrate the rising rebellion to steal the Solar Crown, or watch everyone she cares about die. The journey to the base, though long and difficult, is the least of her concerns.

HOW CAN SHE STEAL THE CROWN WHEN ONE OF THE REBELS ARE WATCHING HER EVERY MOVE?

HOW WILL PRUDENCE REACT WHEN SHE FINDS OUT DAEGAL, THE SUSPICIOUS REBEL, HAS SECRETS OF HIS OWN?

385 pages, Paperback

Published February 21, 2025

16 people are currently reading
477 people want to read

About the author

Scarlett Larsson

2 books36 followers

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5 stars
67 (41%)
4 stars
61 (37%)
3 stars
25 (15%)
2 stars
7 (4%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
Profile Image for liz ౨ৎ.
172 reviews735 followers
January 20, 2025
𓍢⊹ 🌘 ✧⋆. ⊹˖ 💫 ˖⊹ .⋆✧ 🌒 ⊹𓍢

3 stars

— thank you to scarlett larsson for the advanced readers copy!

🌙 sun and moon magic
🌙 undiscovered/hidden powers
🌙 hate to love
🌙 corrupt kingdom

i absolutely loved the magic in this book! it also gave me such a nostalgic feeling and it felt like i was transported back to middle school and reading a fantasy book, i loved it!

this book started off so strong for me, the stakes were high, the story was so intriguing and i was unable to put my kindle down! around the halfway mark it sort of just lost me and i unfortunately lost interest :( i sadly couldn’t connect to any of the characters and the romance didn’t feel natural if that makes sense??

the dialogue between the two main characters was very juvenile considering they’re adults and it threw me off a bit as i was expecting more maturity.

there was grammatical errors here and there but nothing my brain didn’t automatically correct so all good there!

this was such a good story and a strong debut! i’d recommend this book if you’re looking for a quick, easy to follow fantasy! i, however, don’t think i’ll be continuing on with future books in this series!
Profile Image for Grace Btrs.
381 reviews281 followers
February 16, 2025
This debut offers a familiar play on tropes of magic, power dynamics, defenders-rebels, light-darkness, betrayal and trust.
3.5 ✨

While these tropes and characters are classic, Scarlett Larsson manages to build a world simple and easy to understand, and characters that will keep you waiting for their next moonlight dance.

It's comforting and shows a passion for storytelling.
It's promising and I can't wait to see where Scarlett will take the story because the ending left me gaping!
Scarlett definitely sets a strong foundation in this debut.

I think fans of Powerless might particularly enjoy this one since they would be able to see some similar character traits between Dae and Kai, and Prudence and Paedyn.

I wish indie and debut authors have more access to resources that can help them achieve their visions and reach for their audience.

PS: the character art is too cute not to see on Scarlett's page

I have received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review

--
Pre-read:
Decided to mix it up a little and throw some fantasy with my Alaska.
Profile Image for Madeline Catania.
1 review3 followers
November 24, 2024
This book had me hooked from the very first page! The story was fresh, engaging, and beautifully written. Prue’s devotion to her sister Lili was so relatable, especially as a big sister myself. She’s feisty, determined, and consistent throughout the story, making her a protagonist I couldn’t stop rooting for.

The magic system was one of my favorite aspects, the moon and suncasters is such a fun twist to the light/dark dynamic. It added so much depth and symbolism, and the visual elements, like the crystal and the dark magic tattooing her, were stunning.

The writing was immersive and magical. So many passages stayed with me, but this one especially: “Soon the bird song from above us was replaced by the sound of my own heart beating and the breaths I shared with Dae.” It’s absolutely beautiful. The pacing and tone stayed consistent, and I never knew what was going to happen next which is something I love in a book.

The characters were incredible. Felix and Felicity completely won me over, and I was shocked when Felicity’s story took such a turn. And Dae, I didn’t like him at first, but by the end, I was cheering for him and Prue. The growth and tension between them were so well done, and the dancing scene was perfection.

The last fifty pages had me on the edge of my seat and tugged at my heartstrings. This story gave me the same excitement I felt reading The Cruel Prince for the first time: fresh, unique, and unforgettable. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!
Profile Image for Charlotte’s Books.
96 reviews9 followers
January 14, 2025
(arc review)
I have some mixed feelings about this book.

I enjoyed the magic system, I thought it was really interesting and I don’t think that I’ve come across this type of magic system before, which is great. Unfortunately, there are some things about this book that I didn’t enjoy.

For starters I didn’t click with any of the characters, I couldn’t get invested/attached to them like I have in other books and the FMC just didn’t sit right with me, I think I expected a bit more from her. I also thought the story and the friendships/relationships were very rushed.

I think this story was lacking with regard to world/lore building. You get brief mentions of things to do with the lore and the world but nothing substantial and I found myself waiting to find out more about the lore but left empty handed.

Overall I was left feeling a bit disappointed, maybe I expected too much from this book? I’m not sure but I kept reading because the magic interested me and I hoped it would pick up but I guess it just wasn’t for me.
Profile Image for Halie Berger.
2 reviews
January 17, 2025
(ARC Reader)

First I want to say this is my first ARC read and I truly enjoyed a lot of aspects of the book. I would rate it a 3.75 if I was able to do fractions in my stars so I rounded up.

This book is very entertaining and an easy read. I love the magic system so much. I hope the second book does a little more or builds more on it. A lot happens in this book and it kept me on my toes! I do enjoy the MMC quite a bit and I have mixed feelings on the FMC. I’m hoping in the second book she has a discovering her inner strengths faze because she seemed to hold herself back quite a bit.

Some critiques of this book I would give is that I think more world building would have gone a long way. I know we were in a desert for a bit, in an ocean town, and a few other spots. I think more descriptions of the area would have helped me envision the scenes more. I also felt like the relationships were kind of shallow. The emotions were being told as if they were complex, but the actions and commentary didn’t really reflect that. Also the sister keeps being described as a child by the FMC, but every other character is saying she is the strongest person they know. To me that just does not add up. Usually strong people have a few years on them and have been through a lot. She does have trauma, but every character does so I’m not sure how she’s the strongest. Also I am a sucker for tropes, but there are so many tropes in this first book that it’s a bit much. I’m hoping the second book slows down on the tropes and develops deeper relationships.

With all that being said, I truly did enjoy the story. I am truly obsessed with the magic system here. I would recommend this book and have full intentions of reading the second book. I am hoping for a big betrayal in the second book because everyone is so forgiving and loving in this book. I want a real betrayal that’s going to hurt.
Profile Image for Angela Smith.
31 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2024
**4.5 Stars

𝚆𝚊𝚛𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚂𝚞𝚗𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚂𝚑𝚊𝚍𝚘𝚠𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝚂𝚌𝚊𝚛𝚕𝚎𝚝𝚝 𝙻𝚊𝚛𝚜𝚜𝚘𝚗🌗⚔️
𝘽𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄’𝙙 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜–𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙞𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙘.

Oh, an enemies to lovers fantasy romance with warring magics, a dangerous rebellion, and incredibly complicated relationships dynamics? Sign me up!💁🏼‍♀️

I’m an easy girl to please when it comes to fantasy books, and the vibes were HITTING with this one! Witty banter, an adorable found family, complex villains and an intricate magic system–it’s really all I need, and Wars of Suns and Shadows delivered. You definitely won’t want to miss this release in February!

I really loved that, despite Prudence not being the strongest fighter or most powerful magic wielder, there was nothing Prudence wouldn’t do to save her sister. The relationships in the book were so complex, and the star was really the bond between the two sisters. It’ll be interesting to see how their dynamic shifts as Lili engrosses herself deeper into the Rebellion and Prudence fights her inner instinct to constantly save her (especially with Verena’s influence..👀)

Honestly, the only reason this wasn’t a five star for me is because I wanted MORE! These characters are so intricate with the mixture of suncasters, mooncasters, and humans, and the relationships are truly such a highlight, I think the book would have been even stronger if it had more scenes to really grow these relationships, develop the different tensions, and add even more suspense to Prudence’s inner war between her morals and support of the rebellion vs her looming betrayal to save her sister. I could have used 200 more pages to be honest!😂

Thank you Scarlett for the opportunity to read an arc of your book in exchange for an honest review! It was an entertaining ride, a fantastic debut, and I cannot wait for book two!🫶🏼
Profile Image for Charlie .
84 reviews14 followers
March 21, 2025
🌟 4.5
I was super lucky to get to beta read this earlier, and I am so excited to finally get to share my review! I originally gave WOSAS 4 stars, but I can't stop thinking about it so I bumped it up a little 🫢 I am so glad I got to read it, and I am so excited to see what book two will bring!


“Such a shame you’re such a lovely, little liar.”


After running for their lives, all Prudence wants is to keep her sister safe, but that is not an easy task, when she has spent her whole life being hunted for the magic she was born with. After surviving on petty theft and dark magic, she finds herself captured by the Defenders, and sent away to rot in a high security prison, where the only way out is to make a deal with the enemy.


“Dance with me, Prudence.”
“Why?
“Because I won, and that is what I choose as my reward.”


Joining the rebellion might be their only chance at safety, but safety might come at a higher price than Prudence can pay. What do you do, when you’re left choosing which lives to spare; save your sister, or the rebellion?


“Why are you looking at me like you almost care?”
“Because, maybe I almost do.”


This was such an enjoyable read, and I just can't wait to see where it goes from here!!
Profile Image for El Johnson.
91 reviews3 followers
March 4, 2025
4.75⭐️

This book was fantastic! There were so many fantastic diverse and loveable characters in this book. I'm actually struggling to understand how the author managed to pack so much information into a 340-page book without making the story feel like information overload. The plot was well developed, the characters were interesting, and the emotional rawness I crave in fantast books was wholly present.
Within just the first 100 pages, I already felt so connected to the characters. I was shocked that I was able to attach myself to characters so immediately and in a way that even though some experiences with characters are short lived I was able to feel the emotional devastation of the loss or traumatic event as it was described and took place.
The imagery described in the book was beautifully evocative and visceral. I felt like I could see the landscape and fully visualize the characters.
The only issue I had was I found myself not completely understanding of the timeline of events and how much time passed from beginning to end of this book.
However, the ending was absolutely breathtaking. I was on the edge of my seat in the last few chapters and absolutely shocked by the ending twist. I am waiting with bated breath to find out what happens next. This is most definitely a book series I can not wait to devour when it becomes available.
Profile Image for MG.
133 reviews
November 24, 2024
ok i didnt plan to read this book as soon as this but i just did. i didnt plan to finish the book this fast either, but i did. yk what i DID planned but did not do? talk about it often on socials as i update my current read

why?
CUZ MY HAND JUST KEEPS GOING PAGE AFTER PAGE AFTER PAGE AFTER PAGE–and the book ends right on a cliffhanger now idk what to do 😭

-

ok on a more serious (n honest) note, i dont really like the cover, so i didnt expect much, but this story is an enjoyable read. some of the characters are likeable and some annoying, the author ensured the side characters r fleshed out enough to feel real without completely stealing the show and then there's mysteries surrounding them n i love trying to guess everything. also, i sense an 'everything u know is a lie' type of thing with the worldbuilding– im totally waiting for the next books for all those secrets to be revealed!

i dont rly like the romance part thats why i initially put 3 stars on this, but then again, i dont even enjoy famous romances like Ana Huang's or SJM's books so i change it to 4 stars cuz you deffo shouldn't take my word on that lmaooooo
1 review1 follower
December 31, 2024
Had the honor of doing my first ARC read. This book was enthralling, amazing and breathtaking from start to finish! I could not put it down and it easily made the top 3 books I’ve read this year. The romance, the laughs and heartbreak, and the story line makes it an all around amazing book. Highly recommend to anyone loving the fantasy world and can’t wait to see what this author has in store! Put it on pre- order trust me to join a world you can’t stop thinking about!!!! BRILLIANT!
Profile Image for Lailah.
67 reviews3 followers
February 22, 2025
This was my first fantasy read since I was in school, well first that wasn’t a reread so when I decided to read fantasy again I wanted something that would ease me in.I think this is the perfect book for introducing someone into fantasy, the magic system was simple to understand, the characters backstory didn’t feel too complicated either.

Prudence(FMC), is called a ‘darksome’ in the city of Erobred due to the magic she wields but historically she is known as a ‘mooncaster’. Unfortunately in the city she has to hide her magic and steal so she can provide for her sister and herself.

Daegal(MMC), is part of this group called the Rebels/Rebellion, holding secrets of his own. When he meets Prudence he doesn’t like her, almost seems like he hates her. He is a suncaster that joined the Rebels because he believes in their cause.

Prudence and Daegal have some communication problems but you can sense their connection and this tension building between them. The mission Prudence is on is tough but she would do anything for her sister, it’s just a bonus she meets some amazing friends along the way.

I can’t wait for book two as this one ended on a cliffhanger and I need to know what happens next!!
---------------------------------------------
Quotes I Loved

I could still feel the places his hands had roamed over me. For some reason, I felt like I’d crossed a sacred boundary. We’d been together once, years ago after too much mead. The years after had cemented our friendship. I didn’t want to ruin it. I didn’t want to risk losing one of the most important people in my life for a few stray kisses.

Prudence is starting to show signs. We couldn't find her for 20 minutes, until her mother looked in a corner. Oh, she was snickering her little heart out, pulling the shadows close to her to tease us. She's starting to resemble her mother in her youth a little too much, from what she’s told me

I panted as I threw myself to the ground to dodge another ball of light that would’ve burned my eyebrows clean off my face. “I thought you didn’t hate me anymore,” I breathed, rolling onto my back to catch my breath. The sun loomed high above us, making my top stick to my sweaty back. I blew a few strands of hair from my face that’d escaped my braid. “I must’ve forgotten, my apologies,” he smirked, stepping in front of me.

I pulled the dagger from the pocket of my pants that were discarded on the ground and placed it in one of the slots at my thigh. The golden quartz embedded at the top glittered faintly in the setting sun. “That’s pretty,” Anna smirked, clearly thankful for a chance to change the subject. “I wonder what dreamy suncaster could’ve given you that.” “Shut up,” I joked, feeling my cheeks heat from the recent memories of that dreamy man.

“Maybe you need to prove yourself a little more,” he smirked, grabbing my hand to curl it around the crystal embedded hilt of the dagger, then pulling me close once more. “What do I have to do to prove myself? Not kill you?” I joked, running my free hand through his thick wavy locks. The scent of mint and citrus I’d come to associate with him mingled in the air between us. I inhaled deeply. “That would be the bare minimum,” he said, running the tip of his nose over mine. “Though I can think of many ways that’d be more enjoyable.” Before I could utter my protests, his mouth collided with mine.

“I’d turn this entire place into a private garden for you, if it meant I got to see that awed expression on your face again,”
Profile Image for eclecticbychoicereads.
592 reviews61 followers
February 14, 2025
Wars of Suns and Shadows is an intriguing introduction to a new series by debut author Scarlett Larsson. It is a riveting tale of light vs. dark magic or, better yet, sun vs. moon magic. I liked the magic system; it was refreshing and urged me to continue reading.

In a world where mooncasters are persecuted and seen as the harbingers of evil, Prudence and her sister are trying to find their place and some semblance of peace after the traumatic events of their past. I loved the sisters' relationship; it felt genuine and authentic, with their ups and downs of understanding each other and their abilities.

When Prudence is discovered and thrown into prison, everything changes for them. The sisters are separated and set on different roads, at least for the time being. Once Prudence is given a task by the cruel prison warden, she faces a true moral dilemma—will she stay true to her beliefs, or will she betray everything to save her sister?

The story flowed from Prudence's everyday life, then prison time, until her time with the Rebellion. Being Book 1 in Scarlett's Tales of Erobred series, it had to set the world-building and introduce the characters. I feel the story will continue to expand and deepen as we go on further in the series, especially regarding the world's history and character development. Some secrets were uncovered and some remain hidden for now. The romance between Prudence and Daegal is still in its first stages, but it has left me wanting more. More of the two of them deepening their bond and overcoming their initial hostility, and I think we will see more of it in the future.

Wars of Suns and Shadows will be released on February 20th. I enjoyed being a member of Scarlett's ARC team; it was an absolute pleasure.
Profile Image for Kelsey Lightle.
130 reviews6 followers
January 8, 2025
I had the pleasure of ARC reading this amazing debut. I finished this in a day and that fact that this isn’t even released yet, let alone the second book is unfair.

Scarlett Larsson did an amazing job crafting this story and setting up the first book is what will be an amazing series. The ending had me sitting and staring at my kindle with my jaw on the ground. I’m not one that typically enjoys time jumps but the way Larsson executed them played into the story extremely well. The story was quicked paced, minimal world building that was easy to follow, and characters that are easy to love and get attached to.

This story takes you through the trials and tribulations of Prudence. We start off meeting Prue as a thief just trying to make ends meet for her and her younger sister. Things take a turn for the worst and Prue is captured and sentenced to the highest level of prison. From there we go through Prue’s journey of trying to escape and reclaim her freedom and finding her sister.

Prue is a mooncaster in this story and with every darkness, there needs to be some light to balance, which is where Daegal comes in. He’s a sun caster and hates everything Prue is and what she represents.
Profile Image for rach:).
49 reviews
December 29, 2024
More like a 4.5/5!

I was very pleasantly surprised by this! This was a really entertaining urban fantasy that kept me captivated the whole time. There was an impressive balance between world-building, character development, and action which allows the reader to fully appreciate Prue's (FMC) experiences and relationships.

Major strengths:
* Shock factor! I read a lot of fantasy books and there were many scenes throughout this novel that still threw me for a loop!
* Developed friendships! I find this lacking in a lot of books in this genre and found that it greatly improved the reading experience
* Prue is an imperfect hero! I love that she openly expresses so many human emotions and doesn't hide her flaws. It makes for a great perspective to read from.

I'll definitely be waiting for the next release in this series!

Thank you so much to Scarlett Larsson for the arc!! :)
Profile Image for Deandra.
125 reviews12 followers
February 19, 2025
ARC Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I really enjoyed this Fantasy!

But when I tell you this book had me sobbing, I mean it in the best possible way😭 The world-building in this novel was beautifully written. The author painted a vivid picture of the fantasy realm.

One of the standout features of this book was its unique magic system. It was unlike anything I had read before! The relationships, especially the sisterly bond, were beautifully depicted, adding layers to the characters.

Whether you're a long-time fan of fantasy or new to the genre, this book will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Also,

WHEN I TELL YOU THAT ANGRY SUN-DEVIL HAD MY NERVES FRIED! 🤣

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that is both captivating and emotionally driven!

And that ending! I need book 2 ASAP😭
Profile Image for Haikubookreviewer .
182 reviews2 followers
February 4, 2025
Thank you Scarlett for the ARC of Wars of Suns and Shadows.

Prudence is a shadow caster, magic banned in the city of Erobred. Since the night her parents were killed she has taken care of her younger sister Lilliana, stealing for sustenance, searching for the rebellion, and shielding her from the malicious sun caster Defenders who prowl the streets bringing harm to the darksomes. When Prudence is captured and sent to prison, she is sure she’ll never see her sister again.

This book is so good!! I stayed up way too late reading it and just did not want to put it down. The characters are fully fleshed, with incredible personalities and the banter is top notch. The storyline is so interesting and the pacing is great, never getting boring or too frantic. For a debut indie author this is so impressive! I thought the ending was in the perfect place to really make me want to read the second book. I’m pretty sad I have to wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Dori Rolon.
19 reviews1 follower
December 30, 2024
This book was excellent!!! I loved how by chapter 3, I struggled to keep this book out of my hands! I was so good! I love the message it sends as well. We need BALANCE!! Too much of one thing, leads to too little of another. Balance is what is needed to keep life going!! I need #2 now!!!
Profile Image for Katie Matthews.
5 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨

Overall, I had a great time with this story. It took me a bit to really resonate with the characters, but once I did I couldn’t put it down. I really enjoyed the different magic mechanics of this book!! I also really enjoyed the cliffhanger at the end. Seriously cannot wait for book 2!!!!
Profile Image for Jessica Hoffmaster.
92 reviews15 followers
March 23, 2025
Wow !! 🤩 I absolutely loved this story so much. I thought the story was amazing and I thought it


☀️Enemies to lovers
☀️powers
☀️found family
☀️sun and moon magic
☀️corrupt kingdom
☀️secret mission
☀️betrayal



☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️. SPOILERS . ☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️



As a SMUT girlie……. the banter did it for me 😮‍💨

I absolutely loved this story so much. Dae has me in a chokehold 😮‍💨😍 I just loved the tension between the FMC and the MMC. ALSO I LOVED THE FMC, like she wasn’t an annoying FMC. And I loved how much she cared for her sister and Archie.

I just thought the plot was strong and the story was just thought out so well! It flowed and really was such a good read.

The ending 😦😦😦 Im on edge and I just can’t wait to find out what happens next !!!
Profile Image for Millie.
26 reviews2 followers
January 3, 2025
this book was sooo good. it grabbed my hand and didn’t let go. i loved the sense of adventure and the world building. i can’t wait for the next book ☀️🔥
Profile Image for Sheri.
80 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2025
2.25 stars

I hate hate hate to leave this review, because I love supporting debut authors and stories. Unfortunately, I just can’t in good conscience give this a higher rating.

This debut suffered from a variety of issues, one of which is that it desperately needs a proofreader. I received an ARC copy, and therefore an uncorrected proof, so I’ll try to avoid those comments in my review. As it stands right now, however, correctly-spelled-incorrect-words really pull a lot of the weight out of important scenes.

The basic premise of this novel isn’t bad, but it also isn’t unique. A war between types of magic users with a nobody-important-vaguely-illegal FMC and a younger sister she’s desperate to protect is not a groundbreaking idea, but one I generally would like. The magic system is vague at best and the world-building is practically non-existent. At least twice I left notes to myself that I would really love a map.

I REALLY loved the relationship between our FMC and her sister, especially the complexities of children-parenting-children. I really liked Lili’s growth and how Prue had to deal with it and recognize, finally, that her sister is a full human who can and must make her own choices. Their relationship was a shining beacon throughout the story.

The idea of sun magic vs moon magic has a lot of opportunity, but I just don’t think it’s really capitalized on. The idea that moon casters can manipulate water is interesting but not utilized much in this book (I assume there’s more in the sequel), and I’m a little bummed that the way Prue thinks to utilize it is the same as the Sun casters (orbs and whips, etc). There really could be some very cool uses that are different between the two magic types.

Some of my major issues, in no particular order:
- We’re told that there are rebels and a rebellion against the unjust oppression of mooncasters, but at no point until we are actively with them in the story (like 70% in) are we told or shown HOW this group rebels. Do they hold sit-ins? Do they blow up government buildings? Do they hand out pamphlets?
- The similarities to other stories, particularly Hunger Games: Mockingjay, are too blatant to ignore.
- Our FMC is good at picking pockets and literally nothing else, especially nothing useful to the rebellion - even though she is the only person ever in history to be able to use both sun and moon magic. And this is NEVER TRULY EXPLORED OR EXPLOITED??
- Many character behaviors, statements, etc make absolutely no sense in the context of the story. A lot of my notes are simply “this doesn’t make sense for this character / in this situation.”

However my biggest issue with this story is that it 1) is written so blatantly to the enemies-to-lovers trope and 2) doesn’t do it every well. Daegal is not an enemy. He is an ABUSIVE CAPTOR who uses THREATS OF PHYSICAL VIOLENCE even after they’ve moved to the makeout stage?? This is SO UNHEALTHY.

I’m so sad because I love debuts and I was honored to receive an ARC, but I simply cannot recommend this novel and I won’t be reading the second. I would, however, give this author another try in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Loreli.
29 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2025
This book honestly surprised me. I am honored to say I received a digital arc of this book, and now I'm sad I can't tell every bookish friend I have to read it right now. The magic system in this is so unique, and it impressed me from the start. I found myself relating to the characters and becoming so much more invested in the story than I was expecting. Normally, having a deadline for reading is too intimidating and makes me put a book down before I can even give it a chance. This was definitely an exception to that rule because even just in the first couple of pages, I knew I wouldn't be able to stop. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys complex magic systems, light-medium world building (not overly complicated and confusing), found family, and some good enemies to lovers tension!!
Profile Image for Karina.
11 reviews1 follower
January 12, 2025
I read this as part of the ARC team, and now all I can think is: When is book two coming out?! This is such a great first romantasy book! It’s super easy to read, with an interesting and simple magic system that’s easy to follow. The mix of romance and fantasy kept me hooked the whole time. I’m so curious to see what happens next, and I can’t wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Brooke Kelley.
53 reviews3 followers
February 21, 2025
I was fortunate to receive an advanced reader copy of A War of Suns and Shadows, set for release on February 20th, 2025. The novel takes place in a kingdom divided by two magical forces: one drawn from the sun, the other from the moon. After a devastating war, those who wield moon-based magic, known as “darkcasters,” are outlawed and forced into hiding. When Prudence, a darkcaster, is captured and torn from her family, she’s given an impossible choice: infiltrate the rebel forces and steal their crown, or her sister dies. I was hooked from the start, finishing the book in just a few days. The plot twists kept me on edge, and I was constantly surprised by where the story went. For a moment, it reminded me of Uglies, but it quickly proved to have a unique and compelling storyline of its own. The ending left me on a major cliffhanger, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next book to see where Prudence’s journey leads!
1 review
January 2, 2025
It is a rare occasion that I choose to write a review for a book I have read. But oh. My. Lord. This book has been…EVERYTHING.

For fans of ACOTAR and Fourth Wing, if you love your shadow daddies and their badass women? Just wait until you meet Prudence and Dae.
This book has had me on the edge of my seat since chapter one. I was sucked in and could think of nothing else - and it was INCREDIBLE. I cannot wait to convince every single reader in my life (and a few non-readers) to witness the spectacular work that is Wars of Suns and Shadows.
And to Scarlett Larsson, thank you SO much for providing me with the absolute gift of being an ARC reader for this work. I loved it.
Profile Image for Shian Kelly.
58 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2024
This is an ARC review!
I first want to start off with a statement, I enjoyed this book. It's not really a book that is going to live in my head rent free, but I enjoyed it all the same.
The story was interesting, short and an easy read. I could have finished in a day but I got too tired and had to sleep. The story isn't very complex which made it an easy read.
Some issues I had with the book:
There was essentially no world building at all. I couldn't tell you if this was a gaslamp, urban, or historical fantasy. Maybe a mix of all three? The descriptions that were given gave me Aladdin vibes.
Shallow characters. I didn't really connect with any of the characters, and their motivations weren't really clear either. Most of their interactions were superficial and I couldn't really get emotionally invested in any of them.
Relationships: the relationship that developed with our two main characters seemed rushed. While it did take most of the story to get to that point, i felt like it lacked depth. I wanted to see them develop more together.
Our FMC. Honestly she seemed kinda useless to me. Her sister had more of a get shit done attitude, whereas our FMC kinda just floundered. The only strong conviction she had was to save her sister, but she wasn't utilizing any of the advantages she had in her arsenal. If I'm right, she should have a lot in her arsenal.
Overall I'm glad I read the book, I've already preordered the paperback on Amazon, and I'm ready to see where book two goes!
Profile Image for Books. worm6.
22 reviews
November 27, 2025
. ☆☆☆☆.5/5 ⭐
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. Okay... I'm speechless and still stunned by the ending of this book!! Like, i can't even wrap my head around how or where or when or ANYTHING!!! 🥲
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. First of all, the story was so Amazing, and the aspect of sun and moon magic was Beautiful!!
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. The characters?! They were Beautifully written!! Like i really Really loved Prudence and lili so much!! Their relationship as sisters was so beautiful it makes think about my own sisters and how I'd do Everything to protect them!!🥹🫶🏻
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. Daegal ! Oh i Really loved him, i know he was a little bit rude like half of the book, but he have his reasons, and i forgive him 🙂‍↕️✋🏻
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. Prudence! Aahhh she deserves The best in the world! I was so heartbroken for her the whole book, because she doesn't deserve any of the things that happened to her 🥺💔 but i know she's so strong and she's going to be something so big !!
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. The side characters were absolutely THE CUTEST!!! Especially Felix!! He's the absolute golden retriever we all deserve as a friend and a lover 🥹🫶🏻
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. Overall, the story was amazing, the magic system was so beautifully written, and the world building was very Very Good!! I really loved how she writes this amazing story! And I'm so excited for book two, and i really hope it's soon because I'm Itching to know what's gonna happen next 😭
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. I highly Highly recommended it, it's a new release, so if you need book two fast, you Must read and support the author !! 🫶🏻🩷
Profile Image for Megan A. Rockwell.
Author 1 book18 followers
February 25, 2025
Shadow mommy. Do you need anything else?

Loved these characters, loved the romance. The story and magic system are top tier. It’s a must read.
Profile Image for yazmine t.
60 reviews
March 12, 2025
YALL!!! THIS BOOK!! I was captivated from the beginning, and I’m so excited for more people to read this once it’s out in the world but WOW! I absolutely devoured this, there’s characters to love and sadness to feel! There’s twists I didn’t see coming and I enjoyed that very much—it’d been so long since I read a book with a plot twist this good and interesting!!

The romance was there but wasn’t overwhelming and I really like that it wasn’t driven by JUST the romance. It felt real and personal to me. A lot of this book was fresh and unique because of the plot surrounding the magic aspect and because of the main protagonist’s love for her sister and I loved that!

To Scarlett Larsson, I want to thank you for allowing me to read this story early and I’m so looking forward to seeing where this goes!! <3

Overall, I loved this book and its story, and I’m excited for everyone to read it soon!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jessica Martin.
6 reviews
March 19, 2025
Wow what a rush! I was hooked on the story from page one! Really descriptive world building, fresh and engaging story. I was really interested in the magic system of light and dark magic. The visuals and symbolism to display the dynamic between the sun and moon casters flowed throughout the story really well. Kept me engaged in the conflict and kept me guessing what was going to happen next. I loved the main character! I haven’t loved a female main character this much since Jude in The Cruel Prince. It was refreshing to like the heroine in the story again and to root for the love interest. I’ve been disappointed lately with authors choice of love interests and I was pleasantly led back to having a supportive couple to root for here (no spoilers!!) excited to see where this story continues in book two!
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