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All The Light that Falls
When your life is a lie, can you trust the villain to tell you the truth?
As an acolyte of light living atop a floating citadel, Alula Fenix knows little of the outside world; but she knows something isn’t right within hers.
The light they wield has become tainted. Only in a world where men hold all the power, Alula knows better than to ask questions. To find the cause, she must attract a consort and become a vessel of light, no matter the cost.
Until a forbidden Fallen steps from his shadows, a nightmare with dark wings flaring wide, the villain in every story she’s been told.
Nier Draven is the first to infiltrate the citadel in centuries, searching for his own answers about the deadly wraiths who haunt the ground far below. Now he wants them from Alula. For his shadows follow her, while her light draws him close.
Needing an ally to help his people, Nier challenges Alula and opens her eyes to the lies and hidden horrors of her world.
Now, with potential consorts circling, deities hovering, and whispers stalking her steps, Alula walks an increasingly dangerous path. She must brave Nier’s forbidden shadows to seek the truth about the citadel, the vessels, and herself, before her choices disappear.
Or she does.
For in some worlds, the true nightmares walk in the light.
All The Light that Falls is a forbidden love fantasy romance perfect for fans of From Blood and Ash, Red Queen, The Hurricane Wars, and A Touch of Darkness; where enemy worlds collide in a centuries-old fae war to control the magic of their world. Follow the heart-stopping twists as Alula and Nier discover the light bound within her, the depth of betrayal surrounding her, and the price she’ll pay for the uprising she inspires.
As an acolyte of light living atop a floating citadel, Alula Fenix knows little of the outside world; but she knows something isn’t right within hers.
The light they wield has become tainted. Only in a world where men hold all the power, Alula knows better than to ask questions. To find the cause, she must attract a consort and become a vessel of light, no matter the cost.
Until a forbidden Fallen steps from his shadows, a nightmare with dark wings flaring wide, the villain in every story she’s been told.
Nier Draven is the first to infiltrate the citadel in centuries, searching for his own answers about the deadly wraiths who haunt the ground far below. Now he wants them from Alula. For his shadows follow her, while her light draws him close.
Needing an ally to help his people, Nier challenges Alula and opens her eyes to the lies and hidden horrors of her world.
Now, with potential consorts circling, deities hovering, and whispers stalking her steps, Alula walks an increasingly dangerous path. She must brave Nier’s forbidden shadows to seek the truth about the citadel, the vessels, and herself, before her choices disappear.
Or she does.
For in some worlds, the true nightmares walk in the light.
All The Light that Falls is a forbidden love fantasy romance perfect for fans of From Blood and Ash, Red Queen, The Hurricane Wars, and A Touch of Darkness; where enemy worlds collide in a centuries-old fae war to control the magic of their world. Follow the heart-stopping twists as Alula and Nier discover the light bound within her, the depth of betrayal surrounding her, and the price she’ll pay for the uprising she inspires.
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2025
122 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 29, 2025
5 ⭐️ AND MORE
This is one of those books that quietly pulls you in and doesn’t let go. From the first chapter I was completely hooked by Alula’s story. She’s a sheltered acolyte destined to become a vessel of light but nothing about her world is as simple or pure as it seems.
I adored both Alula and Nier. Their dynamic was magnetic. He’s dark, mysterious, definitely not a demon (but close enough to make things complicated), and she’s slowly unravelling the lies she’s grown up believing. A lot of the book is focused on inner conflict, secrets, and slowly piecing together the truth - so while it’s not packed with nonstop action, the tension simmers in every chapter.
The writing is gorgeous, the world-building is lush, and the emotional payoff is absolutely brutal. No one dies, but the ending still crushed me. It perfectly sets the stage for what’s clearly going to be a very dramatic sequel and I can’t wait to dive in.
This is one of those books that quietly pulls you in and doesn’t let go. From the first chapter I was completely hooked by Alula’s story. She’s a sheltered acolyte destined to become a vessel of light but nothing about her world is as simple or pure as it seems.
I adored both Alula and Nier. Their dynamic was magnetic. He’s dark, mysterious, definitely not a demon (but close enough to make things complicated), and she’s slowly unravelling the lies she’s grown up believing. A lot of the book is focused on inner conflict, secrets, and slowly piecing together the truth - so while it’s not packed with nonstop action, the tension simmers in every chapter.
The writing is gorgeous, the world-building is lush, and the emotional payoff is absolutely brutal. No one dies, but the ending still crushed me. It perfectly sets the stage for what’s clearly going to be a very dramatic sequel and I can’t wait to dive in.
July 23, 2025
Outstanding in its Field
Occasionally, while reading in a genre that tends towards similar tropes, archetypes, and plotlines, you will find one outstanding book that rises above them all. All the Light that Falls: Shadows of the Neven by L.A. Clyne is an extraordinary example of one of those books.
In most Fantasy books, by the end of the first chapter, you know who has magic and what kind as well as the probable conflicts and outcomes. All The Light is the ultimate slow-burning plot. L.A. Clyne is a master of character development and the slow revelation of each plot element.
A young girl is desperately trying to pay attention to the curriculum as the story opens. Alula is an Acolyte studying to be worthy of becoming a Vessel and being chosen by a Consort. Her teacher, Elder Welkin, a bitter, fanatical old man, is particularly rough on Alula.
From the first chapter, you are in a position behind Alula's eyes. Everything she experiences, you also do. Because Alula is raised deliberately and protected from the realities of life in The Citadel, each new experience is blinding to her. With every curve she must negotiate Alula gets wound tighter and tighter. Because she is of the Goddess of Light, Nur, being nervous brings her own Light out.
All The Light that Falls is one of the most enjoyable reads I've come across in a long while. Following the story through Alula's awakening to the political situation, her attraction to the forbidden 'Fallen', and the twisted, almost Machiavellian control of the Elders was enough to grind down my teeth. I was never able to predict what would happen next.
The ending, however, deserves an award. It lasted an entire chapter and with each twist of the stressometer, up goes your blood pressure. But it was as poignant as it was scary, as heartbreaking as it was brutal, and as hopeful as it was disastrous. Best of all, it's book 1 in a series. 5/8.
Occasionally, while reading in a genre that tends towards similar tropes, archetypes, and plotlines, you will find one outstanding book that rises above them all. All the Light that Falls: Shadows of the Neven by L.A. Clyne is an extraordinary example of one of those books.
In most Fantasy books, by the end of the first chapter, you know who has magic and what kind as well as the probable conflicts and outcomes. All The Light is the ultimate slow-burning plot. L.A. Clyne is a master of character development and the slow revelation of each plot element.
A young girl is desperately trying to pay attention to the curriculum as the story opens. Alula is an Acolyte studying to be worthy of becoming a Vessel and being chosen by a Consort. Her teacher, Elder Welkin, a bitter, fanatical old man, is particularly rough on Alula.
From the first chapter, you are in a position behind Alula's eyes. Everything she experiences, you also do. Because Alula is raised deliberately and protected from the realities of life in The Citadel, each new experience is blinding to her. With every curve she must negotiate Alula gets wound tighter and tighter. Because she is of the Goddess of Light, Nur, being nervous brings her own Light out.
All The Light that Falls is one of the most enjoyable reads I've come across in a long while. Following the story through Alula's awakening to the political situation, her attraction to the forbidden 'Fallen', and the twisted, almost Machiavellian control of the Elders was enough to grind down my teeth. I was never able to predict what would happen next.
The ending, however, deserves an award. It lasted an entire chapter and with each twist of the stressometer, up goes your blood pressure. But it was as poignant as it was scary, as heartbreaking as it was brutal, and as hopeful as it was disastrous. Best of all, it's book 1 in a series. 5/8.
November 9, 2025
Not an ARC reader. I feel like that’s important to note since I’ve found that I have to disregard 95% of ARC reviews. If there is an exclamation mark or anything in all caps, the review is useless.
My point is, this is genuinely a good book. I read too much and tend to be pretty harsh. I spend most of my time looking for hidden gems, which means I have to read a lot of trash (trash with 100 five star ARC reviews mind you), which means I’m grumpy a lot of the time.
So this was a nice surprise. Four stars is a lot for me.
I like that the characters had enough depth to change and make predictions difficult. I like that the relationships with friends and parents were complex.
I like the MMC fine, but the romance wasn’t the central part of the story imo (which I prefer). That’s probably a good thing because the romantic relationship was a bit flat. To be fair the characters had limited time together because of the storyline.
I’ll say that the black feather is so stupid that I’m counting it as a plot hole. If she didn’t have the piece of the shadow it might be believable, but no one is that stupid without the desperation of sentimentality.
I’m mad that the next one isn’t out, but it’s a tolerable cliff hanger.
My point is, this is genuinely a good book. I read too much and tend to be pretty harsh. I spend most of my time looking for hidden gems, which means I have to read a lot of trash (trash with 100 five star ARC reviews mind you), which means I’m grumpy a lot of the time.
So this was a nice surprise. Four stars is a lot for me.
I like that the characters had enough depth to change and make predictions difficult. I like that the relationships with friends and parents were complex.
I like the MMC fine, but the romance wasn’t the central part of the story imo (which I prefer). That’s probably a good thing because the romantic relationship was a bit flat. To be fair the characters had limited time together because of the storyline.
I’ll say that the black feather is so stupid that I’m counting it as a plot hole. If she didn’t have the piece of the shadow it might be believable, but no one is that stupid without the desperation of sentimentality.
I’m mad that the next one isn’t out, but it’s a tolerable cliff hanger.
December 27, 2025
I enjoyed this book, but it did feel like a massive exposition dump at times. The plot moves a bit slowly and it is more or less formatted like this: FMC sneaks around looking for a specific person because she wants to figure out what lies they know about. She finds them and they have a five page long conversation where she gets a few small nuggets of information. This leads her to the next person who might have even more answers. Rinse and repeat. It’s mostly long dialogue about how the government is even more evil than we assumed at the beginning. She also starts most of these conversations with the same question, some variation of “How much of my life is a lie?”. She asks it so often it makes the book almost feel like a point and click computer game. That being said, it was still interesting, the lore was pretty cool, and I’m open to reading the second book.
A few plot holes I feel like I have to point out though, how on earth is it a surprise that this government is lying to everyone? I get that the FMC was very sheltered and shunned by her peers but it feels like it’s pretty much an open secret for everyone else. So many characters in this book are fully aware of how deep the corruption goes, how are people not rioting at this point? I couldn’t figure out if the FMC was supposed to just be naive or if I’m supposed to believe that the general population just didn’t notice that all the humans had their tongues ripped out or that the vessels are being pimped out to gross old men. Also a lot of this book could have been cut if just one character she digs for info didn’t stop telling her stuff because “you can’t handle the truth”.
Anyways, I’ll probably at least start the second one. The writing was solid and I liked all of the characters. It left off on a cliff hangar, so fair warning.
A few plot holes I feel like I have to point out though, how on earth is it a surprise that this government is lying to everyone? I get that the FMC was very sheltered and shunned by her peers but it feels like it’s pretty much an open secret for everyone else. So many characters in this book are fully aware of how deep the corruption goes, how are people not rioting at this point? I couldn’t figure out if the FMC was supposed to just be naive or if I’m supposed to believe that the general population just didn’t notice that all the humans had their tongues ripped out or that the vessels are being pimped out to gross old men. Also a lot of this book could have been cut if just one character she digs for info didn’t stop telling her stuff because “you can’t handle the truth”.
Anyways, I’ll probably at least start the second one. The writing was solid and I liked all of the characters. It left off on a cliff hangar, so fair warning.
November 25, 2025
This was my 90th book read of the year so far and it was in my top five favorite books! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The fantasy world was such an original idea - there are fae who live in a realm above earth (but I don't think it's earth as we know it) and some of the female fae are light (magic) wielders. Down on earth, the "Fallen" fae and their wraiths are a constant threat to the light fae.
Of course, it is unspeakable to meet and/or befriend a Fallen: enter the forbidden love trope.
The ending is a tragic, yet redeeming, cliffhanger (trust me, even if you think that phrase doesn't make any sense) and I absolutely CANNOT wait to read the second book. I have to know what happens.
Do yourself a favor and pick this book up! The slow-burn is real and the romance is on-the-page once, giving it like a 1-2 out of 5 spice level for me.
The fantasy world was such an original idea - there are fae who live in a realm above earth (but I don't think it's earth as we know it) and some of the female fae are light (magic) wielders. Down on earth, the "Fallen" fae and their wraiths are a constant threat to the light fae.
Of course, it is unspeakable to meet and/or befriend a Fallen: enter the forbidden love trope.
The ending is a tragic, yet redeeming, cliffhanger (trust me, even if you think that phrase doesn't make any sense) and I absolutely CANNOT wait to read the second book. I have to know what happens.
Do yourself a favor and pick this book up! The slow-burn is real and the romance is on-the-page once, giving it like a 1-2 out of 5 spice level for me.
May 25, 2025
5⭐
1.5🌶️
“You don’t need to wield a weapon to be dangerous. An idea can be just as dangerous, especially if it threatens those who ruthlessly hoard power."
Okay, hold onto your hats for this, but... not since I read the Throne of Glass series have I been so wholeheartedly captivated by a fantasy novel, and fallen so in love with its characters. The range of emotions I experienced throughout this book is testament to the quality of the writing, and the success of the worldbuilding! I adored this story and will be anxiously awaiting the next instalment!
"You need to let go of what you have become and remember how to fight to reclaim who you are…”
When an FMC is a light wielder from an angelic style realm with a super corrupt ruler is paired with a MMC who is a shadow wielder from a "fallen" society who is searching for a way to save his people from the evils that the "angelic" realm has set upon them you know you are in for an epic story!
For people who are not used to the way book 1 in a fantasy series works, there is quite a bit of worldbuilding that happens in the first half of the book that can be difficult to push through, but I promise you that it is well worth it!
“What if I want to savour this moment, so I remember every detail, every breath you take…”
“...Savour me later. Right now - I want to burn.”
Tropes:
Single POV (except the Epilogue), Light Wielder & Shadow Daddy, "Eyes On Me", enemies to lovers, slow burn, insta love, forbidden love, soulmates, who did this to you, protector/ nurturer dynamic, fated mates, destined to be together, chosen one, hidden world, supernatural creatures, prophecy, good vs evil, rebellion against authority, immortality.
Triggers:
abandonment, abuse, amputation, blood, bullying, classism, confinement, control, death, death of a loved one, domestic abuse, drowning (almost), emotional abuse, family conflict, fighting, graphic death, harassment, injury, manipulation, mass deaths, nightmares, pain, scars, screaming, self-hate, shaming, slavery, threats, torture, verbal abuse, victim blaming, violence, war, weapons.
1.5🌶️
“You don’t need to wield a weapon to be dangerous. An idea can be just as dangerous, especially if it threatens those who ruthlessly hoard power."
Okay, hold onto your hats for this, but... not since I read the Throne of Glass series have I been so wholeheartedly captivated by a fantasy novel, and fallen so in love with its characters. The range of emotions I experienced throughout this book is testament to the quality of the writing, and the success of the worldbuilding! I adored this story and will be anxiously awaiting the next instalment!
"You need to let go of what you have become and remember how to fight to reclaim who you are…”
When an FMC is a light wielder from an angelic style realm with a super corrupt ruler is paired with a MMC who is a shadow wielder from a "fallen" society who is searching for a way to save his people from the evils that the "angelic" realm has set upon them you know you are in for an epic story!
For people who are not used to the way book 1 in a fantasy series works, there is quite a bit of worldbuilding that happens in the first half of the book that can be difficult to push through, but I promise you that it is well worth it!
“What if I want to savour this moment, so I remember every detail, every breath you take…”
“...Savour me later. Right now - I want to burn.”
Tropes:
Single POV (except the Epilogue), Light Wielder & Shadow Daddy, "Eyes On Me", enemies to lovers, slow burn, insta love, forbidden love, soulmates, who did this to you, protector/ nurturer dynamic, fated mates, destined to be together, chosen one, hidden world, supernatural creatures, prophecy, good vs evil, rebellion against authority, immortality.
Triggers:
abandonment, abuse, amputation, blood, bullying, classism, confinement, control, death, death of a loved one, domestic abuse, drowning (almost), emotional abuse, family conflict, fighting, graphic death, harassment, injury, manipulation, mass deaths, nightmares, pain, scars, screaming, self-hate, shaming, slavery, threats, torture, verbal abuse, victim blaming, violence, war, weapons.
May 14, 2025
“My Choice, my light, my life.”
Love! Love! Love!
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book.
I made the mistake of starting this after a night shift and found myself struggling to keep my eyes open—but I still didn’t want to put it down. As soon as I woke up, I devoured the rest in one go. It completely pulled me in.
The beginning was a little confusing, and it took me a moment to get a grip on the characters and the world. But once it clicked? I was all in. The pacing picks up beautifully, and the world-building and plot kept me hooked.
Since it’s romantasy, I expected some spice. There’s only one spicy scene, and it’s very tame—which I didn’t mind. Although, the line “Can I see you—all of you?” gave me some major cringey Tinder/Snapchat boy vibes (maybe just me?). That said, the tension and emotional payoff more than made up for it.
The characters were well-developed, and the emotional moments landed hard. I genuinely cared about their journeys, and the stakes felt real.
If you’re into romantasy with rich world-building, slow-burn romance, and characters you can root for, this one’s definitely worth picking up. Bring on the sequel—I need more now.
Love! Love! Love!
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book.
I made the mistake of starting this after a night shift and found myself struggling to keep my eyes open—but I still didn’t want to put it down. As soon as I woke up, I devoured the rest in one go. It completely pulled me in.
The beginning was a little confusing, and it took me a moment to get a grip on the characters and the world. But once it clicked? I was all in. The pacing picks up beautifully, and the world-building and plot kept me hooked.
Since it’s romantasy, I expected some spice. There’s only one spicy scene, and it’s very tame—which I didn’t mind. Although, the line “Can I see you—all of you?” gave me some major cringey Tinder/Snapchat boy vibes (maybe just me?). That said, the tension and emotional payoff more than made up for it.
The characters were well-developed, and the emotional moments landed hard. I genuinely cared about their journeys, and the stakes felt real.
If you’re into romantasy with rich world-building, slow-burn romance, and characters you can root for, this one’s definitely worth picking up. Bring on the sequel—I need more now.
May 8, 2025
“𝑺𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓. 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘—𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏.”
This romantasy is not like any I've read before. Although, it's not my first genre to read normally, and it did take me a little while to get into it, I found myself unable to put it down once the world had been built and the characters truly had time to shine.
"𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒚. 𝑶𝒏𝒍𝒚, 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒚𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔.”
Alula and Neir are dynamic, the tension was absolutely stunning which led down the path of the fated mates trope to a tee.
“𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒖𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒕."
The storyline was unique, unlike any I had ever read before, and one that had me guessing until the end.
If you are a fan of romantasy with a touch of bad boy vibes and "Who Did This To You?", you'll definitely want to fall in love with this one.
Tropes:
Who Did This To You?
Eyes On Me
Fated Mates
Bad Boy / Good Girl
Romantasy
Rating: 4.5 ⭐
Spice: 1 🌶️
This romantasy is not like any I've read before. Although, it's not my first genre to read normally, and it did take me a little while to get into it, I found myself unable to put it down once the world had been built and the characters truly had time to shine.
"𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒚. 𝑶𝒏𝒍𝒚, 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒚𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔.”
Alula and Neir are dynamic, the tension was absolutely stunning which led down the path of the fated mates trope to a tee.
“𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒖𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒕."
The storyline was unique, unlike any I had ever read before, and one that had me guessing until the end.
If you are a fan of romantasy with a touch of bad boy vibes and "Who Did This To You?", you'll definitely want to fall in love with this one.
Tropes:
Who Did This To You?
Eyes On Me
Fated Mates
Bad Boy / Good Girl
Romantasy
Rating: 4.5 ⭐
Spice: 1 🌶️
September 26, 2025
This was an interesting read! The magic system is v cool, it is intriguing right from the start and you can tell there’s going to be so much more to it.
I liked both of the main characters. Although Alula grew up sequestered, I was so happy that she was a strong, fierce female lead who followed her own mind. Definitely not one of those books where the FMC is frustratingly mindless. Neir was easy to love. I’m interested to learn more about him and the Fallen. We barely get into it in book one — which is fine.
The only thing that knocked this back to 4 stars for me was the insta love. I knew it would go that way, I wish there had been more of an enemies to lovers vibe rather than straight to lovers vibe. But, regardless, I’m sure the romance will continue to develop in book 2.
I recommend reading this book if you’re into romantasy, definitely an easy read. I will be picking up book 2!
I liked both of the main characters. Although Alula grew up sequestered, I was so happy that she was a strong, fierce female lead who followed her own mind. Definitely not one of those books where the FMC is frustratingly mindless. Neir was easy to love. I’m interested to learn more about him and the Fallen. We barely get into it in book one — which is fine.
The only thing that knocked this back to 4 stars for me was the insta love. I knew it would go that way, I wish there had been more of an enemies to lovers vibe rather than straight to lovers vibe. But, regardless, I’m sure the romance will continue to develop in book 2.
I recommend reading this book if you’re into romantasy, definitely an easy read. I will be picking up book 2!
May 26, 2025
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Started unsure. Finished obsessed.
All the Light That Falls didn’t immediately pull me in — the writing style is a little more complex than I’m used to, and the prologue left me a bit confused. But a few chapters in, everything started clicking, and by the halfway mark I was hooked. And now that I’ve finished? I miss it already.
This book is a slow burn, full of tension, layered character growth, and quiet intensity. It’s low spice (no open door scenes) but still full of connection. Alula is a strong, determined heroine, and her emotional journey is genuinely satisfying to follow. The world isn’t too heavy in detail, but it’s easy to visualise, and the final third really delivers on plot twists and emotion.
If you’re a fan of Daughter of No Worlds or similar fantasy with emotional depth and slow-burn energy, you’ll probably love this.
Started unsure. Finished obsessed.
All the Light That Falls didn’t immediately pull me in — the writing style is a little more complex than I’m used to, and the prologue left me a bit confused. But a few chapters in, everything started clicking, and by the halfway mark I was hooked. And now that I’ve finished? I miss it already.
This book is a slow burn, full of tension, layered character growth, and quiet intensity. It’s low spice (no open door scenes) but still full of connection. Alula is a strong, determined heroine, and her emotional journey is genuinely satisfying to follow. The world isn’t too heavy in detail, but it’s easy to visualise, and the final third really delivers on plot twists and emotion.
If you’re a fan of Daughter of No Worlds or similar fantasy with emotional depth and slow-burn energy, you’ll probably love this.
July 9, 2025
I did not expect to LOVE this book the way I did.
The energy between the characters is so well built, and building this while building the world of this book is no mean feat!
The tension between Alula and Nier is perfect - the eternal balance between light and dark, shadow and light... and in their world the layers of lies and deception which spans centuries and Alula must dig deep to find the answers to her true identity and the truths behind the way her society has oppressed his...
its the 'Am I the bad guy?' moment...
Trope wise its an absolute feast:
Enemies to lovers (eventually, because the burn is slow but sooooooo good) , fated mates, chosen one, prophecy, good vs evil, forbidden love
Trigger wise - there is a few common to fantasy
Oppression, violence, class systems as form of control, slavery, abuse, assault, war, rebellion, loss of a loved one
The energy between the characters is so well built, and building this while building the world of this book is no mean feat!
The tension between Alula and Nier is perfect - the eternal balance between light and dark, shadow and light... and in their world the layers of lies and deception which spans centuries and Alula must dig deep to find the answers to her true identity and the truths behind the way her society has oppressed his...
its the 'Am I the bad guy?' moment...
Trope wise its an absolute feast:
Enemies to lovers (eventually, because the burn is slow but sooooooo good) , fated mates, chosen one, prophecy, good vs evil, forbidden love
Trigger wise - there is a few common to fantasy
Oppression, violence, class systems as form of control, slavery, abuse, assault, war, rebellion, loss of a loved one
May 19, 2025
“You can and should question everything, little light wielder.”
And I did—right alongside Alula—as this story unravelled every truth she thought she knew.
All the Light that Falls is an epic fantasy woven with gods, fate, and the fragile balance between light and dark. But it’s more than battles and power—it’s about choice. About finding your voice when the world would rather keep you silent.
“My choice, my light, my life.”
At its heart is a mated bond wrapped in forbidden romance—deep, magnetic, and dangerous. The kind that makes you feel like every stolen moment could be their last.
"If you come apart, I'll put you back together again."
This was one of those books I couldn't put down and that ending... I need more!
And I did—right alongside Alula—as this story unravelled every truth she thought she knew.
All the Light that Falls is an epic fantasy woven with gods, fate, and the fragile balance between light and dark. But it’s more than battles and power—it’s about choice. About finding your voice when the world would rather keep you silent.
“My choice, my light, my life.”
At its heart is a mated bond wrapped in forbidden romance—deep, magnetic, and dangerous. The kind that makes you feel like every stolen moment could be their last.
"If you come apart, I'll put you back together again."
This was one of those books I couldn't put down and that ending... I need more!
May 22, 2025
Ok, first of all, can we just talk about that cover because it's so pretty! It perfectly sets the tone for the book, which I absolutely loved. It's not the author's usual genre, but in my opinion she knocked it out of the park with this story that's definitely more on the romantasy side. The plot is interesting, so many secrets hidden by the Elders of the Citadel. The characters are great. I mean, who doesn't like a forbidden romance? Some of them also have depth I wasn't necessarily expecting in the sense that I thought I had them all figured out but was quite surprised to discover I was wrong. The good kind of surprised though. I can't wait to know what happens next for Allula and Nier. You should give this book a chance. The author is amazing!
September 21, 2025
Stunning! Highly underrated book! This book had me captivated from page one and I could not put it down! The plot, the slow burn, enemies to lovers, touch her and die, world building, light vs dark, angelic FMC savior and shadow daddy MMC guardian! The writing was done well and the character building and plot depth and pace were perfect! The relationship building between the MMC and FMC was done at a good pace and trust was built through honesty and truth seeking. While the FMC was naive, she did not come across as weak or stupid and her strength built throughout the book. The mom and FMC bond was done so well. I really enjoyed how the characters and plot came together. The ending had me crying my eyes out!! But, it left off in a good spot with the epilogue!
May 27, 2025
4.5 stars
That was intense. May 2026 is going to be a long wait for the sequel...
So this was both fascinating and horrifying. What a messed up world.
The writing was strong aside from some typos and the worldbuilding was well done, if a little confusing at times. Two thumbs up for the romance minus a bit for insta-lust (although I guess even that had a purpose).
Definitely looking forward to book two.
Heat index: one sex scene.
Profanity meter: intermittent mild profanity.
That was intense. May 2026 is going to be a long wait for the sequel...
So this was both fascinating and horrifying. What a messed up world.
The writing was strong aside from some typos and the worldbuilding was well done, if a little confusing at times. Two thumbs up for the romance minus a bit for insta-lust (although I guess even that had a purpose).
Definitely looking forward to book two.
Heat index: one sex scene.
Profanity meter: intermittent mild profanity.
February 5, 2026
The first book in a long while that made me say outloud, "Oh! This sounds interesting." Yes, I've read many synopses that intrigued me, but many of them sound similar or just another rendition of the same tropes and characters. I'm not saying this book didn't hit certain tropes, because it did. But it had been a long while since a story itself gripped me instead of peddling the same overused tropes as the basis of the synopsis to pull in readers. I actually felt a way, and I'm glad I decided to read this book.
Was it perfect? No. Did it intrigue me? Yes. Were there parts that needed improvement? Yes. Was there a lot of exposition? Yes. Did it make me want to keep reading to find out what happened? Yes.
This is what I miss from a book. The story, the plot, the world, the characters, and the history that builds a story. Yes, I'm a sucker for the romance tropes, and it's mostly what I read and look for. But if you put in a really good plot, I will choose plot over romance any day.
Was it perfect? No. Did it intrigue me? Yes. Were there parts that needed improvement? Yes. Was there a lot of exposition? Yes. Did it make me want to keep reading to find out what happened? Yes.
This is what I miss from a book. The story, the plot, the world, the characters, and the history that builds a story. Yes, I'm a sucker for the romance tropes, and it's mostly what I read and look for. But if you put in a really good plot, I will choose plot over romance any day.
May 14, 2025
I am completely impressed with this book. The story is riveting, the characters are well developed and thought out, and the world. L.A. Clyne builds is powerful. From the first chapter to the end, the reader is taken on a roller coaster of a ride. I fell in love with Alula the FMC. She’s a risk taker, that one. Nier, the MMC, is also a thrilling character. Light to dark, fear to love, you will not be able to put this book down. I cannot wait for the next book in this new series, All the Fates that Rise.
June 5, 2025
I love myself a shadow daddy <3
This one surprised me in the best way. The world felt fresh and really different, which was GREAT seeing how many Romantasy books are starting to feel like a different version of the same book now.
Alula’s journey pulled me in slowly, but once I was in, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
If you like a true slow burn with depth, this is worth picking up. I truly do love a slow burn that feels like an actual slow burn.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. These are my actual thoughts.
This one surprised me in the best way. The world felt fresh and really different, which was GREAT seeing how many Romantasy books are starting to feel like a different version of the same book now.
Alula’s journey pulled me in slowly, but once I was in, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
If you like a true slow burn with depth, this is worth picking up. I truly do love a slow burn that feels like an actual slow burn.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. These are my actual thoughts.
June 11, 2025
2025:
"I crave your eyes on me."
I loved this book. The world building was great.
The pace of the story and the setting of the scene/info dump was perfectly balanced throughout.
The entire concept felt unique - yet I loved how it was built off the foundations of other stories i.e. The Fallen.
I wouldn't change a thing about this book - while most definitely a slow burn - you can feel the epic set up that this story is already creating with the characters. I absolutely cannot wait to see what comes next.
"I can feel your light calling to me, like moonlight pulls at the tides."
"I crave your eyes on me."
I loved this book. The world building was great.
The pace of the story and the setting of the scene/info dump was perfectly balanced throughout.
The entire concept felt unique - yet I loved how it was built off the foundations of other stories i.e. The Fallen.
I wouldn't change a thing about this book - while most definitely a slow burn - you can feel the epic set up that this story is already creating with the characters. I absolutely cannot wait to see what comes next.
"I can feel your light calling to me, like moonlight pulls at the tides."
January 30, 2026
I was hooked from the first chapter and could not put this book down. This is a beautiful story Alula, whom is an acolyte who has been molded to become a vessel and forced to share her light without the ability to make any decisions on her own. The story follows her as she begins to discover truth, truths truths, decipher lies, and learns who you she can and cannot trust.
The one she is taught to fear is the one who can help her. Nier and her have a magnetic pull that is undeniable. There is never a dull moment, and I was unable to put the book down. I cannot wait for book 2.
The one she is taught to fear is the one who can help her. Nier and her have a magnetic pull that is undeniable. There is never a dull moment, and I was unable to put the book down. I cannot wait for book 2.
May 11, 2025
I'm anxiously waiting to see what happens to Alula and Nier. L.A. Clyne did not fail when it came to creating a new world for us to embark into. The storyline was a slow burn but it kept me intrigued and wished book 2 was already out. So many more secrets to find out and to see how Alula and Nier's love story grows. If you're looking for the omegaverse this is not the story for you but if you're looking for a good read, romantasy, and a little thriller this is the book for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
meh
It was okay. I liked the story and concept but everyone fit into their little boxes a bit too much for me it all felt easy somehow. The romance was boring and they instantly trusted and basically loved each other after speaking for 2 minutes. I’m 50/50 if I’ll read the next one
It was okay. I liked the story and concept but everyone fit into their little boxes a bit too much for me it all felt easy somehow. The romance was boring and they instantly trusted and basically loved each other after speaking for 2 minutes. I’m 50/50 if I’ll read the next one
January 5, 2026
Completely blown away… just finished and I am feeling so many emotions. I loved Alula so much!!! I am so excited to see where her story goes. But our MMC is everything!!!!! Honestly, he’s perfect!
This story is captivating and emotional. I felt like the author did a wonderful job conveying the cruelty and political aspects of their world. I was fully immersed and couldn’t put it down!
This story is captivating and emotional. I felt like the author did a wonderful job conveying the cruelty and political aspects of their world. I was fully immersed and couldn’t put it down!
May 11, 2025
Enemies to lovers, slow burn and a forbidden romance what more could one want in a book!! This book did the opposites attract to absolute perfection and the tension between mates hit this perfect sweet spot!!!
May 14, 2025
All The Light Falls: Shadows of the Neven book one by L.A. Clyne. This is a romance/fantasy story. This isn't my usual read, but I enjoyed it a lot. I can't wait for the next one to come out. I want to see where this goes. Good book, good read.
May 15, 2025
What a great start to a new series! So much going on, plots and lies aplenty plus a forbidden love story with a sacrifice at the end, I am hooked and can't wait to see what happens to Alula and Nier now.
May 26, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book, wasn't able to read anything else. If you do anything as a fantasy lover, make sure you read this.
the magic system is unique, the forbidden attraction of Light vs dark is done very well.
a new author added to my must reads.
the magic system is unique, the forbidden attraction of Light vs dark is done very well.
a new author added to my must reads.
September 12, 2025
all in all an enjoyable book with an intriguing plot. the world building was very well done but I found that the relationship between the FMC and MMC to be incredibly fast paced / slightly boring. with that in mind, I am still looking forward to the second book in the series!
September 20, 2025
Tropes:
- Sweet, sheltered heroine who is not unnecessarily argumentative and burrows her way into the MMC's heart, slowly finding her strength
- Found family
- Neglect
- Great world-building
- Cruel world
- Sweet, sheltered heroine who is not unnecessarily argumentative and burrows her way into the MMC's heart, slowly finding her strength
- Found family
- Neglect
- Great world-building
- Cruel world
May 25, 2025
the idea of the book is great but I found it slow in the start and I struggled to get into it.
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