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The Dark Canvas #1
Shadows of Light
If The Devil Wears Pradawas a dark romance with mafia ties, high-stakes suspense, and spice that lingers. Perfect for readers who love the obsessive tension of You, the grit of The Bear, the glamour and pressure of The Devil Wears Prada, and the dark, morally gray romance of Rina Kent, Tate James, J.T Geissinger, and L.J. Shen.
In the city that never sleeps, one woman is unraveling—memory by memory, touch by touch.
Beatrix Mercer has spent years perfecting three specific her career as a fashion conservator, a carefully curated reputation, and her refusal to fall for a man.
But when fractured memories break through and shadows start to close in, her grip on reality starts to slip. She’s felt it for years—what it’s like to be watched, to sense eyes where they shouldn’t be, phantom touches when no one is there.
Then, he appears.
Gabriel Di Rossi. Enigmatic. Intense. Impossible to ignore.
Their connection is electric, but as lust tangles with obsession and trust erodes under the weight of secrets, Beatrix must ask is Gabriel her salvation…or her ruin?
Some memories refuse to stay buried.
Some truths won’t let you forget.
Tropes : Morally gray anti-hero, he’s obsessed, touch her and die, stalker, grumpy x life of the party, curvy/plus-size FMC, body positivity, kink exploration, “talks her through it,” who did this to you, found family, Met Gala glamour, high-fashion world, organized crime, psychological tension, mental health rep, disability representation.
Setting : New York City.
Content warnings available at Anastasia Wilder’s website.
In the city that never sleeps, one woman is unraveling—memory by memory, touch by touch.
Beatrix Mercer has spent years perfecting three specific her career as a fashion conservator, a carefully curated reputation, and her refusal to fall for a man.
But when fractured memories break through and shadows start to close in, her grip on reality starts to slip. She’s felt it for years—what it’s like to be watched, to sense eyes where they shouldn’t be, phantom touches when no one is there.
Then, he appears.
Gabriel Di Rossi. Enigmatic. Intense. Impossible to ignore.
Their connection is electric, but as lust tangles with obsession and trust erodes under the weight of secrets, Beatrix must ask is Gabriel her salvation…or her ruin?
Some memories refuse to stay buried.
Some truths won’t let you forget.
Tropes : Morally gray anti-hero, he’s obsessed, touch her and die, stalker, grumpy x life of the party, curvy/plus-size FMC, body positivity, kink exploration, “talks her through it,” who did this to you, found family, Met Gala glamour, high-fashion world, organized crime, psychological tension, mental health rep, disability representation.
Setting : New York City.
Content warnings available at Anastasia Wilder’s website.
- GenresDark Romance
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2026
24 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Anastasia Wilder
4 books92 followersAnastasia Wilder is a dark romance author who writes morally grey stories for readers who want to be seen, desired, and worshipped. The kind of stories that have velvet-wrapped romance, laced with shadows and desire—and thoughts that linger.
She writes both small-town romantic suspense and mafia romance, where love is fierce, flawed, and anything but safe.
Anastasia lives in the Midwest with her husband and two fur babies. When she’s not falling for morally grey heroes, wing leaders, or a certain territorial fae bastard, she can be found skiing, traveling, daydreaming, or swinging in her hammock with a cocktail and book in hand.
She writes both small-town romantic suspense and mafia romance, where love is fierce, flawed, and anything but safe.
Anastasia lives in the Midwest with her husband and two fur babies. When she’s not falling for morally grey heroes, wing leaders, or a certain territorial fae bastard, she can be found skiing, traveling, daydreaming, or swinging in her hammock with a cocktail and book in hand.
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March 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Advanced Copy Read Review (my first-excited squealing)
Shadows of the Light by Anastasia Wilder had me HOOKED!!! Once I started I could stop until I had finished.
This story pulls you in with an intoxicating blend of tension, emotion, and mystery that makes it impossible to put down. From the very first chapter, the atmosphere feels intense and electric, drawing you deeper into a world filled with secrets and hidden motives.
The main character, Beatrix, The Goddess herself, is incredibly compelling. She is strong, intelligent, and determined, yet the cracks in her confidence slowly begin to show as the story unfolds. Watching her struggle between strength and vulnerability makes her journey feel raw and authentic. I could find myself relating to her more and more as the story progressed. Her experiences and growth add emotional depth that keeps you invested in every moment.
Then there is the Chef himself—mysterious, magnetic, and impossible to ignore. He brings a constant sense of tension to the story, leaving you questioning his intentions. Is he protecting her, or is he part of the darkness surrounding her? Their chemistry is intense and emotional, making every interaction feel powerful. Some say “Yes, Chef” I would add ‘More, Chef’ Please, Chef’ and ‘Yes, Sir’.
The setting and atmosphere add another layer to the story. The world feels glamorous/freeing, while maintaining a dangerous/eery edge at the same time.
Yes, I cried several times while reading this book and needless to say it has my gripped my heart and I am anxiously awaiting the continuation.
Shadows of the Light by Anastasia Wilder had me HOOKED!!! Once I started I could stop until I had finished.
This story pulls you in with an intoxicating blend of tension, emotion, and mystery that makes it impossible to put down. From the very first chapter, the atmosphere feels intense and electric, drawing you deeper into a world filled with secrets and hidden motives.
The main character, Beatrix, The Goddess herself, is incredibly compelling. She is strong, intelligent, and determined, yet the cracks in her confidence slowly begin to show as the story unfolds. Watching her struggle between strength and vulnerability makes her journey feel raw and authentic. I could find myself relating to her more and more as the story progressed. Her experiences and growth add emotional depth that keeps you invested in every moment.
Then there is the Chef himself—mysterious, magnetic, and impossible to ignore. He brings a constant sense of tension to the story, leaving you questioning his intentions. Is he protecting her, or is he part of the darkness surrounding her? Their chemistry is intense and emotional, making every interaction feel powerful. Some say “Yes, Chef” I would add ‘More, Chef’ Please, Chef’ and ‘Yes, Sir’.
The setting and atmosphere add another layer to the story. The world feels glamorous/freeing, while maintaining a dangerous/eery edge at the same time.
Yes, I cried several times while reading this book and needless to say it has my gripped my heart and I am anxiously awaiting the continuation.
March 25, 2026
4⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
This book is an absolute roller coaster that keeps you guessing from start to finish. Beatrix is guarded, feisty, and hiding a mysterious past, while Gabriel is a man with secrets of his own—an ex-mafia killer willing to return to his dark ways to protect her at any cost. When Bea becomes the target of a stalker, aka “the Watcher,” the tension skyrockets, leaving you constantly questioning who to trust and what really happened in her past.
The chemistry between Bea and Gabriel is undeniable, with tension that burns hotter on every page. He’s intensely obsessed in the best way, and she’s a confident, curvy heroine who refuses to back down—even when fear creeps in. I’ll always love a curvy FMC paired with an MMC who is completely devoted and unapologetically body-positive.
This is packed with danger, suspense, irresistible heat, with twists that keep you hooked from start to finish. And that ending—completely unhinged. An unforgettable cliffhanger that will have you desperate for more!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Dark Romance
➳❥ Morally Grey MMC
➳❥ Curvy FMC
➳❥ Touch Her & Die
➳❥ Ex-Mafia Killer turned Chef
➳❥ Stalking
➳❥ He Worships Her
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼
"It's a dress, not a yes, dickhead."
"You're going to lay there and let me kneel at an altar. I'm here to worship.”
“I want you more than air in my lungs, and if you let me, I would drag you into the fiery depths of hell with me-just to not be away from you for a day."
"You know as well as I do that beauty comes in all forms. And I crave yours."
"Everyone else is a candle, and you're the volcano remaking the world. You've remade my world."
March 16, 2026
This book keeps you guessing!
Guarded Beatrix has a mysterious past and she is hesitant but feisty when she first meets Gabriel, a man with secrets himself.
When she is being stalked he is willing to do everything he can to keep her safe including returning to his dark past.
Bea and Gabriel have amazing chemistry and the spice is spicy.
Trying to figure out what is going on with the stalker and Bea’s fears keeps you guessing and trying to figure out who to trust.
And that cliffhanger had me almost crushing my Kindle.
Guarded Beatrix has a mysterious past and she is hesitant but feisty when she first meets Gabriel, a man with secrets himself.
When she is being stalked he is willing to do everything he can to keep her safe including returning to his dark past.
Bea and Gabriel have amazing chemistry and the spice is spicy.
Trying to figure out what is going on with the stalker and Bea’s fears keeps you guessing and trying to figure out who to trust.
And that cliffhanger had me almost crushing my Kindle.
March 27, 2026
This book grips you from the beginning and takes you on a wild ride and has you guessing until the cliffhanger of who the big baddie is!
Review of advance copy received from Author
In the city that never sleeps, one woman is unraveling—memory by memory, touch by touch. 🩸
Some memories refuse to stay buried.
Some truths won’t let you forget.
Tropes:
🖤 Morally gray anti-hero
🖤 Touch her and die
🖤 Broody x Life of the Part energy
🖤 Curvy FMC & body positivity
🖤 Met Gala glamour + Mafia
✨️Beta Read✨️
Reservations required. ❤️🔥💋
Some memories refuse to stay buried.
Some truths won’t let you forget.
Tropes:
🖤 Morally gray anti-hero
🖤 Touch her and die
🖤 Broody x Life of the Part energy
🖤 Curvy FMC & body positivity
🖤 Met Gala glamour + Mafia
✨️Beta Read✨️
Reservations required. ❤️🔥💋
Review of advance copy
I don’t even know where to BEGIN with this one because my brain is still somewhere in New York, staring over my shoulder like Beatrix, wondering if Gabriel is about to step out of the shadows 😩
Shadows of Light is not just a book, it’s a whole fever dream wrapped in silk and danger. It’s glossy Met Gala glamour on the outside and something dark, obsessive, and razor-sharp underneath. And I ate. it. UP.
Beatrix Mercer??? I loved her immediately. She’s curated, controlled, put-together to the point of fragility… and then you start seeing the cracks. The memories slipping. The feeling of being watched. Those little moments where reality feels like it’s tilting just slightly off-center?? It’s so eerie and addictive. You don’t just read her spiral, you feel it. I was side-eyeing every scene like “WAIT… is this real or am I losing it too??”
And then… Gabriel Di Rossi enters and just absolutely ruins any sense of safety.
This man is not a green flag. He’s not even a red flag. He’s the entire warning siren blaring at full volume and I STILL said “yes, absolutely, come closer.” The obsession?? The intensity?? The way he exists in that space between protector and threat?? I was unwell. Completely unwell.
The dynamic between them is EVERYTHING. It’s that delicious push and pull where you don’t know if you want them to kiss or fight or combust. The “touch her and die” energy is STRONG, but it’s layered with this almost hypnotic control, especially in those moments where he talks her through things?? I’m sorry but I had to put the book down and stare at a wall for a second 🫠
And can we talk about the VIBES. The high-fashion world, the pressure, the power plays, the underground threads of organized crime woven through couture and champagne?? It felt decadent and dangerous, like diamonds hiding knives.
What really got me though was how much depth there is beneath the obsession. The mental health rep, the way Beatrix’s reality fractures, the exploration of trust and control and identity… it’s not just dark for the aesthetic. It means something. It lingers.
Also, the found family?? Needed that softness because everything else had me gripping the edge of my sanity.
By the end I was fully feral, heart racing, emotionally compromised, and still wanting MORE. Beatrix and Gabriel have that kind of connection that doesn’t just burn… it consumes. The kind you know is dangerous but you lean in anyway.
Five stars, no notes, I would willingly let this book ruin me again and again 😌🔥
Shadows of Light is not just a book, it’s a whole fever dream wrapped in silk and danger. It’s glossy Met Gala glamour on the outside and something dark, obsessive, and razor-sharp underneath. And I ate. it. UP.
Beatrix Mercer??? I loved her immediately. She’s curated, controlled, put-together to the point of fragility… and then you start seeing the cracks. The memories slipping. The feeling of being watched. Those little moments where reality feels like it’s tilting just slightly off-center?? It’s so eerie and addictive. You don’t just read her spiral, you feel it. I was side-eyeing every scene like “WAIT… is this real or am I losing it too??”
And then… Gabriel Di Rossi enters and just absolutely ruins any sense of safety.
This man is not a green flag. He’s not even a red flag. He’s the entire warning siren blaring at full volume and I STILL said “yes, absolutely, come closer.” The obsession?? The intensity?? The way he exists in that space between protector and threat?? I was unwell. Completely unwell.
The dynamic between them is EVERYTHING. It’s that delicious push and pull where you don’t know if you want them to kiss or fight or combust. The “touch her and die” energy is STRONG, but it’s layered with this almost hypnotic control, especially in those moments where he talks her through things?? I’m sorry but I had to put the book down and stare at a wall for a second 🫠
And can we talk about the VIBES. The high-fashion world, the pressure, the power plays, the underground threads of organized crime woven through couture and champagne?? It felt decadent and dangerous, like diamonds hiding knives.
What really got me though was how much depth there is beneath the obsession. The mental health rep, the way Beatrix’s reality fractures, the exploration of trust and control and identity… it’s not just dark for the aesthetic. It means something. It lingers.
Also, the found family?? Needed that softness because everything else had me gripping the edge of my sanity.
By the end I was fully feral, heart racing, emotionally compromised, and still wanting MORE. Beatrix and Gabriel have that kind of connection that doesn’t just burn… it consumes. The kind you know is dangerous but you lean in anyway.
Five stars, no notes, I would willingly let this book ruin me again and again 😌🔥
March 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5🌟
I had to gather my thoughts for a whole day before writing this review and that cemented the fact that this is a 5 star read! Back story on me. I am not typically a dark romance girlie. Sure, I read Fifty Shades back in the day…but that’s actually the extent of it. When this book was described as The Devil Wears Prada meets dark suspenseful romance with an ex-mafia now-turned chef and a confident, curvy fashion curator…my interest was piqued. I enjoy a little suspense…occasionally. This book held me in its grip from the first page. I couldn’t look away. And most importantly, she made me love these characters! I am invested in them! To me, that’s super important in a spicy book. If I don’t truly care for the characters then I just glaze over the spice. Homegirl had me hooked on this chef and this fiery curvy bombshell! Please be aware that this is book one and will leave you on a killer cliffhanger! (Anastasia…whyyyy?! 🫠😏😉) I am ready for book two immediately, thank you! 🧎🏻♀️
She’s a spicyyyy girl, okay?! Like 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. Open door, descriptive, dirty talking spice…with kinks. Check your TW, but I probably don’t have to tell the dark romance girlies that! 😉
This is a good book! Thank you so much to the author and to Iris Influencer Society for the eARC! This voluntary review is my honest thoughts and opinions about the book. I think you’ll love this book if you love:
🖤morally grey anti hero
🥞touch her and 💀
🖤stalker
🥞curvy FMC
🖤mental health rep
🥞found family
🖤high fashion world
🥞organized crime
🖤psychological tension
🥞NYC setting
🖤dual pov
🥞open door spice with kink exploration
And if you’re wondering why I chose a stack of pancakes as my emoji…wouldn’t you like to know 😏 Read the book! And then come back to my review and throw some pancakes in the comments! 😉
Quotes:
“You want it messy. You want it dark. Let me give it to you.”
“Okay.” I release a shaky breath and nod. “Until I say, this is just us, just fun.”
“I’ll take what my goddess gives me.”
“You know as well as I do that beauty comes in all forms.” He pauses. “And I crave yours.”
“The only pain I’m going to cause,” I continue, dragging my thumb up her spine, grounding her, “is the pain you beg me for.”
“Everyone else is a candle, and you’re the volcano remaking the world. You’ve remade my world.”
‘Control isn’t about what I can do. It’s about what I choose not to do.’
5/5🌟
I had to gather my thoughts for a whole day before writing this review and that cemented the fact that this is a 5 star read! Back story on me. I am not typically a dark romance girlie. Sure, I read Fifty Shades back in the day…but that’s actually the extent of it. When this book was described as The Devil Wears Prada meets dark suspenseful romance with an ex-mafia now-turned chef and a confident, curvy fashion curator…my interest was piqued. I enjoy a little suspense…occasionally. This book held me in its grip from the first page. I couldn’t look away. And most importantly, she made me love these characters! I am invested in them! To me, that’s super important in a spicy book. If I don’t truly care for the characters then I just glaze over the spice. Homegirl had me hooked on this chef and this fiery curvy bombshell! Please be aware that this is book one and will leave you on a killer cliffhanger! (Anastasia…whyyyy?! 🫠😏😉) I am ready for book two immediately, thank you! 🧎🏻♀️
She’s a spicyyyy girl, okay?! Like 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. Open door, descriptive, dirty talking spice…with kinks. Check your TW, but I probably don’t have to tell the dark romance girlies that! 😉
This is a good book! Thank you so much to the author and to Iris Influencer Society for the eARC! This voluntary review is my honest thoughts and opinions about the book. I think you’ll love this book if you love:
🖤morally grey anti hero
🥞touch her and 💀
🖤stalker
🥞curvy FMC
🖤mental health rep
🥞found family
🖤high fashion world
🥞organized crime
🖤psychological tension
🥞NYC setting
🖤dual pov
🥞open door spice with kink exploration
And if you’re wondering why I chose a stack of pancakes as my emoji…wouldn’t you like to know 😏 Read the book! And then come back to my review and throw some pancakes in the comments! 😉
Quotes:
“You want it messy. You want it dark. Let me give it to you.”
“Okay.” I release a shaky breath and nod. “Until I say, this is just us, just fun.”
“I’ll take what my goddess gives me.”
“You know as well as I do that beauty comes in all forms.” He pauses. “And I crave yours.”
“The only pain I’m going to cause,” I continue, dragging my thumb up her spine, grounding her, “is the pain you beg me for.”
“Everyone else is a candle, and you’re the volcano remaking the world. You’ve remade my world.”
‘Control isn’t about what I can do. It’s about what I choose not to do.’
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC REVIEW✨❤️🔥
Gabriel Di Rossi🤤
yeah let’s start there because this man walked into the story and immediately changed the vibe for me 👀🖤 like from his first appearance i already knew i was going to be paying attention to everything he did.
this book had tension, mystery, emotion and spice and i was hooked from the first chapter. the whole time i kept feeling like something wasn’t adding up in the background and it made me want to keep reading just to figure out what was really going on.
our fmc our goddess 😌 is strong, intelligent and incredibly talented and i loved how she never lost herself even when things around her started feeling confusing and slightly off. the memory gaps and that constant feeling that someone might be watching her honestly made the story feel so much more intense.
and gabriel?? mysterious. intense. very hard to ignore. there’s something about him that just makes every scene feel heavier in the best way and i genuinely found myself waiting for him to show up again.
their dynamic had that strong protective energy that i always fall for 🤌🏻 and the whole vibe of this book honestly felt like the devil wears prada meets YOU, luxury, fashion and power on the surface but something darker quietly running underneath it all 🖤👁️
also the restaurant name sinners only?? perfect. no notes.
and the worship energy in this book???🥵
“i’ll take what my goddess gives me”
“your curves are art”
“i want to put you on an altar and let others see what they can’t have”
yeah… i get it gabriel. i completely understand actually 😌
overall this book had mystery, tension, emotional moments and the spice was spicing 🌶️ because gabriel di rossi absolutely knew what he was doing👀😌
BUT THAT CLIFFHANGER??? absolutely not ❌
Anastasia you cannot leave me like that i need book 2 immediately because what do you mean it ends there 😭🖤
thank you for the ARC copy ✨ i’m so excited (and slightly stressed) to see what happens next in this series
…and after reading this book all i have to say is apparently i have a chef kink now because the only thing coming out of my mouth is YES CHEF 😌🍽️🖤
Gabriel Di Rossi🤤
yeah let’s start there because this man walked into the story and immediately changed the vibe for me 👀🖤 like from his first appearance i already knew i was going to be paying attention to everything he did.
this book had tension, mystery, emotion and spice and i was hooked from the first chapter. the whole time i kept feeling like something wasn’t adding up in the background and it made me want to keep reading just to figure out what was really going on.
our fmc our goddess 😌 is strong, intelligent and incredibly talented and i loved how she never lost herself even when things around her started feeling confusing and slightly off. the memory gaps and that constant feeling that someone might be watching her honestly made the story feel so much more intense.
and gabriel?? mysterious. intense. very hard to ignore. there’s something about him that just makes every scene feel heavier in the best way and i genuinely found myself waiting for him to show up again.
their dynamic had that strong protective energy that i always fall for 🤌🏻 and the whole vibe of this book honestly felt like the devil wears prada meets YOU, luxury, fashion and power on the surface but something darker quietly running underneath it all 🖤👁️
also the restaurant name sinners only?? perfect. no notes.
and the worship energy in this book???🥵
“i’ll take what my goddess gives me”
“your curves are art”
“i want to put you on an altar and let others see what they can’t have”
yeah… i get it gabriel. i completely understand actually 😌
overall this book had mystery, tension, emotional moments and the spice was spicing 🌶️ because gabriel di rossi absolutely knew what he was doing👀😌
BUT THAT CLIFFHANGER??? absolutely not ❌
Anastasia you cannot leave me like that i need book 2 immediately because what do you mean it ends there 😭🖤
thank you for the ARC copy ✨ i’m so excited (and slightly stressed) to see what happens next in this series
…and after reading this book all i have to say is apparently i have a chef kink now because the only thing coming out of my mouth is YES CHEF 😌🍽️🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder completely pulled me in from the very first page.
This story has such an intoxicating mix of psychological tension, glamour, and obsession that it was impossible to put down. The atmosphere is dark and electric, and every chapter feels like you are stepping deeper into Beatrix Mercer’s unraveling world.
Beatrix is such a compelling heroine. She is strong, intelligent, and fiercely independent, yet you can feel the cracks forming as her memories begin to fracture and the sense of being watched grows stronger. Watching her struggle to hold onto reality while navigating the high pressure world of fashion conservation in New York City added so much depth to the story. Her journey felt raw and honest, especially with the thoughtful representation of mental health and disability.
And then there is Gabriel Di Rossi. Mysterious, intense, and dangerously magnetic. He is the kind of morally gray anti hero that completely steals the scene every time he appears. His obsession with Beatrix creates this constant tension that keeps you questioning everything. Is he protecting her or pulling her deeper into the darkness. Their chemistry is powerful, emotional, and impossible to ignore.
The high fashion backdrop, the Met Gala level glamour, the organized crime elements, and the psychological twists all weave together beautifully. It feels both luxurious and unsettling at the same time. Add in the found family moments and body positive representation and the story becomes even more layered and meaningful.
Shadows of Light is a gripping dark romance filled with obsession, secrets, and a haunting sense that not everything is what it seems. If you love morally gray men, intense emotional stakes, and stories that keep you questioning the truth until the very end, this book absolutely delivers. I was hooked from start to finish and I cannot recommend it enough.
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder completely pulled me in from the very first page.
This story has such an intoxicating mix of psychological tension, glamour, and obsession that it was impossible to put down. The atmosphere is dark and electric, and every chapter feels like you are stepping deeper into Beatrix Mercer’s unraveling world.
Beatrix is such a compelling heroine. She is strong, intelligent, and fiercely independent, yet you can feel the cracks forming as her memories begin to fracture and the sense of being watched grows stronger. Watching her struggle to hold onto reality while navigating the high pressure world of fashion conservation in New York City added so much depth to the story. Her journey felt raw and honest, especially with the thoughtful representation of mental health and disability.
And then there is Gabriel Di Rossi. Mysterious, intense, and dangerously magnetic. He is the kind of morally gray anti hero that completely steals the scene every time he appears. His obsession with Beatrix creates this constant tension that keeps you questioning everything. Is he protecting her or pulling her deeper into the darkness. Their chemistry is powerful, emotional, and impossible to ignore.
The high fashion backdrop, the Met Gala level glamour, the organized crime elements, and the psychological twists all weave together beautifully. It feels both luxurious and unsettling at the same time. Add in the found family moments and body positive representation and the story becomes even more layered and meaningful.
Shadows of Light is a gripping dark romance filled with obsession, secrets, and a haunting sense that not everything is what it seems. If you love morally gray men, intense emotional stakes, and stories that keep you questioning the truth until the very end, this book absolutely delivers. I was hooked from start to finish and I cannot recommend it enough.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
HOLY CLIFFHANGER
Beatrix Mercer’s life in NYC is meticulously controlled, her career, her reputation, and her heart, but when shadows and fractured memories start closing in, everything she thought she knew begins to unravel. I’m obsessed with Bea, she’s smart, fierce, hilarious, and so perfectly complex 😍 and OMGGGG Gabriel, morally grey, intense, swoony, and just chef’s kiss perfect. Their connection sparks lust, obsession, and emotional danger in equal measure 💖🔥
This is my second ARC from Anastasia, and OMG, she just keeps getting better and better the more I read from her. The cliffhanger, though, fair warning, it will destroy you and leave you begging for more 😱💔 I’m equal parts excited and nervous to see what comes next
And the drama, the tension, the anticipation with her stalker had me questioning everyone 😳💥 Every interaction, every glance, every phantom touch kept me on edge. Anastasia’s mastery of suspense is next-level. I could not put this down
And can we talk about the Met Gala scenes 😍💃 I’ve literally never read a book that dives into the glamour, fashion, and chaos of the Gala like this. The energy, the tension, the opulence make the story feel cinematic and so larger than life
Also, can we just take a moment to appreciate representation? I LOVE seeing plus-size girlies like Bea owning her power, her confidence, her sexuality, and her story 💕💃 Anastasia does it so well, and it makes me so happy to have a heroine who feels real, relatable, and absolutely iconic
What you will find inside this book: Dark Romance, Life of the Party FMC, Grumpy Elusive MMC, Body Positivity, She has a Stalker, He Reads a Spicy Book Just for Her, Traumatic Pasts, Yes, Chef, and Kinks: Primal, Blood, Knife, and Breath Play 🔥💥
Beatrix and Gabriel’s story is addictive, dangerous, intoxicating, and utterly unputdownable ✨ If you love dark, obsessive romance, morally grey anti-heroes, swoon-worthy tension, Met Gala glamour, plus-size heroines, spicy chemistry, and mind-blowing cliffhangers, you need this book in your life
Release Day: 27/03 📅
Beatrix Mercer’s life in NYC is meticulously controlled, her career, her reputation, and her heart, but when shadows and fractured memories start closing in, everything she thought she knew begins to unravel. I’m obsessed with Bea, she’s smart, fierce, hilarious, and so perfectly complex 😍 and OMGGGG Gabriel, morally grey, intense, swoony, and just chef’s kiss perfect. Their connection sparks lust, obsession, and emotional danger in equal measure 💖🔥
This is my second ARC from Anastasia, and OMG, she just keeps getting better and better the more I read from her. The cliffhanger, though, fair warning, it will destroy you and leave you begging for more 😱💔 I’m equal parts excited and nervous to see what comes next
And the drama, the tension, the anticipation with her stalker had me questioning everyone 😳💥 Every interaction, every glance, every phantom touch kept me on edge. Anastasia’s mastery of suspense is next-level. I could not put this down
And can we talk about the Met Gala scenes 😍💃 I’ve literally never read a book that dives into the glamour, fashion, and chaos of the Gala like this. The energy, the tension, the opulence make the story feel cinematic and so larger than life
Also, can we just take a moment to appreciate representation? I LOVE seeing plus-size girlies like Bea owning her power, her confidence, her sexuality, and her story 💕💃 Anastasia does it so well, and it makes me so happy to have a heroine who feels real, relatable, and absolutely iconic
What you will find inside this book: Dark Romance, Life of the Party FMC, Grumpy Elusive MMC, Body Positivity, She has a Stalker, He Reads a Spicy Book Just for Her, Traumatic Pasts, Yes, Chef, and Kinks: Primal, Blood, Knife, and Breath Play 🔥💥
Beatrix and Gabriel’s story is addictive, dangerous, intoxicating, and utterly unputdownable ✨ If you love dark, obsessive romance, morally grey anti-heroes, swoon-worthy tension, Met Gala glamour, plus-size heroines, spicy chemistry, and mind-blowing cliffhangers, you need this book in your life
Release Day: 27/03 📅
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2026
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, Anastasia and IRIS, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
When I say you need to run to get this book, I mean it. I am OBSESSED just like Gabriel is with Beatrix. This book is raw, emotional, intense, and had me on the edge of my seat the entire way through. I would give anything to be able to read it for the first time again.
Beatrix is who really did it for me. She is intelligent, strong, and aware that there's something amiss. She's not quite emotionally open (for a reason) and we get to explore what this means for her and how to bring things to the surface all while she is dealing with a stalker who wants her to themselves. She is also with the fashion conservation and received a promotion that not only adds more stress, but also brings in more people who criticize her for her size (bet we could all relate to that). But even with all of that, she is a fantastic representation for someone who is actively struggling with her mental health while also taking the steps to improve it through therapy. A positive role model if you will ♥️
Gabriel is almost as good (sue me, I like her more 🤣). He is intense, dangerous, an amazing chef, and I might as well say it, steaming hot 🥵 He comes from a rough background that shaped who he is and even through that, he shows Beatrix so much respect and is utterly obsessed with her. They have undeniable chemistry and this shows when he meets her needs and lets her explore in a way that no man ever had before. She is his Goddess and there is no doubt about it.
If that doesn’t tell you to read it this book, I don’t know what will. All I can say is you better grab a copy and we can all demand book two together. Anastasia, you did such a fantastic job with this book. I was and still am so excited for the books release and for book two in the future 🥰
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, Anastasia and IRIS, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
When I say you need to run to get this book, I mean it. I am OBSESSED just like Gabriel is with Beatrix. This book is raw, emotional, intense, and had me on the edge of my seat the entire way through. I would give anything to be able to read it for the first time again.
Beatrix is who really did it for me. She is intelligent, strong, and aware that there's something amiss. She's not quite emotionally open (for a reason) and we get to explore what this means for her and how to bring things to the surface all while she is dealing with a stalker who wants her to themselves. She is also with the fashion conservation and received a promotion that not only adds more stress, but also brings in more people who criticize her for her size (bet we could all relate to that). But even with all of that, she is a fantastic representation for someone who is actively struggling with her mental health while also taking the steps to improve it through therapy. A positive role model if you will ♥️
Gabriel is almost as good (sue me, I like her more 🤣). He is intense, dangerous, an amazing chef, and I might as well say it, steaming hot 🥵 He comes from a rough background that shaped who he is and even through that, he shows Beatrix so much respect and is utterly obsessed with her. They have undeniable chemistry and this shows when he meets her needs and lets her explore in a way that no man ever had before. She is his Goddess and there is no doubt about it.
If that doesn’t tell you to read it this book, I don’t know what will. All I can say is you better grab a copy and we can all demand book two together. Anastasia, you did such a fantastic job with this book. I was and still am so excited for the books release and for book two in the future 🥰
Review of advance copy
⭐ 7.5/10
🌶️ 3.5/5
Read this if you like:
→ The Devil Wears Prada x You vibe
→ Curvy FMC rep
→ She is focused on her life but then he walks in
→ Suspense romance
Shadows of Light tells a romance between a fashion conservator who's so focused on her dream career and a chef who's an ex-mafia; a pretty unique background in itself.
In this dual-POV story, we're getting a glimpse on how Bea struggles with her career not because she's incapable but because fashion industry can be ruthless. And she tries to always standing to her ground; homegirl is just trying to live her dream y'all. But her life isn't exactly peaceful because she has a stalker and that's where Gabriel walks in.
I like how their relationship is introduced gradually from the argument to many other opportunities for being at the same place & time. As the story progresses, I keep taking sides between the two. For example, at the start I feel like Gabriel's irritation towards the review is valid but then after many chapters, I feel the same anger as Beatrix after Gabriel's abrupt decision despite promising to always protect her.
Suffice to say, the story is dramatic in the best way. The spice is adventurous. Who doesn't like when he pushes 'it' back in and takes his time worshipping her body? Gabriel takes cooking to a new level & now everybody wants a chef boyfriend.
The book ends in a cliffhanger because it's off for the 2nd book. It can be pretty slow in the middle but towards the end, I feel so many emotions. Beatrix and Lola's outburst should be louder (they're too much of an angel) and Giuliana? Gabriel, come on. How can you not notice the difference and I mean it in a respectful way! You hug Bea lots of time already! I hope all these pent-up frustration can be redeemed with a very satisfying grovel on the finale.
🌶️ 3.5/5
Read this if you like:
→ The Devil Wears Prada x You vibe
→ Curvy FMC rep
→ She is focused on her life but then he walks in
→ Suspense romance
Shadows of Light tells a romance between a fashion conservator who's so focused on her dream career and a chef who's an ex-mafia; a pretty unique background in itself.
In this dual-POV story, we're getting a glimpse on how Bea struggles with her career not because she's incapable but because fashion industry can be ruthless. And she tries to always standing to her ground; homegirl is just trying to live her dream y'all. But her life isn't exactly peaceful because she has a stalker and that's where Gabriel walks in.
I like how their relationship is introduced gradually from the argument to many other opportunities for being at the same place & time. As the story progresses, I keep taking sides between the two. For example, at the start I feel like Gabriel's irritation towards the review is valid but then after many chapters, I feel the same anger as Beatrix after Gabriel's abrupt decision despite promising to always protect her.
Suffice to say, the story is dramatic in the best way. The spice is adventurous. Who doesn't like when he pushes 'it' back in and takes his time worshipping her body? Gabriel takes cooking to a new level & now everybody wants a chef boyfriend.
The book ends in a cliffhanger because it's off for the 2nd book. It can be pretty slow in the middle but towards the end, I feel so many emotions. Beatrix and Lola's outburst should be louder (they're too much of an angel) and Giuliana? Gabriel, come on. How can you not notice the difference and I mean it in a respectful way! You hug Bea lots of time already! I hope all these pent-up frustration can be redeemed with a very satisfying grovel on the finale.
March 19, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. OMG what a roller coaster ride that had me staying up late to read. I did not want to put it down it had me at the edge of my seat. The chemistry that these two had was amazing! He wanted to keep her safe at all costs. The spice was spicy 🥵. If you love dark suspense then you will love this!! The end oh my what a cliffhanger!! Please read your triggers!!
“Perfect for readers who love the obsessive tension of You, the glamour and pressure of The Devil Wears Prada, and the dark, morally gray romance of Rina Kent, Tate James, J.T. Geissinger and L.J. Shen.
In the city that never sleeps, one woman is unraveling—memory by memory, touch by touch.
Beatrix Mercer has spent years perfecting three specific things: her career as a fashion conservator, a carefully curated reputation, and her refusal to fall for a man.
But when fractured memories break through and shadows start to close in, her grip on reality starts to slip. She’s felt it for years—what it’s like to be watched, to sense eyes where they shouldn’t be, phantom touches when no one is there.
Then, he appears.
Gabriel Di Rossi. Enigmatic. Intense. Impossible to ignore.
Their connection is electric, but as lust tangles with obsession and trust erodes under the weight of secrets, Beatrix must ask herself: is Gabriel her salvation…or her ruin?
Some memories refuse to stay buried.
Some truths won’t let you forget.
Tropes: Morally gray anti-hero, he’s obsessed, touch her and die, stalker, grumpy x life of the party, curvy/plus-size FMC, body positivity, kink exploration, “talks her through it,” who did this to you, found family, Met Gala glamour, high-fashion world, organized crime, psychological tension, mental health rep, disability representation.
Setting: New York City.”
“Perfect for readers who love the obsessive tension of You, the glamour and pressure of The Devil Wears Prada, and the dark, morally gray romance of Rina Kent, Tate James, J.T. Geissinger and L.J. Shen.
In the city that never sleeps, one woman is unraveling—memory by memory, touch by touch.
Beatrix Mercer has spent years perfecting three specific things: her career as a fashion conservator, a carefully curated reputation, and her refusal to fall for a man.
But when fractured memories break through and shadows start to close in, her grip on reality starts to slip. She’s felt it for years—what it’s like to be watched, to sense eyes where they shouldn’t be, phantom touches when no one is there.
Then, he appears.
Gabriel Di Rossi. Enigmatic. Intense. Impossible to ignore.
Their connection is electric, but as lust tangles with obsession and trust erodes under the weight of secrets, Beatrix must ask herself: is Gabriel her salvation…or her ruin?
Some memories refuse to stay buried.
Some truths won’t let you forget.
Tropes: Morally gray anti-hero, he’s obsessed, touch her and die, stalker, grumpy x life of the party, curvy/plus-size FMC, body positivity, kink exploration, “talks her through it,” who did this to you, found family, Met Gala glamour, high-fashion world, organized crime, psychological tension, mental health rep, disability representation.
Setting: New York City.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 stars.
"Shadows of Light" by Anastasia Wilder is a dark romance with a fiery FMC and an uber-hot, morally grey MMC. It does end in a cliffhanger, so know that going into it!! I am not a huge dark romance aficionado, so I'm not sure how others would measure or rate its "darkness" level (you know what I mean??), but I did enjoy this book and was pulled in by its tension, drama, excitement, and mysterious elements. I felt it was a little long and a little repetitive throughout, but apart from that, I was mostly engaged in the goings on here. Beatrix (FMC) and Gabriel (MMC) are both interesting characters. Beatrix has had a lot of trauma in her life, but remains fierce and funny in her day-to-day life. She rarely backs down from what she wants. She has a carefully crafted persona and seldom lets anyone see the real her. She is dedicated to her job, is a wonderful friend, and is trying to deal with the scars of her past. Gabriel is an intense chef MMC with a dark history. He becomes obsessed with Beatrix after she eats in his restaurant. His fixation eventually infiltrates his every waking moment and thoughts. His equally carefully crafted persona winds up melding his past and his present together as he seeks to save Beatrix from the ghosts of her past, the terror of her present, and the potential of her future. Their chemistry is toxic and hot as heck. Obvious red flags left and right here, but that's part of the fun. Gabriel's obsession and the tension between them are absolutely palpable and delicious. I dug the spicy elements quite a bit, though they did get a little repetitive at times. I cannot wait for the second installment in this series!
Thank you to Anastasia Wilder and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"Shadows of Light" by Anastasia Wilder is a dark romance with a fiery FMC and an uber-hot, morally grey MMC. It does end in a cliffhanger, so know that going into it!! I am not a huge dark romance aficionado, so I'm not sure how others would measure or rate its "darkness" level (you know what I mean??), but I did enjoy this book and was pulled in by its tension, drama, excitement, and mysterious elements. I felt it was a little long and a little repetitive throughout, but apart from that, I was mostly engaged in the goings on here. Beatrix (FMC) and Gabriel (MMC) are both interesting characters. Beatrix has had a lot of trauma in her life, but remains fierce and funny in her day-to-day life. She rarely backs down from what she wants. She has a carefully crafted persona and seldom lets anyone see the real her. She is dedicated to her job, is a wonderful friend, and is trying to deal with the scars of her past. Gabriel is an intense chef MMC with a dark history. He becomes obsessed with Beatrix after she eats in his restaurant. His fixation eventually infiltrates his every waking moment and thoughts. His equally carefully crafted persona winds up melding his past and his present together as he seeks to save Beatrix from the ghosts of her past, the terror of her present, and the potential of her future. Their chemistry is toxic and hot as heck. Obvious red flags left and right here, but that's part of the fun. Gabriel's obsession and the tension between them are absolutely palpable and delicious. I dug the spicy elements quite a bit, though they did get a little repetitive at times. I cannot wait for the second installment in this series!
Thank you to Anastasia Wilder and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
March 26, 2026
5/5 ⭐️
4/5 🌶️
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder follows Beatrix, a career driven woman who lives in NYC and works at the MET. She is a confident plus size woman who loves the fashion world and wants to have a brand of her own one day. She meets Chef Gabriel (by coincidence) at his restaurant and then later has her best friend (a publicist, Lola) write a review regarding his restaurant. Gabriel is obsessed with Bea at first site because of her sass, beauty, and the fact that she puts up with his brooding behavior. Gabriel finds a review written about his restaurant that he doesn’t like and he thinks he knows who’s behind it. Bea tries to immediately put distance between herself and Gabriel because of his response to the article “I will find you”, but that doesn’t work in her favor for long…..
This book is so so good and deliciously spicy. Gabriel has a filthy mouth and Bea isn’t afraid to ask for what she wants. Bea has a consistent feeling throughout the book of being stalked or watched but isn’t sure if it’s paranoia or realty. The “watcher” is an unknown character who has everyone in the book asking, “who the heck are you?”. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that was dark romance and suspense, but I hope all of them are this good and page turning. The entirety of the book has you wanting to keep going to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series as it did end on a cliffhanger that had my jaw dropping.
Tropes:
- Touch her and 💀
- Plus size FMC
- Ex Mafia MMC
- “yes chef”
- Enemies to lovers
- Fast burn
This book was sent to me as an ARC by Anastasia Wilder and Luna Literary. Thank you to both for allowing me to read this fantastic book and review it honestly. 🖤🌶️
This book is out March 26th and the second book in this series, Rays of Darkness, is next to follow soon.
4/5 🌶️
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder follows Beatrix, a career driven woman who lives in NYC and works at the MET. She is a confident plus size woman who loves the fashion world and wants to have a brand of her own one day. She meets Chef Gabriel (by coincidence) at his restaurant and then later has her best friend (a publicist, Lola) write a review regarding his restaurant. Gabriel is obsessed with Bea at first site because of her sass, beauty, and the fact that she puts up with his brooding behavior. Gabriel finds a review written about his restaurant that he doesn’t like and he thinks he knows who’s behind it. Bea tries to immediately put distance between herself and Gabriel because of his response to the article “I will find you”, but that doesn’t work in her favor for long…..
This book is so so good and deliciously spicy. Gabriel has a filthy mouth and Bea isn’t afraid to ask for what she wants. Bea has a consistent feeling throughout the book of being stalked or watched but isn’t sure if it’s paranoia or realty. The “watcher” is an unknown character who has everyone in the book asking, “who the heck are you?”. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that was dark romance and suspense, but I hope all of them are this good and page turning. The entirety of the book has you wanting to keep going to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series as it did end on a cliffhanger that had my jaw dropping.
Tropes:
- Touch her and 💀
- Plus size FMC
- Ex Mafia MMC
- “yes chef”
- Enemies to lovers
- Fast burn
This book was sent to me as an ARC by Anastasia Wilder and Luna Literary. Thank you to both for allowing me to read this fantastic book and review it honestly. 🖤🌶️
This book is out March 26th and the second book in this series, Rays of Darkness, is next to follow soon.
March 27, 2026
Shadows of Light is a combination of Devil Wears Prada, You, and 50 Shades of Gray. It has suspense, romance, and even more suspense. I felt like the book just stopped and it was like I went through Onyx Storm in terms of the ending all over again. There was a lot that happened in this book and I have so many questions 😬 While getting to know Beatrix and Gabriel was great, the relationship between the two of them was a bit too fast and furious. (I’ll honestly never look at a chef’s knife the same way). One scene reminded me of Lily and Marshall from the first episode of How I Met Your Mother.
Despite Beatrix being the FMC in this book, I feel like I hardly know her at all. There is so much mystery to her. Gabriel I feel like I understand a bit more, but there is still so much to him and his background that isn’t in the book. He reminds me a bit of the Gabriel from Emily in Paris in his chase for a Michelin star and he also reminds me of Bradley Cooper from the movie Burnt. (Hopefully we get more of his back story in book 2).
Even though it was difficult to connect with the characters at times, the story did keep me hooked. I do feel that Beatrix is in trouble and someone from her past or current life is trying to get to her. I also feel like it’s someone she knows. My gut is telling me it’s Spencer, despite the fact that he has a girlfriend…but who knows.
Overall, this book was 4⭐️ 2.5🌶️ While the romance is steamy, I think non-romance readers would enjoy this book for the stalker and mystery vibes. I also highly recommend this to readers who enjoyed Rina Kent’s earlier books, L.J. Shen, and J.T. Geissenger. Readers who enjoy seeing body positivity and curvier FMCs who thrive in high stakes environments such as the fashion world would also enjoy this book.
Thank you IRIS Influencer Society for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
Despite Beatrix being the FMC in this book, I feel like I hardly know her at all. There is so much mystery to her. Gabriel I feel like I understand a bit more, but there is still so much to him and his background that isn’t in the book. He reminds me a bit of the Gabriel from Emily in Paris in his chase for a Michelin star and he also reminds me of Bradley Cooper from the movie Burnt. (Hopefully we get more of his back story in book 2).
Even though it was difficult to connect with the characters at times, the story did keep me hooked. I do feel that Beatrix is in trouble and someone from her past or current life is trying to get to her. I also feel like it’s someone she knows. My gut is telling me it’s Spencer, despite the fact that he has a girlfriend…but who knows.
Overall, this book was 4⭐️ 2.5🌶️ While the romance is steamy, I think non-romance readers would enjoy this book for the stalker and mystery vibes. I also highly recommend this to readers who enjoyed Rina Kent’s earlier books, L.J. Shen, and J.T. Geissenger. Readers who enjoy seeing body positivity and curvier FMCs who thrive in high stakes environments such as the fashion world would also enjoy this book.
Thank you IRIS Influencer Society for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC and omgg..
I adore a dark romance and I ate this book up.
P.s can Goodreads start allowing us to do .5 please because this book was a 4.5 for me ⭐️
Incredibly written and so so easy to read, short chapters have my heart 👏🏻
It had me at the first chapter…
‘It’s a dress, not a yes, d*ckhead’ 👏🏻 👏🏻 one of my favourite quotes In a book possibly EVER. Preach it Lola baby
Lola and Beatrix friendship is *chefs kiss* it’s giving soulmate but in friend form ♾️ 🫦
Also..
* ‘my good f*cking girl’ ❤️🔥
* ‘naughty girls get punished’ 🫦
* ‘Yes, Chef’ ❤️🔥
* ‘good girl’ 🫦
These quotes were killing me, good god 🤤🫦🤪
I will be honest and say I did cringe a little everytime he called her goddess idk why🥲🫣
I loved watching their relationship develop, and then when we had the chapters ‘the watcher’ I was like OOOPPP, loved it, ate it up!
But girl to leave us on a cliffhanger?!?!? NOOOO I need the other book sent to me ASAPPP pretty please 🧚🏻♀️
One of my favourite quotes from this book was ‘“I want you more than air in my lungs, and if you let me, I would drag you into the fiery depths of hell with me—just to not be away from you for a day.” Like WOW. Any man speaks about his girl like that and I’m shook, impeccable
And also ‘Please trust me when I say there is a vastness of ocean between your beauty and hers—or any other. Everyone else is a candle, and you’re the volcano remaking the world. You’ve remade my world.”
Honestly SHOOK, give me Gabriel please?👀🫦
‘She’s the stars and the moon’ ⭐️ 🌙
Perfection💋
I think I know who the watcher is but I don’t want to say incase I’m wrong 😭😅
All in all an amazing book, as I said before I LOVE dark romance and this hit the spot, I cannot wait for the next book 👏🏻 what an amazing author.
I adore a dark romance and I ate this book up.
P.s can Goodreads start allowing us to do .5 please because this book was a 4.5 for me ⭐️
Incredibly written and so so easy to read, short chapters have my heart 👏🏻
It had me at the first chapter…
‘It’s a dress, not a yes, d*ckhead’ 👏🏻 👏🏻 one of my favourite quotes In a book possibly EVER. Preach it Lola baby
Lola and Beatrix friendship is *chefs kiss* it’s giving soulmate but in friend form ♾️ 🫦
Also..
* ‘my good f*cking girl’ ❤️🔥
* ‘naughty girls get punished’ 🫦
* ‘Yes, Chef’ ❤️🔥
* ‘good girl’ 🫦
These quotes were killing me, good god 🤤🫦🤪
I will be honest and say I did cringe a little everytime he called her goddess idk why🥲🫣
I loved watching their relationship develop, and then when we had the chapters ‘the watcher’ I was like OOOPPP, loved it, ate it up!
But girl to leave us on a cliffhanger?!?!? NOOOO I need the other book sent to me ASAPPP pretty please 🧚🏻♀️
One of my favourite quotes from this book was ‘“I want you more than air in my lungs, and if you let me, I would drag you into the fiery depths of hell with me—just to not be away from you for a day.” Like WOW. Any man speaks about his girl like that and I’m shook, impeccable
And also ‘Please trust me when I say there is a vastness of ocean between your beauty and hers—or any other. Everyone else is a candle, and you’re the volcano remaking the world. You’ve remade my world.”
Honestly SHOOK, give me Gabriel please?👀🫦
‘She’s the stars and the moon’ ⭐️ 🌙
Perfection💋
I think I know who the watcher is but I don’t want to say incase I’m wrong 😭😅
All in all an amazing book, as I said before I LOVE dark romance and this hit the spot, I cannot wait for the next book 👏🏻 what an amazing author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder
This novel follows Beatrix Mercer, aka Mercer, Trix, Bea, and Goddess. Bea is in the fashion industry as a conservator while also wanting to pursue her own fashion line. Her best friend,
Lola Castillo, is a food reviewer and writes for a big publication.
Bea receives a promotion at work, and Lola makes a reservation at a new restaurant whose Head Chef refuses to give an interview. Lola ends up stuck in traffic as her previous interview ran over time. The restaurant has a 10 minute grace period, which Lola isn’t going to make, and policy is not to seat anyone until the entire party arrives. Lola speaks to the hostess and upgrades Bea to the Chef’s table. The Chef has a no electronics policy so guests can immerse themselves in the experience. Bea gets bored and is caught listening to an audio book while at the Chef’s table. That Chef is Gabriel Di Rossi.
After the dining experience, Bea and Lola co-author an anonymous article about the Chef’s precision and that this experience is a ritual. The article continues to say the food is exceptional but that this was about submission.
Once the article is published, Gabriel knows who the diner is that wrote. Gabriel runs into Bea when he sees a woman being attacked, and when he runs over to help sees it is Bea. After Gabriel helps her, they end up having a connection that is hot, lust-filled and impossible to forget.
The problem is Bea is being watched and stalked. Her stalker leaves her gifts, and Gabriel promises to protect her, but can he?
You won’t want to put this down, and then Anastasia leaves us hanging and demanding book two!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This novel follows Beatrix Mercer, aka Mercer, Trix, Bea, and Goddess. Bea is in the fashion industry as a conservator while also wanting to pursue her own fashion line. Her best friend,
Lola Castillo, is a food reviewer and writes for a big publication.
Bea receives a promotion at work, and Lola makes a reservation at a new restaurant whose Head Chef refuses to give an interview. Lola ends up stuck in traffic as her previous interview ran over time. The restaurant has a 10 minute grace period, which Lola isn’t going to make, and policy is not to seat anyone until the entire party arrives. Lola speaks to the hostess and upgrades Bea to the Chef’s table. The Chef has a no electronics policy so guests can immerse themselves in the experience. Bea gets bored and is caught listening to an audio book while at the Chef’s table. That Chef is Gabriel Di Rossi.
After the dining experience, Bea and Lola co-author an anonymous article about the Chef’s precision and that this experience is a ritual. The article continues to say the food is exceptional but that this was about submission.
Once the article is published, Gabriel knows who the diner is that wrote. Gabriel runs into Bea when he sees a woman being attacked, and when he runs over to help sees it is Bea. After Gabriel helps her, they end up having a connection that is hot, lust-filled and impossible to forget.
The problem is Bea is being watched and stalked. Her stalker leaves her gifts, and Gabriel promises to protect her, but can he?
You won’t want to put this down, and then Anastasia leaves us hanging and demanding book two!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy
Shadows of Light is pitched as The Devil Wears Prada meets dark romantic suspense, and it absolutely delivered. I was so engrossed in this world that I genuinely struggled to put it down!
Our FMC, Beatrix, is a confident, driven fashion conservator who thrives in a ruthless industry. I love that she’s a curvy protagonist who is unapologetic about her body, even while navigating a high-pressure promotion and a years-long mysterious stalker. Her work scenes were a highlight for me. There is something about reading "corporate speak" in a fictional setting that always has me giggling in shared understanding. Bea takes everything from harsh professional criticism to personal jabs on the chin, but as the story progresses, we really start to see the cracks form as she deals with her past trauma.
Then we have the enigmatic, morally gray Chef Gabriel. A reformed mafia enforcer turned high-end restaurateur, he runs his kitchen with the same lethal precision he used in his past life. The second he crosses paths with Bea, he becomes completely obsessed, breaking every one of his own rules just to be near her. Their chemistry is electric, and the dynamic manages to be both cute and hot all at once.
The suspense element kept me guessing until the very last page. Fair warning: this is not a standalone, and that cliffhanger is absolutely criminal! I’m going to need book two immediately to see how this unfolds.
If you like your dark romance served with obsession, psychological tension, and Met Gala glamour, pick this up! I’m eagerly counting down to the next installment.
Thank you to Anastasia Wilder and IRIS Influence Society for the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Our FMC, Beatrix, is a confident, driven fashion conservator who thrives in a ruthless industry. I love that she’s a curvy protagonist who is unapologetic about her body, even while navigating a high-pressure promotion and a years-long mysterious stalker. Her work scenes were a highlight for me. There is something about reading "corporate speak" in a fictional setting that always has me giggling in shared understanding. Bea takes everything from harsh professional criticism to personal jabs on the chin, but as the story progresses, we really start to see the cracks form as she deals with her past trauma.
Then we have the enigmatic, morally gray Chef Gabriel. A reformed mafia enforcer turned high-end restaurateur, he runs his kitchen with the same lethal precision he used in his past life. The second he crosses paths with Bea, he becomes completely obsessed, breaking every one of his own rules just to be near her. Their chemistry is electric, and the dynamic manages to be both cute and hot all at once.
The suspense element kept me guessing until the very last page. Fair warning: this is not a standalone, and that cliffhanger is absolutely criminal! I’m going to need book two immediately to see how this unfolds.
If you like your dark romance served with obsession, psychological tension, and Met Gala glamour, pick this up! I’m eagerly counting down to the next installment.
Thank you to Anastasia Wilder and IRIS Influence Society for the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes:
Morally gray anti-hero
0bsessed MMC
Touch her and ☠️
She has a st@lker
grumpy x life of the party
Curvy/plus-size FMC
Body positivity
Kink exploration
“Talks her through it”
Who did this to you
Found family
Met Gala glamour
Organized crime
Psychological tension
Mental health rep
“Yes Chef”
He reads to her
Traumatic pasts
Pr!mal
Breath play
Please check the TW list ‼️
Shadows of Light is a gripping dark romance filled with obsession, secrets, and a sense that not everything is what it seems. such an intoxicating mix of psychological tension, glamour, and obsession that it was impossible to put down. The atmosphere dark and electric. I was completely hooked and was completely sucked in. I couldn’t freakin put this book down!!!! Sleepless nights were had!!
Beatrix aka Bea… love her! She is feisty, smart and intelligent with a passion with fashion and being more, and in life. She has a career but fractured memories creep in and her life slowly crumbles. Bea is a fierce complex character and hilarious love her! Love that she’s plus size and the glamour lifestyle
Gabriel is intense, and determined. I loved their connection! The the twists and turns. The mystery! The drama and tension! Gah and that cliff hanger! Freakin destroyed me!!! Fair warning. This is addictive!!
I can’t wait for the next book, Rays of Darkness!!!
Quotes:
"You want it messy. You want it dark. Let me give it to you."
"Okay." I release a shaky breath and nod. "Until I say, this is just us, just fun."
"I'll take what my goddess gives me."
"You know as well as I do that beauty comes in all forms." He pauses. "And I crave yours."
"The only pain I'm going to cause," I continue, dragging my thumb up her spine, grounding her, "is the pain you beg me
"Everyone else is a candle, and you're the volcano remaking the world. You've remade my world."
'Control isn't about what I can do. It's about what I choose not to do!
Morally gray anti-hero
0bsessed MMC
Touch her and ☠️
She has a st@lker
grumpy x life of the party
Curvy/plus-size FMC
Body positivity
Kink exploration
“Talks her through it”
Who did this to you
Found family
Met Gala glamour
Organized crime
Psychological tension
Mental health rep
“Yes Chef”
He reads to her
Traumatic pasts
Pr!mal
Breath play
Please check the TW list ‼️
Shadows of Light is a gripping dark romance filled with obsession, secrets, and a sense that not everything is what it seems. such an intoxicating mix of psychological tension, glamour, and obsession that it was impossible to put down. The atmosphere dark and electric. I was completely hooked and was completely sucked in. I couldn’t freakin put this book down!!!! Sleepless nights were had!!
Beatrix aka Bea… love her! She is feisty, smart and intelligent with a passion with fashion and being more, and in life. She has a career but fractured memories creep in and her life slowly crumbles. Bea is a fierce complex character and hilarious love her! Love that she’s plus size and the glamour lifestyle
Gabriel is intense, and determined. I loved their connection! The the twists and turns. The mystery! The drama and tension! Gah and that cliff hanger! Freakin destroyed me!!! Fair warning. This is addictive!!
I can’t wait for the next book, Rays of Darkness!!!
Quotes:
"You want it messy. You want it dark. Let me give it to you."
"Okay." I release a shaky breath and nod. "Until I say, this is just us, just fun."
"I'll take what my goddess gives me."
"You know as well as I do that beauty comes in all forms." He pauses. "And I crave yours."
"The only pain I'm going to cause," I continue, dragging my thumb up her spine, grounding her, "is the pain you beg me
"Everyone else is a candle, and you're the volcano remaking the world. You've remade my world."
'Control isn't about what I can do. It's about what I choose not to do!
March 26, 2026
“I’m giving you the time you need, but I mean every word. You are mine. You’ll see that this is right. We fit, Beatrix. Even if you’re right to keep your distance. That doesn’t change what we are.”
Beatrix gets the promotion of a lifetime and wants a night of fun. When that lands her at the chef's table at one of the top restaurants in New York, she does not expect the chef to be hot as sin or a complete grump. Leaving an anonymous review that comments more on his attitude than the good, lands her in a position she might regret. Gabe has worked very hard to leave his old life behind. Being the head enforcer for the mafia had perks but was too dangerous and wanted out for the sake of his family. Being the top chef was and keeping his brother's safe was his only goal... until Beatrix came along with her review. Now she is all he sees. Learning about her was easy, keeping his distance and heart guarded? That was a whole different mission.
Ladies and Gentleman, let me introduce Gabriel Di Rossi! This man is not only hot as sin and Dirty Talk fluent but he is also so damn patient with Beatrix. He sees everything she has to offer and wants nothing more than to be a part of her orbit. Bea is used to being the life of the party; she is outspoken, lively and can handle things on her own. She has never needed someone to take care of her but Gabe wants to be the person she can rely on. This does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared but fuck this story was amazing!!
Life of the party x Grumpy, Cliffhanger, curvy FMC, Ex-enforcer MMC, 1st person, dual
Beatrix gets the promotion of a lifetime and wants a night of fun. When that lands her at the chef's table at one of the top restaurants in New York, she does not expect the chef to be hot as sin or a complete grump. Leaving an anonymous review that comments more on his attitude than the good, lands her in a position she might regret. Gabe has worked very hard to leave his old life behind. Being the head enforcer for the mafia had perks but was too dangerous and wanted out for the sake of his family. Being the top chef was and keeping his brother's safe was his only goal... until Beatrix came along with her review. Now she is all he sees. Learning about her was easy, keeping his distance and heart guarded? That was a whole different mission.
Ladies and Gentleman, let me introduce Gabriel Di Rossi! This man is not only hot as sin and Dirty Talk fluent but he is also so damn patient with Beatrix. He sees everything she has to offer and wants nothing more than to be a part of her orbit. Bea is used to being the life of the party; she is outspoken, lively and can handle things on her own. She has never needed someone to take care of her but Gabe wants to be the person she can rely on. This does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared but fuck this story was amazing!!
Life of the party x Grumpy, Cliffhanger, curvy FMC, Ex-enforcer MMC, 1st person, dual
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ I received an advance reader copy from the author. All opinions are my own. ✨
Has Anastasia Wilder lost her damn mind? I did not expect that cliffhanger at the end. Omf. I will be seeking compensation for my therapy. From page one and meeting Gabriel, our MMC, immediately hot. There's just something about a morally grey MMC, an enforcer for the mafia, that had me eating out of the palm of his hand. Our FMC, Beatrix, is a curvy spit fire that takes no 💩, Bea has had something traumatic happen to her in the past but has no memory of it, just inklings and trauma responses to things she doesn't understand, oh and a stalker who sends her gifts and make sure she knows he's there. No big deal. One night Bea goes out to celebrate her promotion at work, and ends up meeting the head chef, Gabriel. When Gabriel and Bea meet it ends up being sparks, Bea doesn't stand down when Gabriel pushes and he eats that up, no crumbs. It's a little enemies to lovers at first, but my man is obsessed. After Bea's stalker starts to escalate daddy Gabe takes matters into his own hands, and starts hunting him down like the hunter he is, with no luck, Gabe believes it's his old life that's come back for revenge. Boy, do sparks fly in the bedroom between these two, I love a good dirty talking, praising MMC. Again, this does end on a pretty gnarly cliffhanger, so prepare yourself for that. I'll be not so patiently waiting for book two. Anastasia, expect my request for compensation soon. ❤️
Has Anastasia Wilder lost her damn mind? I did not expect that cliffhanger at the end. Omf. I will be seeking compensation for my therapy. From page one and meeting Gabriel, our MMC, immediately hot. There's just something about a morally grey MMC, an enforcer for the mafia, that had me eating out of the palm of his hand. Our FMC, Beatrix, is a curvy spit fire that takes no 💩, Bea has had something traumatic happen to her in the past but has no memory of it, just inklings and trauma responses to things she doesn't understand, oh and a stalker who sends her gifts and make sure she knows he's there. No big deal. One night Bea goes out to celebrate her promotion at work, and ends up meeting the head chef, Gabriel. When Gabriel and Bea meet it ends up being sparks, Bea doesn't stand down when Gabriel pushes and he eats that up, no crumbs. It's a little enemies to lovers at first, but my man is obsessed. After Bea's stalker starts to escalate daddy Gabe takes matters into his own hands, and starts hunting him down like the hunter he is, with no luck, Gabe believes it's his old life that's come back for revenge. Boy, do sparks fly in the bedroom between these two, I love a good dirty talking, praising MMC. Again, this does end on a pretty gnarly cliffhanger, so prepare yourself for that. I'll be not so patiently waiting for book two. Anastasia, expect my request for compensation soon. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
E-ACR, honest review, no spoilers
Dark, Addictive, and Full of Twists
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder is a dark, emotionally charged romance that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. From the very beginning, there’s an underlying tension that keeps you questioning every motive, every secret, every connection.
The story follows a driven woman chasing her career in a demanding industry, only for her life to take an unexpected turn when a mysterious man enters the picture. Their dynamic is intense, layered, and constantly evolving, balancing attraction with uncertainty in a way that keeps things interesting.
What really stood out to me was the atmosphere, there’s this constant feeling that something isn’t quite right, which made it impossible to stop reading. The emotional stakes are high, and the suspense builds in a way that keeps you hooked all the way through.
The romance leans into that darker edge, with a protective, morally gray love interest and a heroine who refuses to lose herself, even when everything around her starts to unravel. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the push-and-pull between them adds to the tension.
Fair warning: this one takes you on a ride, especially toward the end. The final moments left me needing answers immediately.
If you enjoy dark romance with suspense, complex characters, and a storyline that keeps you guessing, this is definitely one to add to your list.
Dark, Addictive, and Full of Twists
Shadows of Light by Anastasia Wilder is a dark, emotionally charged romance that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. From the very beginning, there’s an underlying tension that keeps you questioning every motive, every secret, every connection.
The story follows a driven woman chasing her career in a demanding industry, only for her life to take an unexpected turn when a mysterious man enters the picture. Their dynamic is intense, layered, and constantly evolving, balancing attraction with uncertainty in a way that keeps things interesting.
What really stood out to me was the atmosphere, there’s this constant feeling that something isn’t quite right, which made it impossible to stop reading. The emotional stakes are high, and the suspense builds in a way that keeps you hooked all the way through.
The romance leans into that darker edge, with a protective, morally gray love interest and a heroine who refuses to lose herself, even when everything around her starts to unravel. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the push-and-pull between them adds to the tension.
Fair warning: this one takes you on a ride, especially toward the end. The final moments left me needing answers immediately.
If you enjoy dark romance with suspense, complex characters, and a storyline that keeps you guessing, this is definitely one to add to your list.
March 27, 2026
OMG THIS IS A MUST READ!! SUSPENSE, SPICE, INTRIGUE, AND TWISTS THAT KEEP YOU GUESSING!!
I absolutely loved this book and the way the author builds this vivid world that pulls you right in from the start. You get a bit of the violent past of Gabriel to this alpha chef he currently is now and then this high fashion world of Beatrix who seems to suffer from memory loss of a traumatic incident. These two are such complex characters and with pasts that give way to more questions as the story unfolds.
If you love a good dark romantic suspense this is a definite must read. You will definitely need some provisions as you read this book. The author builds this amazingly sensual world around both food and fashion that evolve into an intoxicating pain & pleasure filled moments then throws you into the craziness of a stalker watching and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. All I can say is make sure you check the TWs & have plenty of time to devote to this book because once you start you can't stop.
This author blew me away with her debut but man this book was just phenomenal with her vivid imagery that it feels like you are seeing a movie as you read and the growth and development of these characters are perfection. The ending is the biggest edging of all and I absolutely cannot wait for the next one I need answers like now lol. Seriously do yourself a favor grab this one NOW!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
I absolutely loved this book and the way the author builds this vivid world that pulls you right in from the start. You get a bit of the violent past of Gabriel to this alpha chef he currently is now and then this high fashion world of Beatrix who seems to suffer from memory loss of a traumatic incident. These two are such complex characters and with pasts that give way to more questions as the story unfolds.
If you love a good dark romantic suspense this is a definite must read. You will definitely need some provisions as you read this book. The author builds this amazingly sensual world around both food and fashion that evolve into an intoxicating pain & pleasure filled moments then throws you into the craziness of a stalker watching and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. All I can say is make sure you check the TWs & have plenty of time to devote to this book because once you start you can't stop.
This author blew me away with her debut but man this book was just phenomenal with her vivid imagery that it feels like you are seeing a movie as you read and the growth and development of these characters are perfection. The ending is the biggest edging of all and I absolutely cannot wait for the next one I need answers like now lol. Seriously do yourself a favor grab this one NOW!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
March 21, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy
When I read the blurb of this book I knew it would be something I would enjoy. A mix of pressure and glamour of the Devil Wears Prada in the city that never sleeps and the tension of You. This is perfect for fans that love a morally grey man that’s a cinnamon roll only for her.
Beatrix our FMC has spent her career as a fashion conservator and while landing a huge promotion has to work with (what I’m going to call) the devil herself. In an industry that sees a fuller figured female as something that needs to be “structured”. Our girl is proud of her body, she’s powerful but over the course of the book does struggle with some body issues (which seriously who can’t relate, regardless of size - we are our own worst enemy).
Enter Gabriel, our super controlled and controlling owner (Chef) of Sinners Only; chance places our characters together and to say the first meeting doesn’t go well is an understatement. I was hooked, I’m such a sucker for multiple povs and the things that come out of this man’s mouth will have you saying Yes, Chef!!!
This book is for the readers that enjoy spice, with some open door scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat, because yes I think I do need pistachio whipped cream!
Be warned this book has some darker themes so check the triggers; the book ends on a killer cliffhanger.. but it was so worth the ride
When I read the blurb of this book I knew it would be something I would enjoy. A mix of pressure and glamour of the Devil Wears Prada in the city that never sleeps and the tension of You. This is perfect for fans that love a morally grey man that’s a cinnamon roll only for her.
Beatrix our FMC has spent her career as a fashion conservator and while landing a huge promotion has to work with (what I’m going to call) the devil herself. In an industry that sees a fuller figured female as something that needs to be “structured”. Our girl is proud of her body, she’s powerful but over the course of the book does struggle with some body issues (which seriously who can’t relate, regardless of size - we are our own worst enemy).
Enter Gabriel, our super controlled and controlling owner (Chef) of Sinners Only; chance places our characters together and to say the first meeting doesn’t go well is an understatement. I was hooked, I’m such a sucker for multiple povs and the things that come out of this man’s mouth will have you saying Yes, Chef!!!
This book is for the readers that enjoy spice, with some open door scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat, because yes I think I do need pistachio whipped cream!
Be warned this book has some darker themes so check the triggers; the book ends on a killer cliffhanger.. but it was so worth the ride
March 26, 2026
What a cliffhanger… OMG I need book two to come out immediately because I NEED THE REST OF THEIR STORY! I thought the story was well paced and kept me engaged the entire duration, leaving me craving more and struggling to put it down when I had to go be a real person again.
Beatrix is the FMC I didn’t know I desperately needed. She is everything I want to be. Having a strong, plus size FMC who is confident in herself and her worth (albeit with some valid struggles along the way) felt so empowering. She’s intelligent, caring, and family oriented, willing to protect those she loves, as well as the independence and strength to take care of herself.
Gabriel… my sweet morally (very dark, almost black) gray man. Oh how my heart loves a bad boy and you were no exception to that. Not only does your restaurant and cooking sound amazing, somehow you sound even better. The love you hold for your family and the choices you’ve had to make to hide them as much as possible from the dangers of the world will always make you an honorable man to me regardless of your past. The way you worship this woman, show your compassion through food, support and protect her at all costs even knowing she’s stubborn and wants to do it herself.
I will scream from the rooftops for all dark romance lovers to dive headfirst into this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW:
shadows of light by Anastasia Wilder 🔪
3.5 ⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Please check Trigger warnings ⚠️
❤️Morally Grey
🔪Curvy/plus-size MFC
❤️ Kink Exploration
🔪Stalker
❤️Mental Health Rep
🔪Obessive MMC
“𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕒𝕤 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕒𝕤 𝕀 𝕕𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕓𝕖𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕪 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕞𝕤.” ℍ𝕖 𝕡𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕤. “𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕀 𝕔𝕣𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤.”
When I say I devoured this book in a matter of hours, I literally did!!! I have a thing for short chapters and boy were the chapters short!!
I loved the devil wears prada/dark suspense romance, its what sold me on signing up for this ARC and I'm glad I did. The relationship between the MFC and her best friend, I just loved it (every person should have a friend like that)
The spice 🥵🥵 holy moly was it spicing. The MMC has a way of talking the MFC through everything and bloody hell was it hot!!
Be warned for those who want to devour this it ends on a killer cliffhanger that will leave you screaming: why!!!!!!
“𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕥 𝕞𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕪. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕥 𝕕𝕒𝕣𝕜. 𝕃𝕖𝕥 𝕞𝕖 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦.
Shadows of light is a gripping, suspenseful dark romance, perfect for those who want a book centred around body positivity, a touch her you die vibe and a MFC who won't take shit from anyone!!!
Thank you to the author and iris.influencer.society for gifting me this e-arc for my honest review
shadows of light by Anastasia Wilder 🔪
3.5 ⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Please check Trigger warnings ⚠️
❤️Morally Grey
🔪Curvy/plus-size MFC
❤️ Kink Exploration
🔪Stalker
❤️Mental Health Rep
🔪Obessive MMC
“𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕒𝕤 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕒𝕤 𝕀 𝕕𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕓𝕖𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕪 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕞𝕤.” ℍ𝕖 𝕡𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕤. “𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕀 𝕔𝕣𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤.”
When I say I devoured this book in a matter of hours, I literally did!!! I have a thing for short chapters and boy were the chapters short!!
I loved the devil wears prada/dark suspense romance, its what sold me on signing up for this ARC and I'm glad I did. The relationship between the MFC and her best friend, I just loved it (every person should have a friend like that)
The spice 🥵🥵 holy moly was it spicing. The MMC has a way of talking the MFC through everything and bloody hell was it hot!!
Be warned for those who want to devour this it ends on a killer cliffhanger that will leave you screaming: why!!!!!!
“𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕥 𝕞𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕪. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕥 𝕕𝕒𝕣𝕜. 𝕃𝕖𝕥 𝕞𝕖 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦.
Shadows of light is a gripping, suspenseful dark romance, perfect for those who want a book centred around body positivity, a touch her you die vibe and a MFC who won't take shit from anyone!!!
Thank you to the author and iris.influencer.society for gifting me this e-arc for my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
5 stars!! i originally was going to give it 4- but as i sat here writing my review that didn’t seem fair because my only complaint was the overuse of “bish”.
& this book might have single handedly just dragged me out of my month long slump (I’ve been literally only reading audiobooks)
* minor spoilers below *
thank you soo much to Anastasia Wilder & Love Notes PR for blessing my Sunday evening & kindle with this ARC !!
this book was spicy, but not in a way that it overlooked the plot- and i loved that.
the characters were well developed, I’m really looking forward to seeing Gabriels (my mans Gabby love u) unhinged side come out in book two, & i love that Beatrix stayed a baddie despite having someone looking out
~ anyone else hate when it’s a badass FMC & then suddenly a hot man saves them and they suddenly lose all the fight and individuality?? no just me?? ok
the side characters and plots surrounding work, trauma, relationship history, the stalker.. etc had me HOOKED. a great balance of dark romance with a thriller aspect to it. and it’s set up VERY WELL for a series~ one I genuinely cannot wait to keep reading.
THE CLIFFHANGER ENDING THOUGH? yeah I’m angry about that
anyways, i also think we should start a petition to guess the stalker because i have many theories
& this book might have single handedly just dragged me out of my month long slump (I’ve been literally only reading audiobooks)
* minor spoilers below *
thank you soo much to Anastasia Wilder & Love Notes PR for blessing my Sunday evening & kindle with this ARC !!
this book was spicy, but not in a way that it overlooked the plot- and i loved that.
the characters were well developed, I’m really looking forward to seeing Gabriels (my mans Gabby love u) unhinged side come out in book two, & i love that Beatrix stayed a baddie despite having someone looking out
~ anyone else hate when it’s a badass FMC & then suddenly a hot man saves them and they suddenly lose all the fight and individuality?? no just me?? ok
the side characters and plots surrounding work, trauma, relationship history, the stalker.. etc had me HOOKED. a great balance of dark romance with a thriller aspect to it. and it’s set up VERY WELL for a series~ one I genuinely cannot wait to keep reading.
THE CLIFFHANGER ENDING THOUGH? yeah I’m angry about that
anyways, i also think we should start a petition to guess the stalker because i have many theories
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shadows of Light was a pretty addicting read. It pulled me in quickly, and I loved that there was a mystery element layered into the romance. It added just enough intrigue to keep me hooked, even if the implied reveal felt a bit predictable.
I really liked Bea as a FMC. I appreciated how independent she was and how committed she was to living life on her own terms. I love seeing therapy and mental health representation in books, and I thought that aspect was handled well too.
Gabriel was also easy to like. I’m always a fan of a fiercely protective MMC, especially when that protectiveness comes from a place of care and respect. The devotion, the attention, the worship… it definitely delivered.
That said, the relationship did lean a bit towards insta-love with how quickly he became fixated on her and how easily she dropped her inhibitions. I found myself wishing for more development both before they got together and after the breakup, just to make the emotional progression feel a little more earned.
The writing itself did feel a bit inconsistent at times. Some transitions were jarring, and a few of the spicier scenes also didn’t fully land for me.
Overall, though, this was an enjoyable read, and I’ll be interested to see where the story goes next.
I really liked Bea as a FMC. I appreciated how independent she was and how committed she was to living life on her own terms. I love seeing therapy and mental health representation in books, and I thought that aspect was handled well too.
Gabriel was also easy to like. I’m always a fan of a fiercely protective MMC, especially when that protectiveness comes from a place of care and respect. The devotion, the attention, the worship… it definitely delivered.
That said, the relationship did lean a bit towards insta-love with how quickly he became fixated on her and how easily she dropped her inhibitions. I found myself wishing for more development both before they got together and after the breakup, just to make the emotional progression feel a little more earned.
The writing itself did feel a bit inconsistent at times. Some transitions were jarring, and a few of the spicier scenes also didn’t fully land for me.
Overall, though, this was an enjoyable read, and I’ll be interested to see where the story goes next.
March 25, 2026
If The Devil Wears Prada were a dark romantic suspense novel featuring a hot ex-mafia chef and a confident, curvy fashion curator, it would be Shadows of Light.
While dark romance is not typically my go-to genre, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and finished it in less than two days. I think I liked it so much because, despite dark elements like stalking, the mafia, and assault, the relationship between the main characters was generally healthy & positive. They brought out the best in one another.
Beatrix is a curvy fashion designer who publicly lambasts Gabriel, an arrogant ex-mafioso turned chef. After repeatedly bumping into each other and trading insults, they finally stop denying their attraction. This novel had all of my favorite elements: a badass FMC, a grumpy MMC, a fun & supportive bestie, plenty of suspense, and even a cute dog. Additionally, the spice was definitely not undersold.
I highly recommend this book and am already looking forward to book two.
Content Warnings: Stalking, Thoughts of Self Harm, Deceit, Fertility issues (FMC), Pregnancy deceit (not FMC), Workplace Harassment/Bullying (not from MMC), Flashbacks to Sexual Assault (not from MMC), Repressed Memories, Unaliving, M*rder, Torture, Gore, Kidnapping
While dark romance is not typically my go-to genre, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and finished it in less than two days. I think I liked it so much because, despite dark elements like stalking, the mafia, and assault, the relationship between the main characters was generally healthy & positive. They brought out the best in one another.
Beatrix is a curvy fashion designer who publicly lambasts Gabriel, an arrogant ex-mafioso turned chef. After repeatedly bumping into each other and trading insults, they finally stop denying their attraction. This novel had all of my favorite elements: a badass FMC, a grumpy MMC, a fun & supportive bestie, plenty of suspense, and even a cute dog. Additionally, the spice was definitely not undersold.
I highly recommend this book and am already looking forward to book two.
Content Warnings: Stalking, Thoughts of Self Harm, Deceit, Fertility issues (FMC), Pregnancy deceit (not FMC), Workplace Harassment/Bullying (not from MMC), Flashbacks to Sexual Assault (not from MMC), Repressed Memories, Unaliving, M*rder, Torture, Gore, Kidnapping
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