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The Nature of Shadow
- GenresFantasy
363 pages, Hardcover
Published March 5, 2026
About the author
Emma R. Schofield
1 book4 followersBorn and bred in Yorkshire in the north of England, Emma.R.Schofield spent a decade or so moving her packing boxes between Germany, Switzerland, France and Ireland, where she was a lecturer in Trinity College, Dublin for several years. She finally settled in a town outside London where she lives with her family. When not ensconced with a story, she is a technical consultant, an LGBTQ+ ally and a viola player, any of which could explain a lot.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 17, 2026
The joy of the book is its meticulous craft - one can feel the effort and creativity in its world building and characterisation. There is a cohesive unity in its style throughout the text and an attention to detail that is inspiring.
It is more in the vein of slow burn high fantasy - there is plot but the narrative drive is leisurely with the main tension coming from Lia's inner world. It does feel more in the vein of the older fantasy tradition of Anne Maccaffrey than the more modern fast paced style - and this isn't a bad thing.
The descriptions, especially of Anhame and it's natural surroundings are beautiful. Characters that stand out are Damaris and Maethin. In many ways this first book in this pentalogy is one of building relationships and establishing characters. It will be interesting to see more stakes and plot develop. It's difficult to say without reading the second but there is a possibility this book could have been the first half of one book but this also depends on the speed of pace one likes to read.
One aspect I struggled with in grounding in the novel is the totally new words describing the different crafts and affiliations and that all the characters have unique names. I had to keep going to the glossery to understand. But that ceases to become a problem as the book develops.
I admire anyone who creates a whole fantasty world with magic - it is not an easy beast. Even Sanderson talks about the struggles with this. Schofield's magical system does allow for some imaginative ways to move out of close third person pov to expand its scope, which is very clever.
Another aspect that works is it's grounding in a moralistic system - in many ways it feels influenced from a strong spiritual stance even possibly the many worlds and training grounds of spiritualism. There is emphasis on healing, will, permission and boundaries. At times the concentration on all the levels and who was what level did feel over emphasised but it is also the bones of the system and it does allow a lot of intricacy in description.
So, in conclusion, this is a slow burn early modern fantasy book with a charming naivety which showcases Schofield obvious writing talent and the hours she has dedicated to her craft, much like Lia. Definitely one to read, three stars in my reviewing is still a solid read.
It is more in the vein of slow burn high fantasy - there is plot but the narrative drive is leisurely with the main tension coming from Lia's inner world. It does feel more in the vein of the older fantasy tradition of Anne Maccaffrey than the more modern fast paced style - and this isn't a bad thing.
The descriptions, especially of Anhame and it's natural surroundings are beautiful. Characters that stand out are Damaris and Maethin. In many ways this first book in this pentalogy is one of building relationships and establishing characters. It will be interesting to see more stakes and plot develop. It's difficult to say without reading the second but there is a possibility this book could have been the first half of one book but this also depends on the speed of pace one likes to read.
One aspect I struggled with in grounding in the novel is the totally new words describing the different crafts and affiliations and that all the characters have unique names. I had to keep going to the glossery to understand. But that ceases to become a problem as the book develops.
I admire anyone who creates a whole fantasty world with magic - it is not an easy beast. Even Sanderson talks about the struggles with this. Schofield's magical system does allow for some imaginative ways to move out of close third person pov to expand its scope, which is very clever.
Another aspect that works is it's grounding in a moralistic system - in many ways it feels influenced from a strong spiritual stance even possibly the many worlds and training grounds of spiritualism. There is emphasis on healing, will, permission and boundaries. At times the concentration on all the levels and who was what level did feel over emphasised but it is also the bones of the system and it does allow a lot of intricacy in description.
So, in conclusion, this is a slow burn early modern fantasy book with a charming naivety which showcases Schofield obvious writing talent and the hours she has dedicated to her craft, much like Lia. Definitely one to read, three stars in my reviewing is still a solid read.
March 21, 2026
I really enjoyed this from start to finish. The writing is vivid and descriptive, bringing both the characters and settings to life in a way that makes them feel immediate and real. The magic system is a particular highlight—it sits in a really satisfying middle ground. It has enough structure and detail to matter to the plot, without becoming so rigid or over-explained that it loses its sense of wonder.
The characters also feel thoughtfully developed, with believable motivations and emotions that drive the story forward. Nothing feels forced, and I could imagine them all existing in the real world- although without the ability to do magic!!
Overall, it’s an engaging and well-crafted read that balances imagination with clarity. Definitely one I’d recommend!
The characters also feel thoughtfully developed, with believable motivations and emotions that drive the story forward. Nothing feels forced, and I could imagine them all existing in the real world- although without the ability to do magic!!
Overall, it’s an engaging and well-crafted read that balances imagination with clarity. Definitely one I’d recommend!
July 15, 2026
The Nature of Shadow is a quietly powerful high‑fantasy novel that draws you in with its atmosphere, its emotional depth, and its thoughtful exploration of what it means to carry darkness within you. Emma R. Schofield builds a world that feels ancient and sacred, yet warmly lived‑in — a place where myth, magic, and human vulnerability intertwine.
Lia is a compelling protagonist from the start. Her power is immense, frightening even, but her struggles are deeply human: fear of rejection, longing for belonging, and the constant tension between who she is and who she must pretend to be. Anhame — the Hall under the six‑point star — is the perfect setting for this kind of story. It’s both sanctuary and crucible, a place where every lesson, every trial, and every oath carries weight.
The novel’s strength lies in its atmosphere and character work. Schofield doesn’t rely on relentless action; instead, she lets tension build through secrets, quiet moments, and the looming question of what will happen if Lia’s true nature is discovered. The Masters, the trials, the whispered dangers — all of it creates a sense of slow‑burn suspense that fits beautifully with the book’s literary tone.
Fantasy readers who love dragons, sword bearers, and mythic resonance will find plenty to enjoy, but what sets this book apart is its emotional intelligence. It’s a story about power, identity, and the fear of being cast out of the one place that finally feels like home.
Elegant, immersive, and rich in world‑building, The Nature of Shadow is a promising start to a five‑book series — one that feels destined to grow deeper and more magical with each instalment.
with thanks to Emma R Schofield, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Lia is a compelling protagonist from the start. Her power is immense, frightening even, but her struggles are deeply human: fear of rejection, longing for belonging, and the constant tension between who she is and who she must pretend to be. Anhame — the Hall under the six‑point star — is the perfect setting for this kind of story. It’s both sanctuary and crucible, a place where every lesson, every trial, and every oath carries weight.
The novel’s strength lies in its atmosphere and character work. Schofield doesn’t rely on relentless action; instead, she lets tension build through secrets, quiet moments, and the looming question of what will happen if Lia’s true nature is discovered. The Masters, the trials, the whispered dangers — all of it creates a sense of slow‑burn suspense that fits beautifully with the book’s literary tone.
Fantasy readers who love dragons, sword bearers, and mythic resonance will find plenty to enjoy, but what sets this book apart is its emotional intelligence. It’s a story about power, identity, and the fear of being cast out of the one place that finally feels like home.
Elegant, immersive, and rich in world‑building, The Nature of Shadow is a promising start to a five‑book series — one that feels destined to grow deeper and more magical with each instalment.
with thanks to Emma R Schofield, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
April 16, 2026
The Nature of Shadow by Emma R. Schofield is a quiet, atmospheric fantasy that leans into introspection, emotional tension, and the blurred boundaries between light, identity, and inner darkness.
With limited external plot detail available, the novel presents itself as a character-centered work where thematic depth and psychological exploration take priority over large-scale spectacle. Schofield appears to construct a narrative grounded in mood and emotional transformation, using shadow as both a literal and metaphorical device to explore what is hidden, repressed, or unresolved within her characters.
The pacing suggests a reflective structure, one that likely favors gradual revelation and layered symbolism rather than rapid escalation. This approach typically appeals to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy that prioritizes atmosphere, introspection, and emotional payoff over constant external conflict.
At its core, the book seems to engage with questions of self-perception and duality, using fantasy elements to externalize internal struggle. The “shadow” motif implies a sustained focus on the parts of the self that are difficult to confront, and how those aspects shape choices, relationships, and growth.
While not much public reception detail is available yet, The Nature of Shadow positions itself within the tradition of literary leaning fantasy that values tone, psychological nuance, and thematic cohesion.
With limited external plot detail available, the novel presents itself as a character-centered work where thematic depth and psychological exploration take priority over large-scale spectacle. Schofield appears to construct a narrative grounded in mood and emotional transformation, using shadow as both a literal and metaphorical device to explore what is hidden, repressed, or unresolved within her characters.
The pacing suggests a reflective structure, one that likely favors gradual revelation and layered symbolism rather than rapid escalation. This approach typically appeals to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy that prioritizes atmosphere, introspection, and emotional payoff over constant external conflict.
At its core, the book seems to engage with questions of self-perception and duality, using fantasy elements to externalize internal struggle. The “shadow” motif implies a sustained focus on the parts of the self that are difficult to confront, and how those aspects shape choices, relationships, and growth.
While not much public reception detail is available yet, The Nature of Shadow positions itself within the tradition of literary leaning fantasy that values tone, psychological nuance, and thematic cohesion.
July 28, 2026
I love a good book that I can't put down and by the end of this book I was desperate to keep reading but alas I need to wait for book 2 which is out soon. I did find it took me a while to get used to the alternative world it's set in and the terms used but I kept reading and then got engrossed in the story. It's a complex world that Emma has invented but she has provided a detailed description of Anhame and the characters so I now I can see her some of her world in my mind. The first chapter of the next book was included at the end of the book and the start of the next book is a good one. Fortunately I don't need too wait long to read the next book and I will definitely be buying a copy
July 29, 2026
Thank you to Cameron Publicity and Marketing LTD and Netgalley for the ARC. Lia, who is "anar"-one with higher senses such as sight, speech, and healing- goes to Anhame with others to study their craft. Some "anar" only have one to two senses. Having all five is rare. Lia senses a shadow within her which she feels she needs to keep secret. She is afraid she has evil inside her. This is a coming of age story for Lia to find her true self. Cons of this book is the glossary and the fact that there was ample opportunity for Lia to be misguided instead of taught. The storyline was not propulsive. I probably won't read the rest of the series.
May 1, 2026
Like all great fantasy tales, the Nature of Shadow adeptly captures the profound human essence of its characters. Lia’s world of Anhame and her encounters are beautifully imagined and richly woven. The dialogue between the characters is excellent and all characters are convincingly drawn. I love this book and can’t wait for the next instalment.
March 10, 2026
I loved the beautiful, terrible, fantastical new world, and I want to know more about it
May 27, 2026
Really enjoyed this. Not usually a fantasy reader but felt enveloped by this story and the world that was built.
Very excited to read the next instalment and return to Anhame!
Very excited to read the next instalment and return to Anhame!
July 5, 2026
What a rich and emotive new world, with lots of original fantasy storytelling elements. This is a great book for young (and older!) readers. I look forward to reading the next instalment.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews