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A Reign of Chromes & Shadows: A Prismatic Kingdom Saga
A prince. A weapon. A prophecy.
Rain Royale is an empathic Aetherial—able to feel, wield, and weaponise emotion itself.
Feared by many and controlled by a cruel king, he has become a tool of war in a realm divided by colour and conflict.
But Rain is done being used.
As alliances shatter and ancient forces awaken, he is drawn into a deadly game of power, prophecy, and forbidden love.
Meanwhile, whispers of a lost prismatic force threaten to upend everything the kingdoms were built upon.
And at the centre of it all lies a truth written in his blood—
Rain was never meant to serve.
He was born for something greater… something that could unite the fractured realm—or destroy it entirely.
With the world on the brink of annihilation, Rain must
Remain the weapon… or rise as the king he was destined to become.
Set in a fractured realm of eight kingdoms, each aligned to different coloured Aetherchrome (magical source crystals) in a world of aetherials and mortals. This story follows Prince Rain Royale, an empathic aetherial prince and multi gifted heir of the Blue kingdom, as he navigates political intrigue, war, forbidden love and the burden of prophecy. Rain struggles through complex relationships and trauma as ancient magic resurfaces and political tensions escalate. Alongside his twin sister, Snow, he must navigate prophecy, war, and complicated love to uncover the truth behind a thousand‑year‑old curse.
Notable elements- LGBTQ representation. Mental Trauma, PTSD and the struggle for self-acceptance. Unique and rich magical system.
The interplay of Aetherchrome, bloodlines and unique powers is intricately woven into the plot. Political and social, critiques Authoritarianism, propaganda, and the consequences of generational trauma.
Rain Royale is an empathic Aetherial—able to feel, wield, and weaponise emotion itself.
Feared by many and controlled by a cruel king, he has become a tool of war in a realm divided by colour and conflict.
But Rain is done being used.
As alliances shatter and ancient forces awaken, he is drawn into a deadly game of power, prophecy, and forbidden love.
Meanwhile, whispers of a lost prismatic force threaten to upend everything the kingdoms were built upon.
And at the centre of it all lies a truth written in his blood—
Rain was never meant to serve.
He was born for something greater… something that could unite the fractured realm—or destroy it entirely.
With the world on the brink of annihilation, Rain must
Remain the weapon… or rise as the king he was destined to become.
Set in a fractured realm of eight kingdoms, each aligned to different coloured Aetherchrome (magical source crystals) in a world of aetherials and mortals. This story follows Prince Rain Royale, an empathic aetherial prince and multi gifted heir of the Blue kingdom, as he navigates political intrigue, war, forbidden love and the burden of prophecy. Rain struggles through complex relationships and trauma as ancient magic resurfaces and political tensions escalate. Alongside his twin sister, Snow, he must navigate prophecy, war, and complicated love to uncover the truth behind a thousand‑year‑old curse.
Notable elements- LGBTQ representation. Mental Trauma, PTSD and the struggle for self-acceptance. Unique and rich magical system.
The interplay of Aetherchrome, bloodlines and unique powers is intricately woven into the plot. Political and social, critiques Authoritarianism, propaganda, and the consequences of generational trauma.
634 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 21, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 Stars
What a fantastic read! I genuinely cannot believe A Reign of Chromes and Shadows is L. Ravenstone’s debut novel. If this is the standard she’s setting from the very beginning, then we absolutely need more from this author!
Going into a debut can sometimes feel like stepping into the unknown, and while this book does contain some spice, it’s so much more than a typical romantasy. Throughout the entire story, I found myself getting strong epic fantasy vibes, and I was absolutely loving every minute of it.
For me, world-building is one of the most important aspects of fantasy, and Ravenstone has done an incredible job crafting a rich and immersive setting. The level of detail won’t be for everyone, but for readers who truly love sinking into a fully developed fantasy world, this book is a real treat. The lore, history, and atmosphere all felt carefully constructed and added so much depth to the story.
The character development was equally impressive. Watching Rain’s journey unfold was one of my favourite parts of the book. We grow alongside him as he navigates a world filled with unknown dangers, ancient prophecies, and challenges that force him to mature and evolve in believable ways.
This is a lengthy book - as many fantasy novels are - but not once did I find myself bored or struggling to stay engaged. Every chapter kept me invested, eager to discover what would happen next.
A huge congratulations to L. Ravenstone on such a strong debut. I can’t wait to see what comes next, and I wish her every success for release day! 🎉📚
What a fantastic read! I genuinely cannot believe A Reign of Chromes and Shadows is L. Ravenstone’s debut novel. If this is the standard she’s setting from the very beginning, then we absolutely need more from this author!
Going into a debut can sometimes feel like stepping into the unknown, and while this book does contain some spice, it’s so much more than a typical romantasy. Throughout the entire story, I found myself getting strong epic fantasy vibes, and I was absolutely loving every minute of it.
For me, world-building is one of the most important aspects of fantasy, and Ravenstone has done an incredible job crafting a rich and immersive setting. The level of detail won’t be for everyone, but for readers who truly love sinking into a fully developed fantasy world, this book is a real treat. The lore, history, and atmosphere all felt carefully constructed and added so much depth to the story.
The character development was equally impressive. Watching Rain’s journey unfold was one of my favourite parts of the book. We grow alongside him as he navigates a world filled with unknown dangers, ancient prophecies, and challenges that force him to mature and evolve in believable ways.
This is a lengthy book - as many fantasy novels are - but not once did I find myself bored or struggling to stay engaged. Every chapter kept me invested, eager to discover what would happen next.
A huge congratulations to L. Ravenstone on such a strong debut. I can’t wait to see what comes next, and I wish her every success for release day! 🎉📚
June 30, 2026
I received an ARC of this book. Here is my honest review:
I don’t know where to start. I was really excited to read this book, but it wasn’t my cup of tea.
From the first page, the world building was really overwhelming. I feel like the colourful kingdoms were on the page, but the point of them was never explained? Why did the colours exist? What was the point?
Then also there was a random competition that Rain and friends were competing for, and that felt completely out of place and irrelevant. The competition never seemed to have any purpose within the overall character arc.
The worldbuilding was a LOT and the plot felt a little all over the place.
Rain’s magic was really cool, but I wish we knew more about where his powers come from. He’s very powerful, but I just couldn’t figure out why.
Also Rain’s character wasn’t likeable in my opinion.
If you like a lot of world building in your fantasy, this book is probably for you—it just wasn’t for me.
I don’t know where to start. I was really excited to read this book, but it wasn’t my cup of tea.
From the first page, the world building was really overwhelming. I feel like the colourful kingdoms were on the page, but the point of them was never explained? Why did the colours exist? What was the point?
Then also there was a random competition that Rain and friends were competing for, and that felt completely out of place and irrelevant. The competition never seemed to have any purpose within the overall character arc.
The worldbuilding was a LOT and the plot felt a little all over the place.
Rain’s magic was really cool, but I wish we knew more about where his powers come from. He’s very powerful, but I just couldn’t figure out why.
Also Rain’s character wasn’t likeable in my opinion.
If you like a lot of world building in your fantasy, this book is probably for you—it just wasn’t for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shut the front door... this book ya'll...
A Reign of Chromes and Shadows by L. Ravenstone follows the tale of Rain, a prince of the Blue Kingdom, and his losses and loves as he goes from being a weapon used by others, to discovering his powers as the hrow through friendships, heartbreak, and growth. This world is separated into color territories, all fighting and forming alliances for power. It's citizens are comprised of Aetherials, people who have the power to wield magic, and mortals. But an ancient prophecy looms to life. Is there someone who can unite the kingdoms?
This story entraps you from the start. It was written in such a beautifully descriptive way. Each person, even side characters, detailed so that you feel like you know them, can envision exactly how they are, what they look and sound like. Each kingdom and landscape so meticulously described that you feel the sand in your teeth in the desert, the smoke in the forest, the tension along borders.
As you read, you chase breadcrumbs, knowing that certain things and people mentioned, even those quickly in passing, will be key as this tale unfolds. It adds mystery and intrigue, making you want to delve in all the more. And the ending... gods alive I need the next book ASAP!
"The harbinger of death. The cursed heir."
I love that Rain has done horrific things when he's lost control. But that he works to make sure they don't define him. That through his failures he has been able to grow and learn. That he is able to help others struggling because of it. There's also humor mixed in with all the other emotions. Truly funny moments, the kind that get you through the tough ones.
Faith is major in this story. Faith in yourself, faith in others, and faith in goodness overcoming evil.
This a 5☆ read that you didn't know you needed in life until it magically pulls you in. It knocked 2 books down in my top 5 books of 2026. I want to thank the author for allowing me to be an early part of this fantastical story's journey. You have a follower and fan for life!
A Reign of Chromes and Shadows by L. Ravenstone follows the tale of Rain, a prince of the Blue Kingdom, and his losses and loves as he goes from being a weapon used by others, to discovering his powers as the hrow through friendships, heartbreak, and growth. This world is separated into color territories, all fighting and forming alliances for power. It's citizens are comprised of Aetherials, people who have the power to wield magic, and mortals. But an ancient prophecy looms to life. Is there someone who can unite the kingdoms?
This story entraps you from the start. It was written in such a beautifully descriptive way. Each person, even side characters, detailed so that you feel like you know them, can envision exactly how they are, what they look and sound like. Each kingdom and landscape so meticulously described that you feel the sand in your teeth in the desert, the smoke in the forest, the tension along borders.
As you read, you chase breadcrumbs, knowing that certain things and people mentioned, even those quickly in passing, will be key as this tale unfolds. It adds mystery and intrigue, making you want to delve in all the more. And the ending... gods alive I need the next book ASAP!
"The harbinger of death. The cursed heir."
I love that Rain has done horrific things when he's lost control. But that he works to make sure they don't define him. That through his failures he has been able to grow and learn. That he is able to help others struggling because of it. There's also humor mixed in with all the other emotions. Truly funny moments, the kind that get you through the tough ones.
Faith is major in this story. Faith in yourself, faith in others, and faith in goodness overcoming evil.
This a 5☆ read that you didn't know you needed in life until it magically pulls you in. It knocked 2 books down in my top 5 books of 2026. I want to thank the author for allowing me to be an early part of this fantastical story's journey. You have a follower and fan for life!
July 3, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
firstly i would like to thank lucy for allowing me to read this arc— i am honored to be on the team! 🙂↕️
what a captivating read with such wonderful characters! the found family in this was to die for. i love rain— he is so broken and strong at the same time, copes with things poorly but aware of it, hurts people (which is the last thing he ever wants to do) and then makes up for it in his own ways. he is such an interesting main character, this book definitely reminds me of A Darker Shade of Magic! definitely more epic fantasy with a romantic SUBPLOT (no because even though there is romance involved, we have gotten no where). i loved snow, STORM, rain has so many supporters/people in his corner, and i am so so excited to meet candy and see what she’s all about! giving rain a run for his money 🥰
i think the reason this wasn’t rated higher for me was because i do typically enjoy more romantasy type stories, it was very well done but i would’ve liked to see more intention romantic connections— rain is the type to sleep around quite a lot and that wasn’t my cup of tea unfortunately. i also would’ve liked a little bit more explanation of magic and questioning on rain’s part, i feel as though he didn’t hesitate to believe the visions he was seeing, and truly believed he was the “rainbow king” based off of little information until the end where everything started to come together more.
this is great for lovers of epic/high fantasy, people who enjoy books with more plot focused& minimal romantic connections! i still very much enjoyed this story and the characters were awesome, just not my usual preference for fantasy 🥰.
firstly i would like to thank lucy for allowing me to read this arc— i am honored to be on the team! 🙂↕️
what a captivating read with such wonderful characters! the found family in this was to die for. i love rain— he is so broken and strong at the same time, copes with things poorly but aware of it, hurts people (which is the last thing he ever wants to do) and then makes up for it in his own ways. he is such an interesting main character, this book definitely reminds me of A Darker Shade of Magic! definitely more epic fantasy with a romantic SUBPLOT (no because even though there is romance involved, we have gotten no where). i loved snow, STORM, rain has so many supporters/people in his corner, and i am so so excited to meet candy and see what she’s all about! giving rain a run for his money 🥰
i think the reason this wasn’t rated higher for me was because i do typically enjoy more romantasy type stories, it was very well done but i would’ve liked to see more intention romantic connections— rain is the type to sleep around quite a lot and that wasn’t my cup of tea unfortunately. i also would’ve liked a little bit more explanation of magic and questioning on rain’s part, i feel as though he didn’t hesitate to believe the visions he was seeing, and truly believed he was the “rainbow king” based off of little information until the end where everything started to come together more.
this is great for lovers of epic/high fantasy, people who enjoy books with more plot focused& minimal romantic connections! i still very much enjoyed this story and the characters were awesome, just not my usual preference for fantasy 🥰.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for my ARC copy for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5
Firstly .... THAT ENDING!!!! 🤯 I NEED BOOK 2!!!!
Now my review ....
This was a brilliant, immersive debut novel. The world building is unique and intricate. You quickly get to know the MMC Rain within the first chapter and you see him grow into a formidable character trying to keep many plates spinning including his personal relationships, bringing the fractured kingdoms back together .. oh and also winning the parkour competition with his new team mates. This particular storyline was great as it showed Rain as someone who wanted some kind of 'normal' life outside the Royalty and also wanting/needing friends who saw him for him and not the Prince of the Blue Kingdom.
This is a long debut fantasy novel but it sucks you in. Not once did i get bored or find it a chore to pick up. I wanted to know the different kingdoms dynamics ... who had beef with who! and seeing the development of Rain from being the morally gray Blue Prince to something much more!
The ending has left me itching for Book 2 so I'm imploring L. Ravenstone to hurry and get writing the second book of The Primsmatic Saga!!!
This is definitely a recommendation for the epic fantasy readers!!!!
Rating: 4.5
Firstly .... THAT ENDING!!!! 🤯 I NEED BOOK 2!!!!
Now my review ....
This was a brilliant, immersive debut novel. The world building is unique and intricate. You quickly get to know the MMC Rain within the first chapter and you see him grow into a formidable character trying to keep many plates spinning including his personal relationships, bringing the fractured kingdoms back together .. oh and also winning the parkour competition with his new team mates. This particular storyline was great as it showed Rain as someone who wanted some kind of 'normal' life outside the Royalty and also wanting/needing friends who saw him for him and not the Prince of the Blue Kingdom.
This is a long debut fantasy novel but it sucks you in. Not once did i get bored or find it a chore to pick up. I wanted to know the different kingdoms dynamics ... who had beef with who! and seeing the development of Rain from being the morally gray Blue Prince to something much more!
The ending has left me itching for Book 2 so I'm imploring L. Ravenstone to hurry and get writing the second book of The Primsmatic Saga!!!
This is definitely a recommendation for the epic fantasy readers!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“A Reign of Chrome & Shadows swept me into a richly imagined world of colour, magic, prophecy and power, but what surprised me most was its heart.
Rain is not your typical fantasy hero. His ability to feel emotion as deeply as he wields it makes him vulnerable, relatable and utterly compelling. I found myself rooting for him from the very first pages.
The world-building is intricate and ambitious, with gods, kingdoms and ancient forces woven throughout, yet at its core this story is about identity, belonging and finding the courage to become who you were always meant to be.
One of my favourite moments was discovering a meditation chamber filled with crystals, aromatics and calming rituals. It genuinely felt as though someone had smuggled a chakra alignment session into an epic fantasy novel, and somehow it worked beautifully within the story’s magical landscape.
The writing is immersive, the characters memorable, and the emotional depth gives this fantasy adventure a unique soul. By the final page I wasn’t just invested in the fate of the realm, I was invested in the people who inhabited it.
As a reader, I was captivated. As a mother, I was incredibly proud.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 20, 2026Thank you to the author for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I sadly DNFed the book at 50% as I realised this book is not my cup of tea. The premise is very interesting what with the idea of kingdoms separated by colours and an age old prophecy involving the royal lines as well as having an atypical MMC.
Although I don’t mind spice in a book especially if it propels the plot, I personally felt like there were too many ‘filler’ spice scenes that had no effect on the actual plot.
The writing is easy to read but it also confused me how the MMC was written to be an unfortunate victim of his father’s manipulation who did not / could not go against his father to almost an overnight change in his character where he is overpowered and decides to defy his father.
It is quite evident that the author has a big plan for the world that she has created however the way it was presented did feel rather overwhelming than a slow discovery for the reader.
Saying all this, I believe that although not to my personal taste the book will cater to those who enjoy romantasies with a lot of spice.
I sadly DNFed the book at 50% as I realised this book is not my cup of tea. The premise is very interesting what with the idea of kingdoms separated by colours and an age old prophecy involving the royal lines as well as having an atypical MMC.
Although I don’t mind spice in a book especially if it propels the plot, I personally felt like there were too many ‘filler’ spice scenes that had no effect on the actual plot.
The writing is easy to read but it also confused me how the MMC was written to be an unfortunate victim of his father’s manipulation who did not / could not go against his father to almost an overnight change in his character where he is overpowered and decides to defy his father.
It is quite evident that the author has a big plan for the world that she has created however the way it was presented did feel rather overwhelming than a slow discovery for the reader.
Saying all this, I believe that although not to my personal taste the book will cater to those who enjoy romantasies with a lot of spice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
A Reign of Chromes and Shadows is Book 1 in the Prismatic Kingdom Saga by @l.ravenstoneauthor. It’s spicy, funny, wholly engaging with a killer ending that had me shouting so loudly I scared the dog. The MMC Rain is an empathic aetherial able to absorb and weaponise others emotions and controlled by a cruel king. His complex character means he loves the danger and power of his abilities but also hates what he can wield and how isolated he can feel because of it.
He’s vulnerable yet powerful, wanting to build connections and friends away from the palace walls. His weakness and Achilles heel is the adorable Jay who he wants to protect at all costs.
Fiercely loyal and yet also incredibly private and self sacrificing his balance is his twin sister Snow - just as powerful and dangerous when pushed to protect Rain.
Together they discover prophecies about their future that drives them to forge ahead a future that may mean taking on the entire kingdoms. A brilliant debut that has me begging to know when book 2 will be released.
He’s vulnerable yet powerful, wanting to build connections and friends away from the palace walls. His weakness and Achilles heel is the adorable Jay who he wants to protect at all costs.
Fiercely loyal and yet also incredibly private and self sacrificing his balance is his twin sister Snow - just as powerful and dangerous when pushed to protect Rain.
Together they discover prophecies about their future that drives them to forge ahead a future that may mean taking on the entire kingdoms. A brilliant debut that has me begging to know when book 2 will be released.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Reign of Chromes & Shadows
Wow, what an epic debut novel from L. Ravenstone. Is it long? Yes. Is it good? Definately yes.
We meet our MMC, Rain, a prince from the Blue Kingdom as he forges his own path forward, tired of being used as a weapon for others, through new friendships and personal growth.
Like all good adventures, we have an ancient phrophecy that alludes to a single person who can unite the shattered kingdom. You, along with our hero, follow the smallest of clues to work out what is about to happen. Each and every character you meet holds a clue be it small or large, hidden or obvious.
The world building is so complex and as we journey with Rain through a world that has hidden dangers, obstacles and challenges that help him discover his true self. The ending leaves you begging for the next book. A solid 4 star read.
Wow, what an epic debut novel from L. Ravenstone. Is it long? Yes. Is it good? Definately yes.
We meet our MMC, Rain, a prince from the Blue Kingdom as he forges his own path forward, tired of being used as a weapon for others, through new friendships and personal growth.
Like all good adventures, we have an ancient phrophecy that alludes to a single person who can unite the shattered kingdom. You, along with our hero, follow the smallest of clues to work out what is about to happen. Each and every character you meet holds a clue be it small or large, hidden or obvious.
The world building is so complex and as we journey with Rain through a world that has hidden dangers, obstacles and challenges that help him discover his true self. The ending leaves you begging for the next book. A solid 4 star read.
July 17, 2026
Wow - 5 ⭐
I struggled to put into words how much I adored this book!
I feel so privileged to have read this as an arc! Honestly this book feels like a bigger series and it’s up there as one of the best romantasy series I have read!!
The world building was so well done, it felt deep and complex and something that could be build upon for many more books.
Rain Rain Rain!
I adore this man 😭 he has such a complex personality, naturally due to his powers (by this way the power concept is something I have never read before!)
His relationship with Jay broke me! The final few chapters!!!! The yearning! The way they adore each other 😭😭
I need book 2 immediately! I need to know what happens next!
I also hope to see Snow come into her own and really kick ass!!
I struggled to put into words how much I adored this book!
I feel so privileged to have read this as an arc! Honestly this book feels like a bigger series and it’s up there as one of the best romantasy series I have read!!
The world building was so well done, it felt deep and complex and something that could be build upon for many more books.
Rain Rain Rain!
I adore this man 😭 he has such a complex personality, naturally due to his powers (by this way the power concept is something I have never read before!)
His relationship with Jay broke me! The final few chapters!!!! The yearning! The way they adore each other 😭😭
I need book 2 immediately! I need to know what happens next!
I also hope to see Snow come into her own and really kick ass!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you L. Ravenstone for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team for A Reign of Chromes and Shadows.
This is an interesting story with multiple kingdom which are split between powers and non powers, but with a modern aspect to it.
It's mainly follows the story of two kingdoms, with a hint of alliances with other kingdoms mentioned.
Can't wait to see show the next book in the series goes and hopefully we get to see more of the other kingdoms that have only been mentioned.
This needs to be on the TBR lists of fans of kingdom rivalries and fans of powers ruling over normal people.
This is an interesting story with multiple kingdom which are split between powers and non powers, but with a modern aspect to it.
It's mainly follows the story of two kingdoms, with a hint of alliances with other kingdoms mentioned.
Can't wait to see show the next book in the series goes and hopefully we get to see more of the other kingdoms that have only been mentioned.
This needs to be on the TBR lists of fans of kingdom rivalries and fans of powers ruling over normal people.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh this was a fun read! So many magic systems. The world building is incredible with its 8 different kingdoms (with color territories), hybrid race, and magical realm. There's even a hidden kingdom/lineage.It brought me to a whole other world I've never been in. Rain is unapologetically himself and part of the lgbtq representation and even has a twin! Out of the many characters we meet I think the sisters were a fav. Something new Ive never seen and appreciate is the possible tw under the heading of certain chapters. I do still have some questions and curious about the next book.
July 2, 2026
I loved the magic in this! It was so fun to read. The world building is immense and detailed. We follow Rain from blue kingdom , on his journey of trails and growth. Each character we meet along the way holds a clue. The writing is very descriptive and beautifully written. While it is a long book it never feels that way. The pages just keep turning. I laughed out loud so many times. And that ending….when is book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to read the ARC of this book, and I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed the writing style, and the world building and character development was strong. I am completely intrigued by the magic system. As a book 1 in a series, I was left wanting more. I can’t wait for book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A solid 3.75 🌟
Review to come
Review to come
July 8, 2026
This took me a bit to get into as most fantasy books do and when this grabbed a hold, I was hooked. And the ending!! Oh my god.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Reign of Chromes and Shadows has an interesting premise with kingdoms divided by power, an ambitious magic system, and plenty of political intrigue. Unfortunately, I had a hard time fully connecting with the story. The detailed world-building and the amount of information early on made it difficult for me to stay engaged.
I did enjoy Rain as a character and appreciated the creativity behind the world the author created. While this one wasn’t the right fit for my reading preferences, I can definitely see fans of epic fantasy and detailed world-building enjoying it. I’m sure many readers will connect with this story more than I did.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews