Scan barcode
A review by stephdaydreams
In the Shadow of a Wish by Maci Aurora
4.0
This was a surprise gem of a read, and not quite what I expected-- in a good way.
This an adult fantasy romance, with a heavy dose of smut.
It was all well written and crafted.
The concept felt original, and it's what brought me to the book and kept me engaged from start to finish.
Auri and Nix were equally intriguing, complex, and likable protagonists. Words matter, and I found myself holding my breath as they tried to find the right ones to ensure the best outcome for each wish.
While there is closure in one facet of the story, there is still much left to be told, and the ending had me brimming with anticipation as to what that story may be-- and who will lead it.
While I very much enjoyed this story, at times I felt its own potential was being held back. I would have liked more-- I'm not sure how to explain what that 'more' is, but there was something in the narrative that felt a bit lacking but also felt it was right there to bring more life to the page, if only it could be unlocked. The potential captivated me regardless. Although there is a very good reason for it, I wish the romance between Auri and Nix was a bit more slow burn. It took me a bit longer to genuinely care about the romance because I am not a big fan of instant love/lust/connection. Nevertheless, this content brought Auri into exploring her sexuality for a large part of the story in a way that was very empowering and overall positive, which I absolutely enjoyed reading.
I am grateful the book begins with a page concerning trigger warnings. Please do not skim over the warnings, and be sure to heed them if you do not think you will be comfortable with the content. There were moments that did make me uncomfortable, in how Auri's agency was taken away from here due to the obligation of wishes. But Aurora takes great care in writing these topics, always ensuring Auri's agency is returned to her, and always empowers her.
Thank you NetGalley and Mixed Plate Press for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This an adult fantasy romance, with a heavy dose of smut.
It was all well written and crafted.
The concept felt original, and it's what brought me to the book and kept me engaged from start to finish.
Auri and Nix were equally intriguing, complex, and likable protagonists. Words matter, and I found myself holding my breath as they tried to find the right ones to ensure the best outcome for each wish.
While there is closure in one facet of the story, there is still much left to be told, and the ending had me brimming with anticipation as to what that story may be-- and who will lead it.
While I very much enjoyed this story, at times I felt its own potential was being held back. I would have liked more-- I'm not sure how to explain what that 'more' is, but there was something in the narrative that felt a bit lacking but also felt it was right there to bring more life to the page, if only it could be unlocked. The potential captivated me regardless. Although there is a very good reason for it, I wish the romance between Auri and Nix was a bit more slow burn. It took me a bit longer to genuinely care about the romance because I am not a big fan of instant love/lust/connection. Nevertheless, this content brought Auri into exploring her sexuality for a large part of the story in a way that was very empowering and overall positive, which I absolutely enjoyed reading.
I am grateful the book begins with a page concerning trigger warnings. Please do not skim over the warnings, and be sure to heed them if you do not think you will be comfortable with the content. There were moments that did make me uncomfortable, in how Auri's agency was taken away from here due to the obligation of wishes. But Aurora takes great care in writing these topics, always ensuring Auri's agency is returned to her, and always empowers her.
Thank you NetGalley and Mixed Plate Press for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review.