Cover Image: Of Light and Shadow

Of Light and Shadow

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Member Reviews

I’ve always wanted to read Tanaz Bhathena’s work, but didn’t want to commit to a series. I’m not patient enough to invest time in them, but when I noticed she had a book available, I jumped at the chance to get it. And devour I did. If you’ve been following me on social media, you know I have had a hard time reading fantasy lately, yet I read this cover to cover in two working days.

This is a YA high fantasy book inspired by medieval Indian badlands. It features Roshan Chaya, a leader of farmers-turned-bandits, and Prince Navin, a royal born in scandalous circumstances. When Roshan’s gang captures Navin during a raid, they hope to exchange it to get their ancestral lands back. As they fight for their right against the corrupt government, the growing sense of attraction and affection between the prince and the leader complicates things.

As an own voices reader, it’s always exciting to discover a promising book that draws from my culture. What’s better, is a book that doesn’t function as a tour guide to global audiences, and unapologetically uses honorifics and other phrases that make the experience immersive, and that’s just what this book does. The author uses Indian and Persian influences to give the world a familiar and lived-in feel, but not in a way that would be daunting to new readers of South Asian inspired fiction.

The pacing is quite on point, and the alternating chapters told from both the characters’ perspectives complement each other well as Navin discovers there’s more to the administration of the kingdom than he thought, and his experiences are pitted against the grit and determination of his clan. Roshan’s situation has her grasping for power and feeling certain that her authority would never be accepted, and it’s interesting to see the dynamics between her and different members of the clan.

We all know how the enemies-to-lovers story goes, and I am of the opinion that though it brings nothing revolutionary to the genre, it does what it sets out to, well. Young adult books that have opposites attracting and influencing each other to converge in the middle are ten-a-penny, and this book does stumble and get quite predictable at times, and might not be the most original thing you’ve read if you frequently read the genre. But it is definitely worth a read.

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This book had potential, but it wasn’t reached. Something was missing or something was lacking. I don’t know what it was, but you could just know that something was missing. Like I enjoyed the characters in the mission that was going on, but something was missing. i don't know what.

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While I enjoyed this story, it could have been so much more having read and enjoyed other books by Tanaz Bhathena. The story was very much the "enemies to lovers" and lacked real character development and world building. The politics and governmental turmoil could have been build up more to elevate the romantic tension between the two protagonists.

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I absolutely adored this book!
The plot was intriguing and well-paced, the characters were well-developed and even though it's clear that the mcs were heading for an enemies to lovers romance, it was fun to read. I think the author did a great job with the worldbuilding as well, it was very immersive. A hit for me!

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Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book, as this book has already been published, I will not share my review on Netgalley at this time.

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Roshan is a bandit seeking justice for her people, farmers who are suffering due to the corruption of the current government. Prince Navin is the spare prince she captures in hopes of ransoming him for better treatment and what rightfully belongs to them.

I liked the story and enjoyed it, but it was a slow build. I often wondered where the story was leading and wanted to jump ahead to the exciting bits, which were mostly in the second half.

While Roshan might be featured on the cover, the story is more Navin's. Navin undergoes the most character growth as he lives among the bandits and begins to understand what they are fighting for. Through Roshan, Navin learns he isn't as useless as he thinks he is--he just needed someone to believe in him.

I recommend this for readers who enjoy bandits as protagonists and enemies-to-lovers. Some patience is required at the beginning. (3.5 stars)

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This story suffers from being far too much enemies to lovers and not nearly enough politically charged epic fantasy. So much of the first half is just Roshan and Navin either talking to each other or thinking about each other that the meat and bones of the story (ie the socioeconomic divide, corrupt governments, and a rapidly decaying landscape) are completely lost. There's little to no visual descriptions of the people, the villages, the ravines, the clothes - anything at all apart from Roshan's hair (though I did appreciate that she had acne and was still considered beautiful) and Navin's eyes. We don't understand how the magic works, we don't understand the true political landscape because we're told instead of shown (no wonder Navin is so dubious), and it's all so repetitive in this cycle of the two of them talking to each other over and over.

I wanted so badly to love it but frankly I grew bored very quickly...

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“Of Light and Shadow” is a novel by Tanaz Bhathena, the author of “Hunted by the Sky” and “The Beauty of the Moment”. The book is a standalone epic fantasy novel set in a magical world inspired by the badlands of 17th century India. The story follows Roshan Chaya, leader of the Shadow Clan, a gang of farmers-turned-bandits impoverished by the provincial governor’s atrocities and corruption. Roshan’s goal is to avenge her adoptive father and earn back rights and dignity for her people. Prince Navin, second in line for the throne, has always felt like an outcast. When he is captured by the infamous Shadow Clan, Navin schemes to befriend Roshan and use her as a means to escape. His ploy, however, brings Navin closer to the corruption and poverty at the heart of Roshan’s province, raising questions about its governor and Navin’s own family. As Roshan and Navin get closer, it becomes harder to fight their growing attraction. But how can they trust each other when the world as they know it starts to fall apart?

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Tanaz Bhathena is one of my automatic read authors. I love everything she writes; she has the power to transport me into any of the books she writes. So when I saw she was writing a book about a teenage bandit queen, I was already into the book. This standalone novel is based off of Persian and Zoroastrian mythology set in the lands of 17th century India. There is an enemies to lovers trope mixed with spice, family drama, betrayal, and magic.

The cover is gorgeous and does a great job of convincing the reader to pick up the book. The story was great and I was not expecting the big plot twist in the climax scene. What a great way to tie in everything together.

A great read for any high fantasy enthusiast!

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For me, this book was about how you find yourself, come to terms with your family and figure out your life's trajectory forward... Roshan had lost parents and been adopted only to lose that parent as well. Navrin had lost parents and been raised by his grandmother. Both knew loss and how they felt that they did not live up to other's expectations of them. They were from different walks of life but, when they came together, wonderful things started to happen. Roshan figured out how to be herself, make peace with a psychotic side of her birth family and how to be the best person to lead her chosen family. Navrin figured out that he was not as useless as others thought, connected with his father and younger sibling and helped changed the world as he knew it. The fact that the main characters ended up together was just a bonus. This book was well-written and kept me interested until the very end...now, I just need a sequel.

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This one has a lot of elements and tropes of YA fantasy we love. I think the story was predictable for the most part but that is not a bad thing if you enjoy anticipating the events in a book. I know I like it on tv lol. It was a decent book hopefully the next one is better.

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Roshan leads a group of bandits fighting for people oppressed by the regional governor. When her group comes upon an inebriated Prince Navin, they choose to kidnap him in the hopes of gaining the queen's attention.

I really enjoyed this. It's great to see a standalone fantasy book. The worldbuilding was interesting. Magic felt integrated into the world. The system of magic was cool, although I do wish it was expanded upon a bit. Different characters have different magical abilities: why? How? Each character felt distinct and had an interesting backstory. The plot was compelling and it was great seeing pieces click together. I did think it was a bit predictable at points and I called a few things ~100 pages early.

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This was an interesting and entertaining stand alone fantasy novel. I enjoyed the complex relationship Roshan has with her clan as their leader and her late Baba. I really loved the way the prince explained the aura colors and what emotion they correlate with. I understand its a stand alone novel but I feel lie Roshan fell for prince charming way too fast. Yeah his stories were sad but girl you and yours gotta steal to eat. Its not the same! I can't handle enemies to lovers where the "enemy" is rich. Gross! lol.

Overall this was very straight but it wasn't bad.

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Of Light and Shadow by Tanaz Bhathena is a new story set in the same world as Hunted by the Sky. You can read this book without reading The Wrath of Ambar duology. Admittedly, I have found myself reading less YA fantasy, but I enjoyed TWOA duology for Bhathena’s intricate world building and fast paced plot. The atmosphere of OLAS is different from TWOA.

Roshan and Navin come from two very different worlds. Roshan is a vigilante, while Navin is a prince. Roshan captures Navin, and they are interlocked in a power struggle for the majority of the book. Roshan and her family of vigilantes do not know why the land is facing a blight. I like that OLAS connects Roshan and Navin’s personal struggles with the struggles of the world around them; this book feels much more contained than TWOA duology – again, this is what makes it different.

Unfortunately, I did find myself lost while reading OLAS because I did not really comprehend the number of characters within this world. I also did not really understand the magic system, so I think I need to re-read this. Fortunately, Roshan and Navin are engaging characters who I wanted to learn more about. Roshan originally wanted to be a healer when she was younger, but when her parents were killed, she was adopted by vigilantes. Navin struggles with his relationships with his family. He can manipulate emotions. Both characters end up admiring each other but they do not fully trust each other or themselves.

While I enjoyed TWOA, I think I felt my mind wandering off too much for me to truly enjoy OLAS. I also read it over the course of 5 months, so I found myself picking up OLAS and not remembering what happened in the previous chapters. While Roshan and Navin are both interesting, I did not feel as attached to them as I did to Gul and Cavas in TWOA duology. I also liked the dynamic of Gul and Cavas more because of their relationship as friends first. If you are looking to get into the universe of HBTS, I would recommend reading OLAS as it is a standalone. I think this book can appeal to people who enjoy reading about adventure novels and are looking for a fast paced fantasy about the importance of recognizing that people are more than what society has stereotyped them as.

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"Of Light and Shadow" is an absolute gem that shines with humor, adventure, and a sprinkle of romance. Tanaz Bhathena has crafted a captivating story that will have readers hooked from the first page to the last.

The dynamic duo of Roshan and Navin steals the show with their hilarious banter and unlikely camaraderie. Roshan, the fierce bandit leader with a heart of gold, and Navin, the charming misfit prince, bring an irresistible charm to the story. Their unexpected journey, filled with mishaps and mischief, had me in stitches, eagerly turning the pages to see what comedic escapades they would find themselves in next.

Bhathena's writing is a joy to behold, blending whimsy and wit seamlessly. The world she has created, inspired by 17th century India, is a vibrant and magical backdrop that adds depth and richness to the narrative. From the vivid descriptions of the enchanting landscapes to the cleverly crafted political tensions, every aspect of this world feels alive and immersive.

While the book is undeniably humorous, it also delves into deeper themes of love, trust, and the power of friendship. As the characters navigate a crumbling world, their genuine and heartwarming connections bring warmth and emotional depth to the story. The blossoming romance between Roshan and Navin adds an extra layer of sweetness, making readers root for their happiness amidst the chaos.

"Of Light and Shadow" is a delightful journey that keeps you on your toes with its twists and turns, both in plot and in humor. Bhathena's ability to balance lighthearted moments with poignant ones is commendable, creating a well-rounded and satisfying reading experience. If you're looking for a book that will whisk you away to a world of laughter, adventure, and a touch of magic, then this is the perfect choice. Prepare to be enchanted!

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When I first started reading Of Light and Shadow by Tanaz Bathena, I honestly didn’t think I would like this book as much as I did. I am not a romance reader. I am a fantasy reader. About 10% into the book, I was ready to give up, but I stuck with my rule of reading at least 30%. I am honestly glad that I did.

This book is set in the fictional kingdom of Jwala in a world based on aspects of Zoroastrian faith. It is a polytheistic society full of mythical creatures and nature magic. The magic and the faith are intertwined to create varying religious sects in the kingdom. This could easily create turbulence in the novel. However, it only serves to further richen the culture of Jwala.

The strongest aspect of this book are the main characters and their character development. Both Roshan and Navin are flawed and understandably so.
While Roshan has been molded from necessity Navin has been molded from neglect.

Roshan was orphaned and abandoned near a raging fire as an infant. She was rescued and raised by Bhim Chaya, the leader of a notorious clan of bandits in the outlanda of Ashvamaiden. When her father is murdered, she becomes the leader in her father’s place. Talk about pressure.

Then we have Prince Navin who, like his Disney name-twin, has lived his life free of responsibility or worry in a palace full of luxury. However, having a mythical being as a father among humans has not made life easy for Navin. He is an “other” in a kingdom of same. Even his own grandmother, the Queen of Jwala doesn’t show Navin the love and kindness one shows for family.

Both of them are outcasts. Both are in need of saving, and it is fortunate for them that they find each other. This relationship could have easily fallen into the trope of “instalove”, but the author does a fantastic job of building the relationship over time.

The plot and climax of this book are its weakest link. For most of the book the plot was laid out phenomenally. There were parts of the plot happening in the present while reading and small hints thrown in at what would be revealed at the climax. The connection of these hints with the climax wasn’t as strong as it could have been. Maybe there should’ve been more before the big reveal at the end or maybe there should’ve been different hints. Maybe there should’ve been more focus on these hints instead of the romance. I’m not sure, but when reading the climax, it felt like the whole story came out of left field. It made the story feel discombobulated for a few chapters. It felt like the book was completed, then the original climax was scooped out and replaced at the last minute.

Whatever the case, it was a well-done standalone fantasy novel.

4/5

Thank you to Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR), Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.


This review will post on my Instagram: SpellsBooksandKrystals on Wednesday June 21, 2023.

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Thank you to the publisher, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group/Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) for this eARC to review!

5/5 stars!

I absolutely DEVOURED this book! This was such a delightful surprise of a favorite for the year for me. I'm still trying to catch up on some releases (work and wedding planning have stolen some of my time), so I also purchased the audiobook for this. And the narrator was AMAZING.
The characters were so well fleshed out, there were so many small intimate interactions that still kept the flow of the story going or actually helped progress the story, all the while deepening our understanding of the character's relationships and personalities. I laughed way more than I thought I would in this! There were also JUST enough twists that weren't easily foreseeable throughout the story, but once revealed made me audibly GASP in my car on my way to work! I got so so attached to sweet Chotu (unsure on spelling), that I was on the verge of tears when I had thought something happened to him.
Seeing as I devoured Tanaz's storytelling and that I have her first duology, The Wrath of Ambar, I will definitely be adding this up higher on my TBR!

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This was a great book overall and definitely pulled me in and made me want to keep reading, but it was pretty bloody and violent too. The pace was also slow at times, so it took me a while to get through it. One of my biggest complaints is that spouses were referred to as "mates," and that just really bothered me. But overall, a great fantasy action/adventure romance!

(Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change upon final publication.)

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- OF LIGHT AND SHADOW is one of the most action-packed and engrossing YA novels I've read in a long time. I immediately loved both Roshan and Navin as well as the world they inhabited, cheering them on as they fought for justice.
- You know I love a book with a headstrong girl at the center, and Roshan is one of the best. She's forging her own path, but also willing to learn from her mistakes in an effort to become a better leader.
- Along with some excellent character growth, this story is also full of twists, turns, and betrayals. I'm very much looking forward to reading more books by Bhathena in the future.

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In a setting inspired by 17th century India, Roshan Chaya leads the feared Shadow Bandits in attempts to save their land from a corrupt governor who has bled their land dry. But the raids they launch can only aid them for so long, and when an opportunity arises to kidnap Jwala’s beloved spare prince, the bandits are finally given a bargaining chip—which quickly becomes a pain, albeit a handsome one, in Roshan’s side. As the prince grows closer to Roshan, for his own selfish means, it’s discovered that he may not be able to grant the bandits the land they so desperately want, revealing the crown’s selfish desire to maintain tradition.

One aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was that magic users must suffer the consequence of using their power. Although, one comment I do have is that it’s clear this book is a standalone because of the quickness with which the situation is revealed. However, this didn’t affect my overall enjoyment of the book and the author wrote that reveal in in such a way that it made sense. And as this novel is set in India, there are a lot of Indian words and phrases that appear, and while many of them are said in context, I did still have some issues with understanding some of them (e.g., I thought the atashgola was a sword but then it was revealed to be the bomb at the very end). And I believe I read on Instagram that the monarchy in this novel was based on the current British monarchy situation, mainly with Harry and Meghan, and you can certainly detect those subtle nods.

I’m not sure who to recommend this book to as I’ve don’t think I’ve read any like it. But from my understanding of other books, I think fans of S.A. Chakraborty would find this book enjoyable.

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