A high-stakes adventure with a rich, complex world that will captivate readers from start to finish.

An epic fantasy novel set in a world of vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers, where centuries of vampire dominance are shattered by a mysterious enemy, the Grays. The survivors are forced into the last vampire city, First Light, where class divides are enforced by blood quality. Sam, a palace maid, grows tired of the rigid rules and seizes an opportunity to climb the social ladder after discovering a clue to a nobleman's murder. Teaming up with a group of rebels, a sorcerer, a werewolf assassin, and a secretive countess, Sam uncovers a conspiracy that could destroy the city. As she digs deeper, she must navigate deadly threats to expose the truth and survive long enough to uncover the mysteries of immortality.

_Lightfall_ has everything a fantasy lover could ever want—classism, rebellions, war, vampires, werewolves, assassins, and sorcerers. In the tradition of the best epic fantasy novels, it creates a world that feels lived-in and layered, filled with intrigue, power struggles, and surprising alliances.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its world-building, which is intricately crafted and cleverly presented. Rather than info dumping, the history of the country, its supernatural beings, and wars of the past they are slowly revealed through snippets at the beginning of each chapter, as well as through the diverse points of view of the characters. This technique not only keeps the pace brisk but also enriches the story, providing readers with a deep understanding of the societal tensions and conflicts shaping the present-day world. The characters—each of whom is deeply invested in facts, logic, and the pursuit of knowledge—serve as perfect vessels for this detailed storytelling.

The supernatural creatures are given new, intriguing spins. The vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers in this world aren’t just your typical creatures of myth; they are complex beings whose lives and roles in society are intricately tied to the class system, which is itself a fascinating part of the plot. The twist on types of blood is especially compelling, adding an extra layer of mystery to the social and political dynamics. The way the different races interact, negotiate, and maneuver feels incredibly realistic.

Each multi-POV brings something fresh and unexpected to the table, making for a vibrant, multifaceted narrative. The contrasts between characters are stark: their differing priorities, fears, and desires are reflected in their diction, thoughts, and behavior, and this variety creates a dynamic, immersive experience.

As the book moves into its second half, the stakes heighten, and the plot takes thrilling, unpredictable turns. I found myself riveted, unable to put the book down as action ramped up. This set the stage for what promises to be an exciting trilogy, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next.

What a book! I was immediately intrigued by the idea of a world without mortals. Every fantasy book tends to have some sort of aspect related to mortals against immortals so this was a refreshing change (of course they weren’t completely gone…). While this book centered on the vampires we still got a taste of the werewolves and the sorcerers in this world as well. I will also say that this was a very new take on vampires and their consumption of blood that I really enjoyed. Usually vampires are written more black and white but they are very complex in this story and the difference between Worns and the nobility really made this interesting. Each character was well thought out and dynamic, and the book flowed really nicely. And the ending was great, it didn’t feel rushed and makes me very excited for what’s to come in this series. A fantastic read!

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance reader's copy of the book. I'm not going to lie, this book was a little slow in starting and it took me a little bit to get into it. However, once it reached that point when things start to really move and happen, I was sucked in. This book is intricate and vast. The world building is on par with other great authors like Martin or Rothfuss. I enjoyed this different take on vampires and wolves and sorcerers. I cannot wait to find out what happens next.

Absolute banger of a debut book!

Ed has woven an epic tale of vampires, werewolves and sorcerers complete with political intrigue, classism, death, secret societies and several twists and turns that will take your breath away.

The world building and it's terrible history is so well thought out and brutal but oh so good. These characters are deep and have many layers, and secrets...so many secrets!
I loved Sam and Sage but my favourite character is Allana. She's a total bada$$. I love a strong female character and Ed gives us several in this story. In fact...ALL the characters are amazing, yes even the villains are written exceptionally well and it's a love to hate you situation we have on our hands.
I'm so looking forward to book 2, maybe just so I can read this one again to prepare. It's going on my shelf as a trophy!

I'm SO thankful to have received this ARC from St. Martins Press, NetGalley Canada and Ed Crocker. This review is my own.

This was an interesting book. There were some things that were worked really well for me (the Sorcerers, the werewolves, the libraries) and then somethings that didn't work for me (the jump to being just introduced to one of the leaders of the Leeches being the main thing that broke my suspension of disbelief pretty much for the rest of the book). I'll plan to read the sequel and probably future releases by Crocker but it didn't jump out as a must-buy for me.

DNF for me. I didn’t get very far so I cant leave much feedback. It just wasn’t for me, and I could tell within the first few pages.

First in a series and I'm hooked. Good ideas and characters. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book

Lightfall had me at vampires, wolves and sorcerers. I loved that humans are the “mythical” group in this story. Yet now, the vampires, wolves and sorcerers are being threatened by a new group known as the Grays. After the death of one of Lord Azzuri’s sons, Sam a palace maid, finds a clue that could unravel political alliances and the caste system that controls the vampires, through the varying levels of animal blood they are allowed access to.

I was really hoping to fall in love with Lightfall, especially since it is compared to Jay Kristoff’s Empire of the Vampire series. Unfortunately the writing style of this book felt very clunky and forced to me. It was difficult for me to connect with any of the characters, because I just felt like there was so much information being thrown at me, that it took away from any character development. I felt like “Red”, Azzuri’s son, would have been the most dynamic character, but unfortunately the story starts with his death. Jacob was the only other likable character, for me, that seemed to bring any life to his part of the story.

The effects of the different types of animal blood was a great concept in the book. It definitely sets up the perfect conflict in the story, from who has access to the best vials of blood and how the blood is provided. This was an interesting way to have a supply of blood for the vampires, outside of the typical human providers.

I did feel like the book had a strong plot and the potential was there for a great story, but I don’t think I will continue the series, with the next book.

This book is a multi-POV fantasy novel where humans are presumed to not exist, and the world is ruled by vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers. How are sorcerers not human, you ask? Well, because apparently, they aren't born but emerge as fully grown adults from a pod. Fun. The vampires in this world are also unique. They actually prefer animal blood because they can take on the attributes of the animal. It's one of the ways vampires keep strict classes in place. Lower classes (the Worn) can only receive cow's blood and are kept docile and weak. Higher classes can receive all kinds of animal blood; some of it is even magicked.

The author took a lot of work in world-building, and it definitely shines through. The issue I had was that sometimes, as the reader, I felt too bogged down by the details. For example, the vampires have a blood market that serves as a stock market. The author goes to lengths to explain how a stock market works, which isn't really necessary for the characters in the conversation or for the furthering of the story. I think I would have preferred more information on how either the werewolf or mage societies work.

The murder mystery that serves as the central plot is very Sherlock to me. There is a lot of running around and making deductions. Sage, one of our non-magical sorcerers, essentially serves as Sherlock. In fact, before leading his own cult (a cult that believes humans did exist and are maybe coming back), Sage was an investigator. There were so many interesting little plot pieces, and my favorite was that humans "don't exist"; they are the myths in this world of fantastical creatures. Some even believe that the Grays are humankind come to reclaim the land.

One of the other issues I had with this book is how regressive vampire society was. These are beings that have lived for centuries and somehow think women are still less than and same-sex partners are frowned upon. It just felt kind of stale to me that there would be no progress.

This was a little bit of a slow read for me, but I think if you like politically leaning fantasy novels like Jade City, you would enjoy this book.

Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

I was sold on the premise, but I found this book to be a bit of a slog to get through. Vampire stories aren't necessarily "my thing," but I do enjoy discussing them with my students; this is one that I don't feel compelled to suggest.

I really struggled to get into this book. I don't think it's for me at this time. The writing is good and it seems like a good plot It just struggle to grab my attention. I think I'm not in the mood for deep fantasy and will try this book at anymore time.

I found this book to be less than what I expected. It is about Vampires fighting for survival. I found the basis of the story interesting, but the author’s tendency to constantly bounce around between characters who were semi-interesting at best was a struggle. His writing style just did not resonate with me.

I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Goodreads, Net Galley, Amazon and my nonfiction book review blog.

A great start to a new fantasy series! An intricate world with vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers. No mortals to be found although they are talked about as mythical beings. Not having human characters was interesting because you think these are beings who have lived for CENTURIES, so what kind of troubles could they encounter? Turns out...A LOT. This book was full of secrets, lies, and political intrigue.
I adore the found family trope and the author delivered with an eclectic group of characters you can't help but care about. There are some chapters that are slower paced with emotional punches and then your thrown right back into scheming and fighting. Add in multi POV and some major twists and this book will keep you turning pages way past your bedtime! Can't wait for the next in the series.

Lightfall by Ed Crocker is an enthralling epic that masterfully combines vivid world-building, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. The story takes readers on a high-stakes journey filled with adventure, heartache, and hope, all set in a richly imagined world that feels alive on every page. Crocker’s characters are deeply human, with relatable flaws and motivations that make their struggles and triumphs resonate.

The pacing is well-balanced, blending intense action with quieter, emotional moments that give the story depth and meaning. Themes of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit shine through, making Lightfall not just an exciting fantasy but also a deeply moving narrative. Fans of epic fantasy looking for a tale with both heart and substance will find Lightfall an unforgettable read.

The novel is a captivating start to a new series, with immersive world-building and detailed descriptions. It follows a diverse crew struggling to survive and improve their conditions, while uncovering secrets, exposing corruption, and solving a murder. The thrilling action and twists keep you eagerly anticipating the next book.

This is a book I was so excited to read, I’m all for books filled with monsters. It did take me a bit to get invested in the story with all of the world building at the beginning, but once I got past that I ended up really enjoying my time with this book.

DNF at 47%

When I first picked up this book, I told myself I would allow myself 100 pages to get hooked. Unfortunately, that took me weeks to accomplish. Then, I tried to keep pushing through for the sake of a a review for the author. I could not bring myself to finish the book due to the pacing and the constant use of names while the characters are speaking. It was driving me crazy near the end of my time with the book. I truly think if there was another round of editing where the use of other characters names were taken out, I could have finished this book. Who uses someone's name so often while speaking?

Additionally, I am not a fan of series creating their own curses and using them frequently. I am particularly noting the use of "blood" in front of each curse. We get it, they are vampires.

It took me a little bit to get into Lightfall as it had quite a bit of world building. But let me tell you, once I had my head wrapped around what was going on and now things worked in this world that Ed Crocker dreamed up, I really enjoyed it.

I'd say the first 20% was 4/10 speed, but the rest was 7-8/10 and I couldn't wait to see how things turned out. I'm equal parts excited and sad that it's book one of a series. Excited because there's more to come, and sad because I don't have all the answers yet haha.

I'd like to thank NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of this book, though reading it before it has even come out means I'll have to wait even longer for book two!

This book was really interesting and refreshing. The worldbuilding was unique. This is a paranormal work of fiction where humans are the myth. This book features multiple first person PoVs that are very distinct and engaging.

There were definite Neil Gaiman undertones (including some quotes by Neil Gaiman in the book itself). It threw me off a little at first but then I enjoyed it after it got into a good groove with the plot. This book very much reminded me of Stardust, but with vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers and not a mortal in the lot of 'em. The cult religious followers who believed in humans of the past were really interesting in their ideals. The unlikely crew of misfits were especially unlikely and misfitting.

Content: violent, routine d*ath by sunlight, the privileged and strong rule over the "weak", strong language

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.

Such an interesting take on the vampire lore. While it was a bit slow at the start, the intricate and unique world building really set it apart.