Shadowless
In a kingdom where souls are bound to magical animals called Shadows, Rowena’s Shadow is a ghost—silent, powerless, and a death sentence if anyone finds out. Forced to live in hiding, she joins forces with a rebellious outcast to uncover the truth about the bond between humans and Shadows. But in a world where souls are split in two, the truth might shatter everything.
Awarded 5 Stars from
Reader's Favorite
"Shadowless by Alison Robinson transports readers into a richly imagined fantasy world where magical ability is intrinsically tied to animal companions known as Shadows. These spiritual manifestations determine not only one's magical capabilities but also social standing and potential future. Rowena, born with the surprise of having a ghost for a Shadow, is a worrying deviation from the natural order that forces her to live in secrecy and isolation. Her carefully constructed life of obscurity shatters when she encounters Penalynn, a disgraced scholar who has rejected her own powerful Shadow and the magical society that reveres them. Despite their initial mistrust, the two form an unlikely alliance driven by a shared desire to uncover the truth behind the nature and purpose of Shadows. As they delve deeper into forgotten lore and challenge a society bound by superstition and ancient myths, Rowena and Penalynn risk exposing a secret that could unravel the very foundations of their world. Their journey becomes not just a quest for knowledge but a fight for survival as powerful forces move to silence them before they can reveal what they've discovered.
Author Alison Robinson creates a fantasy world that is both fresh and familiar, with interesting magical systems, mythology, and societal tensions. I loved the way her protagonists develop naturally throughout the narrative, revealing layers of complexity that make their dangerous journey personally meaningful beyond the broader quest. I found myself particularly drawn to the way Robinson explores themes of identity and acceptance through the magical concept of Shadows, creating a fantasy framework that addresses very real questions about fitting into society when fundamentally different. The relationship between Rowena and Penalynn is a great journey from suspicion to grudging respect and eventually a deep bond that is earned and real. Robinson's writing brings a genuine sense of wonder to every discovery the characters make, whether they're exploring ancient ruins or simply experiencing moments of connection previously denied to them because of their outcast status. The emotional impact is really deep because readers care so much about these characters and their world. Overall, Shadowless is an engrossing fantasy adventure filled with imaginative world-building that I highly recommend."
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- Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite
goodreads review
“Shadowless stands as a beacon of what fantasy can be—sweeping, meaningful, and utterly transportive. Alison Robinson has proven that she is a voice to watch in the genre.”
goodreads review
“Shadowless was the perfect read for the January blues. Cozy, romantic, and such a page turner..”
goodreads review
“It seems to fit your standard fantasy tropes at first but not only does Shadowless take them on in a very fresh way, but subverts a lot of expectations... Definitely 5/5 and one I’ll reread.”
goodreads review
“A brilliantly crafted debut novel...perfectly articulated and colorful as autumn itself...Grab a coffee and a warm blanket, and read this book by candlelight. Alison’s incredible narrative will paint the rest.”
goodreads review
“I loved all of the plot twists and creative figurative language... I'm so excited for the sequel!”
goodreads review
“I usually struggle with YA fantasy, but not so with Shadowless! The ending has me so excited to see where this story is going! Cannot wait for book two.”
goodreads review
“From the opening chapter I was hooked...If you like ominously cozy fantasy stories, want some first crush pining, need a little mystical intrigue, or just love magic animal companions, then this is the book for you.”
goodreads review
“I am blown away by the magic system in this book...The character growth and realization through out was done so well. I cannot wait for more!”
Amazon review
"Cannot recommend this book enough! I am a very particular book lover and have a hard time finding books that hold my attention and surprise me. This book does both...She takes familiar fantasy elements and gives them completely new and unexpected twists."
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