Sparks and Shadow

Rising Elements, Book 1

By: Ceara Nobles

Narrated by: Michelle H Lee

Length: 7 hrs and 23 mins

Publisher's summary

To find her true home, she must face her deepest fear.

Fighting to survive is a way of life for 17-year-old Everly. After years living on Seattle’s streets, she is so close to finding a home and saving her best friend from losing her life to drugs the same way her mom did. But when Everly breaks her number one rule to save an enemy, her carefully laid plans are derailed when she’s kidnapped to the land of Faery.

According to the mysterious stranger who saves her life, the portal won’t reopen for six weeks. To stay alive, Everly reluctantly joins his band of rebels fighting against the evil queen. But as an old evil rises in the south, she discovers nowhere is safe in the land of Faery. With civil war imminent, Everly must make a choice: return to what she knows and save her best friend or embrace this new world that feels more like home than Seattle ever did....

Sparks and Shadow is the first book in a modern YA fantasy series featuring a kick-butt heroine, a portal to an astonishing world, and low-spice slow-burn romance. If you like Fae mythology, found family, compelling characters, and action-packed adventure, you’ll love this new series by Ceara Nobles.

©2022 Ceara Nobles (P)2023 Ceara Nobles

Amazing book

I really enjoyed listening about the Fae world and the interesting characters it has. Narrator did a wonderful job with the characters.

Unbiased Review

I am so glad that I had the opportunity to listen to this audiobook for an honest unbiased review. I enjoyed the story and got pulled into it more with it being based at first in Seattle WA. I loved the character how she is tough as nails but does have a heart. I was able to identify with her. The ending cliffhanger has me anxiously waiting until I can get the second book of the series.

Good book

I definitely enjoyed listening to this book. It take you on an interesting ride and the narrator was wonderful with the many characters.

Interesting

The storyline was captivating and entertaining. The characters are likable and relatable. The narrator did a nice job! I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

I loved this story

This was an interesting story. Everly has seen monsters. They hide as humans but she can see their true forms. As she traversed Seattle trying to save her best friend from self destruction like her mother, she gets intertwined with the monsters and is whisked away through a portal. Now she ends up in Faerie and learns quickley her trip home will not be easy. She will have to dig deep to make her journey & she will have to leave before war breaks out and hope is lost. Another new author for me and I am interested to see what journeys this series will take me on.

Just wow

I love it when an author gives a completely different view of the Fae and other worlds. I feel that Ceara Nobles does exactly that with this book in a spectacular way. From the fact that Everly is able to see the 'monsters' to her journey to a different world...and back? (Read it so you know!) As a 17 year old, Everly is much more mature than most, and her need to take care of Mary Beth is almost not healthy. I can't wait to know what happened to her!
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and Michelle H Lee does an excellent job! She makes each character believable and understandable.
I highly recommend this book and hope to read/listen to Book 2 sooner rather than later!

Good surprise

Can’t wait to get the next book. I was surprised at how this drew me in . Good Narrator good characters and good storyline. It kept me guessing of who she really is!!

A YA Portal Fantasy

~Disclaimer: I received a free audiobook copy of this book.~

In Ceara Nobles' "Sparks and Shadow," the allure of a portal fantasy meets the journey of Everly, a determined teen whose good intentions lead to unexpected consequences. Nobles weaves a tale of intrigue and danger in the land of Faery, where Everly's practical nature clashes with her stubborn recklessness, resulting in a character that feels authentic.

Navigating through a myriad of characters, Nobles skillfully manages to imbue each with a distinct personality, allowing them to come to life even within the constraints of the book's length.

Although the romance is present, it evolves at a slow burn pace, which may appeal to those who enjoy gradual and authentic relationships.

Michelle H Lee's narration is a true highlight, skillfully bringing the characters to life with distinct voices that enhance the listening experience.

Despite its brevity, Sparks and Shadow manages to engage readers with a well-crafted storyline and an enticing blend of fantasy elements. If you're a fan of YA portal fantasy or enjoy stories centered around the fae, this book deserves a spot on your reading list.

fae meets badass

Fabulous world building, characters development drew you in, plot and narration solid. Looking forward to the next book!

Can’t wait for the next book

I loved the main character. She’s strong and fierce. And I was rooting for her and Shadow. I can’t wait for the next book. The narrator did a wonderful job with so many voices. I LOVED the accents. I highly recommend it.