**Book Review: *Luminiferos: The Darkness Within* (Luminiferos Book 2) by Yana Metro**

*Luminiferos: The Darkness Within* is the thrilling second installment in Yana Metro's seven-part *Luminiferos* saga, a spellbinding blend of romance, self-discovery, and high-stakes adventure. Picking up where the first book left off, this *portal-romantasy* series deepens the stakes and brings new layers of intrigue, danger, and irresistible chemistry between its characters.

Lilly White, the protagonist, finds herself caught in a desperate race against time. Poisoned by venomous marks on her wrists, she faces the chilling reality that unless she finds a cure, the curse will soon consume her, turning her into one of Noxohit’s terrifying monsters. The clock is ticking, and Lilly's only hope lies in finding a way to break the curse before it destroys not only her but the balance between two worlds—the Human and Spirit Worlds—on the brink of collapse.

Her quest for survival brings her back to Will, a Raven Guardian with extraordinary powers and a tantalizing charm. Will is duty-bound to protect Lilly, yet he’s also hiding dangerous secrets of his own, making the tension between the two palpable. As their bond deepens, their mutual attraction simmers with undeniable heat, but their love is tested at every turn. Will Lilly’s search for a cure draw them closer or tear them apart?

But there’s a third force in play—an enigmatic being with the power to bend reality itself. His jade-colored gaze and cold touch are both captivating and deadly, and he offers Lilly a path to salvation—but at what cost? As the darkness within her grows, Lilly faces an impossible choice: embrace the perilous powers inside her or risk losing everything.

Metro has created a complex and compelling world in *Luminiferos: The Darkness Within*. The world-building is rich and immersive, with a seamless blend of magical elements, heart-pounding action, and emotional depth. The dynamics between the characters—particularly the love triangle between Lilly, Will, and the mysterious new figure—adds layers of tension and complexity. Each character is well-developed, with their own motivations, flaws, and secrets, making their relationships feel real and high-stakes.

What truly sets this book apart is Lilly’s emotional and psychological journey. She is forced to confront her own darkness, a theme that resonates throughout the novel. The tension between embracing the darkness within and maintaining her humanity is central to the plot, adding a deep level of introspection and self-discovery to the action-packed narrative. Lilly’s strength and vulnerability make her a character you can’t help but root for, even as she faces impossible odds.

The pacing is fast, with enough twists and turns to keep readers on edge, while the romance adds a layer of intensity and emotion that keeps you invested in the characters’ fates. Metro’s writing is both evocative and captivating, blending fantasy elements with real emotional stakes, making this a thrilling read for fans of both romance and epic fantasy.

*Luminiferos: The Darkness Within* is an exciting continuation of the *Luminiferos* saga that delivers on every level. With its blend of romance, danger, and self-discovery, it’s a must-read for fans of complex characters, magical worlds, and high-stakes drama. If you’re looking for a book that combines thrilling adventure with heart-wrenching romance and personal growth, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Luminiferos is an enchanting and atmospheric read, weaving together mystery, magic, and rich storytelling. The world-building is immersive, and the prose has a luminous quality that enhances the book’s ethereal tone. While some plot points may feel a bit elusive, the overall experience is captivating, drawing the reader into its dreamlike narrative. A beautifully written story that lingers in the mind long after the final page.

A well executed second instalment of the series that takes a deep dive into the philosophy of fate and choice. Luminiferous is the second installment of the series.
I loved this book and I would it gave me a roller payer of a ride.
Thank you so much for providing this arc

I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

Luminiferos: The Darkness Within
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5 stars)

Luminiferos: The Darkness Within pulls you into a world that it’s as beautiful as it is haunting. This book is perfect for anyone who loves a mix of action, mystery, and emotional depth. The world-building is incredible, full of vivid details that make the setting feel alive. It’s easy to get lost in this universe. I could not put it down and read it fast, even when the book's wording was not my favorite writing style.
The characters are perfectly written. They feel authentic, flawed, and relatable. You’ll cheer for them, even when they make mistakes, because they feel so human. The story moves quickly, keeping you hooked with quiet, emotional moments and exciting action.
Overall, Luminiferos: The Darkness Within is a dark and gripping read that stays with you long after you finish it. It’s perfect for fans of fantasy with a darker twist.

If Twilight, His Dark Materials, and ACOTAR had a portal baby with an existential crisis, Luminiferos: The Darkness Within would be it—and yes, that’s a compliment.

This second installment in the seven-part saga plunges us deeper into Lilly White’s poisoned, curse-laden journey through two worlds teetering on the edge of destruction. She’s not just fighting a looming apocalypse; she’s battling herself, with venom creeping through her veins and a big question mark over whether she’s about to save the world or doom it. Casual stakes, right?

The book is a high-octane blend of romance, danger, and self-discovery. Will, the brooding Raven Guardian, continues to smolder while expertly straddling the line between "mysterious protector" and "infuriating secret-keeper." (Will, sir, just once could you spill your tea without being vague?) But then there’s the wildcard: the jade-eyed shapeshifter who shows up with reality-bending powers and an icy allure. Lilly’s caught between these two lethal forces, and let’s just say, Team Will has some stiff competition now.

Metro excels at building a world that feels both fantastical and terrifyingly close. The tension is real, the stakes are sky-high, and Lilly’s inner struggle adds layers of emotional depth that had me turning pages like I was cursed myself.

Is it perfect? Not quite. Some of the pacing felt uneven, and the sheer amount of “secrets within secrets” sometimes had me questioning if even Metro knew all the answers. But when the highs hit—oh, they hit. And the cliffhanger? Prepare to scream into the void.

4 stars for a dark, gripping chapter in Lilly’s epic saga. If you like your fantasy with a side of heartbreak and a generous helping of romantic tension, Luminiferos will steal your soul (but in the best way). 🖤✨

This is the second book in an excellent series.
Lilly White has venom spreading on her arms. She needs to find a cure before she becomes a monster.
She has the support of Will but she needs the help of a powerful being but will she lose herself.
This book was as good as the first one. It takes up more or less where the first one ends.
Lilly is desperately trying to hide the fact that she is infected.
It was great to see Lilly grow and develop her powers.
I found the first book by chance and really loved both.
As the story progresses you root for them and want things to work out for Lilly and Will.
You will suffer you will need need tissues.
Yana is an excellent descriptive writer she makes you feel the story.
Look forward to the next.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley.

Luminiferos: The Darkness Within, the second book in Daniela Schmidt-Kohl’s Luminiferos series, is a thrilling blend of romance, danger, and fantasy that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Lilly White, the protagonist, is caught in a race against time as she battles a venomous curse that threatens to transform her into a monster. Her only hope lies in the enigmatic Will, a Raven Guardian whose protective yet mysterious nature only adds to the suspense.

The story masterfully combines elements of romance, self-discovery, and high-stakes fantasy as Lilly navigates her fate amid the warring Human and Spirit Worlds. Tension mounts as she encounters a powerful new figure whose icy allure may hold the key to her survival—or her doom. Schmidt-Kohl’s prose is captivating, with richly detailed worlds and deeply developed characters that add complexity to the plot.

Fans of dark fantasy and intense romance will love The Darkness Within for its relentless pace and emotional depth. It’s a story of transformation, sacrifice, and the difficult balance between light and darkness. If you’re ready for a journey that will test loyalty, love, and inner strength, this book is a must-read in the Luminiferos saga.

The emotions that this book will put you through! Who knew a love triangle could be so heartbreaking and beautiful? I absolutely enjoyed this book and it is so underrated! I think Yana is an incredible author! I need more!

Thank you to NetGalley and Yana Metro for an e-arc of this book.

This book is definitely better than the first in the series. It focuses a lot more on the relations between the main characters and also introduces major conflicts between the FMC Lilly and the MMC Will.
There is a lot of rollercoastering jn this book, some things being resolved and some things being foreshadowed for later.
I enjoyed the action sequences and trials Lilly faced in this book and it was a lot more enjoyable than the previous with the pacing. It felt like there was more time for Will and Lilly’s relationship to be explored and there was a lot less jumping around and less information overload than the first book.

Spoilers:
I am sad/happy/hopeful for the 3rd book in the series and I am eager to see the obvious relationship that is to come with Faolan now that Will has been cursed to lose his love. I am also very happy that we can hear Hairito now, especially now that Aisha probably won’t even be back at all for probably a few more books.
Will was sort of giving me Tamlin vibes in the middle of the book though.



Summary:

Lilly is now poisoned from her previous ordeal against Noxohit in the first book, and must live with hiding it during important council meetings that will shift much needed alliances in her favor.
The other guardians at the League outside of Faivendei mostly want to just hand her over to Noxohit because he promises to just chill after Lilly is dead. Well, oops. Things don’t go according to plan and Lilly ends up having to escape the manor.

Under the tutelage of a Daoshee Elder, Faolan, Lilly seeks to finally accept the Darkness of Noxohit and ends up learning a few more nifty tricks.

#LuminiferosTheDarknessWithin #NetGalley

The minute I saw it I devoured it.
Loved it all the way.
Very good plot and characters.
Highly racimment to readers who read this series.

It was really interesting to follow Lilly's new adventure and how the author developed her character through different scenarios. I like the strength her character has despite all the downs she's had. I also think her determination and sometimes her stubbornness bring a lot of great moments while trying to defeat the evil forces wanting to poison the world.
The author style is really great, I think the book's narrative manages to keep the reader stuck to the story trying to see how everything will unfold.
Overall, I think this book is a great choice for readers into fantasy and mythical novels.

Back again with Lily's story! I loved jumping right back to it and seeing her deal with even more obstacles in this one.

Often times a series can have a really captivating first book and the next instalments fall flat. Thankfully that was not the case in The Darkness Within. Yana has written an amazing continuation from the first book that I simply couldn’t get enough of. I read it all in one sitting, I cannot wait for the next instalment .

Thank you Net Galley and Yana Metro for the ARC!

A well executed second instalment of the series that takes a deep dive into the philosophy of fate and choice. Luminiferos picks up from where the last book left off, so I would recommend reading that one first. The tension is great and the plot is well executed. I can’t wait to read the rest of these!

This book in my opinion blew away book one! I am so happy that I continued reading the series!
I love that this picked up right where the first one left off. I experienced many emotions and that makes or breaks a book for me.
*" Every inch of me, every fiber aches to embrace him, to heal his soul and dissolve his pain in a kiss.”

Absolutely recommend! Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for my honest review!

“Luminiferos: The Darkness Within” is the second installment in Yana Metro’s captivating series, “Luminiferos.” This book continues to explore the intricate world of Luminiferos, a realm filled with magic, adventure, and romance. Following the events of the first book, readers are reintroduced to familiar characters while new ones emerge, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

The story picks up where the first book left off, delving deeper into the protagonist’s journey as they navigate through both personal and external conflicts. The main character faces challenges that test their resolve and force them to confront their inner demons. As they traverse various realms within Luminiferos, they encounter dark forces that threaten not only their existence but also the balance of magic in their world.

Romantic elements are woven throughout the plot as relationships evolve under pressure. The protagonist must decide whom to trust amidst betrayal and deception. Themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery are prevalent as characters grapple with their identities and destinies.

This was such a good continuation of the series. Set in a richly crafted world that balances darkness and light, this story follows characters caught in a web of power, magic, and hidden motives. The writing is lush and atmospheric, which makes the setting feel almost like a character itself. From shadowy forests to glowing cities, every place in this book pulses with life and mystery. What really stood out to me was how Luminiferos dives into the deeper, more philosophical themes. It doesn’t shy away from exploring concepts like fate, choice, and the weight of one's own decisions. The characters face moral dilemmas that will leave you questioning what you would do in their shoes.

A massive thank you to Yana Metro for providing me with an ARC.

My daughter read this one as she had read the previous book and loved it. She reports that it is a strong sequel and continues the story well. The characters are vividly written and engaging with strong individual storylines. She looks forward to the next book.

Book Review: Luminiferos: The Darkness Within by Yana Metro

Yana Metro’s Luminiferos: The Darkness Within is an exhilarating continuation of the Luminiferos series, blending romantic tension, epic fantasy, and the lure of dark magic into a captivating narrative. For fans of portal fantasies with complex characters and emotionally charged stakes, this second book will not disappoint.

A World Under Threat
At the heart of this installment is Lilly White, a heroine marked by her destiny and ravaged by a deadly venom that could turn her into a monstrous servant of Noxohit, the villainous force threatening to destroy both the Human and Spirit Worlds. Metro masterfully balances the tension between Lilly’s fight for survival and the broader conflict that threatens two entire realms, making her journey a high-stakes adventure. Her poisoned state not only heightens the sense of urgency but also symbolizes the duality of her battle against external forces and the darkness lurking within herself.

Dark Magic and Seductive Mysteries
Metro’s world-building shines in this novel, creating a vivid and often treacherous landscape filled with shapeshifters, guardians, and other mystical beings. One of the standout aspects of this story is the complex relationships Lilly develops with two powerful figures: Will, her enigmatic Raven Guardian, and another mysterious, dragon-like entity whose jade eyes and icy touch challenge her in unexpected ways.

Will’s character offers readers the kind of brooding, magnetic presence common in romantic fantasy, but Metro gives him depth through his conflicting duties and secrets. His role as protector and potential love interest creates a dynamic tension that keeps readers hooked. The new, unnamed character who enters Lilly’s life is equally enthralling, pushing her to confront her inner darkness and question her moral compass. The interplay between these relationships feels like a dance on the edge of danger, intensifying the emotional stakes while keeping the readers guessing who Lilly can truly trust.

A Journey of Self-Discovery
At its core, The Darkness Within is not just about external battles but also Lilly’s internal struggles as she faces the poison threatening to consume her. The “darkness within” motif is explored both literally, as she fights the venom, and figuratively, as she navigates her own fears, desires, and potential for corruption. This duality makes her a compelling protagonist whose growth feels organic and nuanced. The themes of power, trust, and sacrifice are woven intricately into her journey, offering moments of deep introspection alongside the action-packed plot.

The Romantic Fantasy Element
Romantasy fans will be particularly drawn to the novel’s seductive, slow-burn romance. Metro doesn’t rush Lilly’s relationships, allowing tension to build as she grapples with her growing attraction to both Will and the otherworldly figure with jade eyes. The romance is intertwined with danger and intrigue, making each interaction fraught with emotional and physical peril. It’s a balance that keeps the romantic elements from feeling too formulaic, instead offering something fresh and layered.

Verdict
Yana Metro’s Luminiferos: The Darkness Within is a thrilling mix of fantasy, romance, and self-discovery that deepens the mythology and character development introduced in the first book. With a race against time, a richly constructed world, and multi-faceted characters, this novel is sure to captivate fans of romantasy. Lilly’s battle to control the darkness inside her while navigating a dangerous world full of secrets and betrayals makes this an emotionally charged, unputdownable read.

For readers who love a blend of romance, dark magic, and high-stakes adventure, Luminiferos: The Darkness Within delivers on every front.