I went into this book blindly and I was not sure what to expect. I am so glad that I read this book because it did not disappoint. I read this book in one sitting and I truly enjoyed it. If there is going to be a second book then I will definitely read it. Lilly White is a very likable character, and I was rooting for her the entire time. Thanks NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC!

3.6 (rounded up to 4) out of 5 stars.

I don’t like leaving books bad ratings when it was a personal reason why I had to DNF it- which unfortunately I did at 68%.

The beautiful cover and description totally caught me for this read! Going into it, I was pretty excited about how it would play out. I was sort of expecting something like ‘Narnia’ or ‘The Light Between Worlds’ where you are given a character who has lived this spectacular life in another world, only to go back to their normal one and things are- bland and they want nothing more than to return whatever the cost.

It wasn’t solely like that, but close to it. I think the concept/idea was all there, really interesting. I just, personally, couldn’t get behind the characters, the pacing, and the writing so much.

It’s definitely a trope-y/cliche-y book. It has your usual ‘chosen one’, ‘save the world!’, love interest with A Past’, low-key ‘forbidden love’ feel. Personally, I feel like the romance arc of things moved a bit too quickly. In general, the book had little skips that avoided some details I wish would’ve actually been played out.
There’s a dance suddenly sprung in that I don’t remember being brought up until the chapter it happens which didn’t make sense to me (unless I missed a mention of it which could be possible!). You’re told that a Little Bad (minor (?) bad character) *does* something bad, but you don’t *see* them do the bad. You’re told the love interest is cold and harsh and then suddenly he’s in love with the main character.
Yana Metro does a lot of ‘tell don’t show’ rather than ‘show don’t tell’ which I think was a major losing factor for me. I love it when books show development like- yes please, show me why we hate this person, show me the cold hearted lover melting for this person and *just* this person, show me how this found family group of mismatched people learn to rely on each other!

Something I *did* love about Yana Metro’s writing though, is her world building. This other world we’re given sounds so amazing. There’s detail put into describing this otherworldly place- how houses float in trees, how magic is entirely real, how the world speaks to the people who can speak back to it. It’s lovely really! I wish that detail was put into those aforementioned things I noted earlier!

I wish I could’ve stuck with this book, but these little things made it not for me. It has a lot of potential and maybe I’ll try to pick it up again one day, but for now I’ve chosen to DNF it for the fact that it got to a point where I just couldn’t vibe with it anymore- and I didn’t want to hate the book because of that!
It’s not an entirely bad read at all, it just turned out to not be for me.

I might’ve requested this ARC, because I was attracted to the stunning cover, and then I became intrigued by the charming characters, and honestly I couldn’t put this book down!

Maybe it’s Yana Metro’s enchanting writing style? Or the stunning world building? Or possibly these great characters? But I haven’t read an entire book (in a single sitting) in months… until this book. I have a feeling it’s the combination of these, and so much more. I’ll admit I don’t read YA fantasy or YA magical realism often, but if it could hold my attention, and not even make me wish for more “adult themes”, I think that speaks volumes of the writers talent.

This book made me feel in the beginning, like I was experiencing a beautifully dark combination of Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, and Avatar. Then it evolved into a bit of a “Harry Potter-esque” magical quest. But it always felt unique and fresh. I never knew what to expect, and couldn’t believe that cliffhanger of an ending!

I’m looking forward to the next installment of this series.

Thank you to Yana Metro, and BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

“Maybe the library in London would hire me back and I could spend my life escaping into fictional worlds far more interesting than my own.”
“Awaken the darkness within you. Become the omen of light..”
Intriguing and entertaining, this book fed my curiosity about a brand new fantasy world that was so good to explore.
With the found family trope and a love that at first seems to be impossible but soon enough impossible to avoid, Lilly stories goes from one parallel universe to the author, meeting amazing friends and magical people and creature who will each have an important part in shaping her future and her past.
Looking for her parents she will find also some magical truths about herself that she has never tried to deny but also been taught how to. I really enjoyed reading this book. Despite the intricate world building, I found the magical system easy to get into and the narrative quite fluid. I felt compelled , as from a spell, to get to the end of it. I felt somehow the need to know what was supposed to happen to these characters and the fact that the ending is quite opened … it leaves me very curious for the future !!!
And the romance blossoming between the characters … so cute and so sweet!! Again I fell in love with another young man … nothing strange about that !!!
I’m very grateful I had the chance to read this book and I can’t wait for the story to continue !!!
'You look breathtak-ing, my delicate white lily.'
'You look like a delicate lily on a thin fragile stem.
Too kind, probably, for this world.'

I didn't know what to expect when I started read this book, but it absolutely blew my mind. Normally I don't give easily 5 stars, but Luminiferos deserves 5 stars. The world-building was phenomenal and the Characters had so much personality and were so lovable. So much stuff happened in this book, but it wasn't overwhelming much. A small detail I'm absolutely obsessed with are the little titles over each chapter. Also, the Found family trope in this book was amazing .

𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙧: 𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜(𝙨) 𝙤𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.

I admit, I only decided to open this book because of that GORGEOUS cover because omg when this book comes out I WILL be buying a physical copy just to have it on my shelf. (I really hope all that gorgeous gold bits have foil 👀)

“𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘴. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘭. 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘥. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘨𝘰.”

Even though I went into this book with no expectations, it SERVED. it gave what it was supposed to give.🤭

“𝘈𝘸𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵…”

When I first read the name ‘Lilly White’, I was worried we were going to be meeting a pick me character. However, she ended up being really likeable! I enjoyed getting to know her.🤝

“𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘦?
𝘐’𝘥 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘭 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥.
𝘚𝘵𝘶𝘱𝘪𝘥!”

I didn’t enjoy the romance aspect of this book too much, but I’m hoping it improves in the next book.

However, there was some sort of a found family trope in there, and I ate it up. I LIVE for found family tropess!!🫶🫶

I’ve mentioned this before, but I ended up loving this more than I expected. I loved Lilly’s journey of self discovery.

“ ‘𝘋𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵, 𝘓𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘞𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘦. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯.”

And that ending?? I am so excited for a sequel, this book series has so much potential, and I can see it getting better! I want to read more about Lilly and see her character develops further along with her relationships 💕

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5

𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙔𝙖𝙣𝙖 𝙈𝙚𝙩𝙧𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 🤍

Came for the cover. stayed for gargoyle.

This was a very fun fantasy read and I can't remember the last time I had so much fun reading a book. I wasn't a fan of the remonce (but I never am I), but loved the world building and the plot.

This was so good. And I really like lily's character. The story line is different so I really enjoyed that. I read this book pretty quickly everytime I sat it down I had to get back to it.
I just reviewed Luminiferos by Yana Metro. #Luminiferos #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]

A very unique book that proves not everything to be written has been written already. The unreliable at first narrator is incredible in the story. The magic is lush and rich, leaving readers wanting more. I will keep my eyes out for more books from Metro.

Well I want to start off by saying a MASSIVE thanks to the author for letting me read this book early pre release date. I highly appreciate it, it is my first ever book to review and I am more then excited to get started. This book gripped me from the very first few pages and sucked me into this beautiful universe. I LOVED Harito. Such a funny and cute character that I am always thinking about even after reading and it has got me calling my cat a Gargoyle LOL. The writing was very easy to read, was not a slow burn at all and just this beautiful universe opened up right before my eyes!!! The story is very captivating, EXTREMELY enchanting and electrifying. The characters where amazing, some points quite sad but others just so beautifully done. I highly recommend to all readers. I am excited to see if there will be any other books by this author as I will read straight away.

#luminiferous

Thanks to Metro and NetGalley for this early e-arc.
I really enjoyed this book, particularly the world building. Metro created a very vibrant and exciting world for this story to take place. I also couldn't help but fall in love with Gargoyle - but who didn't?

This book is geared more toward high school young adults, but I personally LOVED it! When I realized it was going to be a series, I was screaming for the other 6 books to come out NOW! Such a great fantasy story about finding yourself and enemies becoming friends and then family, There's love and adventure and magic - all of my favorite story components. I absolutely can not wait for the rest of the series.

From a vivid world to a complex magic system, Luminiferos by Yana Metro is a fast-paced, action filled fairy tale full of evil villains, a strong female protagonist and a cute little gargoyle I simply cannot get enough of!

Synopsis (no spoilers)
Lilly White has spent her entire life trying to get back to the Spirit World, even though she is told it is all just dreams. When she finally does manage to find her way back, she's confronted by a past she'd all but forgotten, an evil force trying to destroy everything she loves, and a gang of misfit friends which give her something even more to fight fore.

While at times this story seems like an allegory for climate change and environmental degradation, at it's heart it's a familiar trope; a girl learning to harness her own power, discovering love and an inner strength she didn't know she had. Lilly White is a complex protagonist, with motives sometimes a little uncertain and a power which needs more description. Metro's talent is truly in her world building. She paints a luscious landscape the reader can absorb with every sense, and I found myself lost in her descriptions of the enchanted forest. While Metro definitely needs to work on honing some of her craft when it comes to showing not telling and creating believable, conversational style dialogue, this story is still tons of fun, and a great, easy read. I'd recommend this book for YA readers who love fantasy, a healthy dose of romance and a love for the natural world and a desire to protect it.

I want to thank Yana Metro and NetGalley for the ARC of Luminiferos I received.

What a captivating book! I was quiet drawn to the cover design, but the blurb had me sold for upcoming adventures and mysteries. I couldn’t wait to start and the stores did not disappoint.

An all round wow and I can’t wait for the sequel.

This book did not disappoint. What a world. This story was so immersive and interesting. Lilly was such a likable character and I was routing for her the entire time.

Luminiferos is worth the read and here’s why…

While I would have liked Lilly to be slightly older (to avoid any mixed feelings about her relationship and because nobody finds themselves at 17) I did really like her character. It was interesting to read that she was both strong willed but didn’t know who she was. Often those two characteristics aren’t written into one character but it felt very real world and relatable. I really liked the other characters as well who also had some conflicting characteristics written into them. I like that the group had different views on certain things but could still be friends.

The world building was awesome. While this book begins in the ‘real’/human world, Lilly discovers a hidden world right under her nose. The explanation of how this was possible was interesting, I liked it.

Now to the plot. The first 2 months Lilly spent in Faivendei felt very rushed, I would’ve liked to hear more about her day to day life and the relationships she built before it got to the actual plot. There were other parts also felt rushed or glossed over. I think it could’ve been a slightly longer book with a little more description and I wouldn’t have minded. Once the story moved into the full plot, the writing was much more appealing. This is the kind of plot where you must know what happens next, un-put-down-able.

I really like the whole finding herself concept and liked that she said she was still finding herself but Will made her happy instead of her finding herself because of a guy. I also do love a ‘touch her and you die’ kind of relationship

I loved the reveal of Lilly’s gift. It was well written and showed that it is possible to be overwhelmed by such things.

A lot of talk about emotions which is different for a fantasy, not sure where I stand on it. I think it worked well but I’m not a big feelings person. I’m saying this, I did learn from this recurring theme and the talk surrounding it.

Overall, I really loved this book. The ending was so nice with an air of finality until the very last part where it was clear the story wasn’t over.

And lastly, a thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read this book.

Lilly lives parellel lives... She eventually enters a magical portal into a magical world. Along the way, she meets many new magical friends. Terrific world-building with an interesting magic system. I love the sweet romance in it. Looking forward to the sequel.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.

[BOOK REVIEW]

LUMINIFEROS: The Omen of Light (Luminiferos #1) by: Yana Metro

▫️Star rate: ♾⭐

Time check... it's 12:54 in the morning here in Sweden and I just finished the first book if the Luminiferos series.
I'm having a major book hangover right now but I'm not complaining at all ☺
Thank you, Netgalley and Yana Metro, for this amazing opportunity.

Firat of all, this book is giving me a Mortal Instrument/Shadowhunter vibe, and I'M SO FREAKING IN LOVE with it! 😍❤

I really didn't know what to expect when I read the book, but it was a page turner for me. I couldn't put it down. 

This book just left my mouth hanging because of the ending. I was like, WTFH?! Holy sh*t!  I NEED MORE! I need the second book right now because, hell no, that was the ending.

This book has everything that I love in a fantasy story. Full of action, scary/sad moments, couch-grabbing moments, heart-warming romance, a right amount of comedy, and a cute-ass gargoyle sidekick. Now, who wouldn't want that? (I need a Hairito plushie so bad!😍) 

I always imagine the settings when I'm reading the book, and I'm always in awe of how magical it is. Everything feels magical about this book.

You will never be disappointed as soon as you read this story.
This book doesn't deserve five starts because of how amazing it is. If infinity stars exist, that would be my rating for this story.
It is magically epic! Completely mind blowing!🔥💕

▫️Favorite quote: "I don't want three hundred years if they're spent without you." 😭💕

Actual rating: 4.5

I read this as an ARC, courtesy of NetGalley & the publishers & I cannot wait to purchase a physical copy of it!

I don't typically read fantasy, YA, or adult, but the book's description lured me in & once I started reading, the writing gripped me & I did not want to put it down. The world-building and character-building was great, I particularly liked the mention of typical folklore figures such as fairies, dryads & spriggans, but my favourite character was Harito because who doesn't love a cute gargoyle?

One thing I also really liked that I've not seen other people comment on, so it might have just been something I took from the book, was how the book subtly brought up the issue of climate change & human nature. The book made several references to humans not respecting the natural environment, our greed for material things & the effect of this on the world & our wellbeing, such as the increase in mental health issues. I thought this was cleverly incorporated into the storyline & while it didn't feel to overbearing, it made you reflect!

Essentially, I liked everything about this book: characters, storyline, world & pacing. I was so happy when I realised it was a series (something I didn't realise when I first started reading) because I didn't want the story to end already & I cannot wait for the next book!

*NOTES REGARDING OTHER REVIEWS*

I have included the link of this review on Goodreads.
I will also be posting a shorter version on Instagram shortly before the books release. If you could like details on this then please do not hesitate to contact me at Leah.maystanford@gmail.com.

Stunning magical novel with elements of fantasy, magic and romance. Suitable for Young adult or adult fiction readers. Romance interweaved with elder wisdom containing some great life lessons. A fantastic fantasy read. Thank you to #netgalley and publisher for opportunity to review.

The story was great, a magical adventure full of weird and wonderful creatures, beautiful scene setting and interesting characters. I love the idea that it plays on how humans treat the earth and is definitely an encouraging story telling us to do our best for the planet (and not in a lecturing way)
.
I did have a few down points for the book but it didn’t overall impact the story too much I just couldn’t give it the full 5 stars and I did find parts a little frustrating, the character relationships all felt rushed (we miss 2 months of the story in which I feel we just have to assume the relationships progress and the characters adapt and grow)
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It feels like there were too many ideas rushed. The book is almost like two different stories (before and after the two months) and all of the changes in that time are matter of fact.
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Overall a brilliant story but it just didn’t hit the 5 stars for me I will definitely be reading more when she releases the next one!

🙏🏼Thank you to the author and the publisher for the chance to read this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I definitely requested this book based on the beautiful cover, but also the tag line that included fantasy, romance, and philosophy!

📚The things I enjoyed: 

 • The biggest thing I loved was the philosophical/ spiritual undertones. The whole time, I was taking little notes and just thinking about the things that tied to my personal spirituality. I thought a lot about Eckhart Tolle's teachings with some of what was portrayed in this book. 
• I really loved the psychological/philosophical blend of wisdom weaved through out. Powerful lessons about awareness, emotional regulation, mindfulness, ego, life and death, etc. There was some very thought provoking moments since these are things I'm already familiar with and are core parts of my beliefs and interests.
•The first few pages had me hooked in this story and I love when books can do that! 
• There are relatable elements in some characters. 
• The world building wasn't too overpowering. It seemed to dance well with the characters and storyline. 

📚Some things I didn't enjoy: 

• The romance in this book was timed too weird. I think the intention was an enemies to lovers trope but the pacing of the story and then the romance left out so much of that emotional journey that it didn't feel like an organic progression of a relationship. And I say this about the romantic relationship and the found family relationship. 
• The pacing of the book was very odd at times. It felt rushed in several ways.
• The dialogue was also written confusing in some parts and left me having to reread passages a couple times to figure out who was saying what. 

Overall I enjoyed it as much as I did because of the spiritual/philosophical elements. The romance and pacing was a bit uncomfy but I would still read the second book. ❤️

An excellent start to what I assume will be a great series. The world building was delightful and the characters interesting (although I do think there is much scope to add to their character backgrounds still to be added.) Looking forward to more.

eARC from Netgalley - All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you to Netgalley and Yana Metro for the opportunity to read and review this beautiful book!

I requested this ARC from netgalley as the cover caught my eye, and it looked so beautiful. However, the writing, the plot, and the characters made me fall absolutely in love.

I have always found the thought of parallel universes so interesting, and seeing it brought to life through the eyes of Lilly White was amazing, and the story gripped me from the first page.

The world building was just enough for you to be able to picture the world and not too much where it becomes a drag.

This book had such an amazing plot line with a few twists that you wouldn't have seen coming. With a dash, a romance added (as who doesn't love a bit of a love story).

A great, strong female protagonist realises she doesn't have to go through life alone. With a found family trope.

A well thought out Villian - Noxohit and his army of Noxes.

I can't wait to see what future books hold for Lilly, Will, and the rest of the guardians looking for the Emanations in order to get the Luminiferos.

Definitely recommend this book to any fantasy lovers

Wildly inventive with lush and interesting worldbuilding. Luminiferos kept me up reading all night. I will be seeking out more from the author for sure.

A fusion of fantasy, romance and philosophy, this is a story of a girl who goes to a parallel world in search of meaning. At just eighteen, Lilly White has lived multiple lives.

Luminiferos is a beautifully, well written book. @yanametro.com has a way with words that makes you think about life while entertaining you with an engaging story.

I absolutely loved all of the characters. I especially loved main character Lilly and her journey to find herself. Through courage and perseverance she struggles to overcome self-doubt and sometimes self-pity. With the help of her found family, Lilly begins to know herself and even begins an epic quest. Did I mention there might be romance as well?

Thank you @netgalley and Yana Metro for allowing me to read this amazing book! Everyone please go read!

3,5 ⭐️ favorite quote of the book: “Emotion and thoughts… they just come and go. Be aware of them, watch them as if from a distance. But don’t let them to determine who you are.”
Enemy to lover, a fantastic world-building and a story filled with big plot twist.
The world-building of this book is incredible, the entire plot was so entertaining right from the start. It was filled with suspense and so many details. Sometimes I even thought they were too many of them for my liking. This book was very nice but I would have loved it even more if it had been divided into two books, a lot of things seemed to happen at once and I was a bit overwhelmed by it.
The characters written by Yana Metro are amazing, and each of them is super interesting. In fantasy novels, you usually meet these dreamy very perfect characters and even if Will does fit in this category, he is the only one. The others could have been actual real-life humans facing problems we could all come across in our day-to-day life. For example, burning out or losing all joy in life and needing a hand up for help.
One of the very reasons this book got three and a half stars and not four is because of three things. One, the chapters were too long and it was sometimes a bit much for me (because I can’t stop in between two chapters but I guess that’s a me problem haha). Two, everything felt a bit too magical in the way that the characters most certainly always found a way to resolve their problems. And the last one, THE MAIN CHARACTER IS BORN IN 2005!!! And now you might be asking, ‘But emi, why would this be a problem right?’ Well, my little sister is an 05 and it simply made me realize that I am growing older and I am no longer the same age as most main characters in ya fantasy and this is depressive…
Hahahah joke aside, this book was very good and super fun to read. The characters were so funny (Vesta and Darius are the best), and some made my heart skip a beat (Will I am talking about you darling). The end was completely mind-blowing and Metro managed to shock me throughout the entire book.
Last but not least, the cover is absolutely stunning. I love it so much and I want to get the final real version (and obviously the next book).

My favourite thing about this book was the authors world building. I could picture everything described and became fully immersed in this new world. I connected with the characters a lot, especially Lilly as I could relate a lot to her fears and emotions. The reason I’m only giving four stars is some sections felt a little young and wattpad-like to me, however this may just be my personal experience. If you are interested in fantasy novels full of adventures and twists I would definitely recommend this book for you. I never expected the ending, and can’t wait for the next book!

This follows Lilly, who has always believed she is from a parallel world from ours, but has never been able to find it, she only has dreams about it and her family where her mother is and who speaks to her. She doesn’t think she’ll ever return home until a little gargoyle appears one day with a message.

What I appreciated the most about this book is that it is unique. It has a unique world, a unique idea and story and reminded me of Alice in Wonderland at times, especially with the world that seemed a bit out there, and yet worked for this book.

At times, I was definitely confused and the plot seemed a bit disjointed at times, especially at the beginning, but once you get past that and the fact that this I think is supposed to be a bit like Alice in Wonderland where you’re wondering whether the main character is actually crazy and everything we’re reading is essentially made up in her mind, it’s really actually a good book, just could have had some points of it written a little more clearly.

The romance I really liked and thought it was very sweet and quite adorable. It’s a bit insta-love, however, I still really liked it. It might be because I liked the characters a lot, and Lilly actually thought before she acted. She never created unnecessary drama, especially when some big secrets spilled out. She starts to react emotionally and then stops and thinks and realizes despite the secret, she can work with it and thinks logically rather than emotionally. I really appreciated that about her character and is one of the reasons I gave this book a higher rating. A character who didn’t cause me to rip my hair out 😂

Overall, I think it’s a very interesting read and I get the impression there should be a sequel, so I look forward to seeing how it continues!

I received a free digital copy to read. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book was really interesting. For a fantasy novel it did not spend a lot of time world building, however you could still picture where you were with the characters. I really enjoyed the twists, the characters, and the story as a whole. I am excited to see where it goes and learn more about each of the characters in the next books!

Favorite quote: “For you, only good people exist tho whom bad things have happened.”
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I was initially attracted to this book by its cover and started reading it blindly only knowing it was fantasy. Ooh I was not disappointed. I could not put this book down. Some great tropes from found family and forced proximity. This book was absolutely enchanting and executed beautifully. The vivid descriptions, characters development and world building it was more than I could ever ask for. The different levels of worlds and magic was so intriguing. The main character Lilly White is a strong headed orphan that is determined to find her family and where she came from as she is convinced she is not from the human world and from a “parallel world”. She is eventually proven right that she is is not from the realm she has been living in for the past 7 years, but going back to where she is from didn’t goes as she thought it would. I have been left with so many questions. I cannot wait for the next book!!

Luminiferous has such great world-building you can easily get lost. The characters are great as well, especially Lilly and the gargoyle. One of the great things about Lilly is she is actually likable, something that seems to be lacking in a lot of the books I have read lately. It is much more fun to read a story with a main character you root for. I am a huge fan of parallel worlds and such so this was right up my alley. Lastly, I have to say that the cover is stunning. This is an all-around enjoyable book and I look forward to reading more by this author.

Lilly White is an orphan who has always felt like she's missing a piece of herself, and as she grows older, her visions of a lush and mystical world become more vivid. When a mysterious man offers her a portal to a lost world, she jumps at the chance to find her true family and meaning in her life.

But as she explores this new world, she finds that it's not all rainbows and unicorns. A toxic darkness is consuming everything in its path, threatening the existence of everyone she meets. Lilly must dig deep within herself to find the gifts she never knew she had and fight against the evil that threatens to destroy everything.

The story is a unique blend of fantasy, romance, and philosophy that takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery, transcendence, and love. The world-building is intricate and beautiful, and the author's writing style is descriptive and engaging, pulling the reader into the story.

Lilly is a relatable and likable character, and the reader can't help but root for her as she navigates her way through this new world and discovers her true purpose. The themes of family, love, and the power of self-discovery are woven throughout the story, making it a heartwarming and inspiring read.

Overall, "The Lost World of Lilly White" is a captivating and enchanting story that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance. It's a tale of hope, courage, and the importance of never giving up on your dreams.

The cover is what originally drew me in, but the story was what held my attention the whole way thru. The world building was in-depth and extensive. The background buildup set the stage for current times and made it so any questions that may come up, were answered already. The characters were intriguing, the storyline was unique and addictive. I love magic and adventure and with a little romance mixed in, this story hit all the marks. I could’ve easily finished in a couple days but I tried to draw it out as long as possible. I loved the dynamic between the characters. They flowed beautifully together and it was totally believable. I don’t usually read books more than once, but this book seems like a second read through would be just as enjoyable as the first.

What a wonderful past faced read! There were just things happening all the time! Ofc, I almost fell like there was info missing, but here we actually had plenty of explanations of how their world works from the get go, which was a huge plus for me and my ADHD. I cannot wait to read the next book!

In this story we follow Lily White, who has always felt like she didn't belong in the world, she dreamed of another place, where she would feel safe, loved and would figure out her true self, but will she actually get there?

wow, what can I say? I loved this story! I absolutely loved the character of Vesta and Will! there were so many twists and turns in this story! the character development for Lily was truly amazing! and reading what she goes through makes you sit and wonder how you would have reacted to being in the same position! Because I genuinely do not know if I would have had the strength to go on the journey that she does!

The plot was fantastic! the world building was so good! I enjoyed every single page of this story and I hope there are more!

I devoured this fun dark fantasy novel. The cover caught my eye but the story really pulled me in.

I think my favorite part was the in depth world building. For me, it really makes or breaks a novel

Me choosing this book purely based on it's cover and it definitely did not disappoint!! Whilst, I do admit initially I did find it slightly difficult to adjust to the writing, I found as the book progressed I simply could not put it down. I really enjoyed the introduction of this universe and its magical rules. The description of the lands were so unique, giving us a proper image of this beautiful enchanted forest. In addition to the unique world, I was obsessed with the characters (especially Hairito!). I feel like the characters were quite realistic and given true emotions that allowed us to relate to the characters, especially the way in which Lily battles her anxiety and with how she grows in herself, finding herself as a person. Counting down the days to the next installment in this series - releasing December 2023.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review.

A great teen book of supernatural beings & ethics or good versus bad energy. Surrounding the mystery of a disturbed young woman that went into an orphanage
At 5yrs old with no real memories except from dreams of another world totally magical & unlike modern day England. Finally emancipated she had worked at libraries before venturing to France where she rented a room from an eccentric elderly lady that had tones of old tomes on Faeries. She had forgotten her rent one time too many & was thrown out & decided to stay in nearby woods where she had a nightmarish experience that gave her a unique pet & sent her to another world. Thus the start of a life & death quest.

I loved this different take on fantasy and romance. Metro's writing style is so unique and the world building is so fantastic. I hope to see more stories in this incredible universe she's created. Lilly is a great heroine!

Suspenseful, Enjoyable, great pacing, exciting settings kept me hooked. Great novel that will be the perfect to lose yourself in. Thank you Net Galley ARC in exchange for my honest opinion

Lilly White opened the door to a world of possibility when she stepped through the magical portal of Luminiferos. Nature's beauty was everywhere, from the towering trees to the winding rivers and sparkling lakes, but it was also a dangerous world, where darkness lurked around every corner.

Luminiferos: The Omen of Light is a thrilling adventure novel by Yana Metro. Through Lilly's journey to discover her family's past, she uncovers a powerful ancient relic that could unleash a dark force on the world unless she can find a way to stop it. With the help of mysterious allies, she must battle her way through a labyrinth of enemies and evil creatures in order to save her family and the world.

Yana Metro combines elements of both fantasy and magical realism to great effect in this captivating story. The lush worldbuilding and vivid descriptions draw the reader in to a vivid and exciting alternate universe, while the characters feel incredibly real and engaging. The plot twists and turns keep the reader entranced and guessing until the very end.

Book Review: Luminiferos: The Omen of Light by Yana Metro

Yana Metro’s Luminiferos: The Omen of Light, the second installment in the Luminiferos saga, plunges readers deeper into a world of magic, romance, and deadly intrigue. A tale of romance, self-discovery, and survival, it balances high-stakes action with a deeply personal journey of a heroine caught between two warring worlds.

A Compelling Protagonist
At the heart of the novel is Lilly White, a protagonist who, on the surface, may seem like a typical "chosen one" figure, but who is far more complex. Marked by poison and slowly being consumed by the venom that threatens to turn her into a monster, Lilly is both vulnerable and powerful. What makes her so compelling is that her strength comes not from invulnerability but from her tenacity to fight, despite being constantly hunted and caught in the crosshairs of opposing forces. Her physical condition—a literal curse eating away at her—mirrors the emotional toll that her journey takes on her. She's not just battling external threats but is also at war with her own dark impulses.

Lilly’s plight is a deeply human one, even in the fantastical setting of Luminiferos. She's cursed and poisoned, and her journey is not just about fighting a great evil but about confronting the parts of herself that she fears may become monstrous. Her story is a metaphor for internal struggle, with her transformation serving as an outward symbol of her inner conflict. This adds an emotional depth that makes the stakes feel personal, even while the larger conflict threatens two entire worlds.

A Dangerous Love Triangle
The tension in The Omen of Light is heightened by the dynamic between Lilly and two powerful male figures—Will, her Raven Guardian, and a mysterious, reality-bending figure with "jade eyes as cold as dragon scales." The love triangle that unfolds is not just about romance, but about trust, power, and survival.

Will is an enigmatic figure, bound to protect Lilly, yet also distant, guarding secrets of his own. His dual nature—both protective and dangerous—mirrors Lilly's own predicament, making him a fascinating character in his own right. As Lilly’s protector, he shoulders the heavy burden of keeping her alive while also balancing his own personal struggles and the oaths he’s sworn to uphold. Their chemistry is palpable, filled with tension as they both grapple with the harsh realities of their circumstances and the deeper emotions they feel for each other.

The second male figure, whose identity is steeped in mystery and power, offers Lilly something far more dangerous than simple protection. His ability to bend reality blurs the lines between good and evil, safety and peril. His “jade gaze” and cold demeanor suggest that he is a force of nature in his own right—an archetype of temptation that tests Lilly’s morality and sense of self. The dynamic between them is fraught with danger, and it’s clear that he represents both a potential source of salvation and destruction.

Metro does an excellent job of balancing the romantic elements of the story with the high-stakes plot. The relationships Lilly forges are not just romantic but deeply consequential to the outcome of the larger narrative. This tension between love and duty creates rich, layered character interactions that keep the reader engaged.

Worldbuilding and Magic
Luminiferos: The Omen of Light is as much about the broader conflict between two worlds as it is about the personal struggles of its characters. Metro’s worldbuilding is lush and immersive, pulling readers into a universe that is both familiar and fantastical. The Human and Spirit Worlds are in peril, and while the fate of these worlds hangs in the balance, Metro ensures that the emotional core of the story—the battle Lilly faces within herself—is never overshadowed by the larger cosmic conflict.

The magic system in Luminiferos is intricate and mysterious. From the venomous curse afflicting Lilly to the shape-shifting abilities of those around her, the story is steeped in a deep sense of the supernatural. Metro’s depiction of the curse on Lilly is particularly fascinating, as it adds an ever-present ticking clock to the narrative. The venom marks that spread daily across her wrists are a constant reminder of the threat she faces—not only from her enemies but from her own body turning against her.

Additionally, the shapeshifters in the novel bring a dynamic element to the action scenes and the lore of the world. The lethal nature of these creatures and the rules governing them are gradually revealed, keeping the reader guessing about their true intentions and the extent of their powers. The world of Luminiferos feels alive and dangerous, where every encounter could be a turning point in Lilly’s fight for survival.

Themes of Darkness and Self-Discovery
Thematically, The Omen of Light explores the darkness that resides within us all. Lilly's journey toward self-discovery is not just about becoming stronger or more capable but about confronting the darker parts of herself. The fact that she must "embrace the darkness within" to break the curse is a powerful metaphor for the idea that strength often comes from accepting—and mastering—our shadow selves, rather than running from them.

The book also delves into questions of trust, loyalty, and sacrifice. Lilly is constantly forced to question the motives of those around her, especially as she grapples with the toxic nature of her own curse. Will's hidden secrets, combined with the seductive pull of the enigmatic stranger, force her to navigate a treacherous path between love, survival, and her sense of morality.

A Fast-Paced, Tension-Filled Plot
Metro’s pacing is one of the novel’s strongest suits. The Omen of Light is a fast-paced and tension-filled ride from start to finish. The threat of Lilly's curse looms large, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward. Every chapter brings new challenges and revelations, making it difficult for readers to put the book down. The stakes feel real, and Metro does a commendable job of weaving together the personal and the epic in a way that makes both feel equally important.

Conclusion: A Dark, Alluring Fantasy with Emotional Depth
Yana Metro’s Luminiferos: The Omen of Light is an enthralling continuation of the Luminiferos saga. With its dark, alluring tone, richly developed characters, and high-stakes plot, it strikes a perfect balance between romance, action, and emotional depth. Lilly White’s journey of survival, self-discovery, and her dance with darkness makes her a heroine that readers will root for, even as they fear for her fate. Metro’s world is both magical and perilous, and her ability to keep the reader guessing until the very end makes this book a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and paranormal romance.

Whether you’re drawn in by the intense love triangle, the intricate world-building, or the emotional journey of its protagonist, The Omen of Light delivers on all fronts, making it a standout entry in the genre and a compelling second act in the Luminiferos series.

I tend to go into books blindly and truly immerse myself into the story. Lily White is a beautifully written character that you simply can’t help but root for. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series.

Thank you NetGalley and Yana for ARC of “Luminiferos”

This was so much fun. A unique portal story with twists and turns that I never expected. I can't wait to see what happens to Lily next!

The captivating cover was what initially caught my eye with this book. Lilly White, an orphan searching for the missing pieces of herself, begins experiencing increasingly vivid visions of a lush, otherworldly realm as she grows older. When a mysterious stranger offers her passage to a forgotten world, she eagerly embraces the chance to uncover her true family and purpose.
Yet, this new world is anything but a paradise. An insidious darkness is devouring everything in its path, endangering all Lilly encounters. She must look deep within to unearth powers she never knew she possessed and battle the dark forces threatening to consume this world.
This story is a distinctive mix of fantasy, romance, and philosophical exploration that takes readers on an emotional journey of self-discovery, love, and transcendence. The intricate world-building and richly descriptive writing style draw the reader in, making the realm feel alive and immersive.
Lilly is an endearing character whose relatable struggles and determination make it easy for readers to root for her as she navigates this new world and finds her true purpose. Themes of family, love, and the strength of self-discovery are woven throughout, creating a heartwarming and inspiring narrative.
In sum, Luminiferos is a spellbinding and enchanting story that will captivate fans of fantasy and romance alike. It’s a tale of hope, resilience, and the courage to pursue one's dreams.

I really enjoyed this book, the suspense was killing me. I felt it was a good pace and everything really came together. If your not sure to read this book I would highly recommend. Thank you for allowing me a ARC copy.