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The Book of the Watchers #1
Angel of Water & Shadow
Her fate was whispered in the tides...
One second, the sounds around River are white noise, the next it’s like the world is speaking to her directly. It started when she was eight—right after her mom was swept away by a rip current, never to be seen or heard from again. She assumes that the Voices, as she calls them, are a figment of her grief. But they’re real, and despite the fact that she doesn't even have her license or diploma, they’re certain she’s the one who will deliver Earth from darkness.
When River’s connection to the Voices abruptly shuts off at her school’s graduation party, it’s a step towards the normalcy she’s craved. But when a demon chases her off campus, a werewolf tries to eat her at a bonfire, and Source magic manifests at her fingertips, the Voices aren’t there to explain. Instead, a mysterious hunter named Ryder is—he has clues about her identity they unravel together, although she feels like he’s unraveling her in the process.
Caught in the middle of a centuries-old battle between two warring supernatural realms, to save humanity, River must find the Voices and unlock a part of her past she’s buried since that fateful day with her mom.
If her own self-loathing, and the ultimate betrayal, don’t stop her from wielding the power of love and acceptance.
A fresh twist on angels and demons, where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred, this debut is full of forbidden love, heart-dropping betrayals, and learning how to turn tragic endings into new beginnings.
Perfect for fans of The Zodiac Academy, Daughter of Smoke & Bone, and The Dark Elements series.
One second, the sounds around River are white noise, the next it’s like the world is speaking to her directly. It started when she was eight—right after her mom was swept away by a rip current, never to be seen or heard from again. She assumes that the Voices, as she calls them, are a figment of her grief. But they’re real, and despite the fact that she doesn't even have her license or diploma, they’re certain she’s the one who will deliver Earth from darkness.
When River’s connection to the Voices abruptly shuts off at her school’s graduation party, it’s a step towards the normalcy she’s craved. But when a demon chases her off campus, a werewolf tries to eat her at a bonfire, and Source magic manifests at her fingertips, the Voices aren’t there to explain. Instead, a mysterious hunter named Ryder is—he has clues about her identity they unravel together, although she feels like he’s unraveling her in the process.
Caught in the middle of a centuries-old battle between two warring supernatural realms, to save humanity, River must find the Voices and unlock a part of her past she’s buried since that fateful day with her mom.
If her own self-loathing, and the ultimate betrayal, don’t stop her from wielding the power of love and acceptance.
A fresh twist on angels and demons, where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred, this debut is full of forbidden love, heart-dropping betrayals, and learning how to turn tragic endings into new beginnings.
Perfect for fans of The Zodiac Academy, Daughter of Smoke & Bone, and The Dark Elements series.
424 pages, Paperback
First published May 16, 2023
23 people are currently reading
8178 people want to read
About the author
Tory Guyon
3 books179 followersTory Guyon grew up dreaming about dragons, pretending to craft potions, and eagerly awaiting to be summoned by the realm of the fae. She lives with her family in Santa Cruz, CA and continues to actively seek out the magic of this world. Whether that’s working with orangutans in the jungles of Borneo, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro’s grueling 19,341 ft. peak, or looking for fairies in the redwoods with her daughter. Connect with her at www.saltandstarspress.com or on social media at @wri_tor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 21, 2023
I was intrigued by the cover but the story itself had me immersed in a magical world full of creatures, nephilim. This starts to get interesting when she opens her eyes to the supernatural. Her grief was really emotional, you could feel it. I loved how descriptive it was, I could just feel like I'm around water when I started reading it.
June 24, 2023
Review 4.5 stars!
This was such a compelling and mysterious story it was hard to put down! This is an upper YA fantasy, perfect for those who love a supernatural twist to an urban fantasy similar to the Mortal Instruments series by Cassie Clare or The Wake Trilogy!
We follow the story of River, a young girl who has always felt like an outcast, mostly due to the 3 voices in her head that just don’t go away. She’s always in fear that people will witness her having a psychological breakdown. There’s two thing in her life that make the voices go away temporarily that she just can’t live without: surfing 🏄♀️ and her best friend Javi. I absolutely adored Javi 👀 I was totally shipping the reluctant-friends-to-lovers boat! That is, until Ryder appeared and you know me, I can’t resist a mysterious potential love interest !
As summer begins and high school is finally over, she dreads having to part with Javi. That combined with some weird, or can I say, weirder, things that have been happening lately, she’s definitely on edge. Suddenly River is thrown into a supernatural world with demons, werewolves, angels and has lost the voices to guide her. Overall a suspenseful read that definitely will have you on edge!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
This was such a compelling and mysterious story it was hard to put down! This is an upper YA fantasy, perfect for those who love a supernatural twist to an urban fantasy similar to the Mortal Instruments series by Cassie Clare or The Wake Trilogy!
We follow the story of River, a young girl who has always felt like an outcast, mostly due to the 3 voices in her head that just don’t go away. She’s always in fear that people will witness her having a psychological breakdown. There’s two thing in her life that make the voices go away temporarily that she just can’t live without: surfing 🏄♀️ and her best friend Javi. I absolutely adored Javi 👀 I was totally shipping the reluctant-friends-to-lovers boat! That is, until Ryder appeared and you know me, I can’t resist a mysterious potential love interest !
As summer begins and high school is finally over, she dreads having to part with Javi. That combined with some weird, or can I say, weirder, things that have been happening lately, she’s definitely on edge. Suddenly River is thrown into a supernatural world with demons, werewolves, angels and has lost the voices to guide her. Overall a suspenseful read that definitely will have you on edge!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
December 23, 2022
These characters have lived in my head and heart for years, and I am so excited to finally bring them out into the world. I hope you love this book as much as I do <3
Read
June 4, 2024LOVEDDDD - full review coming soon (& maybe an ig giveaway too👀)
August 6, 2023
"𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬."
Angel of Water & Shadow is a mix of surfing, paranormal fantasy, grief and discovery, making for a gripping read. I spent the entire weekend in the pages of this book, joining River as she discovers new truths about herself. Feeling like an outcast and dealing with grief, River's best friend Javi had her back at every corner. From making new friends and acquaintances on a beach at full moon to visiting a theme park with Ryder - there is never a dull moment. I loved everything about this book, but the Ferris wheel scene was one of my favourites. So much happens in this book, everything falls into place after each chapter and the reader is left wanting more of this world.
Set in our modern world with a paranormal twist, River's life is about to change when she realises nothing is as it seems. The story progresses in such a brilliant way, that you can't help not spending every minute reading this book. This is the first book in the series and I'm so ready for the second book. Angel of Water & Shadow is perfect for fans of Shadowhunters.
- Angels, demons & werewolves
- Mental health
- Surfing
- Theme park
- Secrets
- Beach party
Please have a look at the TW included at the beginning of the book.
Thank you MTMC Tours and the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Angel of Water & Shadow is a mix of surfing, paranormal fantasy, grief and discovery, making for a gripping read. I spent the entire weekend in the pages of this book, joining River as she discovers new truths about herself. Feeling like an outcast and dealing with grief, River's best friend Javi had her back at every corner. From making new friends and acquaintances on a beach at full moon to visiting a theme park with Ryder - there is never a dull moment. I loved everything about this book, but the Ferris wheel scene was one of my favourites. So much happens in this book, everything falls into place after each chapter and the reader is left wanting more of this world.
Set in our modern world with a paranormal twist, River's life is about to change when she realises nothing is as it seems. The story progresses in such a brilliant way, that you can't help not spending every minute reading this book. This is the first book in the series and I'm so ready for the second book. Angel of Water & Shadow is perfect for fans of Shadowhunters.
- Angels, demons & werewolves
- Mental health
- Surfing
- Theme park
- Secrets
- Beach party
Please have a look at the TW included at the beginning of the book.
Thank you MTMC Tours and the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2024
2024 Reads #258/250
December 18, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 (4.5 stars)
If you're searching for an upper YA fantasy novel with a supernatural twist, look no further than "Angel of Water & Shadow" by Tory Guyon. This captivating and suspenseful story will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Meet River, a young girl who has always felt like an outcast due to the constant presence of three voices in her head. She fears people discovering her struggles and having a psychological breakdown. However, two things provide solace and temporary relief from the voices: her passion for surfing and her best friend Javi. Javi is an absolute gem, and I couldn't help but root for their reluctant-friends-to-lovers journey. But just when you think their story is set, enter Ryder, a mysterious potential love interest that adds an irresistible element of intrigue.
As summer begins and high school comes to an end, River dreads the thought of parting ways with Javi. Yet, strange and inexplicable events start occurring, throwing River into a supernatural world filled with demons, werewolves, and angels. To make matters worse, she loses the voices that have guided her. This suspenseful read takes you on a gripping journey of self-discovery as River unravels new truths about herself.
Guyon masterfully blends surfing, paranormal fantasy, grief, and discovery into a cohesive and engaging narrative. I found myself immersed in the pages, accompanying River on her thrilling adventures. The portrayal of River's sense of isolation and grief, coupled with her unwavering friendship with Javi, added depth to the story. The dynamic cast of characters, both old and new, kept the plot intriguing and full of surprises. One of my favorite scenes was the Ferris wheel moment, which perfectly captured the essence of excitement and emotional tension. I must mention the trigger warnings included at the beginning of the book, which ensured a safe reading experience. The pacing of the story was fast, making it an enjoyable and addictive read. The author expertly developed the characters, making them relatable and keeping me fully invested in their journeys.If you loved the Twilight saga, "Angel of Water & Shadow" is a must-read.
Thank you r&r book tours and the author for sending me a beautiful copy of this story that I will keep with me for a lifetime
If you're searching for an upper YA fantasy novel with a supernatural twist, look no further than "Angel of Water & Shadow" by Tory Guyon. This captivating and suspenseful story will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Meet River, a young girl who has always felt like an outcast due to the constant presence of three voices in her head. She fears people discovering her struggles and having a psychological breakdown. However, two things provide solace and temporary relief from the voices: her passion for surfing and her best friend Javi. Javi is an absolute gem, and I couldn't help but root for their reluctant-friends-to-lovers journey. But just when you think their story is set, enter Ryder, a mysterious potential love interest that adds an irresistible element of intrigue.
As summer begins and high school comes to an end, River dreads the thought of parting ways with Javi. Yet, strange and inexplicable events start occurring, throwing River into a supernatural world filled with demons, werewolves, and angels. To make matters worse, she loses the voices that have guided her. This suspenseful read takes you on a gripping journey of self-discovery as River unravels new truths about herself.
Guyon masterfully blends surfing, paranormal fantasy, grief, and discovery into a cohesive and engaging narrative. I found myself immersed in the pages, accompanying River on her thrilling adventures. The portrayal of River's sense of isolation and grief, coupled with her unwavering friendship with Javi, added depth to the story. The dynamic cast of characters, both old and new, kept the plot intriguing and full of surprises. One of my favorite scenes was the Ferris wheel moment, which perfectly captured the essence of excitement and emotional tension. I must mention the trigger warnings included at the beginning of the book, which ensured a safe reading experience. The pacing of the story was fast, making it an enjoyable and addictive read. The author expertly developed the characters, making them relatable and keeping me fully invested in their journeys.If you loved the Twilight saga, "Angel of Water & Shadow" is a must-read.
Thank you r&r book tours and the author for sending me a beautiful copy of this story that I will keep with me for a lifetime
June 26, 2023
Spice rating: 1 pepper
If you’re a fan of Shadowhunters, bad boys with tattoos and a secret heart of gold and are fascinated by the idea of a lovers-to-enemies romance, then you have to try ANGEL OF WATER AND SHADOWS! This is the first novel in The Book of the Watchers series, a YA fantasy series with a New Adult lean. The story has an original twist on nephilims, and the lore about angels, demons and other supernatural creatures in a way reminded me of when I read the early Cassandra Clare books and falling in love with that world.
Though the world is our own, the supernatural world building—mostly presented through Ryder’s character—was very well done. In no instance did I feel overwhelmed or had the need to go back and reread, and I especially appreciated the gradual delivery of information for it allowed me to develop theories of my own—about the angels, about Ryder, about River herself.
The characters were certainly this book’s greatest strength. Despite her trauma and her mental health struggles, River is a strong protagonist, and her school troubles made her a very relatable protagonist. This, added to the fact that she’s a surfer, which is something one doesn’t often see in fantasy, made her stand out among other FMCs. Ryder was also an interesting character, as it’s apparent he’s hiding something from the moment we meet him. Uncovering the secret was half the fun. (Also, bad boy with tattoos. My weakness!) But I can’t write off Javi either. He’s a sweet boy, and his dynamic with River was adorably cute. This book is the one instance where the author could have done no wrong with the romance.
However, I will say that the grand reveal at the end didn’t entirely come as a surprise. The signs were there, and perhaps I would have liked to be a little bit more shocked about it. That being said, the ending leaves a great opening for the future books in the series. I’m looking forward to seeing how it continues!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
If you’re a fan of Shadowhunters, bad boys with tattoos and a secret heart of gold and are fascinated by the idea of a lovers-to-enemies romance, then you have to try ANGEL OF WATER AND SHADOWS! This is the first novel in The Book of the Watchers series, a YA fantasy series with a New Adult lean. The story has an original twist on nephilims, and the lore about angels, demons and other supernatural creatures in a way reminded me of when I read the early Cassandra Clare books and falling in love with that world.
Though the world is our own, the supernatural world building—mostly presented through Ryder’s character—was very well done. In no instance did I feel overwhelmed or had the need to go back and reread, and I especially appreciated the gradual delivery of information for it allowed me to develop theories of my own—about the angels, about Ryder, about River herself.
The characters were certainly this book’s greatest strength. Despite her trauma and her mental health struggles, River is a strong protagonist, and her school troubles made her a very relatable protagonist. This, added to the fact that she’s a surfer, which is something one doesn’t often see in fantasy, made her stand out among other FMCs. Ryder was also an interesting character, as it’s apparent he’s hiding something from the moment we meet him. Uncovering the secret was half the fun. (Also, bad boy with tattoos. My weakness!) But I can’t write off Javi either. He’s a sweet boy, and his dynamic with River was adorably cute. This book is the one instance where the author could have done no wrong with the romance.
However, I will say that the grand reveal at the end didn’t entirely come as a surprise. The signs were there, and perhaps I would have liked to be a little bit more shocked about it. That being said, the ending leaves a great opening for the future books in the series. I’m looking forward to seeing how it continues!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
December 21, 2023
River is a young woman who suffers from sensory issues. While everyone else hears background noise, stressful situations turn those into a trio of enigmatic Voices. The Voices showed up after the tragic loss of her mother. When River is abruptly disconnected from these Voices at her graduation party, she is treated to a semblance of normalcy she has yearned for. However, this newfound normality quickly dissolves when her life becomes even more complex.
As River navigates through numerous supernatural situations, she finds herself entwined in a complex, age-old conflict between worlds. Alongside a mysterious hunter named Ryder, she embarks on a quest to rediscover her lost connection with the Voices and uncover the buried truths of her mother's past.
This book was immersive and thoroughly enjoyable. While categorically a(n older) young adult novel, it was able to captivate through its nostalgic elements, complex themes, and exploration of pivotal coming-of-age experiences. The narrative artfully portrays the shifting dynamics of relationships, particularly River's emotional journey with Javi and the bittersweetness of outgrowing or shifting friendships.
The theme of grief and its intricate complexities struck a deep chord, resonating strongly with me. The story not only engages readers through its contemporary fantasy elements but also delves into the intricate layers of human emotions and personal growth, creating a compelling narrative that explores the nuances of tragedy and the subsequent impact on an individual's life.
Thanks to the author and R&R booktours for the review copy. This is an honest review.
As River navigates through numerous supernatural situations, she finds herself entwined in a complex, age-old conflict between worlds. Alongside a mysterious hunter named Ryder, she embarks on a quest to rediscover her lost connection with the Voices and uncover the buried truths of her mother's past.
This book was immersive and thoroughly enjoyable. While categorically a(n older) young adult novel, it was able to captivate through its nostalgic elements, complex themes, and exploration of pivotal coming-of-age experiences. The narrative artfully portrays the shifting dynamics of relationships, particularly River's emotional journey with Javi and the bittersweetness of outgrowing or shifting friendships.
The theme of grief and its intricate complexities struck a deep chord, resonating strongly with me. The story not only engages readers through its contemporary fantasy elements but also delves into the intricate layers of human emotions and personal growth, creating a compelling narrative that explores the nuances of tragedy and the subsequent impact on an individual's life.
Thanks to the author and R&R booktours for the review copy. This is an honest review.
June 23, 2023
This was such a fun and fast paced read! I thoroughly enjoyed the Angel lore and the supernatural creatures we meet. I really enjoyed River and following her on her crazy journey.
I think the author did such a good job developing her characters, because I was so invested in their stories and how they are going to end up.
Cannot wait to read more.
I think the author did such a good job developing her characters, because I was so invested in their stories and how they are going to end up.
Cannot wait to read more.
April 27, 2023
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review and can say with absolute certainty that I am so confused with what happens in this book! The description is excessively wordy which takes away from the plot and the flow of character development early on in the book. Alongside that reality is totally blurred with fantasy to the point that most of the time I had no idea what was going on especially when River and Javi had their tarot cards read and then time stopped and somehow River was on a ride of some sort (I think?). It all got even stranger when River was on her way home and met a strange guy called Ryder who later shot an arrow at her. If you’re into demons, mental health, teen angst and loss/grief this is the book for you. For me such heavy topics got lost in the fantasy.
One of the strangest things I’ve read in a while, but good if you’re into supernatural mixed with mental health.
One of the strangest things I’ve read in a while, but good if you’re into supernatural mixed with mental health.
May 25, 2023
Angel of Water and Shadow by Tory Guyon was given to me by Hidden Gems Books. I am voluntarily giving my honest review. My options are mine alone.
Angel of Water and Shadow follows seniors right out of high school Greer (a surfer girl) and Javi (super smart and kind). Greer has dealt with severe PTSD and guilt since she lost her mother due to a supposed drowning in the ocean trying to save Greer. Javi, her loyal and amazing best friend (possible boyfriend???), has supported her through it all. Her dad is semi-present, but they used to be close and he was the one who taught her our to surf. Things drastically change when she meets Ryder in the middle of the night on the way home from Grad Night at the famous Lost Boys beach/theme park in Santa Cruz, California. She learns the truth about her family and herself after running into Nephilim. And her co-worker isn't all she appears to be. Her life has just gotten more dramatic if the voices and loss of her mother wasn't enough.
Trigger Warnings: Violence, mature language, sexual content with 18 year old characters (we will get into that and shout out to Tory!), alcohol abuse, sexual harassment (Looking at you, Chet), anxiety, auditory hallucinations, depression, death, and suicidal ideation. Not for anyone under 16. (Taken from the content warning section of the book).
Genre 5/5 - Tory does a great job at writing for the fantasy/supernatural/YA fiction. True to the genre and easy to get into.
Characters 5/5 The characters are well written and are not one dimensional. Team Greer and Javi and Ryder can go touch grass. I also really loved her psychologist, Dr. Fairmore and her co-worker Shanley. Shanley is also LGBT and her girlfriend is epic. There is also high school bully and jock Chet, he is such trash.
Plot/theme 4/5 I loved how despite how plentiful this genre and type of plot and hero's journey is, Tory still finds away to standout and be unique while delivering us readers something sturdy and reliable to entertain. That being said, YA/Fantasy/Romantasy/Supernatural is still an impacted genre and it can be difficult to carve your own into. I loved how Greer wasn't in opposition to her bloodline or her nature like how it typically goes in these types of stories. She is actually very accepting and likes it. She and Javi's friendship is also a major highlight point for me and Ryder is trash. Greer is a strong surfer girl that deals with mental health issues, she has Javi and he is amazing. The story proceeds with demons, werewolves, and Greer being hunted down because of some political power grab by the Nephilim and the different dimension. The watchers are there to protect humans from Nephilim and all the different types that live in the other places. Magic is known as Source and I loved how the concept is that the Nephilim are actually very much sharing the earth and our realm with us 24/7 but not all of us see them because we closed off/rationalized them and thus lost our source or ability to see with our source. Greer hasn't and it is because she is half human. Shanley is a werewolf and we really get an amazing scene on Davenport Beach.
My only issue was the 18 year old explicit content. I personally stay away from YA written by adults, or YA written by 18 - 25 authors in general because if they feature sexually explicit content it comes off very gross. I was originally going to DNF and I had reached out to Tory before doing so. She is amazing, truly. She told me which parts to avoid and I was still able to read and enjoy her novel. I really enjoyed reading it up to that point. So, I was pleased she worked with me so I could still continue with the book. If you are like me and certain age groups getting it on is a little...predatory to you, reach out to Tory Guyon on instagram - she'll tell you what's up!
Pacing 4.5/5 Action packed and a quick read. I wish some of the lore was brought up in the book since this is book 1 and that Tory took the time to expand and elaborating a tad bit. I was stuck rating the pacing at 4.5 or 5 and it can lean either way. I love how action packed it was, yet at the same time I kind of wish certain elements were slowed down and expanded more. Like I would have loved to see another more calmness between all the hectic. Like her and Shanley could have had more time, or her and Javi. But, if you have issues with attention spans (I am ADHD, so sometimes these faster paced books are godsend), then you will definitely love the pacing. I can see the pacing being 5/5 for me on a bad, zero attention span day.
Prose 5/5 Tory writes in an action packed and excitatory type of style. she gives enough details but doesn't get lost in them which can help fellow attention sufferers. Not a complicated type of voice or word choice. The type of writing that is easy to get into and not need hours to break it down. I like it when an author can still exhibit the ability to be a show the reader writer without needing to drone on in order to do it.
Overall 4.7, I usually round up but, I still couldn't deal with the age range spicy. I have a lot of reasons but let my tl;dr it - psychology/social work. Yes I understand and accept teen sexuality, no I don't need to watcher read it, I am too grown and it feels icky at this age.
I will be skipping the next book in this installment. HOWEVER, Tory has another WIP that is more in the appropriate (for me) age range and I will be jumping on that so quickly. Especially since I did, overall, enjoy Angel of Water and Shadow. (Team Greer and Javi - they are too cute).
Angel of Water and Shadow follows seniors right out of high school Greer (a surfer girl) and Javi (super smart and kind). Greer has dealt with severe PTSD and guilt since she lost her mother due to a supposed drowning in the ocean trying to save Greer. Javi, her loyal and amazing best friend (possible boyfriend???), has supported her through it all. Her dad is semi-present, but they used to be close and he was the one who taught her our to surf. Things drastically change when she meets Ryder in the middle of the night on the way home from Grad Night at the famous Lost Boys beach/theme park in Santa Cruz, California. She learns the truth about her family and herself after running into Nephilim. And her co-worker isn't all she appears to be. Her life has just gotten more dramatic if the voices and loss of her mother wasn't enough.
Trigger Warnings: Violence, mature language, sexual content with 18 year old characters (we will get into that and shout out to Tory!), alcohol abuse, sexual harassment (Looking at you, Chet), anxiety, auditory hallucinations, depression, death, and suicidal ideation. Not for anyone under 16. (Taken from the content warning section of the book).
Genre 5/5 - Tory does a great job at writing for the fantasy/supernatural/YA fiction. True to the genre and easy to get into.
Characters 5/5 The characters are well written and are not one dimensional. Team Greer and Javi and Ryder can go touch grass. I also really loved her psychologist, Dr. Fairmore and her co-worker Shanley. Shanley is also LGBT and her girlfriend is epic. There is also high school bully and jock Chet, he is such trash.
Plot/theme 4/5 I loved how despite how plentiful this genre and type of plot and hero's journey is, Tory still finds away to standout and be unique while delivering us readers something sturdy and reliable to entertain. That being said, YA/Fantasy/Romantasy/Supernatural is still an impacted genre and it can be difficult to carve your own into. I loved how Greer wasn't in opposition to her bloodline or her nature like how it typically goes in these types of stories. She is actually very accepting and likes it. She and Javi's friendship is also a major highlight point for me and Ryder is trash. Greer is a strong surfer girl that deals with mental health issues, she has Javi and he is amazing. The story proceeds with demons, werewolves, and Greer being hunted down because of some political power grab by the Nephilim and the different dimension. The watchers are there to protect humans from Nephilim and all the different types that live in the other places. Magic is known as Source and I loved how the concept is that the Nephilim are actually very much sharing the earth and our realm with us 24/7 but not all of us see them because we closed off/rationalized them and thus lost our source or ability to see with our source. Greer hasn't and it is because she is half human. Shanley is a werewolf and we really get an amazing scene on Davenport Beach.
My only issue was the 18 year old explicit content. I personally stay away from YA written by adults, or YA written by 18 - 25 authors in general because if they feature sexually explicit content it comes off very gross. I was originally going to DNF and I had reached out to Tory before doing so. She is amazing, truly. She told me which parts to avoid and I was still able to read and enjoy her novel. I really enjoyed reading it up to that point. So, I was pleased she worked with me so I could still continue with the book. If you are like me and certain age groups getting it on is a little...predatory to you, reach out to Tory Guyon on instagram - she'll tell you what's up!
Pacing 4.5/5 Action packed and a quick read. I wish some of the lore was brought up in the book since this is book 1 and that Tory took the time to expand and elaborating a tad bit. I was stuck rating the pacing at 4.5 or 5 and it can lean either way. I love how action packed it was, yet at the same time I kind of wish certain elements were slowed down and expanded more. Like I would have loved to see another more calmness between all the hectic. Like her and Shanley could have had more time, or her and Javi. But, if you have issues with attention spans (I am ADHD, so sometimes these faster paced books are godsend), then you will definitely love the pacing. I can see the pacing being 5/5 for me on a bad, zero attention span day.
Prose 5/5 Tory writes in an action packed and excitatory type of style. she gives enough details but doesn't get lost in them which can help fellow attention sufferers. Not a complicated type of voice or word choice. The type of writing that is easy to get into and not need hours to break it down. I like it when an author can still exhibit the ability to be a show the reader writer without needing to drone on in order to do it.
Overall 4.7, I usually round up but, I still couldn't deal with the age range spicy. I have a lot of reasons but let my tl;dr it - psychology/social work. Yes I understand and accept teen sexuality, no I don't need to watcher read it, I am too grown and it feels icky at this age.
I will be skipping the next book in this installment. HOWEVER, Tory has another WIP that is more in the appropriate (for me) age range and I will be jumping on that so quickly. Especially since I did, overall, enjoy Angel of Water and Shadow. (Team Greer and Javi - they are too cute).
June 22, 2023
Spice rating: 1 pepper
The perfect fantasy for the summer!
I breezed through the pages of this book. The angel/supernatural lore was giving me Shadowhunters vibes, specifically Lady Midnight and City of Bones. If you know me, you know how much I love that series so it was a truly pleasant surprise. Of course I’m mentioning vibes, but Angel of Water and Shadow stands out on its own for originality and twist on angel/nephilim and demons with a very interesting story that promises intriguing things to happen in the rest of the series!
What I enjoyed most about the book were the characters. River is a nice protagonist, with a distinct voice and a humor that sometimes reminds me of my own. Ryder was also an interesting character, though I have to admit I am not 100% warmed up to him and the reason has one name: Javi. Friends to lover is my weakness, and the grounds for such a trope were all there before Ryder came along. Javi ticked all of my boxes, I guess: he’s sweet, he’s fun, he always has River’s back. He’s that kind of sunshine personality that makes you wish they could always be happy, and when they’re not you’re angry at everything that upsets them. Javi needs to be protected at all costs. That being said, I wouldn’t say no to River being with both guys. (This is an Upper YA with a NA lean so I doubt it’ll happen, but a girl can dream, right?)
The mystery of the Voices was what fascinated me the most about the plot, and though I had my theories there were still enough twists that I was pleasantly surprised by the discovery of what the Voices are, and River’s role in everything. Very exciting setup for the sequel!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
The perfect fantasy for the summer!
I breezed through the pages of this book. The angel/supernatural lore was giving me Shadowhunters vibes, specifically Lady Midnight and City of Bones. If you know me, you know how much I love that series so it was a truly pleasant surprise. Of course I’m mentioning vibes, but Angel of Water and Shadow stands out on its own for originality and twist on angel/nephilim and demons with a very interesting story that promises intriguing things to happen in the rest of the series!
What I enjoyed most about the book were the characters. River is a nice protagonist, with a distinct voice and a humor that sometimes reminds me of my own. Ryder was also an interesting character, though I have to admit I am not 100% warmed up to him and the reason has one name: Javi. Friends to lover is my weakness, and the grounds for such a trope were all there before Ryder came along. Javi ticked all of my boxes, I guess: he’s sweet, he’s fun, he always has River’s back. He’s that kind of sunshine personality that makes you wish they could always be happy, and when they’re not you’re angry at everything that upsets them. Javi needs to be protected at all costs. That being said, I wouldn’t say no to River being with both guys. (This is an Upper YA with a NA lean so I doubt it’ll happen, but a girl can dream, right?)
The mystery of the Voices was what fascinated me the most about the plot, and though I had my theories there were still enough twists that I was pleasantly surprised by the discovery of what the Voices are, and River’s role in everything. Very exciting setup for the sequel!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
April 16, 2023
Rcvd an advanced reader copy hidden gems for giving my two cents. We meet River, almost 18 year old high schooler, who hears voices in her head. She loves the surf and the ocean calms her. River had lost her mother surfing when she was just a kid. Her bff Javi keeps her grounded when she has an episode of spacing out of sorts. High school grad carnival has Javi and River having fun until he gets his tarot cards read...time stops and the Mystic stares at her with knowing eyes. With the voices constantly chirping at her she finally tells them to leave...and leave they do. On thr way home she meets a guy in the fog, Ryder, and she finds smtg about him sketchy. On her 18th her dad gives her a necklace that belonged to her mother...she doesn't deserve it...and when she puts it in it burns her skin. Things are gotten super weird now and when Ryder offer her a ride a demon attacks them. What on earth is going on. River wants answers but doesn't know where to start and as crazy as it sounds she misses the voices. Learning about a whole new supernatural world that includes angels has opened her eyes but she knows there's a piece missing. Good read.
December 15, 2023
River is just another ordinary senior in high school, trying to get to graduation despite a struggle to focus pretty much all the time. Hearing voices in her head constantly and having episodes where she is completely out of it have made life harder for River, but she's never been able to figure out why they're there it where they came from.
I loved the way everything was set up for her-best friend Javi who of course wants more; Ryder, the mysterious and gorgeous stranger who knows about the world she's just been thrust into; and River, the teen with a tragic past who has relied on her dad and Javi for her whole life, and is now being forced to upend everything she thought she ever knew.
The emotions in this feel so real and relatable, they were really well done. The development between River and Ryder seemed a bit rushed and felt a little bit off the wholetime, but for good reason. She seems to be adapting and accepting her new identity, but of there are obstacles to be faced.
I loved the way everything was set up for her-best friend Javi who of course wants more; Ryder, the mysterious and gorgeous stranger who knows about the world she's just been thrust into; and River, the teen with a tragic past who has relied on her dad and Javi for her whole life, and is now being forced to upend everything she thought she ever knew.
The emotions in this feel so real and relatable, they were really well done. The development between River and Ryder seemed a bit rushed and felt a little bit off the wholetime, but for good reason. She seems to be adapting and accepting her new identity, but of there are obstacles to be faced.
December 17, 2023
I was provided a copy of this title for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Imagine all your life, you hear these very distinctly separate voices inside of your head, and one day they abruptly disappear around the same time that a seemingly random and fateful series of events dumps you onto a path, at the other end of which waits literally every answer you seek about the history of your family and your past, but as you traipse along you become less and less certain of…everything—whether the truth is one that you want or need to learn, who you should or shouldn’t trust? That’s kind of what our FMC River goes through in Angel of Water and Shadow.
I love me some vivid imagery, and this book brought all of that to the party with enthralling descriptions that pull you right into the story. If you’re in the market for a relatively fast paced read with oceany angel and demon vibes, and an ending that will make you gasp…I say look no further.
Thank you to the author and R&R Book Tours for the gifted copy!
Imagine all your life, you hear these very distinctly separate voices inside of your head, and one day they abruptly disappear around the same time that a seemingly random and fateful series of events dumps you onto a path, at the other end of which waits literally every answer you seek about the history of your family and your past, but as you traipse along you become less and less certain of…everything—whether the truth is one that you want or need to learn, who you should or shouldn’t trust? That’s kind of what our FMC River goes through in Angel of Water and Shadow.
I love me some vivid imagery, and this book brought all of that to the party with enthralling descriptions that pull you right into the story. If you’re in the market for a relatively fast paced read with oceany angel and demon vibes, and an ending that will make you gasp…I say look no further.
Thank you to the author and R&R Book Tours for the gifted copy!
April 19, 2023
*I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review*
I could not put this book down, it was so good. This a true Young Adult novel about finding yourself and figuring out who you are and who you want to be; all the while fighting demons, of course. I loved that I could see the change in River throughout the novel; it allowed me to really connect to her. I felt her pain with her when the boy she loved betrayed her and broke her heart. I felt like I was right there with her when it happened.
The imagery used is also really good. I could paint a picture in my head every time I read. I highly recommend this novel, especially to middle - high school students who love reading the paranormal. It is truly a great read.
I could not put this book down, it was so good. This a true Young Adult novel about finding yourself and figuring out who you are and who you want to be; all the while fighting demons, of course. I loved that I could see the change in River throughout the novel; it allowed me to really connect to her. I felt her pain with her when the boy she loved betrayed her and broke her heart. I felt like I was right there with her when it happened.
The imagery used is also really good. I could paint a picture in my head every time I read. I highly recommend this novel, especially to middle - high school students who love reading the paranormal. It is truly a great read.
August 23, 2023
Loved this one! I especially enjoyed the coastal setting in a modern fantasy and the creative worldbuilding.
May 16, 2023
Ok. So, this is a a good story line with some good characters, but it is a bit confusing at times. Some sentences are jammed packed with adjectives and others don't have enough descriptives to make a whole lot of sense. If you keep reading you get the gist of the circumstances, though. It kind of felt like the author had so many ideas bubbling up at once, complete thoughts and polishing details of specific scenes were left out. Maybe, I don't know. But I liked the plot enough to keep reading, and I'm glad I did because there were several areas of her book that justify the 4 stars given.
1. Different species/groups of people are slowly introduced, which was a fun surprise. Not to mention the main beings. (I have a mental picture of Ryder and that picture is very pleasant. Very pleasant, indeed.)
2. There were little seeds of curiosities planted throughout this first volume; Guyon did a great job setting-up her forthcoming books.
3. There was a plot twist I didn't see coming and one that was fairly obvious, which kept the characters intriguing. (still picturing Ryder)
4. This book ends with a lot of unanswered questions. Thankfully though, not a crazy cliffhanger. Actually, it ends kind of weird...
I am looking forward to the next installment and am eager to find out more!
Thanks to Hidden Gems Books for the free ARC. I have voluntarily left this honest review.
1. Different species/groups of people are slowly introduced, which was a fun surprise. Not to mention the main beings. (I have a mental picture of Ryder and that picture is very pleasant. Very pleasant, indeed.)
2. There were little seeds of curiosities planted throughout this first volume; Guyon did a great job setting-up her forthcoming books.
3. There was a plot twist I didn't see coming and one that was fairly obvious, which kept the characters intriguing. (still picturing Ryder)
4. This book ends with a lot of unanswered questions. Thankfully though, not a crazy cliffhanger. Actually, it ends kind of weird...
I am looking forward to the next installment and am eager to find out more!
Thanks to Hidden Gems Books for the free ARC. I have voluntarily left this honest review.
May 18, 2023
I have really enjoyed this book. I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for ah honest review and I could not have been more impressed.
Tory is the type of writer that makes you want to live within her pages. From the opening scene surfing, to the voices in the main characters head, to the people who populate her world every detail really feeds into drawing the reader into the place they really experience what the character is experiencing.
The writing is beautiful from start to end. The story kept me engaged and left me feeling like I had experienced something beautiful. If you like angel stories, or just want to become a California surfer girl for a while this is the book for you.
Tory is the type of writer that makes you want to live within her pages. From the opening scene surfing, to the voices in the main characters head, to the people who populate her world every detail really feeds into drawing the reader into the place they really experience what the character is experiencing.
The writing is beautiful from start to end. The story kept me engaged and left me feeling like I had experienced something beautiful. If you like angel stories, or just want to become a California surfer girl for a while this is the book for you.
May 31, 2023
River has experienced episodes for years and lived with voices in her head since the moment she watched her mother die. Until one day, after screaming at them to leave her alone, she’s left in blissful peace and quiet. Her episodes appear to be gone. Then everything else in her world tips a little sideways and she’s left with only Ryder to explain the demons chasing her and the mysteries surrounding her identity. But Ryder came out of nowhere, can she really trust everything he says?
*CW- discussions of rape & gaslighting
I did really enjoy reading this, though I actually expected to like it a little more. I really enjoyed River’s love of surfing. The characters and storyline were well developed. I enjoyed the author’s voice as well, there were some really witty lines that I got a kick out of. The one part that was off putting was the gaslighting. Usually it doesn’t bother me in a book, but it really got to me this time and I can’t explain why.
*CW- discussions of rape & gaslighting
I did really enjoy reading this, though I actually expected to like it a little more. I really enjoyed River’s love of surfing. The characters and storyline were well developed. I enjoyed the author’s voice as well, there were some really witty lines that I got a kick out of. The one part that was off putting was the gaslighting. Usually it doesn’t bother me in a book, but it really got to me this time and I can’t explain why.
March 4, 2025
This was such a fun read! If you love shadowhunters with some enemies to lovers, Angel of Water & Shadow is definitely for you!
This first installment kicks off The Book of the Watchers series with a thrilling blend of supernatural mystery, self-discovery, and forbidden romance. River, haunted by voices since her mother’s death, believes they’re just a product of grief—until demons, werewolves, and magic suddenly collide in her life. As she’s thrust into a centuries-old battle between angels and demons, she must unlock her past to save humanity, all while navigating her growing connection to the mysterious Ryder.
The book’s fast-paced plot, rich world-building, and River’s emotional depth make it a gripping read. Her journey from self-doubt to embracing her destiny is compelling, and the forbidden romance with Ryder adds layers of tension.
Things you'll find:
-Forbidden Love
- The Chosen One
- Supernatural Beasts
- Identity Discovery
Im so excited to continue the series, and can we talk about the covers.. gorgeous! Huge thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
This first installment kicks off The Book of the Watchers series with a thrilling blend of supernatural mystery, self-discovery, and forbidden romance. River, haunted by voices since her mother’s death, believes they’re just a product of grief—until demons, werewolves, and magic suddenly collide in her life. As she’s thrust into a centuries-old battle between angels and demons, she must unlock her past to save humanity, all while navigating her growing connection to the mysterious Ryder.
The book’s fast-paced plot, rich world-building, and River’s emotional depth make it a gripping read. Her journey from self-doubt to embracing her destiny is compelling, and the forbidden romance with Ryder adds layers of tension.
Things you'll find:
-Forbidden Love
- The Chosen One
- Supernatural Beasts
- Identity Discovery
Im so excited to continue the series, and can we talk about the covers.. gorgeous! Huge thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
May 21, 2024
Very confusing.
Im still very much confused. I wouldn’t know how to describe this even if i wanted too. Words get lost in translation and i couldn’t figure out who and what
was what… just little bits here and there. I know the basic but the way it was detailed or described was so confusing… it didn’t flow well. The transition when someone new was talking or a new place/scene took place it felt misplaced where it was confusing to understand what was happening. Most chapters felt incomplete or missing something. Then it ended and im 🤯. - There was friendships and romance..which is the only reason i had to fight to keep reading to finish this..but the ending …im not even sure what happened to That as well. 😳👀 .
Im still very much confused. I wouldn’t know how to describe this even if i wanted too. Words get lost in translation and i couldn’t figure out who and what
was what… just little bits here and there. I know the basic but the way it was detailed or described was so confusing… it didn’t flow well. The transition when someone new was talking or a new place/scene took place it felt misplaced where it was confusing to understand what was happening. Most chapters felt incomplete or missing something. Then it ended and im 🤯. - There was friendships and romance..which is the only reason i had to fight to keep reading to finish this..but the ending …im not even sure what happened to That as well. 😳👀 .
December 12, 2024
It’s been a hot minute since I’ve dived into an urban paranormal fantasy centered on angels and Nephilim, and oh, how I’ve missed it. The supernatural elements are seamlessly woven into a modern world setting, creating a vivid backdrop that feels both familiar and otherworldly. I was completely lost to its pages.
The story is largely told from the POV of River, our FMC, who is instantly likeable and incredibly relatable. Her school struggles and personal challenges ground her character in reality, with a heartfelt nod to mental health as she navigates trauma, actively pursues therapy, and embraces methods to calm and center herself. But make no mistake—River is strong-willed, determined, and quietly resilient, showing us how much strength it takes to keep moving forward when giving up feels easier.
As she uncovers the secrets of her parentage and supernatural background, her growth really begins. It’s like watching a puzzle come together, piece by piece, and we’re right there with her, eagerly devouring every morsel of information as she starts to truly find herself.
I have to talk about Javi—what an absolute sweetheart. He’s River’s only friend and her constant in a turbulent world. Goofy and endearing, he’s her safe haven, always there with warmth and humor. Their bond is one of the most heartwarming aspects of the story, and honestly, Javi is the kind of friend we all need.
And then there’s Ryder. Oh, Ryder. From the moment River lays eyes on him and that bow and arrow, he brings all the intrigue. Dark clothing, tattoos, secretive—he’s a walking mystery. As River tries to figure him out, so do we. What is he hiding? What’s his deal? And oh, does he take us on a ride. The plot twists surrounding him are as addictive as they are unexpected.
The contrast between River’s modern world and Ryder’s supernatural one was beautifully executed. River represents the ordinary (to begin with), grounded in a world of school and struggles, while Ryder opens the door to the extraordinary, the other worldly beings. The balance is seamless, pulling you deeper into a layered mythology of angels, demons, and so much more.
Maybe it’s just me, but the theme of not belonging really resonates. There’s something universal in that feeling of being out of place, and watching River evolve—from someone trapped in the mundane to discovering she’s part of something so much bigger was heartwarming. And with her growth came new friendships and feeling less alone.
Tory’s writing is cinematic—it’s like stepping into a movie, where the story unfolds so vividly that reality fades away and to say I’m invested is an understatement. Freaking loved it!!!
Book 2, where you at??
The story is largely told from the POV of River, our FMC, who is instantly likeable and incredibly relatable. Her school struggles and personal challenges ground her character in reality, with a heartfelt nod to mental health as she navigates trauma, actively pursues therapy, and embraces methods to calm and center herself. But make no mistake—River is strong-willed, determined, and quietly resilient, showing us how much strength it takes to keep moving forward when giving up feels easier.
As she uncovers the secrets of her parentage and supernatural background, her growth really begins. It’s like watching a puzzle come together, piece by piece, and we’re right there with her, eagerly devouring every morsel of information as she starts to truly find herself.
I have to talk about Javi—what an absolute sweetheart. He’s River’s only friend and her constant in a turbulent world. Goofy and endearing, he’s her safe haven, always there with warmth and humor. Their bond is one of the most heartwarming aspects of the story, and honestly, Javi is the kind of friend we all need.
And then there’s Ryder. Oh, Ryder. From the moment River lays eyes on him and that bow and arrow, he brings all the intrigue. Dark clothing, tattoos, secretive—he’s a walking mystery. As River tries to figure him out, so do we. What is he hiding? What’s his deal? And oh, does he take us on a ride. The plot twists surrounding him are as addictive as they are unexpected.
The contrast between River’s modern world and Ryder’s supernatural one was beautifully executed. River represents the ordinary (to begin with), grounded in a world of school and struggles, while Ryder opens the door to the extraordinary, the other worldly beings. The balance is seamless, pulling you deeper into a layered mythology of angels, demons, and so much more.
Maybe it’s just me, but the theme of not belonging really resonates. There’s something universal in that feeling of being out of place, and watching River evolve—from someone trapped in the mundane to discovering she’s part of something so much bigger was heartwarming. And with her growth came new friendships and feeling less alone.
Tory’s writing is cinematic—it’s like stepping into a movie, where the story unfolds so vividly that reality fades away and to say I’m invested is an understatement. Freaking loved it!!!
Book 2, where you at??
December 18, 2023
Book Review! Thank you so much Tory Guyon and @rrbooktours for the signed physical copy of Angel of Water and Shadow. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I absolutely LOVE urban fantasy. There is something about our world colliding with a fantasy realm that gets me every time. It’s easy to see why I had to request a copy of Angel of Water and Shadow, a newly published upper YA paranormal/fantasy romance set on the sultry beaches of Santa Cruz. Readers, this one does not disappoint!
One of the things I loved most about FMC, River Harlow, is that she’s not like most fantasy FMCs. River isn’t the strongest, smartest, most special person to ever walk the Earth. She’s real. She struggles in school, finds certain situations overstimulating, and just wants to spend her time hanging out with her best friend, Javier, and surfing. In short, she’s actually very relatable, which I find refreshing.
Of course, the book couldn’t be a romantic fantasy without the romance 🥰! Lucky for the reader, smoke show, Ryder, fits the bill perfectly. It’s completely understandable why River can’t get Ryder out of her head from the first moment she lays eyes on him. The man never leaves home without his bow and arrows, can slay demons, and always shows up when River needs rescuing. *sighs*😍
Although I enjoyed getting to know River, hands down my favorite character in the book is Javier. He’s exactly the kind of hot, always-there-for you-bestie-but-maybe-could-be-something-more sidekick of my dreams. This man dropped by River’s place of employment with her favorite candy unprompted when he knew she had a bad day. 😭 How could you not fall in love at least a little bit?
That huge plot twist at the end had me reeling! I can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment!
In the pages, you will find:
Lovers to enemies
🪽Mental health rep
😈“Good girl”
🐺Forbidden love
🪽Morally gray MMC
😈Chosen one
🐺Warring realms
🪽Hidden identities
😈Betrayal
🐺Elemental magic
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I absolutely LOVE urban fantasy. There is something about our world colliding with a fantasy realm that gets me every time. It’s easy to see why I had to request a copy of Angel of Water and Shadow, a newly published upper YA paranormal/fantasy romance set on the sultry beaches of Santa Cruz. Readers, this one does not disappoint!
One of the things I loved most about FMC, River Harlow, is that she’s not like most fantasy FMCs. River isn’t the strongest, smartest, most special person to ever walk the Earth. She’s real. She struggles in school, finds certain situations overstimulating, and just wants to spend her time hanging out with her best friend, Javier, and surfing. In short, she’s actually very relatable, which I find refreshing.
Of course, the book couldn’t be a romantic fantasy without the romance 🥰! Lucky for the reader, smoke show, Ryder, fits the bill perfectly. It’s completely understandable why River can’t get Ryder out of her head from the first moment she lays eyes on him. The man never leaves home without his bow and arrows, can slay demons, and always shows up when River needs rescuing. *sighs*😍
Although I enjoyed getting to know River, hands down my favorite character in the book is Javier. He’s exactly the kind of hot, always-there-for you-bestie-but-maybe-could-be-something-more sidekick of my dreams. This man dropped by River’s place of employment with her favorite candy unprompted when he knew she had a bad day. 😭 How could you not fall in love at least a little bit?
That huge plot twist at the end had me reeling! I can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment!
In the pages, you will find:
Lovers to enemies
🪽Mental health rep
😈“Good girl”
🐺Forbidden love
🪽Morally gray MMC
😈Chosen one
🐺Warring realms
🪽Hidden identities
😈Betrayal
🐺Elemental magic
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
December 19, 2023
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: 𝐔𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐘𝐀 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞/ 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥
𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐰 & 𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐊𝐔
4.5 rounded up!
Perfect for fans of The Zodiac Academy, Daughter of Smoke & Bone, the Shadowhunters universe and The Dark Elements series.
BLURB:
Angel of Water and Shadow follows River around the time of her 18th birthday. Between hearing voices in her head and struggling to cope with the loss of her mother, as well as the loss of the relationship she needed with her father, River is grasping for normalcy.
But just when the voices leave and a new therapist knocks down some of her walls, she is thrust into the world of the supernatural around the same time a mysterious man crosses her path. She and Ryder unravel the truths about who she is, but the stakes are larger than self-discovery as a long-waged battle between two realms is coming to a head.
REVIEW:
I LOVED this read. I devoured it so quickly, not wanting to put it down. Just as it's said, this is perfect for fans of the Shadowhunter universe. There are so many beautiful moments in this story despite the sadness and high stakes.
The over-arching theme of self-love/self-discovery and coping with mental illness was excellently done. If you're searching for a book with some of the best mental health rep, I HIGHLY suggest Angel. River has to overcome some tough things in this story, and her journey is beautiful. This book is proof you can be a bada$$ while still working on yourself.
The supernatural elements of the story were interesting, and I cannot wait to see more. How everything pieced together had my jaw on the floor a couple times.
The romance in this story is top tier, and I cannot wait to see how it develops in future installments. I was kicking my feet and then internally screaming moments later.
Thank you so much R&R Book Tours & Tory Guyon for the opportunity to partake in this book tour - I couldn't be happier to be a part of it 💛
𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐰 & 𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐊𝐔
4.5 rounded up!
Perfect for fans of The Zodiac Academy, Daughter of Smoke & Bone, the Shadowhunters universe and The Dark Elements series.
BLURB:
Angel of Water and Shadow follows River around the time of her 18th birthday. Between hearing voices in her head and struggling to cope with the loss of her mother, as well as the loss of the relationship she needed with her father, River is grasping for normalcy.
But just when the voices leave and a new therapist knocks down some of her walls, she is thrust into the world of the supernatural around the same time a mysterious man crosses her path. She and Ryder unravel the truths about who she is, but the stakes are larger than self-discovery as a long-waged battle between two realms is coming to a head.
REVIEW:
I LOVED this read. I devoured it so quickly, not wanting to put it down. Just as it's said, this is perfect for fans of the Shadowhunter universe. There are so many beautiful moments in this story despite the sadness and high stakes.
The over-arching theme of self-love/self-discovery and coping with mental illness was excellently done. If you're searching for a book with some of the best mental health rep, I HIGHLY suggest Angel. River has to overcome some tough things in this story, and her journey is beautiful. This book is proof you can be a bada$$ while still working on yourself.
The supernatural elements of the story were interesting, and I cannot wait to see more. How everything pieced together had my jaw on the floor a couple times.
The romance in this story is top tier, and I cannot wait to see how it develops in future installments. I was kicking my feet and then internally screaming moments later.
Thank you so much R&R Book Tours & Tory Guyon for the opportunity to partake in this book tour - I couldn't be happier to be a part of it 💛
December 21, 2023
🌊 Her fate was whispered in the tides... 🌊
Angel of Water & Shadow was a captivating entrance into The Book of the Watchers series. With three mysterious voices in her head, River chases ways to drown them out and find that solace in her passion for surfing and her best friend, Javi. However, life becomes more weird than "voices in your mind" making you feel crazy as she finds herself in a world of supernatural beings like angels and demons, and a mysterious person enters her life.
🌊 Lovers-to-Enemies
🖤 Forbidden Love
🌊 Hidden Identities
🖤 Morally Gray MMC
🌊 Chosen One
🖤 Mental Health Rep
🌊 Warring Realms
First of all, let me just say I have a little thing for that "this is my best friend who makes the darkness disappear," but when Ryder shows up, I can't say I wasn't cheering. I love the characters of this, and especially River. She's an incredibly strong character for YA readers, and even adults, to look at and see themselves reflected in. Her trauma and mental health do not "define" or "make her," but her struggles are so very real and make her relatable and inspiring. The supernatural aspects and mystery set in a modern setting kept the book both entertaining and intriguing--making this easily digestable and bingable.
Blue Crush meets Shadowhunters in Angel of Water & Shadow, the first novel in The Book of the Watchers, an upper YA paranormal series with a new adult lean and a dark fantasy feel. A fresh twist on angels and demons, where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred, it’s full of forbidden love, heart-dropping betrayals, and learning how to turn tragic endings into new beginnings.
Thank you so much to RR Book Tours for the opportunity and Tory Guyon for this amazing book!
Angel of Water & Shadow was a captivating entrance into The Book of the Watchers series. With three mysterious voices in her head, River chases ways to drown them out and find that solace in her passion for surfing and her best friend, Javi. However, life becomes more weird than "voices in your mind" making you feel crazy as she finds herself in a world of supernatural beings like angels and demons, and a mysterious person enters her life.
🌊 Lovers-to-Enemies
🖤 Forbidden Love
🌊 Hidden Identities
🖤 Morally Gray MMC
🌊 Chosen One
🖤 Mental Health Rep
🌊 Warring Realms
First of all, let me just say I have a little thing for that "this is my best friend who makes the darkness disappear," but when Ryder shows up, I can't say I wasn't cheering. I love the characters of this, and especially River. She's an incredibly strong character for YA readers, and even adults, to look at and see themselves reflected in. Her trauma and mental health do not "define" or "make her," but her struggles are so very real and make her relatable and inspiring. The supernatural aspects and mystery set in a modern setting kept the book both entertaining and intriguing--making this easily digestable and bingable.
Blue Crush meets Shadowhunters in Angel of Water & Shadow, the first novel in The Book of the Watchers, an upper YA paranormal series with a new adult lean and a dark fantasy feel. A fresh twist on angels and demons, where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred, it’s full of forbidden love, heart-dropping betrayals, and learning how to turn tragic endings into new beginnings.
Thank you so much to RR Book Tours for the opportunity and Tory Guyon for this amazing book!
January 15, 2025
This book was fantastic! I give it 5 gold stars because I can't give it more than that!
River is a character I related to in a sense of someone who has experienced grief by losing my mother. The way she describes those moments it really was a lot similar to how I felt when going through grief. The story really builds a world where River goes from being closed off to seeing her slowly come out of her shell and heal from her mother's passing to become who she was meant to be.
The pacing is fast-paced so you can always count on each chapter being something happening when your girl is just trying to live a normal life until the voices leave her and she meets a dark haired, dressed all in black boy she can't take her eyes off of and he always seems to be in the right place at the right time (not creepy stalker at all!)
The way Tory writes River's journey from finding out the supernatural has been right in front of her face to trying to be a normal 18 year old girl is just so much fun! River is relatable, she's sassy, quick witted, and just wants to surf all day (cuz who needs school, right?! JK!)
When you're running for your life most of the time, I don't think it's that easy to be able to keep to summer school, haha!! The world building is really fun in this book too because the way everything is described through River's eyes is kind of really funny. Even if it is her first time seeing everything and it's in River's POV, you don't feel confused just because she's a bit confused by it. So it makes it really nice.
This isn't a super spicy book, but there is spice in it that spices up the plot a little. So it's more like a jalapeno instead of a ghost pepper heat. I would give this 10 stars if I could! I really enjoyed it!
River is a character I related to in a sense of someone who has experienced grief by losing my mother. The way she describes those moments it really was a lot similar to how I felt when going through grief. The story really builds a world where River goes from being closed off to seeing her slowly come out of her shell and heal from her mother's passing to become who she was meant to be.
The pacing is fast-paced so you can always count on each chapter being something happening when your girl is just trying to live a normal life until the voices leave her and she meets a dark haired, dressed all in black boy she can't take her eyes off of and he always seems to be in the right place at the right time (not creepy stalker at all!)
The way Tory writes River's journey from finding out the supernatural has been right in front of her face to trying to be a normal 18 year old girl is just so much fun! River is relatable, she's sassy, quick witted, and just wants to surf all day (cuz who needs school, right?! JK!)
When you're running for your life most of the time, I don't think it's that easy to be able to keep to summer school, haha!! The world building is really fun in this book too because the way everything is described through River's eyes is kind of really funny. Even if it is her first time seeing everything and it's in River's POV, you don't feel confused just because she's a bit confused by it. So it makes it really nice.
This isn't a super spicy book, but there is spice in it that spices up the plot a little. So it's more like a jalapeno instead of a ghost pepper heat. I would give this 10 stars if I could! I really enjoyed it!
June 9, 2023
Angel of Water and Shadow - Book of the Watchers #1 - Review
Couple: River & Ryder
Author: Tory Guyon
Tropes: Angel/Demon, hidden heir, prophetic romance, batboy romance, PNR
Review: If you like hidden identities, plot twists and save the world prophecy then this book is for you. Tory’s debut novel is a great YA fantasy read for anyone wanting a clean and thrilling read.
The book is written from River’s POV and centers around her journey to learn about her past, her mother’s past and the voices she hears in her head. While this book has themes of a love triangle and enemy to lovers style MMCs, I did not really see the love triangle between River, Ryder and Javi. I felt like River really only had eyes for Ryder and Javi was more of a brother but we will see what happens in the next book.
I enjoyed this read and loved how it took a spin off the normal Angel/Demon romance. Tory did an amazing job with setting the scene and intriguing the audience with the plot twists and turns. The book’s ending will throw you for a loop and make you rage for River.
My favorite parts of this book were the way that River and Ryder bonded over their pasts. It made his betrayal in the end that much worse. However, I enjoyed the build up and the confidence he instilled in her about her past and her future with the supernaturals in her area.
The spice is minimal in this first book and leads to a really innocent and sweet romance between the two of them that begins to escalate before the implosion of them. I am looking forward to book 2 and how Ryder will progress as the MMC.
Rating: 8/10, great first book…the ending made me want book 2!
Couple: River & Ryder
Author: Tory Guyon
Tropes: Angel/Demon, hidden heir, prophetic romance, batboy romance, PNR
Review: If you like hidden identities, plot twists and save the world prophecy then this book is for you. Tory’s debut novel is a great YA fantasy read for anyone wanting a clean and thrilling read.
The book is written from River’s POV and centers around her journey to learn about her past, her mother’s past and the voices she hears in her head. While this book has themes of a love triangle and enemy to lovers style MMCs, I did not really see the love triangle between River, Ryder and Javi. I felt like River really only had eyes for Ryder and Javi was more of a brother but we will see what happens in the next book.
I enjoyed this read and loved how it took a spin off the normal Angel/Demon romance. Tory did an amazing job with setting the scene and intriguing the audience with the plot twists and turns. The book’s ending will throw you for a loop and make you rage for River.
My favorite parts of this book were the way that River and Ryder bonded over their pasts. It made his betrayal in the end that much worse. However, I enjoyed the build up and the confidence he instilled in her about her past and her future with the supernaturals in her area.
The spice is minimal in this first book and leads to a really innocent and sweet romance between the two of them that begins to escalate before the implosion of them. I am looking forward to book 2 and how Ryder will progress as the MMC.
Rating: 8/10, great first book…the ending made me want book 2!
January 18, 2025
Have you ever picked up a book and felt instantly drawn in by its magic and mystery?
This debut had so much going for it, a fresh twist on angels and demons, forbidden love, and a protagonist who’s grappling with a destiny far bigger than herself.
From the moment River hears the Voices, you’re hooked into her world which is a blend of grief, self-discovery, and supernatural chaos. The premise is rich and layered, and I loved the way it explored how tragic moments can shape us in ways we don’t fully understand. River's character growth throughout the book was truly inspiring and uplifting to witness.
That being said, the pacing felt a little uneven. There were moments that dragged on, while others felt rushed, leaving me trying to catch up. The world-building had so many intriguing elements, but there wasn’t always enough explanation to tie them together in a way that made the story feel cohesive. It often felt like I was stumbling through the narrative, trying to make sense of what was happening.
While the book had some great ideas and emotional moments, the slow and sometimes confusing progression made it hard for me to fully enjoy it. I’m sure others may appreciate its depth and twisty plot, but for me, it was a bit too much to wade through. Still, I can’t deny that this book gave off Shadowhunters vibes, which was a nice touch. It’s a solid debut, but I think a little more clarity and pace would have made it truly compelling.
🌟Destiny/Chosen One
🏹Angels vs. Demon
⚡️Hidden Powers
🧠Self-Discovery
Content warning: Death of a parent, grief, violence, emotional trauma, betrayal
This debut had so much going for it, a fresh twist on angels and demons, forbidden love, and a protagonist who’s grappling with a destiny far bigger than herself.
From the moment River hears the Voices, you’re hooked into her world which is a blend of grief, self-discovery, and supernatural chaos. The premise is rich and layered, and I loved the way it explored how tragic moments can shape us in ways we don’t fully understand. River's character growth throughout the book was truly inspiring and uplifting to witness.
That being said, the pacing felt a little uneven. There were moments that dragged on, while others felt rushed, leaving me trying to catch up. The world-building had so many intriguing elements, but there wasn’t always enough explanation to tie them together in a way that made the story feel cohesive. It often felt like I was stumbling through the narrative, trying to make sense of what was happening.
While the book had some great ideas and emotional moments, the slow and sometimes confusing progression made it hard for me to fully enjoy it. I’m sure others may appreciate its depth and twisty plot, but for me, it was a bit too much to wade through. Still, I can’t deny that this book gave off Shadowhunters vibes, which was a nice touch. It’s a solid debut, but I think a little more clarity and pace would have made it truly compelling.
🌟Destiny/Chosen One
🏹Angels vs. Demon
⚡️Hidden Powers
🧠Self-Discovery
Content warning: Death of a parent, grief, violence, emotional trauma, betrayal
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