Cruel is the Light

Darci's Review 

Sophie Clark has written a new sensation for fanatics of young adult fantasy. Cruel is the Light is a beautifully rich fantasy full of mystery, political intrigue, and suspenseful romance. Set in a post-apocalyptic Europe, Clark imbues her storyline with religious references to the Catholic church with a twist.

In a world ravaged by a centuries-old war against demons, Cruel is the Light follows the ‘Butcher of Rome,’ otherwise known as Selene Alleva, the Vatican’s most talented exorcist. With the power of the Vatican’s ‘Deathless’ God and her faith, Selene is sent on a secret assignment to deal with an old but powerful demon Lord. She travels to Nice in France, where she encounters Jules Lacroix, a foot soldier unrivalled in combat but on the run as a deserter. Their meeting sets off a chain of events neither could prepare for, most of all the evolving chemistry between themselves. As they discover secrets about each other and themselves, Jules and Selene will test the theory that all is fair in love and war.

Clark has written a thought-provoking fantasy, imploring its readers to look deeper into those in power who are setting the rules. In Cruel is the Light not all is as it seems, and readers are invited to explore all sides of a story before choosing a side. I highly recommend this for all fans of fantasy, but especially for fans of Bonesmith by Nicki Pau Preto and Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin.

Publisher's Review

They say love conquers all . . . But can love win in a war between demons and exorcists? Or will it just tear them all apart . . . ?

THE EPIC AND SIZZLING ROMANTASY. SOON TO BE YOUR NEXT OBSESSION . . .

A brutal war between demons and humanity has raged across Europe for over a century. At its heart are two elite soldiers- Selene Alleva, a powerful exorcists trained at the prestigious Vatican Academy, and foot soldier, Jules Lacroix, unrivalled in battle.

When their paths cross, despite initial distrust - then unwelcome attraction - Jules and Selene discover a terrible secret at the heart of the holy Vatican City . . .

Soon Jules is forced to question everything he's ever known - including himself. And Selene, unable to ignore her growing feelings for Jules, must make an impossible choice between love and duty.

Serpent and Dove meets Empire of the Vampire, with a star-crossed, enemies-to-lovers romance at its heart. Perfect for fans of Powerless, Fourth Wing and Divine Rivals.

'Set in a world as resplendent as it is brutal, with a taut, searing romance thrumming with can't-catch-your-breath tension. Cruel is the Light is a masterclass in romantasy and a thoroughly scorching debut.' - Bea Fitzgerald, bestselling author of GIRL, GODDESS, QUEEN