Darkness Defined (War on Darness Book 1) by S. Bolanos

“Don’t let them decide who you are for you.” from Darkness Defined.

From the blurb:

Alexi is ecstatic when he receives an invitation to enroll in Arminius University, though he worries about what reception he'll receive from the other students. The premiere, secret supernatural school enrolls creatures of many kinds, but he'll be among the first Shadow Demons to be openly welcomed. Alexi’s not looking for love, just the freedom to be himself.

Matt’s been on his own for as long as he can remember. Abandoned at birth, freedom from the foster system is the first thing on his mind in the morning and the last thing he thinks about at night. When he’s whisked away to attend an exclusive class at a strange school full of weird creatures, attaining his longed-for freedom becomes a matter of surviving long enough to reach it.

Being roommates with the teacher’s pet is less than ideal in Matt’s mind, but Alexi makes him feel seen. Despite Matt’s standoffish attitude, Alexi is determined to win him over. Matt's the only one who treats him like a person rather than a threat. When they stumble across an ancient mystery that challenges their tenuous friendship, will it bring them closer together or tear them apart forever?


Miki J's review:

This is a new author for me and even though both MC’s are young (17 and 18), the story is quite engaging. The lads are very much opposites… but there is an attraction (though one is totally clueless about it !! Hehehe ) between them….. does have a bit of teenage angst but it’s not over the top and to be honest, I had forgotten about their age as I was reading the story. World building very well done and while there is a romantic thread, this book, I think, sets the stage and characters for the remaining books. There is another storyline/plot arc that becomes known towards the end, which will not doubt pick up in 2nd book. But this one does end on HFN …. I mean, it’s only their first year !! Looking forward to next in series

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