I have been wanting to read this book for some time and finally able to sit and read it, I must say I did enjoy it. I did not read book one but that did not make any issue for me as I could gather what was going on. I also have to say I love the disability representation was great in this book. Then you fill it with wonderful characters, a great world, adventure, magic...and more. It is truly a great read and now I need to read book one, because Odelle is such a beautifully written character. ( )

As a television reporter and double amputee, Odelle is used to having to prove herself. But fighting against the physical incarnation of evil for the fate of the world certainly raises the stakes. If she can’t help defeat this evil, the Shadow will gain the power to engulf all that she loves.

Chaos and Crowns is the second book in the Defenders of Light Series by S.C. Grayson. Odelle is the main character and happens to be a double amputee. I enjoyed that the author referenced Odelle’s physical disability from time to time, but Odelle’s personality did not revolve around it. Also, the rest of the characters did not reference her disability. It was never questioned whether Odelle could achieve anything she wanted to do. Odelle was simply a person in their lives, and she happened to wear prosthetics. It was a refreshing change from other books where a character’s disability may become a focal point in the story.

I do recommend reading the first book, Spears and Shadows, before reading this book, as it does reference some events from the first book. I did not read the first book prior, and I think it did have a slight impact on my rating of this story. However, I still found the book enjoyable and would recommend it to anyone that loves to read romance novels with some action thrown in. Thanks to LibraryThing, S. C. Grayson, and City Owl Books for providing a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. ( )

Chaos and Crowns by S.C. Grayson is an enchanting fantasy novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through a magical world filled with ancient crowns, sorcery, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Set in modern-day Chicago, the story introduces us to Odelle, a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when an ancient, powerful crown resurfaces in the city.

Odelle finds herself entangled in a world she never knew existed when she joins forces with the Eteria, a clandestine society of immortal sorcerers from the ancient Greek empire, in a desperate attempt to keep the crown out of the clutches of the malevolent Shadow. Though her sister Nora has been fighting alongside the Eteria as a Warrior, Odelle has been hesitant to embrace her magical destiny, nursing old wounds from the rejection of her romantic advances by Antony the Smith, a sorcerer with a gentle disposition.

As the Shadow threatens to consume everything Odelle holds dear, she is determined to prove her worth to herself and to Antony, despite her inability to wield the magical Light. The dynamics between Odelle and Antony are captivating as they navigate their strained relationship, and the chemistry between them adds depth to the story beyond the fight against the Shadow.

The novel excels in building a rich and immersive magical world, filled with intricate lore and fascinating characters. S.C. Grayson's writing style effortlessly blends the modern-day setting with elements of ancient mythology, creating a unique and vivid backdrop for the story.

Odelle's character development is a highlight of the book, as she transforms from a self-doubting individual into a courageous and determined force to be reckoned with. Her growth as she discovers her place in the magical world is both inspiring and relatable, making her a protagonist readers will cheer for throughout the tale.

The plot is tightly woven with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged and guessing until the end. The author skillfully maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that the excitement never wanes, and the stakes continue to escalate as the hunt for the crown intensifies.

One minor criticism might be that the romance between Odelle and Antony occasionally overshadows the main plot, but it nevertheless adds an emotional depth to the story, drawing readers further into the characters' struggles and triumphs.

In conclusion, "Chaos and Crowns" is a captivating fantasy adventure that will enthrall readers with its well-crafted magical world, compelling characters, and thrilling battle against darkness. S.C. Grayson's masterful storytelling keeps the narrative engaging and leaves readers eagerly anticipating further adventures in this enchanting universe. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or simply enjoy a well-written tale of courage and self-discovery, this book is well worth the read. ( )