The Nature of Shadow

Will she be cast out of the one place she has left to go?
Anhame, the Hall under the six point star, is the only place Lia can learn how to use her terrifying powers. But to take the oath, and to pass through the trials, she must conceal the darkness that is her nature. How long can she hide her dark secret from the Masters of her craft? And if they find out, what will they do to ensure she is not a danger to everyone around her?

The Nature of Shadow is the first book in a literary high fantasy series of five. It is for people who love myth and magic, dragons and sword bearers, and walking the path of story with a frighteningly powerful protagonist who nevertheless faces entirely human struggles. It is suitable for fantasy lovers from young adults to long-retired elders, in particular those of us who prefer to skip sex and violence in favour of characters, atmosphere and world-building.

Born and bred in Yorkshire in the north of England, Emma.R.Schofield spent a decade or so moving her packing boxes between Germany, Switzerland, France and Ireland, where she was a lecturer in Trinity College, Dublin for several years. She finally settled in a town outside London where she lives with her family. When not ensconced with a story, she is a technical consultant, an LGBTQ+ ally and a viola player, any of which could explain a lot.