Hunted for their blood.
Fighting for their future.

River

He’s the last of his kind, a winged warrior hidden in the mountains.
River Shaw has lost everything: his sanctuary, the only shield from a world that fears and hunts him. When Delene, another of his kind, crash-lands into his life, wounded and on the run, his solitude is shattered.

Delene

She’s a fugitive with a secret, escaping the clutches of dark forces that took everything from her. Delene Fairborne’s flight to freedom leads her to River and the spark of a bond neither can deny.

In a landscape scarred by betrayal and danger, River and Delene must navigate their growing feelings and the sinister scientist who will stop at nothing to harness their power. Shadowed Skies is where love takes wing, hope soars, and destiny entwines. Dive into a world where every heartbeat is a rebellion, every glance a promise, and every flight a taste of freedom.

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Haley Cavanagh is a military veteran, wife, and mother. She was awarded the League of Utah Writers 2020 Silver Quill Award for Retaliation, the second novel in her Oceanstone Initiative series. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.

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Shadowed Skies by Haley Cavanagh is a fast-paced indie dystopian romance. This novel expertly weaves together elements of love, survival, and the struggle against tyranny, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

At the heart of the story are River and Delene, two Evol-humans—individuals genetically enhanced to thrive in a world that has become increasingly hostile. Their romance blossoms amidst the chaos, providing a poignant counterpoint to the dark themes that permeate the narrative. The chemistry between River and Delene is palpable, drawing readers into their world and making us root for their love to triumph against all odds.

The antagonist, Dr. Lytle, embodies the archetype of the dystopian villain, driven by a misguided belief that he can “save humanity” through the exploitation of Evol-human blood. Much of the story unfolds in the ominous Stockade, the facility where the lab experiments take place, serving as a chilling backdrop to the characters’ struggles. Cavanagh paints Dr. Lytle as a complex figure, allowing readers to grapple with the moral ambiguities of his actions. This adds depth to the story, prompting us to question the sacrifices made in humanity’s name.

“Pops believed in the general goodness of people. He told me everyone is good at our roots, buried below the trivialities of humanity. I respected him more than anyone, but I struggle to believe everyone is good.” (Page 19)

While the writing may not always remain as polished as in traditional publications, it carries a raw energy that reflects the indie spirit of the book. The pacing is brisk, and the world-building is immersive, filled with vivid descriptions that bring the dystopian landscape to life. From the crumbling city to the glorious mountains and plateau that serve as River and Delene’s initial meeting point and, later, their forever home, every setting feels well-crafted, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Shadowed Skies is not just a tale of romance; it’s a story of resilience, family, and the fight for freedom.

“Perhaps the wildest hearts still need roots to thrive.” (Page 158)

I did struggle with some of the more conservative portrayals of intimacy and relationships. However, the themes and characters are particularly teenage-coded, making it a relatable read for younger audiences. In fact, I would have loved this book when I was younger, as it captures the essence of youthful passion and the desire to break free from oppressive systems.

In conclusion, Haley Cavanagh has delivered a compelling addition to the indie dystopian genre with Shadowed Skies. It’s a thrilling ride filled with heart, action, and thought-provoking themes that will resonate with readers. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating journey through a world where love, harmony, and survival hang in the balance.

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