By: Mark Peterson
Author Jennifer Aitken makes a striking entrance into the YA fantasy genre with Shadow Storm, the first novel in the Legends of Light & Shadows Saga. The book introduces readers to a high-stakes world of magic, parallel realities, and shifting identity, launching a series that currently spans four books.
Fast-paced and cinematic, Shadow Storm balances action with introspection, drawing readers into a universe where destiny is fluid, power must be earned, and every choice carries consequences that can alter the fate of more than one world.
A Parallel World And A Fractured Identity
At the center of Shadow Storm is Lucius Xavier, a teenager whose life changes when an ancient dagger pulls him into a parallel world. He awakens inside another version of himself—one hunted by a secret society convinced he holds the key to Atlantis. As Lucius grapples with lost memories and emerging powers, the stakes escalate beyond survival, threatening both worlds.
The premise raises an immediate question: what would it mean to confront another version of one’s own life? When asked what might be most surprising—or frightening—about such an experience, Aitken reflected, “If I could step into a parallel version of my life, I would hope my loved ones are there with me, and the biggest surprises would be the magic of a new environment. New creatures, new landscapes, and especially loved ones I’ve lost throughout the years are reincarnated in this new dimension.”
Growth Before Understanding
One of the novel’s defining narrative choices is Lucius’s lack of full self-knowledge. Rather than regaining his memories first, he must act and evolve without a complete understanding of who he once was. Aitken explained this decision as a deliberate part of his development. “I felt this was an important step for Lucius because if he spent his energies trying to remember his past life, he would miss out on the magic and possibilities in this new dimension,” she said. “By focusing on the past, he would risk not understanding or opening up to all the possibilities in front of him.”
Self-Doubt, Power, And Trusting The Journey
Despite the danger surrounding him, Lucius’s internal struggle remains grounded in self-doubt—a trait Aitken sees as deeply relatable. “I feel like Lucius’ self-doubt is very relatable. We all find ourselves in these moments, big or small,” she noted. Through Lucius’s gradual path toward confidence, the story emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s own abilities. “I hope by reading through Lucius’ journey to self-confidence that we all see that by embracing and acknowledging our powers and talents, we can overcome anything.”
Weaving Ancient Myth Into A Modern Story
Atlantis plays a central role in the narrative, anchoring the story’s mythology and expanding its scope beyond a single world. Aitken’s interest in legends informs both the plot and character development. “I’ve always been fascinated by myths and legends, and my dream was to weave one of my favourites into a modern story,” she said. “I think many of the great books and movies available today have pulled from ancient myths, and I think it makes the characters so much more dynamic.”
Looking Ahead To Book Four
As the Legends of Light & Shadows Saga continues, Lucius’s evolution remains central. Book Four, currently in development, represents a turning point in his journey. “In Book 4 Lucius’ journey is reaching its climax. He has accomplished so much along the way and conquered his self-doubts, but there is much more for him to learn about what the Universe has planned for him,” Aitken explained. “I hope readers will see his growth and be rooting for him to eliminate the shadow energies so everyone can live in peace.”
A Saga Rooted In Choice And Transformation
With Shadow Storm, Jennifer Aitken opens a multi-book exploration of destiny, identity, and the power of choice. The novel stands as the first entry in a trilogy already available on Amazon, inviting readers to consider not only who Lucius might become, but how different versions of ourselves emerge when faced with the unknown.
