Honest review of Buried Beneath the Light

by Carliann Jean (Author)

Updated at: 09/02/2025

In Buried Beneath the Light, the second installment of Carliann Jean's Soul Bound Realms series, the aftermath of monstrous attacks in Majikaero leaves Eira, Nyx, and their soul-bonded companions grappling with trauma and searching for answers. The plague of darkness has unleashed new horrors, forcing them to confront their deepest secrets if they hope to overcome this threat. Meanwhile, on a post-apocalyptic Earth, Eira's friends Astira and Liv escape a brutal underground cult, their escape only the beginning of their arduous healing journey. Haunted by the past and distrustful of their new society, they must confront the lingering effects of their trauma. This thrilling fantasy romance explores the limits of resilience and the devastating cost of healing, questioning how much one soul can endure before succumbing to the darkness.

Buried Beneath the Light (The Soul Bound Realms)

5 / 4 ratings

Review Buried Beneath the Light

Wow, where do I even begin with Buried Beneath the Light? This second installment in the Soul Bound Realms series absolutely blew me away. If you loved the first book, The Light Within, prepare to have your heart both shattered and mended all over again. I’ll admit, I had a slightly rocky start with the first book, but this one? This one completely captivated me from page one. I devoured it in two days, completely losing myself in Carliann Jean's richly imagined world.

The emotional depth of this story is truly remarkable. It’s a rollercoaster ride of laughter, tears, and moments of pure, gut-wrenching suspense that left me breathless. The characters, already compelling in the first book, have undergone significant growth and development. We see them grappling with trauma, facing impossible choices, and navigating the complexities of healing – both individually and as a group. It’s raw, honest, and incredibly moving. There were points where I found myself crying alongside the characters, feeling the weight of their burdens as if they were my own. It speaks volumes about the author's ability to create such deeply relatable and empathetic characters. The connection forged with them is profound and lasting, making their journey all the more impactful.

The world-building continues to impress. Majikaero and the post-apocalyptic Earth are painted with vivid detail, drawing you into their unique realities. The contrast between the magical realm and the harsh, underground societies of Earth is fascinating, each presenting its own set of challenges and complexities. The author seamlessly weaves together these two distinct settings, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative.

But Buried Beneath the Light isn't just about emotional depth and compelling world-building. It also has its fair share of steamy romance, adding another layer to the already rich tapestry of the story. The multiple romantic relationships unfolding simultaneously add an intriguing dynamic, never overshadowing the core narrative but enhancing it with nuanced emotional connections. This isn't just about romance for romance's sake; it's interwoven into the character development and the themes of healing and connection.

Beyond the romance and emotional rollercoaster, the book tackles crucial themes of mental health, trauma, and the importance of seeking help. It’s a powerful message, subtly woven throughout the story, making it all the more impactful. The author handles these sensitive topics with grace and sensitivity, offering a message of hope and resilience.

In short, Buried Beneath the Light is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy romance. It's a gripping story that will leave you breathless, heartbroken, and ultimately, hopeful. The cliffhanger ending left me literally foaming at the mouth for the next installment! Carliann Jean has created a truly captivating world and unforgettable characters, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next.