Starlight and Shadows (The Starlight Sanctum, #1) by Vera Winters

A scholar's dream. A pirate's curse. In a shop filled with magic, shadows bind them both.

Illyria Moondrop leaves her life as a professor to transform a dilapidated mansion into the Starlight Sanctum, a magic and alchemy shop meant to be a beacon of wisdom for all. But whispers from the mansion's dark past threaten to unravel her dreams.

Enter Briar, a fierce pirate captain haunted by her family's curse. She's on the hunt for the Celestial Prism, an artifact powerful enough to lift the curse and free her from her legacy. Their rivalry over the Prism evolves into an unexpected alliance when a powerful crime lord threatens them both.

As shadows creep through the Sanctum and sinister forces loom, Illyria and Briar must confront the mansion's malevolent spirits, grapple with Briar's curse, and navigate the treacherous waters of Luminaran politics, all while their hearts intertwine.

Starlight and Shadows is a tale of love conquering the bleakest shadows. Join Illyria and Briar as they discover that even the darkest curse can lead to the brightest light.

Vera Winters brings a touch of enchantment with Starlight and Shadows, the first book in the Starlight Sanctum series. Perfect for fans of cozy fantasy, romance, and heartfelt adventures, this standalone F/F romance weaves a tapestry of magic, love, and new beginnings. This book contains steamy romantic scenes intended for mature readers.