The Descent into Darkness series by TikTok star Andy Darcy Theo is a YA romantic fantasy where elemental magic and the chosen one trope mix with a heart-swooning romance.
The books all follow teenager Alexis Michaels, who has always been haunted by strange hallucinations, and on a school trip to Stonehenge finally understands why: he is destined to save the world from perpetual darkness with the help of three other teens, Demi, Blaise and Caeli. Together, they must find the lost Elemental Gems to save the world, with the last book in the series due to publish in 2027.
The books are gradually told through more POVs as the found family of these four friends gets stronger, and we're also very happy to report for romantasy lovers that there are some excellent tropes throughout, including but not limited to the friends-to-lovers romance, love triangle and 'touch her and you'll die'.
A high-stakes, speculative romance, which masterfully weaves themes of mental health, psychosis, and found family. Perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Cassandra Clare. Do also check out our blog post on the Best Fantasy Books for Teens.
All the Descent Into Darkness books in order:
Book 1: The Light That Binds Us (2024)
Book 2: The Dark That Hides Us (2025)
Book 3: The Shadow That Finds Us (April 2026)
Alexis, Demi, Blaise and Caeli lie in wait as the Haven prepares for the Battle of a fight for light over darkness. Mortem fastly approaches, threaten...
The story centres on Alexis Michaels, a teen tormented by past hallucinations of a figure known as the “Shadow Man.” The only thing that brings him...
This was an incredible book that kept me entertained throughout.
My favourite character in this book has to be demi because she seemed kind and didn'...