Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite

In Crystal Iris by Blair M. Shadows, on her thirtieth birthday, Professor Iris De Loughery's dad shows up after seventeen years of absence and gives her a necklace and a letter. She learns that the prism and letter are actually from her dead mother. When strange things start happening with the prism, the Harvard art history professor doesn't want to take it off her neck, even though her best friend believes it's possessed. Iris wants to discover how and why the prism sometimes lights up. One day, the prism somehow transports her to another place, and she sees a handsome, dark-haired man. Shortly after, she meets the man she saw earlier and discovers he is a prism possessor, too. Even though Iris is soon to be married, she feels connected to that man because of the prism. They both want to learn more about their necklaces, hoping they're not dangerous.

Crystal Iris by Blair M. Shadows is a gripping, addictive, mystical fantasy. The author has created an expertly crafted page-turner with mystery, modern conflicts, betrayal, art, magic, and hot romance. The unpredictable twists, intrigue, supernatural elements, and authentic love story make it the perfect start to a mesmerizing romance series. The end of this slow-burn romance had me completely enthralled, and now I cannot wait for the second installment. I highly recommend it to new adult readers and fans of magical realism, paranormal, and supernatural stories with a strong female lead, mature themes, and plenty of spice. I appreciate that this story also focuses on the main character's journey of self-discovery and personal growth.