Cruel is the Light 

By Sophie Clark

Reviewed by Lucie Rose

Cruel is the Light is an enthralling debut fantasy novel by Australian writer Sophie Clark following the perspectives of foot soldier Jules Lacroix and deadly exorcist Selene Alleva. The Vatican was born in blood and ash, and from the grave of the Deathless God rose the exorcists, born and trained to rid the world of demons. Captain Selene is known for her bloody, cut-throat methods in combat. Her uncle, the Lord of War, orders Selene out of Rome to Nice, where a powerful demon has been terrorizing people. But will she prove to her uncle the danger she fears may be on its way to Rome?

Jules Lacroix, an overlooked, underpaid foot soldier has been stationed at the front lines since he was fifteen, helping protect the oh-so-precious Vatican from demons. Jules’s kill list is longer than anyone in the French army, each demon he destroys marked by a cut on his arm. That is, until his commander is killed in front of him, and the murderer tells Jules something he just can’t ignore. Now a deserter, Jules travels to his hometown Nice, to learn what he can about his past. But on his little field trip, he runs into an unexpected character who could be the key to answering the burning question: who is Jules Lacroix?

Selene Alleva is an extremely likable charcter. Not to paint with a broad brush, but many authors in recent years have enlisted the tactic of creating hollow female leads who talk a lot of game but generally fail to back it up. Selene Alleva is not one of these charcters. Selene is strong, both mentally and physically, and never fails to put her money where her mouth is. Instead of the author telling me about all her amazing exploits and impressive deeds, she showed me through Selene’s bravery, heroism and determination. I enjoyed how her cut-throat, ruthless demeanor wasn’t in contrast with her kind spirit but complimented it.

Jules Lacroix is a funny, lovable charcter who entrances the reader and breaks many stereotypes about typical male leads. Usually, the witty, emotionally intelligent male charcter is shunted off to the side lines. In Cruel is the Light, Jules takes centerstage, and while he is a very masculine charcter, he’s not ashamed of being vulnerable and in touch with his feelings.

One of the trademark signs for any good novel is excellent world building. From minute one, the complexity and richness of this book’s setting had me intrigued, and my interest only built as the society’s hierarchy was explained. Clark merged her creations with already existing historical landmarks and religions, giving the reader her unique take on religious hierarchy and myth. The magic system itself was likewise expertly done. Clark gave her main charcter, Selene, enough magic capabilities to make her both feared and awesome, while also setting limits that stopped her from being overpowered. This said, the dangers of having layered and elaborate world building is that the reader can often get lost in a tangled web of information. Informing your readers of all necessary details while also not overwhelming them with knowledge is a hard line to walk, and one the author has not completely mastered.

The structure of this novel was at times confusing. I found it hard to follow the literal direction of the scene as the characters’ movements and transitions got lost in their inner monologues. But, other than this, the writing style was descriptive and created  beautiful images. Warning: this book contains mentions of self-harm, child abuse, crucifixion, swearing and mature themes.

Four out of five stars. Recommended for mature readers aged fifteen to seventeen.

Cruel is the LIght Volume 2 is to be published in 2026

Penguin 2025

Sophie Clark