'From Fire and Shadows' by J. F. Baptista begins with a tragedy.

In a world where the majority has some sort of magical ability, Theodora was the odd one out until one day when her power overtakes her, resulting in a fire. After that, she is whisked away to a new life amongst her people, where she learns more about her origins, and the strange magic she possesses. Along the way, she forms a connection with Kai, and they find themselves linked without ever having met.

As a protagonist, Theodora was a delight to read. She's introduced at the tender age of six, and her curiosity for her new world is infused in the writing. She's playful and trusting, launches herself into new projects and friendships head first, which lends her chapters a lightness rarely seen with older main characters.
Kai, on the other hand, is fully grown when he's introduced, and quite cynical. His chapters balance Theodora's out in the beginning, and then go on to compliment them as she grows.

The book takes place over a decade or so, with the main characters only meeting at the very end. The audience experiences those years mostly through Theodora's perspective, as Kai's chapters are shorter and more action focused. However, keeping up with this was slightly confusing, as the time jumps happen suddenly, sometimes mid chapter. Kai's first chapters were especially confusing, as the events that lead to the first time jump are rather rushed.

The world was fascinating, with the world-building done rather well. Baptista uses modified versions of Gaelic terms for many of the central pillars of the world, so I had to continuously check the included glossary, but it does get easier as it goes on. I look forward to reading more of it, especially the history as only bits and pieces of that are included.

Overall, I enjoyed J. F. Baptista's 'From Fire and Shadows' and look forward to reading the sequel!