In the vast expanse of fantasy novels, where themes of power struggle and magical intrigue are common, Marian Andrew’s Fallen Princess: Shadow Stalker brings an entrancing new twist to the fold. This first installment in a projected series introduces us to a gritty, enthralling world where power dynamics and dark magic collide, all seen through the eyes of a fascinating protagonist whose depth and complexity anchor the narrative.

The story follows Princess Lysandra, the titular ‘Fallen Princess’, who witnesses her royal family's brutal murder orchestrated by her trusted adviser, Lord Malrick. Rendered powerless and on the run, Lysandra adopts the guise of a commoner in the shadowy underbelly of Corvia’s capital. Alongside her transformation from a royal to a rebel, Lysandra is pursued not only by Malrick's henchmen but also by members of a secretive guild known as the Shadow Stalkers who have their own agenda for her. What ensues is a breathless, occasionally brutal journey, as Lysandra fights to reclaim her throne and uncover the true extent of her own buried powers.

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Andrew’s narrative is its rich character development. Lysandra is not your typical one-dimensional princess; her growth from a sheltered royal to a shrewd, relentless fighter is not only believable but also deeply engaging. As she grapples with her identity and the heavy cost of her choices, she becomes a well-rounded character who can both inspire sympathy and admiration. Equally fascinating are the secondary characters—ranging from the enigmatic leader of the Shadow Stalkers, Elias, to the fiercely loyal and morally ambiguous smuggler, Kael. Each character is meticulously crafted with motivations and backgrounds that add significant depth to the tapestry of Andrew’s world.

Andrew’s world-building deserves particular acclaim. Corvia is painted vividly, its various landscapes and societal structures described with enough detail to transport readers, yet never overwhelming them. From the glittering, treacherous halls of the royal palace to the grimy, bustling streets of Corvia's lower wards, each setting is rendered with skill and purpose, serving as the backdrop to the high stakes and intense emotions that propel the plot. The magic system, integral to the plot, is both original and well-defined, eschewing typical fantasy tropes for a fresher, more intriguing approach that hinges on sacrifice and inner darkness.

The interplay of light and dark themes is handled with finesse throughout the book. Andrew does not shy away from confronting the grimmer aspects of rebellion and power—betrayal, loss, and the brutality of warfare are portrayed with a stark realism that can at times be jarring, yet serves to ground the fantasy in emotionally resonant truths. However, amidst this darkness, the narrative remains resiliently hopeful, weaving a tale of redemption, loyalty, and the enduring strength of the human—or in this case, royal—spirit.

The writing style is another highlight. Andrew utilizes a descriptive, yet concise prose that manages to communicate the urgency of Lysandra’s quest while also delivering punchy, memorable dialogue. The pacing is controlled brilliantly, with tension building steadily towards a climax that is both satisfying and tantalizing, setting up future installments in the series effectively.

Despite its strengths, the novel does have moments where the quick pace might leave readers desiring more time to simmer in the complexities of secondary plots or relationships. Additionally, the antagonist, Lord Malrick, while menacing, occasionally borders on the cliche, and one hopes to see more layers to his villainy in subsequent books.

Overall, Fallen Princess: Shadow Stalker is a gripping, well-executed foray into a new fantasy series that promises even greater adventures ahead. Marian Andrew crafts a world that is as dark and dangerous as it is mesmerizing, making this a recommended read for anyone drawn to stories of determined, compelling heroines and the relentless pursuit of justice against all odds. The narrative is an intricate dance of shadows, where nothing is as simple as it appears, and every light casts a darkness. This book not only entertains but also immerses, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of fantasy literature.

For fans of Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse or Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series, Marian Andrew’s work adds a distinctive voice that is sure to resonate across the genre. One can only wait eagerly for the next chapter in Lysandra’s journey, hoping for more twists, deeper eldritch secrets, and the ultimate revenge against the tyrannical forces that have shaped her destiny.