Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Sweet Shadows (Medusa Girls #2)

by Tera Lynn Childs (Goodreads Author)

4.12 of 5 stars 4.12 · rating details · 1,304 ratings · 188 reviews

The action-packed second book of Tera Lynn Childs's Greek mythology-based Sweet Venom trilogy is perfect for teen fans of Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series.

Three teenage descendants of Medusa must figure out where their fate will take them. The warring factions among the gods of Olympus are coming for them, the creatures of the abyss are pushing into San Francisco, and t...more

Hardcover, Reprint, 336 pages

Published September 4th 2012 by HarperCollins Publishers

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

Can't Wait Books of 2012

257th out of 2,390 books — 15,579 voters

2012 YA/MG Sequels

41st out of 143 books — 835 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 3,000)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Jan 06, 2013 Natasha rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: action-galore, action, awesome-narrators, cliffhangers, ebook, favorites, lovable-side-characters, mysterious-characters, mythology, romance, separated-at-birth, ya

"And there are some monsters that would just rather hand out in the world of trees and sunshine. Endless black can get so monotonous."

Sweet Shadows picks up immediately where Sweet Venom ends. When Gretchen's loft is blown up, the newly reunited sisters try to get over the shock of the recent events and trying to find out who is trying to kill them. Not that it's easy, of course.

In this book, the sisters' individual plotlines are more intertwined, but there are still things that they need to wor...more "And there are some monsters that would just rather hand out in the world of trees and sunshine. Endless black can get so monotonous."

Sweet Shadows picks up immediately where Sweet Venom ends. When Gretchen's loft is blown up, the newly reunited sisters try to get over the shock of the recent events and trying to find out who is trying to kill them. Not that it's easy, of course.

In this book, the sisters' individual plotlines are more intertwined, but there are still things that they need to work out for themselves. It feels like the main theme of this book is that Grace and Greer are trying to keep some sense of normalcy in their lives, while Gretchen is learning there is a life outside of being a huntress. Together, they learn more about their destiny as the Key Generation and learn that many people want their destinies to come to different outcomes. They also learn (view spoiler) that not everything is quite what it seems. Even the things that have been ingrained in them for so long.

Since I read this straight after Sweet Venom, it was like I hadn't stopped. The characters have barely changed and are still familiar to me, since pretty much no time passed between the ending and beginning of the two books. I loved the character development though between the sisters and how they're adapting -- particularly Greer. Greer doesn't get the chance to grow on you in the first book because she's introduced much later, but you begin to understand why Greer is the way she is, and she's a much more likable character this time around. I also want Nick and Thane to give me proper answers too, dammit! (view spoiler)

I couldn't put this book down, and I realised a little late that now I'm going to have to wait for the final book to be released. Honestly? I can't wait. (less)

1 like · like · see review

Jan 06, 2013 Kezia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, mythology, young-adult

This review is also posted in my blog: Pansycake Reader

Sweet Shadows takes off directly after Sweet Venom. Unlike Sweet Venom, I actually enjoyed reading this from the beginning. Everything is more intense here than the first book. I still like the monster-fighting scenes, btw. As expected, the book is written in Grace, Greer and Gretchen POVs. Their voices are clear and different – I could easily recognize them. And Nick, who I thought was very annoying and too persistent in the first book, gre...more

like · see review

Dec 04, 2012 Dark Faerie Tales rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-by-emmy

Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: Things start with a bang in Sweet Shadows and keep rolling, bringing the girls closer to answers and danger.

Opening Sentence: As I stare across Gretchen’s dining table at Grace, who is flipping through a binder about some ridiculously hideous monster straight out of mythology, I still can’t really fathom that there are two girls right here in this loft who look exactly like me.

The Review:

When I say the novel starts with a bang, I mean it lit...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 16, 2012 Elizabeth rated it 4 of 5 stars

Gretchen, Grace, and Greer could not be more different. Gretchen has known for years that she is a descendant of the gorgon Medusa and that she must fight the monster and return them to their own realm. Grace is a environmental activist and a computer geek who doesn't know if she is strong enough to fight against monsters. Greer is a rich, spoiled girl who takes charge in every situation, but isn't sure if she's willing to give it all up to save humanity. While they are still getting to know eac...more Gretchen, Grace, and Greer could not be more different. Gretchen has known for years that she is a descendant of the gorgon Medusa and that she must fight the monster and return them to their own realm. Grace is a environmental activist and a computer geek who doesn't know if she is strong enough to fight against monsters. Greer is a rich, spoiled girl who takes charge in every situation, but isn't sure if she's willing to give it all up to save humanity. While they are still getting to know each other (and bickering), warring factions on Olympus are trying to either kill the sisters or wait until they break the seal between worlds (as it is said they will in prophecy) and then kill them. Only one faction seems to care about their survival. As more and more creatures make their way into the human realm, these sisters must find out which faction to trust and where their fate will ultimately take them.

Sweet Shadows starts with a bang right where Sweet Venom leaves off. Again, it's narrated by the three sisters who have clear and distinct voices. It's easy to figure out who is narrating any given chapter. In the last book, the sisters were basically strangers. Now, their relationship is growing and they are becoming close both because of their efforts to save the world and just getting to know each other. I really like these characters and their different backgrounds. Even though much of the novel involves the supernatural, they bring real life issues and problems to the story. Greer deals with her distant parents and the constant pressure to be perfect in every aspect of her life. Gretchen still feels the effects of having abusive parents as a child and not having many people close to her all her life. All of them have different reactions to being put up for adoption. These experiences make the girls easy for readers to relate to and make the story grounded in realism.

Everything is a little more intense than in the first book. The action is exciting and more consistent. The problems facing the sisters are practically impossible to overcome. The world beyond ours is explored and reveals some shocking revelations. There are mythological creatures that are on their side and will greatly suffer if the door between worlds is closed. They challenge the girls' views and complicate matters, plus they are pretty awesome. What was previously a fairly clear decision is now murkier than ever. I'm very glad this series didn't fall into the second book pitfall that simply sets up for the final book in the trilogy.

Sweet Shadows is an impressive teen read that melds mythology and modernity beautifully. The fast pace and realistic characters make this a quick, fun read. I can't wait to see what the future holds for these heroines. I would recommend this to fans of mythology and YA fantasy.(less)

like · see review

Jul 26, 2012 Cel rated it 5 of 5 stars

I am fond of reading novels that evolve Greek Mythology, especially if authors write the story real well. I borrowed this ARC from a friend who attended the book event in Chicago. I couldn't wait for the release of this book in September. I was so anxious to find out the answers to the mysteries that Ms. Tera had left unanswered in the first book. Well, this book picked up from where it ended in Sweet Venom. Still narrated by Greer, Grace, and Gretchen. The triplets had finally agreed to battle...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 19, 2013 Jenny rated it 4 of 5 stars

I love love love this series! Its such a nice new take on Greek mythology! I've always been fascinated with the story of Medusa, so this series is perfect for me! The story starts right where it left off on the cliffhanger in the first book. I liked this one much better than the first book. All 3 girls are a central part of the story, unlike the last book where Greer didn't show up until later.

Things go from bad to worse in this one. Suddenly, Gretchen isn't sure who or what Nick is, and if she...more

like · see review

Sep 14, 2012 YAL Book Briefs rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: greek-myth, cotton-candy, cute, kick-ass-heroines, charmed-ish, authors-to-watch

To see full review click here: http://yalbookbriefs.blogspot.com/201...

Really 3.5 stars

I really liked this book. Out of Childs' books this trilogy is probably my favorite series of hers. It's a bit more mature, takes place in a city I really want to visit, and there's plenty of action to make me smile. And yeah it's kind of a Charmed rip off, but not really. Apart from the book being about sisters with a destiny whose name all starts with the same letter and they all live in the city by the bay...more To see full review click here: http://yalbookbriefs.blogspot.com/201...

Really 3.5 stars

I really liked this book. Out of Childs' books this trilogy is probably my favorite series of hers. It's a bit more mature, takes place in a city I really want to visit, and there's plenty of action to make me smile. And yeah it's kind of a Charmed rip off, but not really. Apart from the book being about sisters with a destiny whose name all starts with the same letter and they all live in the city by the bay, the book differs a lot from the TV show. And that's because of the use of Greek mythology.

If you've read any of Tera's other books you're probably aware that she often likes to use Greek mythology in her stories. And she uses it quite fabulously. One of the things I liked best about this trilogy is that it incorporates lesser known myths into the plot. That being said though, there were some things about the world building that bothered me. Notably, the monkey like creature that Gretchen meets in the abyss. I think it's probably from watching too many bad movies but I cannot handle small creatures that don't use proper grammar it just rubs me the wrong way and is sort of creepy. But that's a personal thing.

What's more of a criticism rather than a personal annoyance is the way some of the characters were handled in this installment. First thing first, I love the fact that Tera decided to build upon the character Greer. In the first book, I found Greer to be a borderline snob whose only positive attribute was the fact that she liked designer shoes (got to love a girl with good taste in shoes). But in this installment, Greer was a lot more fleshed out. I really felt for her. True her backstory was a bit cliche, but I still felt it worked even if it was a stretch to believe that she had a black belt in martial arts. What character I had a problem with was Grace.

Full disclosure in the first book I really, really, loved Grace. I felt like I could identify with her. She was the geeky girl you couldn't help but identify with. In this installment, I didn't like her as much. She seemed a little young to me and a little goody goody-ish. Case in point, Grace always seemed to be lecturing Greer or Gretchen about how they should get along and all that shit....Plus, her home life was sooo much better than the other two sisters. This isn't a bad thing necessary. I understand that not everyone is going to have a perfect home life. But at the same time, I don't think Grace needs to state that her parents are better than Greer's. She doesn't know everything that's going down at Greer's and she shouldn't make assumptions. Also, her interactions with her family just don't seem real. For example, her parents freak out when she's just a little late while they're flippant about her brother being gone for days. The same goes to her parents reaction at the end it just seems so nonchalant.

Best Feature: Greer. I really didn't like Greer in the first book but she really, really grew on me in this installment. I might even say that she's my favorite character in the series (though I still really like Gretchen). I was amazed at how much Tera was able to flesh out her character. And how she's gone from being my least favorite character to my favorite character in a span of one book. Grant it, Grace's character sort of suffered because of this but still big improvement on Greer.

Worst Feature: Choppiness. One of the big issues I have with this book is the way it's structured. The book is told in first person through alternative chapters. And while it worked, I felt like there were a lot of moments of character development that were chopped off because of the switching POVs. Maybe the point of views revolved per book rather than per chapter, it would've worked. Shrugs...

Appropriateness: This is a pretty clean book. There's a kissing scene and some monster hunting. But with in comparison with some of the YA out there it's squeaky clean.(less)

like · see review

Jan 12, 2013 Panda rated it 2 of 5 stars

I found this book stuck to me like glue. While I enjoyed the first book by the end I was ready to leave the medusa sisters behind and pick up a new book then everything went boom and I picked up this one needing to find out what happened. With the explosive beginning of this book I was expecting the pace to pick up. If anything I found it slowed to a crawl. The "surprise twists" I found fairly predictable and yet I still wasn't given the answers I was looking for. Only to be left with you got it...more

like · see review

Jun 25, 2012 Mrs. ReaderPants rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012

More reviews at Mrs. ReaderPants.

REVIEW: As with Sweet Venom , I liked-but-did-not-love Sweet Shadows, and I can't help but feel a little sad about that. Both Sweet Venom and Sweet Shadows have everything going for them. I love the three sisters' characters and how they are still learning how to interact as siblings. I love Nick as a romantic lead, and Thane is a nice little mystery I can't wait to unravel. The mythology is interesting, and the action scenes are fun to read. Tera Lynn Childs is...more

3 likes · like · see review

Dec 25, 2012 BAYA Librarian rated it 3 of 5 stars

In this sequel to Sweet Venom, the three identical triplets Gretchen, Grace, and Greer decedents of Medusa continue to battle dark monsters and try to discover hidden secrets of their heritage. Including trying to solve the mystery of which of the Greek gods are conspiring against them. Unfortunately everyone with the knowledge to the help them disappears or is sucked in to the abyss.

Not quite as fun as Sweet Venom this is still an entertaining read. A major problem is that the reader is not gi...more

like · see review

Jan 10, 2013 Autumn rated it 5 of 5 stars

Tera Lynn Childs’ thrilling sequel, Sweet Shadows, is a mythical fantasy about triplets that are said to be the direct descendants of none other than Medusa; the mythical monster/woman that is said to have snakes for hair, and a stare that can turn you to stone! These three sisters have very different home lives and personalities, but have to learn to work together to stop something they don’t even fully understand.

The main characters of this short novel are Grace, Gretchen, and Greer, the thre...more Tera Lynn Childs’ thrilling sequel, Sweet Shadows, is a mythical fantasy about triplets that are said to be the direct descendants of none other than Medusa; the mythical monster/woman that is said to have snakes for hair, and a stare that can turn you to stone! These three sisters have very different home lives and personalities, but have to learn to work together to stop something they don’t even fully understand.

The main characters of this short novel are Grace, Gretchen, and Greer, the three descendants of Medusa. Grace is a tech girl who’s only just recently entered the realm of mythology. Gretchen is a monster-fighting heroine who has been engraved in the world of magic for years. Finally there’s Greer, a high-maintenance girl with a shrill tongue to match. Together these three sisters plan to stop the Abyssos, a bleak monster realm, from mixing together with their own.

I think the greatest thing this story has is the vast difference between the characters. At first I found it to be distracting and unusual, as it’s a writing style I have not previously encountered, however, I later grew to love this profound way of telling the tale! It really makes it a story for a vast audience, as while you may not like Greer’s character or her portrayal of the story you’ve only to go a couple pages before you can read another one of the sister’s views which may become more appealing to you.

Another thing that I found refreshing about this book was it’s new take on a popular fan-base. I’ve grown weary of vampires, werewolfs, and mermaids, so it was exciting to see a new fantasy novella that had a new take on the fantasy world. It incorporates a very unique story with a far less known legend, and becomes a fan-favorite for anyone who, such as me, has grown tired of the seemingly endless supply of Twilight copies. (Twilight not being my favorite to begin with!)

The only negative thing I see about this tale is the wait time between now and when I can finally get my paws on the final volume. Trust me, girls (as I wouldn’t recommend this to men), this is a story that will leave you craving more.(less)

like · see review

Oct 19, 2012 Diana rated it 5 of 5 stars

Once again, the triplets come back. Greer, Grace, and Gretchen, the descendants of the Gorgon Medusa, have to face more challenges; and all to keep the world safe from having monsters walking freely on the streets. Grace has to face her family and tell them about her sisters and her destiny as a huntress; in the other hand, Gretchen dives after Nick into the abyss; not caring what there might be waiting for her into the depths of that bizarre world. Greer has to face the worst of all the problem...more

like · see review

Sep 13, 2012 Kale rated it 5 of 5 stars

Finding out you're one of a trio is shocking enough, learning that you're a monster hunting descendant of Medusa, is just insane. Needless to say the recently reunited triplets Greer, Grace, and Gretchen have a tough road ahead of them. With clashing personalities and the task of getting Grace and Greer up to speed, training wise, the last thing they need is a difficult rescue. Unfortunately with their mentor pool dwindling quickly the sisters are going to have to trust and rely on each other ju...more Finding out you're one of a trio is shocking enough, learning that you're a monster hunting descendant of Medusa, is just insane. Needless to say the recently reunited triplets Greer, Grace, and Gretchen have a tough road ahead of them. With clashing personalities and the task of getting Grace and Greer up to speed, training wise, the last thing they need is a difficult rescue. Unfortunately with their mentor pool dwindling quickly the sisters are going to have to trust and rely on each other just as fast, because a war is brewing and both sides want the Key Generation dead.

I love this book. Seriously the only thing I hated was that it had to end and I have to wait another year to find out what happens next. Most of the first book focused on Grace and Gretchen with Greer being introduced toward the end, so having that third voice prominently featured rounded out the story and everything came together beautifully. I think Greer was my favorite sister. I like how Childs has these seemingly same sisters with drastically diverse personalities. I think it's really smart of the author to showcase the differences in each heroine's life and how their families helped to shape the girls. Childs put just as much care into her male character's as well. Milo's cute, Nick is interesting, yet Thane steals the spotlight for the guys. His character is intriguing and a big reason I want that next book now.

The plot was great, readers will get a better understanding of the girls' destiny, get a taste of what they're really up against, and learn that things aren't so black and white when it comes to the fate of the abyss. I love where the series is going. The world building was fantastic. Childs lets us into her abyss as well with her descriptive landscape and creatures. Her imaginary places don't compare to her knowledge of the cityscape though. You not only get the feeling that the author knows the San Francisco area but also the high society world Greer is trying so hard to hang on to.

Childs has yet again successfully merge modern with mythology, creating something that's not only smart and entertaining but accessible to a wide range of readers. Sweet Shadows is fun and exciting full of action and engaging characters making it a modern mythological must-read.(less)

like · see review

Apr 13, 2013 Chev E rated it 4 of 5 stars

Gretchen, Grace, and Greer are finally united and determined to fight the monsters heading their way while they attempt to face their destiny. This requires finding out what their destiny is, as all they know is that they are the Key Generation. The people who do know, Eurydale and Sthenno, have been kidnapped and taken to either the Abyss or the dungeons of Olympus, two equally dangerous places. The girls need to rescue their mentors while dealing with their own increasingly messy lives. Greer...more Gretchen, Grace, and Greer are finally united and determined to fight the monsters heading their way while they attempt to face their destiny. This requires finding out what their destiny is, as all they know is that they are the Key Generation. The people who do know, Eurydale and Sthenno, have been kidnapped and taken to either the Abyss or the dungeons of Olympus, two equally dangerous places. The girls need to rescue their mentors while dealing with their own increasingly messy lives. Greer is trying to keep up with her rich, high-society peers and plan some elaborate tea while keeping her monster-killing hobby a secret. Grace is excited because her crush, Milo, likes her back, but how can she start a relationship when she's got a secret life she's keeping from her family? Grace is also getting increasingly worried about her (adopted) brother Thane who ran away from home without explanation. Meanwhile, Gretchen, the only sister who isn't leading a double life, has her own troubles in the form of Nick, the cute guy who called her in the last moments of Sweet Venom and saved the sisters' life by warning them about the house blowing up. Gretchen knows Nick is hiding something, but can she let her guard down a little and let him in?

This was a fantastic sequel. I said in my review of Sweet Venom that it felt more like an prologue to a novel than an actual novel, and Sweet Shadows was good enough that it made the first book worth the time, if only to get to book 2. Again, I was not a fan of the Greek stuff and I think the novel would have worked just fine without being based on mythology, but it was so far off from the Greek mythology usually incorporated into teen novels that it was easy to forget the connection at times. The story moved pretty fast, which was good because if it hadn't then I would have given up pretty fast. My patience was worn through after completing Sweet Venom, and if Sweet Shadows had continued at the same slow pace then that would have been it for me.

I don't remember if I wrote this in Sweet Venom's review, but the characters, especially the triplets, all seemed flat and one-sided. Each of the girls had a stereotype, and each stuck to her stereotype throughout. Although one could argue that Gretchen softened a bit, which went against who she was supposed to be, I think the whole point of having a character so tough and closed-off is to later open her up. She let everyone in too quickly, much quicker than a real person with that personality would, which made her seem even more one-sided in my opinion. My favorite character was Greer, because she even when she does feel gooey and emotional, she puts on a stoic face and says sarcastic things. Greer is the most real, despite her cliche rich girl attitude.

(view spoiler)

I remember having a conversation with some friends a few years ago about seeing full faces of characters on the covers of books. Seeing their faces had always helped my imagination along, but my friends claimed that seeing the entire face ruined the possibilities of who the heroine could be and what she could look like. I never really agreed with that opinion until now. When I look at the cover, I know that the girl represents either one or all of the girls, but since they all dress so differently, it makes me wonder which sister it is, or whether she is supposed to represent all of them. Any ideas?

(less)

like · see review

Nov 07, 2012 Audrey rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: owned-books, reviewed

Reviewed on
Her Fiction Fix
:

4.5/5 stars

The second installment of the Medusa Girls picks up right (and I mean right-at-that-very-moment) where the first book left off. Medusa's descendants, Gretchen, Greer, and Grace are back, they're together, and now they find themselves fighting for their lives as monsters from the abyss plan on killing them in exchange for freedom. Olympian gods are involved and has the potential to get deliciously messy, the girls have new (or old?) allies, and all the whi...more Reviewed on
Her Fiction Fix
:

4.5/5 stars

The second installment of the Medusa Girls picks up right (and I mean right-at-that-very-moment) where the first book left off. Medusa's descendants, Gretchen, Greer, and Grace are back, they're together, and now they find themselves fighting for their lives as monsters from the abyss plan on killing them in exchange for freedom. Olympian gods are involved and has the potential to get deliciously messy, the girls have new (or old?) allies, and all the while they're dealing with their new-found lives clashing with their old ones.

There's so much that I loved about this book. Sweet Shadows had more action and an up-close look into the abyss as opposed to just being set in San Francisco. Childs gave the reader a look from both sides this time, and we were introduced to more of the monsters. And not all of them are bad! Cheers! This other world is such a contrast to the city. It's dark and ridden with monsters who have absolutely no desire to be there, which is why they want to escape any chance they get.

In addition to the change of setting, the characters were further developed really well. Greer wasn't my favourite in the first book, but I have to say that without a question she was my favourite in this one. Especially when talking to her adoptive parents... my heart broke for her. Another revelation lies in the character of Nick. Throughout the first book, there was this obvious underlying that there was something going on with him. I love that his role was expanded beyond being a pretty boy always hanging around Gretchen. The relationships were also more cemented, and will continue through the next book if this one is any indication. Childs did it again; I already can't wait for the next book.

Alright, I'm going to go into fangirl-mode for a sec, but am I wrong to think that something might happen between Thane and Greer? And that I got positively giddy just thinking about it? Potential to be awkward, though, because Greer looks exactly like Grace, who is very much still Thane's little sister. ...Or has Thane ever really considered Grace his sister? It's obvious that Grace thinks of him as her big brother, but it's never talked about how Thane feels. I think I've typed Thane out more than 4 times in this little blurb. Such a cool name. Plus he's still very much a mystery as he was before, even more-so now at the end of this book (Greer even called him an enigma. Did I call it, or did I call it?). Back to him and Greer, they seem to share some kind of link, and I'm really curious to see why. He still wins out as my favourite guy in the books. I'm really interested to know what his deal is; he's so vague. Just when I thought all the mysteries from the first book have been solved.

Just like the first book, this was written in the three different perspectives of the sisters. My only issue with the first one was the switching points of views, as there was no real flow or uniformity. This book was set up the same, so it was a little confusing at times. Again, not a huge issue because even though the girls were more in tune with each other and had similar goals and experiences, they were still very much distinct. All the storylines and characters moved forward at a nice pace with every chapter, and it's getting more apparent that this war is going to be something big.

Once again recommended for Greek mythology lovers and lovers of kickass heroines; there are three of them in this one. I got through Sweet Shadows in less than 30 hours--that almost never happens. Definitely no sophomore slump here!(less)

like · see review

Jan 07, 2013 Briana rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is such a good series, I love how the book is from alternating view points of the sisters and how each has their own personality: Gretchen, monsters first, personal relationships later; Greer, the socialite butterfly; and Grace, always trying to keep her other two sisters from arguing with each other over priorities. This latest book takes us to the Abyss, and we get to meet some of the other creatures there, the ones who are not solely bent on destruction, but simply want to live in peace,...more

like · see review

Jan 04, 2013 Marissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy-sci-fi

This was an exciting sequel to Sweet Venom. It goes a step further than just picking up where the first book ended - it provides a rerun of the ending from a new perspective, and then it's off like a shot to the next section of the tale!

The stakes already seemed high in the first book, but Sweet Shadows raises them. There are further revelations about the girls' destiny, and a lot more interaction with monsters and their home. There is also some action in the romance department, but it does not...more

like · see review

Dec 27, 2012 Kimber rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult-books

The second book of the Medusa girls series is twice as good as the first book. In this story, you get to know the triplets a little better each. In the first book the reader doesn't get much time to get to know Greer but this book makes up for that. The sisters also struggle with trying to figure out who they can and can't trust and weather or not Grace and Greer should tell their parents what is going on. The cliffhanger??? What does Thane (Grace's brother) have to do with all this and what doe...more

like · see review

Sep 13, 2012 Pretty Little Liar rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: own

must read...book 1 amazing... hope this is as good!!!!!!!!!!!!

1 like · like · see review

Feb 09, 2013 Florence rated it 4 of 5 stars

I can't waitttttttttt!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1 like · like · see review

Apr 11, 2013 stitchnsnitch rated it 3 of 5 stars

I wish I could rate this book a 3.5, but I don't have that option, so I guess I'll give it a 3-star rating.

I had issues with the tone and voice of the first book in this series, but I think those issues are resolved in this book. _Sweet Shadows_ also read much more smoothly than _Sweet Venom_, and that was a definite improvement.

While I can't entirely suspend my disbelief with some of the events that happen in this book, I do look forward to reading the last book in this series so I can see how...more

like · see review

Jan 03, 2013 Millie Dixon rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: interesting

This review was originally posted over at Millie D's Words.

I'm going to skip my who introduction to the review explaining how much I love Greek mythology because I feel like I've said that so many times already, and who wants to keep hearing me gush about it over and over and over again? I would, but possibly not you.

Gretchen still is my favorite of the three sisters. Her protectiveness of her sisters is admirable and also this growing affection for them is such a great thing to watch throughout...more This review was originally posted over at Millie D's Words.

I'm going to skip my who introduction to the review explaining how much I love Greek mythology because I feel like I've said that so many times already, and who wants to keep hearing me gush about it over and over and over again? I would, but possibly not you.

Gretchen still is my favorite of the three sisters. Her protectiveness of her sisters is admirable and also this growing affection for them is such a great thing to watch throughout the series. She changes from a girl who knows nothing about love and knows everything about being alone to one that begins to understand the concept of how to love and be loved. She isn't nearly as accepting of any monkey business as Grace is and the connection and banter between all three is such an amusing thing to watch. And for me being a twin, I can connect with the sisterly bond the three of them create and relate with how sometimes the sacrifices of one's wishes is better for all.

And Greer, while you've changed and developed into more of dimensional character, I still don't like you. Nothing personal.

And--my! Nick! Well, aren't you full of surprises? I loved you and your persistence with Gretchen. The relationship between the two of you was entertaining and I just wanted to ship you and Gretchen so hard! While the relationship was mostly cold than hot, I saw something between the two of you and I want to see more! Plus, you're still this mysterious something that I want to know more about.

There was more adventure in Sweet Shadows than the first book and that made me happy. However, for a book about Greek mythology, there wasn't a lot of action. Reflecting, I feel that the climax of the story was this little bump, not a peak. The story is something that I did enjoy, but I felt that, given more, this book could have been spectacular. The character development was great, but a little more something could have helped me enjoy it the story that much more.

I love how Childs brings out the monsters of myth in this series with her own personal spin on it all. The characters are wonderful and I enjoy to watch them interact with one another--bickering or otherwise. While I found the plot to be a little plain, I'm still very curious about the next book to see how things will end. Fans of mythology, monsters, and kickass characters will enjoy this this series, if you haven't started it already. (less)

like · see review

Apr 03, 2013 Lyndsey Rushby rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya

Something that I think was common with the first book in this series was the confusion between the three sisters. It took me some time to get used to each character but as they all narrate their own chapters, it becomes easier to tell them apart as time goes on. In Sweet Shadows, after a quick recap of who was who at the back of the book, I didn’t have any problems remembering which girl was which. Now, each of the girl’s voices are much more distinct, as are their personalities. As I began read...more Something that I think was common with the first book in this series was the confusion between the three sisters. It took me some time to get used to each character but as they all narrate their own chapters, it becomes easier to tell them apart as time goes on. In Sweet Shadows, after a quick recap of who was who at the back of the book, I didn’t have any problems remembering which girl was which. Now, each of the girl’s voices are much more distinct, as are their personalities. As I began reading Sweet Shadows, I felt that I really knew who each character was thanks to great introductions in the first book.

As far as characters go, even though Grace, Gretchen and Greer are all pretty equal, I did have my favourites. Grace is sweet and intelligent, thinking she is nothing more than the brains of the operation while Gretchen already kicks ass and is quite sure of herself. Greer on the other hand, I had problems liking. Maybe it was because of her upbringing in comparison to Gretchen and Grace. She’s a bit spoilt at times but she does begin to be a better character in this book. Tera Lynn Childs spends time in this book with each of the girls on their own as well as combinations of them together. I really enjoyed seeing them all in different situations and how they reacted.

Sweet Shadows sees some really interesting developments with secondary characters, who didn’t have much to do with anything in the first book. Nick, the mysterious guy always hanging around Gretchen is certainly an interesting character with many secrets. While he and Gretchen begin to know each other slightly better, there is always the thought that he is hiding something. In this book, we get to know so much more about Nick although I’m still unsure about whether I trust him or not. There is also Thane, Grace’s brother. He pretty much ran away in Sweet Venom and he is still missing for the majority of this book. Due to his texts with Grace, it made me wonder where he went and what he was doing because if it wasn’t something exciting or a big secret, it wouldn’t have been included in the first place.

This book expands on the girls’ destiny and what they were born to do. As descendants of Medusa, they are able to fight monsters and a whole range of other awesome things. While there was some monster fighting going on, I didn’t feel as though it was enough. I wanted more. There could have been so many more scenes with the girls kicking some ugly monster’s arse. However, I did find the whole mythology aspect of Sweet Shadows much more interesting than in the first book as so much more was explained. Along with Medusa being a central theme in the book, many of the other Gods are brought in to help with the background information, as well as during the events of this book.

There was a lot going on in this book and I found it very exciting to read. While there is a lot of information to take in, learning about so many new people and what they do, there was also a lot more to this book. The plot thickens deeply, the characters develop so much and there are plenty of twists and turns. I especially liked the explanations to do with Grace, Gretchen and Greer’s destiny and other people’s opinions on what they thought should be done.

Sweet Shadows is a great second book and it sets the scene really well for the third and final instalment. Grace, Gretchen and Greer are three kick ass teenagers in a world full of crazy monsters and back-stabbing characters. (less)

like · see review

Feb 09, 2013 Melanie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: sequel-must-reads, i-love-greek-mythology, awesome-covers, 2013-favourites, didn-t-see-that-coming, that-s-how-you-write-a-sequel

See more reviews at http://theyabooklover.blogspot.com.au/

Oh yes. Pure awesome romance, action and GREEK MYTHOLOGY.

I'm having a really good streak at the moment, there are so many books that I've just fallen in love with. And this, Sweet Shadows was no disappointment. Tera Lynn Childs, you are awesome and I could kiss you right now. <3

Finally our three Medusa divas have met, but that doesn't mean that they're safe. In fact, they are in more danger than ever. When the story begins, it is rig...more See more reviews at http://theyabooklover.blogspot.com.au/

Oh yes. Pure awesome romance, action and GREEK MYTHOLOGY.

I'm having a really good streak at the moment, there are so many books that I've just fallen in love with. And this, Sweet Shadows was no disappointment. Tera Lynn Childs, you are awesome and I could kiss you right now. <3

Finally our three Medusa divas have met, but that doesn't mean that they're safe. In fact, they are in more danger than ever. When the story begins, it is right after the attack from Sweet Venom. Even so, Ms. Childs did an awfully good job at re-capping me on the previous advents as I read SV at least 4 months back.

Gretchen, Grace and Greer are totally different girls who just look super dooper alike. Sometimes, I got them mixed up, confused about who was talking and all, but when I kept reading, I found that I could easily work it by simply reading the dialogue and the way Ms. Childs structured and planned out each character so precisely. Bravo! I felt more attached to Greer in SS unlike in SV, where she sounded like the average bitchy girl. And yes, she may still have those moments, but she turns out to be a reliable friend and an awesome kung-fu kickass female. Each and everyone of them are strong in their own way.

The thing that made me take off one star was the plot. Don't get me wrong, I was compelled to love it. It incorporated my favourite genre, mythology, and had twists and cryptic messages, however there was one thing that kept bugging me. How've you ever felt like the book seemed too quick when it had so many pages? I felt like that in SS, that it just went too quickly, needed a little more definition in the depth of the plot.

I simply adored and fan-girled over the romance, it wasn't too much to make me gag and it wasn't too little to make me get infuriated and inpatient. Nick and Gretchen are really cute, totally took my heart away. Milo and Grace are a little more complicated but I felt like that someone like Milo really clicked with Grace.

Gorgeously written, Ms. Childs will satisfy with a unique take on Greek Mythology that made me scream for more. I recommend to anyone who craves for Greek Mythology and fantasy lovers.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 01, 2012 Brianna rated it 5 of 5 stars

Sweet shadows by Tera Lynn Childs was an awesome book I thought. This book is about three girls who have to help the human race from being dumb and blind and getting killed. They hunt greek mythological monsters that come from the abyss.
This story is a very fast paced story that didn't take very long to read. To start this whole story off there was a ton of action, this took place right from the moment the last eneded. This pace of action packed page after page of suspense continued until the...more Sweet shadows by Tera Lynn Childs was an awesome book I thought. This book is about three girls who have to help the human race from being dumb and blind and getting killed. They hunt greek mythological monsters that come from the abyss.
This story is a very fast paced story that didn't take very long to read. To start this whole story off there was a ton of action, this took place right from the moment the last eneded. This pace of action packed page after page of suspense continued until the end when a beatuiful left me screaming end was added on. The ending wasn't urupt or anything like it was fast and then you ran into a wall, it was more of fast and slowly declined so you knew that this portion of the story was over. So the pace was perfect, it kept me reading and always wanting more. It's a great page turner!
This story was told in first person point of veiw but by three characters. There's Grace, Greer and my favorite Gretchen. Gretchen was a orphan whos gaurdian raised her and she always knew her job was to send the monsters back. Grace was the cute, smart, nerd who understood quickly she was needed to help. Greer was the rich perfect girl who I kinda hated to start, but she grew as the story conintued on I began to like her more. So my favorite was Gretchen she was a tough girl who kicked some butt and wouldn't let anyone forget it which is why she was the coolest I think. The other two were in a close tie for second and third. These girls seemed real to me, the author made them so wonderful I could picture them running down my streets and their vocies. they were real the whole time I read thuis story. This is another reason to read it is a lot of times characters seem real but you don't hear there voices in your head and in Sweet Shadows Tera Lynn Childs made that happen.
Sweet Shadows was a really good book and deserved five stars for all of the reasons above, I think this book is good for pretty much antyone. Also if you have a good knowledge of Greek mythology you might like this. Sometimes people say oh well boys won't like this because the main characters are girls but i don't believe that i think this is engagging and well written enough that anyone can read it and enjoy it. (less)

like · see review

Nov 04, 2012 Angie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, teen-fiction, website, fantasy

The Medusa sisters are back. Grace, Greer and Gretchen's story picks up right where Sweet Venom left off. The girls are now in the getting to know my sister phase; they know what their destiny is but only in a general sense. It seems that everyone who could tell them more keeps disappearing. So it is up to the sisters to find out more information and to get their great aunts the Gorgons back before the doors of the underworld are open or they are dead. They learn more about the factions in this...more

like · see review

Mar 16, 2013 Ellie (a.k.a. QE3) rated it 2 of 5 stars

Ehh.

I'm not sure whether this book was just not as good as the first one or my standards were considerably lower back when I read book #1.

I found #2 to be rather predictable. I didn't like any of the three girls narrating. They felt sort of like:

Grace: Hey, I'm Grace! I'm bubbly and happy! I care about my family sooooo much! But, like, I hardly ever make time to see them. I'm just too busy! And I'm environmentally friendly! Save the planet!!!

Gretchen: I'm tough. I'm mean to everyone. Except thi...more Ehh.

I'm not sure whether this book was just not as good as the first one or my standards were considerably lower back when I read book #1.

I found #2 to be rather predictable. I didn't like any of the three girls narrating. They felt sort of like:

Grace: Hey, I'm Grace! I'm bubbly and happy! I care about my family sooooo much! But, like, I hardly ever make time to see them. I'm just too busy! And I'm environmentally friendly! Save the planet!!!

Gretchen: I'm tough. I'm mean to everyone. Except this boy I met at school. He is the only one I've met who is immune to my magical hypnotic powers, but I don't find that suspicious at all. Meanwhile I'm going to be mean to everyone else to prove that I'm tough.

Greer: I'm a rich girl who only cares about designer clothing. My mother taught me to never show emotion so I'm going to act like a rock all the time.

Okay, I slightly exaggerated the three girls. But none of them really struck me as engaging heroines that I would want to root for. They have to MAKE me root for them, you know? It's not enough for them to have a good cause, they have to make me FEEL that their cause is worth fighting for. None of them made me feel that saving the world was all that important, frankly.

And their personalities were so simple. No complexity to them at all. Grace was the peacemaking sister, Gretchen was the tough one who knew the most, Greer was the snobby rich sister who has reservations about being who she is (a descendant of Medusa, in case you haven't read book #1.)

The book was quite flat. Sometimes I get into this "zone" when I'm reading where I can SEE where the characters are, what they're doing, and what they look like--I can SEE the story. But I didn't feel that with this. The book felt two-dimensional.

Perhaps it's because it's been a while since I read the first book that I disliked this one, but perhaps it's simply because it wasn't as good as the first. Either way, I only feel like this was worth 2.5 stars.

(less)

1 like · like · see review

Oct 20, 2012 Karissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Medusa Girls trilogy. It was an excellent read and I really enjoyed it. Lots of action and some interesting mythology as well.

Gretchen, Greer, and Grace couldn’t be more different but their mission is the same. These triplets must fight to save San Francisco from the monsters who threaten to overrun it. As more and more of their mentors are captured by the enemy, they are forced to enter the Abyss to save the city and those they love.

The book switches viewpoint be...more This is the second book in the Medusa Girls trilogy. It was an excellent read and I really enjoyed it. Lots of action and some interesting mythology as well.

Gretchen, Greer, and Grace couldn’t be more different but their mission is the same. These triplets must fight to save San Francisco from the monsters who threaten to overrun it. As more and more of their mentors are captured by the enemy, they are forced to enter the Abyss to save the city and those they love.

The book switches viewpoint between Gretchen, Greer, and Grace. Child does an excellent job of giving the girls very distinct voices without making them sound stereotypical. Gretchen is the kick-butt fighter who’s been fighting monsters her whole life. Greer is the rich socialite with neglectful parents. Grace is the somewhat geeky sister with a relatively normal family life. Each sister had her own set of struggles she is dealing with even though the mission is the same.

In this book the sisters find out more about the upcoming war and what their part in it will be. Things end up being much more complicated then they seemed in the first book, Sweet Venom. There are a bevy of Gods involved and each has their own ideas on how to use Medusa’s descendants to their best advantage.

I really enjoyed the monster hunting and all of the wonderful action scenes throughout the story. I enjoyed getting to finally enter the Abyss with the sisters and see what kind of creatures dwelt there. I also really loved all of the mythology in this book; there is some interesting Greek mythology and it ties in wonderfully with the story.

Although each of the sisters kind of has a love interest this is more of an urban fantasy than a paranormal romance. Most of the sisters’ time is spent staying alive and unraveling the secret of the door than anything else.

This was a very easy and fun read. It is also a clean read; there are some fight scenes and some kissing but I think it would be appropriate for middle grade and older. It was awesome to get a great monster hunting type of story without all of the gore and language.

Overall a wonderful continuation of this series. The different POVs of the three sisters works really well and I enjoyed all of the monster hunting and mythology throughout. Recommended to those who love YA urban fantasy and mythology. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what the third book in the series, Sweet Legacy, will hold.(less)

like · see review

Dec 27, 2012 Alanna (The Flashlight Reader) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, mythology, ya

I am going to start by saying most of my original predictions for this book turned out to be true. At the end of Sweet Venom, I knew there was something important about Thane's disappearance. I was right, even if we don't know what his role is yet or not. I have my theory. I also guessed Nick's role head on. Aw yeah, I am awesome.

Yes, this book took a twist that I didn't expect, but it still ended up being pretty predictable. I had such high hopes, which has left me a tiny bit disappointed. Now...more

like · see review

Aug 21, 2012 Aeicha rated it 5 of 5 stars

*There may be slight spoilers for book one*

THREE WORDS: This Series ROCKS!

MY REVIEW: I loved Tera Lynn Childs’ Sweet Venom and was anxiously excited to start reading Sweet Shadows. And like book one, Sweet Shadows is also made of win and all things awesome!

Picking up right where Sweet Venom leaves off, in Sweet Shadows Gretchen, Greer, and Grace, descendants of Medusa and monster huntresses, find themselves targets of a growing number of monsters and the key players in a looming war. Gretchen mu...more *There may be slight spoilers for book one*

THREE WORDS: This Series ROCKS!

MY REVIEW: I loved Tera Lynn Childs’ Sweet Venom and was anxiously excited to start reading Sweet Shadows. And like book one, Sweet Shadows is also made of win and all things awesome!

Picking up right where Sweet Venom leaves off, in Sweet Shadows Gretchen, Greer, and Grace, descendants of Medusa and monster huntresses, find themselves targets of a growing number of monsters and the key players in a looming war. Gretchen must prepare her sisters to fight the monsters that escape the abyss, but a mysterious Nick is distracting, Greer is determined to meet all her social commitments and not let her personal life and duties as a huntress collide, and Grace must deal with the growing distance her lying has caused between her and her parents and worry about her missing brother. Those people that can help keep disappearing and the monsters keep coming. On a desperate search for answers and help, Gretchen finds herself in a dark and unexpected place and Grace and Greer must rely on each other to get her back.

After the exciting and cliffhanger ending of book one, I dove right into Sweet Shadows and didn’t come up for air until the very last page. All the addicting and refreshing mythological elements, enticing romance, exhilarating action, fab characters and pure fun of the first book are effortlessly carried over into this sequel.

Sweet Shadows moves a bit faster than the first book, but that’s just because there’s even more action and thrills. The mythological world surrounding the triplet’s destiny and purpose is explored and developed more in-depth and Childs throws some wicked curve-balls and revelations at readers. This installment is just as fun as the first book, but there's a slightly darker vibe in book two as the stakes get higher for the girls and everything becomes a matter of life and death.

As in book one, the writing and world-building in Sweet Shadows is simply addicting and enthralling. Childs takes all things fantastical, whimsical and supernatural and blends them masterfully with relatable real world situations and experiences (romance, school bullies, pressure to be perfect, family obligations, figuring out where you belong, etc). I love that ALL of these aspects and elements are well balanced and explored.

We get to know our three heroines even better in this book and they experience a great deal of natural character growth and development. Gretchen is as tough and surly as ever, but she opens up a lot in this book. Rational, social queen Greer really grew on me in this book. She went from a very snooty, inaccessible rich girl to a tough, very capable chick who really has her sisters' backs. And my girl Grace continues to really come into her own as her confidence and leadership skills grow so much in Sweet Shadows. The dynamic between all three sisters is so intriguing, believable and well-crafted.

And of course, the swoon-worthy boys are back and play an even bigger role in this book. The electricity between Nick and Gretchen is palpable, but this funny guy proves to be quite the infuriating and fascinating complication for our fave tough chick. I love the more vulnerable and open side that Nick brings out in Gretchen. Milo and Grace are as adorkable as ever! There's something so sweet and charming about the two of these teens together and I can't wait to see where their blossoming romance leads.

The mysteries and revelations abound in this book! What is Thane hiding?! How will the triplets save Ursula?! What is Nick really up to?! Who and what can be trusted?! OH MY! The twists and turns had me excitedly and breathlessly turning pages until the very end. And what a hella frustratingly awesome and OMG-I-so-needwant-book-three-right-now ending!

MY FINAL THOUGHTS: Tera Lynn Childs proves to be a superb storyteller which is why I'm so in love with this series! With a fast-paced, action packed and romance filled story, Sweet Shadows is a fantastically fun and spun sequel in an awesometastic series. A MUST read!(less)

like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 99 100 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Book Discussions ...: * Sweet Shadows	1	1	Mar 17, 2013 01:11pm
~!The Young Adult...: Sweet Shadows	10	16	Apr 29, 2012 11:54am

combine
Other Editions (4)

Genres

Fantasy > Mythology

86 users

Young Adult

66 users

Fantasy

47 users

Fantasy > Paranormal

28 users

Mythology > Greek Mythology

17 users

Fantasy > Urban Fantasy

12 users

Romance

11 users

Fantasy > Magic

9 users

Young Adult > Young Adult Fantasy

7 users

Mystery

6 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Tera Lynn Childs

Tera Lynn Childs is the award-winning author of the mythology-based OH. MY. GODS. and GODDESS BOOT CAMP, the mermaid tales FORGIVE MY FINS, FINS ARE FOREVER, and JUST FOR FINS (July 3rd, 2012), and a new trilogy about monster-hunting descendants of Medusa beginning with SWEET VENOM and SWEET SHADOWS (September 4, 2012). Tera lives nowhere in particular and spends her time writing wherever she can...more

More about Tera Lynn Childs...

Books by Tera Lynn Childs

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About Sweet Shadows

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

Quotes from Sweet Shadows

“I AM interested in you, Gretchen." When I still won't look at him, he presses his fingers against my jaw and gently turns my face. He is looking straight in my eyes when he says, "I'm interested i YOU."

His midnight blues burn with an intensity that almost makes me believe him. Makes me WANT to believe him. He knows just the right thing to say to mess with my mind. He always has. He leans closer, watching me. His lips are a breath away from mine.

This time I'm not buying it.
My knee connects with his soft spot and he doubles over, gasping for air.
"Find your own way home," I snap before turning and marching back to my car.” — 6 people liked it

“So, what you're saying," Dad says, "is that when you've been telling your mother and me that you are studying at a friend's, you've actually been roaming the streets hunting monsters."
"No, not always," I say. "Most of the time I was at Gretchen's loft, studying. Training."
"Gretchen's loft?" Mom echoes. "That's where you were last night?"
My cheeks burn. "No, I was in Greer's basement."
"Gretchen's loft blew up," Greer offers.” — 3 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: Sweet Shadows
avg rating	preview: Sweet Shadows Goodreads rating: 4.12 (1304 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12025637-sweet-shadows?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1326125444l/12025637.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12025637-sweet-shadows?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Sweet Shadows by Tera Lynn Childs[/url]

Sweet Shadows (Medusa Girls #2)

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website