In the Shadow of Blackbirds

Apr 22, 2013 Emily May rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, historical-fiction, ya-na, paranormal-uf, 2013, fave-ya

The lovely Cat Winters joined us over at the blog to talk about the inspiration for this novel and writing about women in 1918: http://thebookgeek.co.uk/308.php

Wow. I thought this was fantastic - one of the best books I've read in a long while.

When I think of 1918, I think of a world torn apart by war. I think of trenches and Kaiser Willhelm and a general fear that your father, husband, brother and/or son will never make it back to you. When I think of death in 1918, I picture a bleak image of...more

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Ariel Libba Bray is lovely with historical elements - I say "elements" because her "Gemma Doyle" books have quite a bit of magical/fantastical parts (more t...more
May 12, 2013 10:13pm

Emily May I have indeed read A Great and Terrible Beauty - that book was the beginning of my love affair with Ms Bray's novels and it seems that she always deli...more
May 13, 2013 03:49am

May 16, 2013 Wendy Darling rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-publication, amulet, historical-fiction, young-adult, april, pn-ghosts, 2013-favorites, read-2013

This book is set in the year 1918, but feels quite Victorian in its immersion in spiritualism and séances. The author's note at the end confirms her interest in that era, as well as in the epidemic of influenza that killed 50 million people worldwide towards the end of the first world war. In the Shadow of the Blackbirds is certainly steeped in her research of both those eras, and the mash-up of time periods and genres work together beautifully, with historical drama, ghost story, and mystery al...more This book is set in the year 1918, but feels quite Victorian in its immersion in spiritualism and séances. The author's note at the end confirms her interest in that era, as well as in the epidemic of influenza that killed 50 million people worldwide towards the end of the first world war. In the Shadow of the Blackbirds is certainly steeped in her research of both those eras, and the mash-up of time periods and genres work together beautifully, with historical drama, ghost story, and mystery all present in one immensely readable volume.

What I liked best: Mary's visits to the sick ward, where we gaze with unflinching eyes at the terrible toll that war takes on human life and liberty. Atmospheric descriptions. The desperate belief in futile home remedies, the doctor who is obsessed with measuring the weight of souls, and other immersive historical touches that were organic to the story. An unusual romance with an unexpectedly strong and sensual pull to it. Unforgettable secondary characters, particularly a weary young soldier who has seen too much. A few hair-raising moments where the supernatural world meets the living. Its examination of how fear plays tricks with your mind, so you're never really sure what's real and what's not.

I did find Mary Shelley (Black)'s name to be a bit distracting, particularly since it is repeated in full so often, and I was more drawn to the second half of the story, which I felt was better plotted, a little less crazed (view spoiler), and held its tension more assuredly than in the first half. Mary herself is also a character who engaged more of my interest than my whole heart, though I grew to like her more as her world started unraveling. I also think my reading of so many gothic/ghost stories has probably spoiled me a bit to love it as wildly as I think my younger self might've, though this is certainly a fantastic and mature addition to the YA genre. It actually reminds me a little bit of Sarah Waters' superbly chilling Affinity, though with a more straightforward plot and less complexity of language--and minus the lesbian subtext, of course.

Still, this is a wonderfully unusual novel that I highly recommend to fans of Libba Bray's The Diviners. I read it in a matter of hours, and count them an evening well-spent. An exceptional debut from an author to watch.

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Oh--and the physical book is quite beautiful as well, so if you're wavering between ebook and hardback, this is one instance where I'd recommend the latter. Whoever designed the cover art, illustrations, etc. did a beautiful job, and there are also black and white photographs, some of which added to the spooky feel of the story.(less)

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Apr 06, 2013 Maja rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: made-me-cry, amazing-writing, abrams, arc-2013, favorites, i-see-dead-people, debut-author, ya, historical-fiction, best-of-2013, own-a-dtb, reviewed-in-2013

The Nocturnal Library: Guest post by Cat Winters, 10 Ways I Researched the Past for In the Shadow of Blackbirds. Stop by to read it and enter to win a hardcover copy from The Book Depository.

Some books should be sold with a companion novel, a cheerful, nonsensical one people would read immediately after the main story to lighten up their souls. If there was ever a book that left me in urgent need of some cheering up (and a cup of spicy hot chocolate), it’s this one. But would I change a single t...more

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May 13, 2013 Jessie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-publication, 2013-favs, 2013, fav-heroine, favorite-guys, best-relationship, made-me-cry, ulti-favorites, will-order-read, my-emotions-wept, reviewed

Spoilers are hidden under spoiler tags.

What would you do if the ones you love are in danger? What would you do if the ghost of your beloved sweetheart comes back to haunt you?

Would you be willing to risk your safety-your life, even-just to find out the truth beneath it all? Would you have the courage to help him rest in peace?

Actual rating: 4 - 4.5 stars

In the Shadow of Blackbirds is a mix of mystery, paranormal, superstition, romance and tragedy.

After reading all the praises for this book, I w...more

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Mar 29, 2013 Sam rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-or-galley, 2013-favourites, historical, mystery, paranormal, other, ultimate-favourites, romance, other-favourites, made-me-cry

4.5 stars

“…between the war and the flu, no one’s going to escape being haunted. We live in a world so horrifying, it frightens even the dead.”

The thought of a widespread health disaster is enough to terrify me, even today, where medicine and science is at its most advanced. Cat Winters’ debut standalone is set during 1918, the year of the infamous influenza outbreak, and the final moments of the First World War. It is a horrific period of time – one that is difficult to truly forget, despite ha...more 4.5 stars

“…between the war and the flu, no one’s going to escape being haunted. We live in a world so horrifying, it frightens even the dead.”

The thought of a widespread health disaster is enough to terrify me, even today, where medicine and science is at its most advanced. Cat Winters’ debut standalone is set during 1918, the year of the infamous influenza outbreak, and the final moments of the First World War. It is a horrific period of time – one that is difficult to truly forget, despite having taken place nearly a century ago – and an aptly atmospheric setting for In the Shadow of Blackbirds.

It is evident that Winters did her research here (as consolidated by the brilliant author’s note). With gauze masks covering three quarters of the face, public health warnings and signs littering the streets, and coffins spilling out of undertakers’ homes, the so-called Spanish Flu is disturbingly ever-present throughout this book. It’s a time when crowds were to be avoided, spitting was unacceptable, and coughing and sneezing were sure signs of something awful. Even kissing was discouraged, lest any level of intimacy or physical contact aid in the spread of the disease. Winters uses this setting wonderfully and with skill to build together a vivid picture of the paranoia and fear heightened during this time. There is a distinct and fitting bleakness to the story, further aided by the war effort and its contribution to the death toll.

It’s in this time of confusion and sickness that we meet our young protagonist, Mary Shelley Black. Her childhood friend and sweetheart is the latest victim of the war, with his death and unexpected appearance in a spirit photograph creating the basis for the plot. Séances, unexplained phenomena and ghostly apparitions flit in and out of the reality of Mary Shelley’s life, adding an appropriately chilling paranormal edge to the story. It is not too difficult to empathise with Mary Shelley – to fall in love with her, even – and understand her frustration with the war and appreciate her resilience in a time that no sixteen-year-old should have to endure. She is an admirable heroine, believable and compassionate, but not startlingly radical. Cat Winters is clever to subtly weave in contemporary views that a modern audience will undoubtedly agree with, without having to make Mary Shelley a walking piece of symbolism.

My affection for the characters in this book is not limited to the protagonist; Aunt Eva and Stephen create just as much of an impression, and both in very different ways. Eva is an anxious young adult, with folk remedies – think onions, onions and more onions – constantly on her mind. Her relationship with her niece is a beautiful thing, almost heart-breaking, and more than enough to make up for her nearly irritating nervousness. Stephen… Oh, Stephen. There is little that I can truly put into words here, but the romance, although not a truly emphasised part of the story, is wonderfully emotional and real. These are characters that are given perfect care and attention – characters that I will remember and cherish for several years.

In the Shadow of Blackbirds is more of an experience than it is a book. It’s haunting, emotional and wonderfully written, but it’s also educational and thought-provoking. Some striking photographs from this historical period feature throughout, adding an extra special touch to this remarkable debut novel.

(This review also appears on my blog)(less)

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Apr 02, 2013 Renu rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013, favourites, for-review-from-publisher

In the Shadow of Blackbirds is a dark and beautiful story that had me on the verge of tears.

The story takes place in 1918, during the time of the Spanish influenza. Our plucky and intelligent heroine Mary Shelley Black has never believed in ghosts, that is until her first love tragically dies in battle and returns as a traumatised spirit. Shocked beyond belief Shelley is determined to find out the true cause of his death.

It's clear that Winters has done her research, she paints a bleak and drear...more

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Apr 09, 2013 Carina Olsen rated it 5 of 5 stars

I just finished re-reading this book. You can read my new book recommendation for it below :) And at the bottom I have posted links to my old review, and my new rec on my blog.

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I'm not sure I have words for how perfect this book is. I just finished reading it for the second time, and I cannot wait to read it again and again. It's just stunning. The writing is perfect. And really beautiful. Cat Winters writes really well, and I cannot wait to read more from h...more

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Nov 15, 2012 Lauren DeStefano rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: knife-factor

You guys are most definitely in for something special with this. ;) More tk.

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May 13, 2013 Kristen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Interview with Cat Winters

Review is also on my blog My Friends Are Fiction

The Story:
I learned about the Spanish influenza and World War I in school; reading about the number of people who lost their lives in text books. But, I must admit it never felt real to me- just words that didn't resonate. While reading In the Shadow of Blackbirds I was able to really grasp the fear and horror of this time period in American history. Winters' words and descriptions are so powerful I could taste and smel...more Interview with Cat Winters

Review is also on my blog My Friends Are Fiction

The Story:
I learned about the Spanish influenza and World War I in school; reading about the number of people who lost their lives in text books. But, I must admit it never felt real to me- just words that didn't resonate. While reading In the Shadow of Blackbirds I was able to really grasp the fear and horror of this time period in American history. Winters' words and descriptions are so powerful I could taste and smell what was being described. I stayed up later than I should reading and then had ghastly nightmares, but it was entirely worth it. It's one of those rare books that you aren't the same after you've read it. I had to research the Spanish flu and learn more about the time period and the horrible loss of life. While reading I couldn't help but imagine if this was happening in present day how would things be? I can't fully grasp the panic and fear. In the Shadow of Blackbirds isn't a pretty story but it is profound, moving and tragic.

The Characters:
Cat Winters succeeds in creating an atmosphere that pulls you in and enthralls, but her characters are what really drive the novel and wrench your heart. Mary Shelley Black is a strong willed, highly intelligent, scientifically minded 16 year old. She has lost her mother and her father is taken from her for being a traitor. She is flung out of her home and sent to live with her Aunt Eva. Eva has lost her husband and lives alone amidst the horrifying reality of death surrounding her. I think she needs Mary Shelley as much as Mary Shelley needs her.

Lives are not only being lost by the Spanish influenza, soldiers are victims of a raging battle; young boys thrust into trench warfare. Stephen, Mary Shelley's first love and childhood friend, is the latest victim. Just like Mary Shelley I felt that my time with Stephen was cut horribly short; I mourned his loss with her and looked forward to seeing him in spirit form just as she did. Winters gives depth to all of her characters from Mary Shelley to the people she runs across in her daily life. Winters pulls the reader into the time period, builds scenery, and populates her world with characters that feel real. I understood their motivations, their sadness, their grief.

Final Thoughts:
Quite simply, one of the best books I've ever read. In the Shadow of Blackbirds will always be part of me, I'm not likely to ever forget the story Cat Winters told or the characters she created and made real.
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Mar 07, 2013 Bonnie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, ghosties, historical-fiction, ya, arcs-read, read-in-2013, edelweiss-netgalley

A copy of In the Shadow of Blackbirds was provided to me by Amulet Books/Netgalley for review purposes.

'Stay still. Smile. And summon the dead.'

Mary Shelley Black is a sixteen year old girl living in a war ravaged world. After her father is arrested she is forced to flee and stays with her Aunt in San Diego. After losing her father and finding out that her childhood love, Stephen, has lost his life in the war, Mary Shelley struggles desperately to cling to a reason to continue living when she's...more A copy of In the Shadow of Blackbirds was provided to me by Amulet Books/Netgalley for review purposes.

'Stay still. Smile. And summon the dead.'

Mary Shelley Black is a sixteen year old girl living in a war ravaged world. After her father is arrested she is forced to flee and stays with her Aunt in San Diego. After losing her father and finding out that her childhood love, Stephen, has lost his life in the war, Mary Shelley struggles desperately to cling to a reason to continue living when she's visited by Stephen, as a spirit who is traumatized by visions of his death that he continues to re-live. Realizing that she's the only one that can see him and the only one that can help him she begins to seek out information regarding his death and what truly happened to him.

Wowsa. This book was high on my anticipating in 2013 list and I'm so very glad to say that it lived up to all the anticipation. This was a fabulous, and fresh ghost story that fans of the genre will enjoy.

'I think between the war and the flu, no one's going to escape getting haunted. We live in a world so horrifying, it frightens even the dead.'

Blackbirds had an amazing story albeit based strongly on actual history. The story centers on the year 1918 when the Spanish influenza has swept through cities and World War I is ongoing. It was quite a dreary time to write about and Cat Winters didn't hold back or try and make the story any less bleak and I loved that. The black and white pictures that were included throughout the book made the perfect addition to really showcase the mood of the story.

And oh, young love. The love between Mary and Stephen was so touching and quite shocking in its fervency. It may have seemed a tad unlikely that two could love each other so much at such a young age but it was beautifully written and completely believable. Your heart will ache for them.

This could have been like any other typical war story but what really managed to make this something special and distinctive was the focus on the increased interest in a spiritual nature as mourners became willing to attempt anything to assuage the pain of losing a loved one. A truly wonderful story, Cat Winters debut is an absolute triumph. In the Shadow of Blackbirds possesses a subtle intensity that will leave you breathless.

*All quotes taken are from an uncorrected proof*

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May 10, 2013 Vivienne Serendipity Reviews rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: wishlist, 2013-books, received-to-review

Originally posted on www.serendipityreviews.co.uk
As soon as you hold this book in your hand, you feel an eerie presence about it. There is something rather dark and Gothic about the presentation, that only grows upon you as you flick through the pages. Every few chapters you come across an old black and white picture that will shock you a little. Each photo represents events from around 1918 and show how America dealt with the Spanish influenza epidemic that swept through the country killing mil...more Originally posted on www.serendipityreviews.co.uk
As soon as you hold this book in your hand, you feel an eerie presence about it. There is something rather dark and Gothic about the presentation, that only grows upon you as you flick through the pages. Every few chapters you come across an old black and white picture that will shock you a little. Each photo represents events from around 1918 and show how America dealt with the Spanish influenza epidemic that swept through the country killing millions.

This book is the story of Mary Shelley Black, named after the Frankenstein author by her parents. The story is told in first person and you follow Mary’s journey to discover what really happened to Stephen, her one and only love. Stephen has been shipped off to war and she desperately awaits his return, only when he does come back, mystery surrounds him. The strong bond between Mary and Stephen, is a mixture of beauty and obsession. At times you feel that Mary is in great danger, however the way she holds herself strong, she never lets fear take hold of her.

I loved Mary, she was an utterly fascinating character. She has a strong analytical mind, which allows her to break everything down into components to find the truth. If she was around in modern society, I would wonder whether she might just be tested for autistic tendencies, but during the time period set, it would not have ever been raised as an issue. I loved her voice! She had such a way of getting the truth out of others. She had a no nonsense attitude to her and could always see the truth hiding behind lies. Now I haven’t ever read the Flavia De Luce books, but I have heard a lot about the character and I would definitely say that Mary may be an older version of her. If you like the Flavia books, I really think you will enjoy this one.

The story is intriguing from the start and raises issues concerning the belief in spirits right from the start. The book explores the world of séances and we get to learn so much about the popularity at the time of spirit photographers, which is a subject I have very rarely come across in the past. The book also looks at the hysteria that surrounded illness. The way people came up with ludicrous solutions to keep the flu at bay. I don’t think I have ever heard of so many different ways to use onions!

I was completely lost in this story and read the whole book in two days. It is definitely one I want to hand out to people and insist they read. I absolutely loved this book and I was quite taken with how wonderful it truly is. Definitely a dark horse that needs to be explored further.

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Apr 23, 2013 Soumi(in love with Puck) Roy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: amulet, owned-arcs, owned-copy, steampunk, ghost, young-adult, favorite, books-i-reviewed

In 1918, where a war torn earth was on the verge of a great misbalance, outbreak of a deadly plague frightened the human and ghost alike-the epidemic Spanish Influenza. It scares me to think what it was like back then when humanity was on verge of eradication. Not the Influenza but also in the war ravaged world, many lost their loved ones in the terrors and trenches of World War I. Every single glimpse of it we can picture while reading In The Shadow of The Black Birds. There is no doubt the aut...more In 1918, where a war torn earth was on the verge of a great misbalance, outbreak of a deadly plague frightened the human and ghost alike-the epidemic Spanish Influenza. It scares me to think what it was like back then when humanity was on verge of eradication. Not the Influenza but also in the war ravaged world, many lost their loved ones in the terrors and trenches of World War I. Every single glimpse of it we can picture while reading In The Shadow of The Black Birds. There is no doubt the author did an great amount of research before writing the book which is clearly evident by the author’s note included at the end of the book.

description

Mary Shelly is not your usual heroine. For a sixteen years old girl, Shelly showed a great inner fortitude where everyone else was painstakingly struggling in a world of epidemic outbreak of flu. We come face to face with emotion when her childhood sweetheart Stephen died in the war filed. Her vulnerability over his death yet strength to find out the truth behind Stephen’s death, we met an incredible heroine with sides I can’t help but admiring. Truly, all credit goes to the author for creating such a realistic heroine a reader can easily relate herself to.

Among the other characters, Stephen made such an impression in my mind. We always expect a hero to be immensely strong and extremely courageous and we expect him to do miraculous that some is not even naturalistic. However, here Stephen is just a boy like we see in our day to day life, a boy who feared, a boy who went through mental trauma, a boy who gave us every reason to be emphasized with him.

The other side character were just influential for the story line, I liked their roles as positive and negative catalyst, including Julias and Aunt Eva. The secondary characters truly made an impression.

The book was written in simple yet very artful way, one that captures our interest. The world building was hunting along with those photographs attached to the book which enriches the spookiness of the story. The suspense was well maintained, however around the middle of the book I guess who could be the villain but still I must say, the mystery was well build. In The Shadow of The Blackbirds is recommendable for everyone, the book is worth reading, truly.
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May 15, 2013 Ardemment_Reader rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: bookshelf

I absolutely loved this book. I've been struggling to find a good book for a while now... And I was pleasantly surprised how good this book was. I was a little suspicious when I first saw the book, it did not seem like a big stand out for me. But the intriguing plot had me hooked since page one. This book never fails to keep the reader on their feet as it weaves you through a very complicated situation, almost never stopping to let you breathe.

The experiences that Mary Shelley goes through are...more

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Mar 27, 2013 Go Flash Go! rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-galley, historical-fiction, world-war-i-fiction, young-adult, ghosts, paranormal

This review and others are posted at Read, Rinse, Repeat.

1918 is a scary time in American history. We are at war with the Germans, a people portrayed as closer to animal than human, while at home, we battle an outbreak of the deadly Spanish influenza: "Children dropped dead from the flu, boys got transported out of the country to be blown to bits, and the government arrested citizens for speaking the wrong words." Mary Shelley's father is one those arrested, and she's shipped off to live with h...more This review and others are posted at Read, Rinse, Repeat.

1918 is a scary time in American history. We are at war with the Germans, a people portrayed as closer to animal than human, while at home, we battle an outbreak of the deadly Spanish influenza: "Children dropped dead from the flu, boys got transported out of the country to be blown to bits, and the government arrested citizens for speaking the wrong words." Mary Shelley's father is one those arrested, and she's shipped off to live with her Aunt Eva in San Diego as a result. She soon learns that her first love, Stephen, was killed in battle. Mary Shelley can't escape her grief, in no small part because Stephen visits her as a ghost. His family lives nearby, and his brother, Julius, is a self-professed spirit photographer. He makes a killing (sorry) selling ghostly portraits of the deceased to their loved ones. Mary Shelley believes he's a fraud, and she wants to expose him, believing that the only thing Julius truly captures is the hope of grief-stricken people who have lost loved ones to war or disease. Aunt Eva, on the other hand, is a believer.

When I first read the synopsis of the book, I had no idea how the title might tie into the story. Maybe it was a metaphor? The answer (or a piece of it) becomes clear about a third of the way through, and it sends Mary Shelley down a dangerous path to uncover the truth.

Winters creates a fantastic atmosphere of fear. It seems that death is lurking around every corner, and Winters' descriptions of overrun funeral homes, ambulances with day-long waiting periods, and people with gauze-covered faces to ward off germs capture the feeling perfectly. Mary Shelley is cautious, but not paranoid, while Aunt Eva is in full-on panic mode. People drape themselves in garlic and onion to ward off the flu, and I can't help but wonder what commonly-held beliefs we have today that will be debunked ten, fifty, or one hundred years from now. If you don't make a habit of reading the author's notes, you should do so in this case. I was particularly interested in how much of this time period was fact or fiction (yes, I should probably already know this!), and it's clear that Winters' research was thorough and meticulous. I got a kick out of a restaurant that served "liberty steaks," because no one wanted to be associated with German-sounding hamburgers. It brought to mind the ridiculousness of "freedom fries" shortly after 9/11. Remember when we were all supposed to be angry at the French? The more things change...

description

The book is enhanced by the inclusion of old photographs at the beginning of each chapter. Some illustrate the impact of the influenza epidemic. Others are haunting (or haunted?) depictions of possible ghosts. Or maybe they're just a trick of the light. Chapter 13 shows four people seated around a table with their hands resting upon it. It also shows what appears to be a ghostly hand reaching up from the ground to grip the table. Depending on your belief in ghosts, this photo may have a major spook factor.

In the Shadow of Blackbirds crosses over various genres: romance, historical fiction, paranormal, and suspense. All are done well, but my favorite was Mary Shelley's romance with the doomed Stephen, portrayed in flashback. It is sweet and passionate and filled with longing. It's easy to see how Mary Shelley could be consumed by Stephen, both in life and in death.

Do you believe in ghosts? I don't, but Cat Winters makes me WANT to believe.

Note - I received an ARC from the publisher for review.(less)

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May 24, 2013 Merin rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-dac, read-in-2013, own

As someone who loves a well-done historical novel, I was really looking forward to In the Shadow of Blackbirds. I haven't read too many books set during World War I, although the one I've read most recently - A Very Long Engagement bySébastien Japrisot - was extremely well done and quite emotional, so I was hoping this book would be in that same vein. I'm happy to report that it definitely was. Not only does In the Shadow of Blackbirds take place during the war, but it also includes even more hi...more As someone who loves a well-done historical novel, I was really looking forward to In the Shadow of Blackbirds. I haven't read too many books set during World War I, although the one I've read most recently - A Very Long Engagement by Sébastien Japrisot - was extremely well done and quite emotional, so I was hoping this book would be in that same vein. I'm happy to report that it definitely was. Not only does In the Shadow of Blackbirds take place during the war, but it also includes even more historical occurrences, from the 1918 flu pandemic to seances and spiritualism. The amount of research the author must have done to write this novel is astounding, and the fact she spent so much time making her book as realistic as possible really stands out in the writing and the reader's enjoyment. This was a book that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Mary Shelley Black is an amazing main character. I loved her wit, her love of science, and the fact that she wasn't at all like other sixteen-year-old girls growing up in 1918. Mary Shelley has her own way of doing things and her own beliefs, which I found quite refreshing to read about. I loved how she started out skeptical about ghosts and spirits, only to have to re-think her position. She was very analytical about things, and I loved how she continued to do what she thought was right, even when she was told by her aunt or others to leave things alone and just worry about keeping herself safe.

The atmosphere of this book, however, was what really tipped this into five-star territory. The descriptions of the streets, from the people moving about with gauze masks on (which in the end did little to help anyone escape the flu), to the seances, to the mourners wanting their relatives to return to them, everything was just written about in a way that the reader could really see what was happening. While sometimes there can be too much description, with Blackbirds I really felt like those depictions were necessary to help set the mood and develop the suspenseful feel of the book. The air of mystery and confusion that reigns through much of the book as Mary Shelley tries to figure out what Stephen's spirit wants from her really helped drive the plot and keep the reader engaged. I found this book to be pretty much unputdownable.

In the Shadow of Blackbirds is easily the best debut I've read this year. The historical flourishes, the air of mystery, and the headstrong main character all combined to create a book I devoured and loved from start to finish. If you haven't yet had a chance to read this amazing book, you definitely need to do so soon! You won't be disappointed.

ARC provided via DAC ARC Tours in exchange for an honest review.

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To see more of my reviews, please visit me @ Read and Reviewed!

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Mar 04, 2013 Kate rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, better-than-i-thought-it-would-be, galley, ghosts, historical, kick-ass-female-lead, likeable-characters, lived-up-to-the-hype, paranormal-romance, net-galley, reviewcopies, romance, stand-alone, supernatural, tear-jerker, ya, ww1

I have to admit that I was uncertain about reading this book, I was unsure if it was something I really wanted to read and it took a while for me to get around to reading it. I am so glad I finally did pick it up because In the Shadow of Blackbirds is really quite impressive.

It takes place in America during World War 2 and is largely influenced but the Spanish Flu Epidemic that was rampant at the time. Being British my history lessons tended to revolve more around the plague where disease is con...more I have to admit that I was uncertain about reading this book, I was unsure if it was something I really wanted to read and it took a while for me to get around to reading it. I am so glad I finally did pick it up because In the Shadow of Blackbirds is really quite impressive.

It takes place in America during World War 2 and is largely influenced but the Spanish Flu Epidemic that was rampant at the time. Being British my history lessons tended to revolve more around the plague where disease is concerned so this really was different and new for me. I have heard that this book is not historically correct where the Spanish Influenza is concerned but I still learnt a great deal from it, not only about the flu itself but about America during war time. What really helped with this and also with the atmosphere of the novel is the use of photos take at that time and real posters and propaganda that were fluttered throughout the book, it was a really nice touch.

The story itself is fantastic and in truth it is hard to pick up on something Winters has done wrong, she manages to weave so many emotions and feelings into this but not once did it feel overdone. The spooky bits were genuinely unsettling (as were one or two of the photos), the romance was beautiful, the relationships complex and emotional and the ending just brilliant. There was a twist at the end I didn’t see coming and I was moved to tears at points.

Winters has not only creating a wonderful story but also some brilliant characters. Mary will probably be one of my favourite YA female characters of the year. She was smart, sensible and loveable. Mary has been through so much and her story is not an easy one, and the world she is growing up in is dark and terrifying but she was so mature and well put together. I admired her courage and her strength so much and liked how it ended for her. Her relationship was her aunt was complex but there was real love there.

In the Shadow of Blackbirds is a well put together and atmospheric novel that really does deserve some attention. I doubt it was be a huge hit or that people will take much notice, the cover is odd and the blurb even more so, but to not pay this book attention would be a real shame because it most certainly deserves it. I doubt there will be more YA books this year written with this level of atmosphere, emotional depth and maturity.
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May 12, 2013 Lenore Appelhans rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: lucky-13s, dystopian-feb-2013, met-the-author, 2013-awesome-reads, joint-review-with-christina

There are so many reasons to love this novel, but my top three were the pitch-perfect spooky atmosphere, the romance, and the mystery.

Atmosphere: Winters really makes 1918 California come alive. You feel the fear of the Spanish Flu, the uncertainty brought about by the war and the desperation of the people who went to the spiritualists to find out about the well-being of their loved ones.

Romance: I fell hard for this novel because of the connection between Mary Shelley and Stephen. By the time t...more

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Apr 21, 2013 Kim rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, historical-fiction, paranormal-fantasy, gaslamp, ghostly-love

I finished the whole book in one night. Just an amazing book in every way. I look forward to reading more of this new author's work.

* By far, the best book I've read all year.

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May 04, 2013 Barbara rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: animals, death, families, fantasy, friendship, mysteries, romance, war

The cover of this new book set in 1918 is enticing as are the other black and white photographs that are placed within the narrative. There are intriguing photographs of spiritualists, men in trenches during WWI, and images of citizens wearing masks to protect themselves from contagion. Sixteen-year-old Mary Shelley Black has fled her Portland home for San Diego where her aunt lives. While her father is on trial for following his conscience, her aunt works hard to forget her own losses. While ne...more

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Apr 27, 2013 Debra rated it 4 of 5 stars

I'm always on the lookout for new plots and time periods, and this book about a 16-year old girl living through the Pandemic of 1918--the Spanish Flu--during World War I, and the Spiritualism craze, peaked my interest. Mary Shelley Black moves from Portland Oregon to San Diego to live with her maternal Aunt Eva, after her father is jailed for anti-war activities. When she learns her childhood crush and good friend Stephen Embers died in the trenches in France, an act of desperation leaves her wi...more

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Apr 26, 2013 Kwinks rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have to admit that what drew me to this title was the cover. In the Shadow is a great read. It is a historical novel with a touch of paranormal that is devoid of zombies, but imagines an end of the world situation that was very real. In 1918 a flu was killing by the thousands all over the US at the same time our boys were dying in trenches in the European theater of WWI. It examines the spiritualistic activities of the society: seances, spirit photography, and experiments to weight the soul at...more

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Apr 13, 2013 Michelle rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013, historical, gothic, young-adult

This historical YA novel has three key elements that made it unique: San Diego setting, flu pandemic, and ghosts. Sold! Throw in a WWI element and I was hooked. Mary Shelley Black (get it, Mary Shelley?) is sent to live with her Aunt in San Diego after her father is arrested for treason, her mother long since passed. There is a spiritualism craze in the country, not unrelated to the war and flu. I thought this was fascinating, that there was a huge surge in ghost hunting, ghost photographs, et c...more

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Apr 12, 2013 Judy Desetti marked it as to-read Recommends it for: historical fiction fans

Shelves: young-adult, historical-fiction

Looks like it is a fabulous read. Saw in on BookList Online

Apr. 2013. 304p. illus. Grades 9-12.

REVIEW. First published April 15, 2013

In the Shadow of Blackbirds.

Winters, Cat (author).

Apr. 2013. 304p. illus. Abrams/Amulet, hardcover, $16.95 (9781419705304). Grades 9-12.
REVIEW. First published April 15, 2013 (Booklist).

Winters’ debut ropes in the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, WWI shell shock, national prejudice, and spirit photography, and yet never loses focus from its primary thesis: desperatio...more

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Apr 05, 2013 Liviania rated it 5 of 5 stars

I wanted to read IN THE SHADOW OF BLACKBIRDS because of the creepy cover and evocative title. I didn't really know anything about the story when I began. But wow, what a story it is.

Mary Shelley Black travels to live with her Aunt Eva in San Diego after her father is imprisoned. The First World War is in full swing, the young men going off to war and many never returning, or only returning in pieces. But not all is peaceful at home, because in 1918 there was a major influenza outbreak. People ar...more I wanted to read IN THE SHADOW OF BLACKBIRDS because of the creepy cover and evocative title. I didn't really know anything about the story when I began. But wow, what a story it is.

Mary Shelley Black travels to live with her Aunt Eva in San Diego after her father is imprisoned. The First World War is in full swing, the young men going off to war and many never returning, or only returning in pieces. But not all is peaceful at home, because in 1918 there was a major influenza outbreak. People are wearing masks, bathing in onions, anything to stay healthy.

Mary Shelley briefly reunites with her childhood friend and potential boyfriend Stephen before he goes off to war. They were forcibly parted before, due to Stephen's older half brother lying about their relationship. And now Mary Shelley is forced to interact with that villainous brother because he is a talented spiritual photographer and Aunt Eva believes in his abilities.

Debut author Cat Winters clearly did her research. She brings the anxieties and dreams of the time to vivid life, channeled through Mary Shelley's rather extraordinary story. Because things take a turn for the paranormal when, after a series of unfortunate events, Mary Shelley begins to have dreams of Stephen being tortured by blackbirds. She has to find a way to save him, even as she tries to figure out how to live her life as an independent woman.

IN THE SHADOW OF BLACKBIRDS is both terrifying and heartbreaking. Dread pervades every aspect of the novel. It's contrasted by the sweetness of Mary Shelley and Stephen's love. Their romance is a lovely, gentle thing. That only serves to make the novels many twists and turns more heartrending. IN THE SHADOW OF BLACKBIRDS is a story to read when you're in the mood to submerge yourself completely in a character's story. Mary Shelley's chilling tale demands attention.

Winters' debut is brilliant, showcasing incredible talent and imagination. I can't wait to see what she writes next. Historical photographs and facts blend with deft characterization and intricate plotting to create a haunting story. IN THE SHADOW OF BLACKBIRDS questions the meaning of war, tells a tender love story, crescendos into a genuinely frightening ghost story, and it's all held together by an extraordinary heroine. It's a little early, but I think I can safely say this is one of the best books of 2013. (less)

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Apr 02, 2013 Sue rated it 4 of 5 stars

Huge points to "In The Shadow of Blackbirds" for originality, I don't think I've ever read anything quite like it. The setting is the year 1918, Spanish Flu is raging, grief for the many lost in the Great War is overwhelming, and fear is rampant. A belief in spiritualism takes over the grief-stricken, making them the prey of a variety of con artists. Any sort of criticism of the war is taken for treason and harshly dealt with, spreading even more fear. And the flu has such presence that it nearl...more Huge points to "In The Shadow of Blackbirds" for originality, I don't think I've ever read anything quite like it. The setting is the year 1918, Spanish Flu is raging, grief for the many lost in the Great War is overwhelming, and fear is rampant. A belief in spiritualism takes over the grief-stricken, making them the prey of a variety of con artists. Any sort of criticism of the war is taken for treason and harshly dealt with, spreading even more fear. And the flu has such presence that it nearly counts as a character, in fear of it people have abandoned logic and try folk remedies as the health care system becomes so overwhelmed that the stricken have to wait for days just to get an ambulance and the corpses pile up on the street. The mood of the time is so dark and steeped in death and the setting so surreal with everyone in gauze masks reeking of onion and garlic that I wasn't sure if this was historically accurate or some kind of nightmare parallel universe. The time period is so well done that the book is worth reading just to experience it, and Winters is excellent at depicting the emotions of her characters as they face, or fall, to their fears. A couple things in the book didn't quite gel for me: Mary and the blackbirds. Although she is the main focus of the narrative I didn't feel like Mary's character was quite developed enough. She didn't feel like a real person and her motivations were not always as clear as they should be. Without giving too much away, she puts herself in mortal danger but it isn't clear if this is just hysteria or actually self-destructive. The blackbirds are symbolic of the mystery being unraveled, but after finding them in the title and throughout the book the actual meaning of them, and the resolution of the mystery plot seem a bit anti-climatic. This may simply be because everything else is so very effective in comparison. So not a perfect book, but definitely one I would strongly recommend. This is a powerful story of a turbulent time that blends history with fantasy and the result is not to be missed. Thanks to the publisher for my advance copy.(less)

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Mar 26, 2013 Big Book Little Book rated it 4 of 5 stars

Keith for www.bigbooklittlebook.com
Copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

The story begins with a long train journey from Portland to San Diego. Mary Shelley is moving to live with her aunt because her father was arrested and her mother had passed away some time ago. The train stinks of onions (widely believed at the time to prevent flu), and everyone is hiding behind their masks, mortally afraid of every cough and sneeze. Mary Shelley passes the time reading letters from her...more Keith for www.bigbooklittlebook.com
Copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

The story begins with a long train journey from Portland to San Diego. Mary Shelley is moving to live with her aunt because her father was arrested and her mother had passed away some time ago. The train stinks of onions (widely believed at the time to prevent flu), and everyone is hiding behind their masks, mortally afraid of every cough and sneeze. Mary Shelley passes the time reading letters from her sweetheart Stephen, who has gone to war in Europe. As an opening chapter, it’s a well thought out way to set the scene and atmosphere of paranoia without heavy exposition.

As the book continues, we meet her Aunt Eva, who lives with her pet magpie, Oberon, works in the local shipyard and seems to spend the rest of her time making onion soup to ward off the flu. Eva likes Stephen’s older brother Julius, a spirit photographer who Mary Shelley already clearly dislikes and believes is a fraud. Mary Shelley meets Mr Darning, another local photographer who specialises in debunking spirit photography, though has so far failed to find any trickery in Julius’ studio.

After getting to meet the characters, we learn that Stephen has been killed in battle, and this is where the book really gets started. As the back cover says, Stephen starts to appear as a ghost to Mary Shelley, seemingly terrified of birds. The rest of the book depicts Mary Shelley becoming increasingly more determined and desperate to help Stephen to rest in peace, with some decent twists and turns along the way. A lot of the characters turn out to be not who they seem at first, and the final revelations are not ones I could have guessed.

When I first read the back cover, I half expected this book to be a silly romance between a young girl and the ghost of her boyfriend, but I’m happy to report that it’s far more interesting and worth reading than that. It draws interesting parallels with modern life – the irrational beliefs people have in placebo remedies for fatal illnesses; how shellshock, or post-traumatic stress disorder as it is now called, is seen as something to be ashamed of, rather than a mental illness that needs proper treatment and support.

One thing that isn’t so convincing in the book is the ages of Mary Shelley and Aunt Eva. Mary Shelley seems far too mature for her age of sixteen, whereas Eva reminds me of my Nan, not a woman in her mid-twenties as the text states. Perhaps people become more mature in desperate times of war and illness, but I’m not completely convinced by the book’s portrayal. That’s not to say they’re bad characters though.

The novel is apparently aimed at ages 12 and up, though I’d say it’s a little too gruesome for that age. It feels more like an adult novel to me than what would normally be in the YA category.
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Mar 18, 2013 Book Angel Emma rated it 4 of 5 stars

Review by Beth

In the Shadows of Blackbirds is set in 1918 and immediately I think of World War One and trench warfare. It didn’t even cross my mind to think about the Spanish influenza epidemic yet it did cross Cat Winter’s mind and this novel centres on this, as well as the spiritual photography obsession which also gripped the times.

This novel is far from happy or pleasant, it’s packed full of horrifying events, morbid tales and basically shows 1918 for the terrible year that it was. It’s an i...more

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Mar 13, 2013 Cathy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, war, world-war-one, influenza-1918

"The day before my father's arrest, I read an article about a mother who cured her daughter of the Spanish flu by burying her in raw onions for three days."

So begins In the Shadow of Blackbirds. The reek of onions follows you and Winters fills this atmospheric story with the colors of bodies turning purple and black from the flu, the smells in hospitals and veterans' homes and the smell of people with onions around their necks and the sight of people with salt stuffed in their noses and wearing...more

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Feb 20, 2013 Erin Reilly-Sanders rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction, historical, mystery, teen, freereviewcopy

I thought the description of the book was absolutely fascinating and was really excited to read it but unfortunately it didn't live up to my expectations. yes, the sense of drama and suspense is super thick and almost tangible and you certainly wan to keep flipping pages, but I found myself taken out of the story at times because of the weird mix of supernatural and possibly realistic. My favorite parts ended up even being those that were realistic, but even those were hard to keep faith in. The...more

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Feb 13, 2013 Corinne rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult

Mary Shelley lives at a very difficult time. After she arrives in San Diego to live with her aunt, sixteen year old Mary realizes that southern California isn't any different than Portland: World War I is still raging and the Spanish flu is sneaking into everyone's lives, one way or another. When she gets word that the boy she loved and sent off to war has died, suddenly the spiritualism she's been mocking takes on a different meaning. In a world where photographs tell false tales and the horror...more

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