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

Shadowfell (Shadowfell #1)

by Juliet Marillier (Goodreads Author)

3.98 of 5 stars 3.98 · rating details · 2,489 ratings · 484 reviews

Sixteen-year-old Neryn is alone in the land of Alban, where the oppressive king has ordered anyone with magical strengths captured and brought before him. Eager to hide her own canny skill—a uniquely powerful ability to communicate with the fairy-like Good Folk—Neryn sets out for the legendary Shadowfell, a home and training ground for a secret rebel group determined to ov...more

Kindle Edition, 416 pages

Published September 11th 2012 by Knopf Books for Young Readers (first published June 26th 2012)

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

Vaalbara Visions and Shadows by Michelle Horst

Lovely Covers

106th out of 334 books — 218 voters

The Gathering Darkness by Lisa Collicutt

Art-Covers

74th out of 90 books — 120 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 3,000)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Jul 22, 2012 Kat Kennedy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: australian-writer, fun-fantasy, kat-s-book-reviews, the-great-shelf-of-meh, to-ya-or-not-to-ya

There is something ineffably magical about Marillier’s novels. There are precious few authors, in my opinion, who create as earnest a fantasy environment replete with mysticism and magic as Marillier does.

I feel a little embarrassed and ashamed. I was desperate for this book. After loving Wildwood Dancing and Heart’s Blood with a fiery passion, I was sure I’d adore this one too.

The first thing that you should know about Shadowfell is that it’s not as much the same ilk as...more There is something ineffably magical about Marillier’s novels. There are precious few authors, in my opinion, who create as earnest a fantasy environment replete with mysticism and magic as Marillier does.

I feel a little embarrassed and ashamed. I was desperate for this book. After loving Wildwood Dancing and Heart’s Blood with a fiery passion, I was sure I’d adore this one too.

The first thing that you should know about Shadowfell is that it’s not as much the same ilk as Wildwood Dancing and Heart’s Blood. It’s closer to her Daughter of the Forest series in tone and story telling though less adult. The second thing you should know is that the pace and story telling of this novel is even slower than that of Daughter of the Forest. If you’re not familiar with Marillier’s prior work then you will need to consider where the aspects of Lord of the Rings series in which Sam and Frodo were walking to Mordor were something you enjoyed as a reader. If they weren’t then I would highly advise you give this a skip. In fact, if you’re not a fan of walking in general then give this book a skip – there was a lot of damn walking in this book. A LOT.

Whilst the prose and characters and suspense made up for a lot of the stagnation in plot – it didn’t always feel enough to carry the novel enough for me to give it four stars. Neryn’s character in particular gave me great pause. Marillier’s female protagonists are often strong, capable, wise and dignified. That’s just the way she writes them and I love her for that. But Neryn lacked the spark of personality, of substance that I usually enjoy. She has no real flaws – unless you count not being able to trust a man who she has no reason to trust (I call that common sense). Perhaps she has a whole breadth of character that we haven’t seen yet. I don’t know. This novel doesn’t afford her to show much since she lives in a constant state of survival mode.

Over all, I would still pick this novel up over a whole host of novels, but for a Marillier novel, I felt a tad let down. I’m hoping the next in the series shall rectify that and contain a great deal less walking.

*This book was provided to me by the publisher.(less)

76 likes · like · see review

Oct 04, 2012 Carla *Jen7waters* rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult, fantasy, favorite-authors, read-in-2012, favorite-books, favorite-heroines, book-bingo

Before reading the book (I can't delete the little fellow, he got me a few likes)
September 11!!

After reading the book

I should probably start this review by saying I’m a HUGE Juliet Marillier fan (for those who don’t know this yet) -- she’s my favorite author, fantasy is my genre of choice, and every time I’m in possession of a new JM book it’s like Christmas, and it’s snowing outside while I’m inside the house by the fire, looking out the window, with a cup of cinnamon flavored hot chocolate...more

20 likes · like · see review

Sep 07, 2012 Keertana rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-galley-and-first-reads, swoooon

Rating: 3.5 Stars

Shadowfell is, I am ashamed to admit, my first Juliet Marillier novel. While I doubt it is her best, I can already see why she has such a huge fan following. Not only is her writing simply beautiful, but her world-building also manages to be exceedingly unique as her story grabs you in, even from the start. Furthermore, each and every one of Marillier’s characters is wonderfully developed, containing an immense amount of depth. While Shadowfell’s main fault seems to lie wi...more

18 likes · like · see review

Apr 02, 2012 Katy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

3.5 stars - Hmmm... now, to round up or down.

I thought this book was going to be about fairies - which I like but am not a huge fan of - but it wasn't about fairies at all. Yes, the Good Folk are magical creatures of the wilderness, but the book was more of your fantasy types - a kingdom with a "bad" king, rebels journeying through the land and a girl with magical powers when fully developed can save them all.

Once I established what the book was about, I found myself liking it quite a bit - thou...more

11 likes · like · see review

Sep 07, 2012 Heidi rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

3.5 Stars

Shadowfell was my first foray into Juliet Marillier’s YA books, and I have to admit I was nervous. I knew going in that there was no way it could level up to the breathtaking wonder that is her Sevenwaters series, and I knew it would suffer from comparison as I read Son of the Shadows at the same time. The unfortunate reality is, both these fears were justified, or maybe it was a self-fulfilling prophecy. I enjoyed Shadowfell a great deal, but still couldn’t help but feel a wee bit disa...more 3.5 Stars

Shadowfell was my first foray into Juliet Marillier’s YA books, and I have to admit I was nervous. I knew going in that there was no way it could level up to the breathtaking wonder that is her Sevenwaters series, and I knew it would suffer from comparison as I read Son of the Shadows at the same time. The unfortunate reality is, both these fears were justified, or maybe it was a self-fulfilling prophecy. I enjoyed Shadowfell a great deal, but still couldn’t help but feel a wee bit disappointed–I had to keep reminding myself that if this wasn’t a Marillier book, I’d probably be rating it higher (alas, show me great and I will hold you to higher standards). Still, Shadowfell is the promising start to a new trilogy in a fantasy world that touches on what we know of Celtic mythology but twists it to something new and different. It is simultaneously that old school fantasy comfort read for fans of the genre everywhere and fresh new use of Marillier’s deft hand with romance and magic.

Where Shadowfell was weakest, for me, was in its heroine. Neryn wasn’t the strong willed female lead I was expecting or looking for. Despite being of age with her Sevenwaters counterparts, Neryn shows clearly that this is indeed a YA novel in her youth and naivety. Smacking of ‘chosen one’, we spend the majority of Shadowfell following Neryn’s journey to the place that shares the novel’s name as she faces the question of whether or not she has been born with a special gift that has the potential to set her people free. Living in the kingdom under a harsh ruler, Neryn has never known a life of freedom or without fear. She grew up with the knowledge that it is not safe to speak one’s mind, or to acknowledge her canny abilities to see and communicate with the Good Folk. I was shocked at how utterly sheltered Neryn’s life had been, despite the horrible things she had born witness to. I had a difficult time making sense of her when she was so desperate for hope, but unwilling to trust, or even to talk about things that seemed obvious to me. Neryn is meek, with brief flashes of backbone, and it took her a good 2/3 of the book to gain my confidence. She did, however, make an excellent contrast for the other leading character who I adored, Flint.

Neryn is young, and as such she sees the world in black and white, completely oblivious to the many shades of grey that seep into our perceptions as we grow older. Flint, however, is those shades of grey. I love this character and his existence on the very precipice of right and wrong, good and evil, love and hate. Flint and Neryn provide the perfect balance for one another, and it was with this realization that I began to accept Neryn a bit more. My comments on Flint will remain brief (though I could go on and on) so as not to spoil the story, but suffice it to say that he is the reason I kept coming back to this book, and it was the portions with him in it that for me flowed best.

Shadowfell is clearly the groundwork for a story, rather a complete story in and of itself. It is that set-up novel leading to a very wrote path that is predictable, but enjoyable nonetheless. At times it felt as if the world were being constructed around me as I went, as opposed to me being plopped down in a world that was already fully formed, but that made it no less intriguing. I loved the folklore that Marillier played with, indeed, the novel really took off for me when Neryn finally falls into this world and embraces it fully.

Shadowfell is very clearly a young adult focused novel, rather than one of those line-blurring crossovers I so adore, but as such it was very strong. As expected, I held my breath, I hoped, I despaired, and I replayed favorite scenes in my head for days after I’d finished. If I didn’t fall head over heels for Neryn’s tale, it’s also not one I’ll be turning my back on anytime soon. Neryn, her world, and her story only have room to grow, and left me with the promise to do so. If you enjoy Marillier or fantasy with enchanting mythology, captivating characterizations, and companions you will adore, look no further than Shadowfell.(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Aug 24, 2012 Michelle rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, fantasy, to-review, ya

Oh dear. This one was just delicious.

Full review to come when I can wrangle my brain into producing something other than delighted squees.

Also, please write faster Ms. Marillier. NEED MORE NERYN & FLINT NOW!

***UPDATED 8/24/12
Dealing the worst kind abandonment a girl could ever have to face, Neryn has become a wanderer. Unable to return to her home village for years now -- a place filled with so many memories of death and pain she'd hardly be able to return even if it was safe -- or to sett...more Oh dear. This one was just delicious.

Full review to come when I can wrangle my brain into producing something other than delighted squees.

Also, please write faster Ms. Marillier. NEED MORE NERYN & FLINT NOW!

***UPDATED 8/24/12
Dealing the worst kind abandonment a girl could ever have to face, Neryn has become a wanderer. Unable to return to her home village for years now -- a place filled with so many memories of death and pain she'd hardly be able to return even if it was safe -- or to settle down anyplace new in Alban, Neryn decides to set off for the mythical haven known only in whispers as Shadowfell. A place where one such as herself, a girl with the uncanny ability of communicating with the Good Folk, could finally find peace and safety from the merciless hunting of the King's men.

Though most people she meets along her way are too scared of King Keldec's wrath to help a stray girl, Neryn does encounter a select few who secretly offer her a meal or a slight kindness. Including a dark stranger called Flint, who after saving her life, Neryn cannot seem to shake from dogging her very footsteps. Along with her strangely persistent savior, the Good Folk become more and more bold with Neryn, hinting that ahead of her lies a great work and that she must be ready when the time comes. Fearful of accepting aid from either set of her new companions, Neryn swiftly comes to learn her part in the struggle to free Alban will be great and to succeed, she's going to need all the help she can get. But she just has to make it to Shadowfell first.

As soon as I put down this book I immediately flipped back to the beginning without hesitation, set on rereading the entire thing again right then and there. It's been awhile since I've had a Juliet Marillier book captivate me as much as Shadowfell did. And as always for me with her books, its the characters that are the true standouts in this story. I've seen that some readers have been put off by Neryn's wanderings but can I say how utterly opposite I felt regarding that solitary time? Such introspection is always welcome and Marillier proves once again that she has a deft hand when it comes to portraying young women figuring out how to become strong, brave and capable. That said, I adored the back and forth exchanges between Neryn and Flint too. Their slow, tender friendship was beautifully developed with plenty of secrets hinted at to keep things interesting. Likewise, Marillier's depictions of the Good Folk and their mythology never failed to delight. I so loved the glimpses of their individual personalities and their varying reactions to Neryn.

Admittedly, I was a wee bit happy to find Shadowfell a bit more...mature...than her previous YA novels, books I truly enjoyed but never really fell for. Shadowfell in contrast has everything I like about her adult fantasy novels, complicated heroines setting out on a seemingly hopeless quest aided by unexpected companions (and usually a good solid --and handsome-- hero) and the fickle Good Folk. Though there is also a definite shadow of darkness over this book which underscores the necessity and danger of Neryn's task. And makes for some compelling sequences I tell you what. I could not help holding my breath each time Neryn came thisclose to disaster. Shadowfell is the latest in a long line of beloved Marillier books and, I am extremely happy to report, the first in a new series. Because there's no such thing as too much Juliet Marillier.(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Sep 09, 2012 Steph Su rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: own

I write this review from the point of view of a Juliet Marillier fan who, shamefully, has only read a handful of her books (so far!). SHADOWFELL, the first book in her new YA fantasy series, may not be as canonical as some of her other works, but it is still a solidly good fantasy read that will please fantasy and non-fantasy readers alike.

SHADOWFELL’s strengths lie, strangely enough, in its great use of common fantasy tropes. Say what? But you hate tropes, Steph! Yeah, well, sometimes you just...more I write this review from the point of view of a Juliet Marillier fan who, shamefully, has only read a handful of her books (so far!). SHADOWFELL, the first book in her new YA fantasy series, may not be as canonical as some of her other works, but it is still a solidly good fantasy read that will please fantasy and non-fantasy readers alike.

SHADOWFELL’s strengths lie, strangely enough, in its great use of common fantasy tropes. Say what? But you hate tropes, Steph! Yeah, well, sometimes you just need a story in your favorite genre with a bit of feel-good predictability. SHADOWFELL does that primarily with its straightforward quest plot, angelic heroine, and simmering romance.

The primary thing that Neryn does in this story is walk…all the way…to her destination. Rather than be bored, however, I was fully engrossed in the many adventures she encountered along the way: the people she talked to, the Folk she befriended, the constant tense threat of encroaching Enforcers. Marillier doesn’t spend too much prose describing the landscape of Alban, but you know enough to envision Neryn traversing dark forests thick with thousand-year-old trees, bleak rocky landscapes, and mountain ridges with the sharp autumn wind conspiring to push her off the edge of the world. Neryn may only do one thing throughout SHADOWFELL, but the story purrs along in that smooth, pleasant way of good rides.

Neryn is a sympathetic heroine, despite her being almost too good to be true. As she unwittingly completes more and more of the “tests” that determine her (ahem) calling, she maintains a sort of golden-heartedness that seems only to exist in literature. Neryn follows her late grandmother’s mantra of “You always have something to give others” so carefully that some readers might be prone to rolling their eyes. Nevertheless, she makes for the perfect protagonist for a quest plot, as she encounters, and overcomes, a number of scenarios and obstacles.

Last—but certainly not least—we have what probably makes all of Marillier’s fantasies stand out the most: the romance. Huzzah, no insta-luv! Flint and Neryn’s attraction develops almost painfully slowly. Neither one of them had an upbringing that endears them to easily trusting others. Perhaps the thing I appreciated most in SHADOWFELL was how we readers, alongside Neryn, never knew whether or not we could trust Flint. That man sure walks the line between two sides so talently. The uncertainty of Flint’s loyalty adds a refreshing uncertainty to this literary romance.

SHADOWFELL probably doesn’t break any new grounds in fantasy, but it’s the sort of story that could’ve easily gone wrong at the hands of a less talented author. Marillier fans, this book may not be your new Marillier favorite, but it is worth your time. And as SHADOWFELL’s voice runs a little younger, this may be the perfect book to give to young readers who have received devoured all of Tamora Pierce’s books and are begging for more.(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Jan 10, 2013 Amaryllis rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-favorites, genre-fantasy, hero-nice-guy, heroine-strong-willed, plot-gets-better-and-better, plot-long-journey, plot-perfect-romance-building, plot-slow-start, genre-young-adult, book-boyfriends

FINDING A CURE FOR MY OBSESSION
AKA MY WRITING THERAPY FOR SHADOWFELL
This is not a review, more like the ramblings of an addict.

When it comes to Juliet Marillier's stories, I love EVERYTHING. I really do.

I love everything from the captivating world-building to the gorgeous, enthralling writing style, and the likeable heroines who, like Neryn, all have a clever, enlightened and strong-willed nature.
I love the tales of these young girls embarking on a learning journey that brings all kinds of tri...more

10 likes · like · see review

Oct 06, 2012 Lynsey (The Demon Librarian) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favourites, netgalley, received-for-review, alternate-universe, beyond-awesome, boo-hoo-grab-a-tissue, book-boyfriend, dystopian-society, fae-alicious, fantasy, flawed-character, hero-i-love, heroine-i-love, high-fantasy, magic-tastic, romantic-elements, squee-worthy, sweet-romance, swords-and-socery, unusual-creatures-beings-species, ya, war-and-oppression

Love, love, loved it!

This review will probably be rubbish and not do the book justice at all, for the simple fact that I was enjoying it so much that I actually forgot it was an ARC (for review read) and forgot to take ANY notes. Not. One. Single. Note. Normally, I keep a pad and pencil next to my eReader at all times and I'll jot down little scribbles whenever they come to me, but I was so engrossed, I forgot.

Oopsies?

And, funnily enough, compared to other similar books of this genre, the book...more

11 likes · like · see review

Oct 13, 2012 ☆Jessie☆ (Ageless Pages Reviews) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, young-adult-fiction, netgalley-arc, arc, 2012-reads, 2012-reviews, reviewed

Read This Review & More Like It On My Blog!

My first Juliet Marillier novel, and I am already considering myself a fan. Though primarily known and loved as a gifted fantasy writer for adults, this prolific and beloved Australian writer extends herself easily into the growing YA fantasy genre with the first in her new series about the oppressed magical land of Alban. Though rife with well-known and often overdone fantasy tropes - the "chosen one", the slow realization of virtues of the protago...more Read This Review & More Like It On My Blog!

My first Juliet Marillier novel, and I am already considering myself a fan. Though primarily known and loved as a gifted fantasy writer for adults, this prolific and beloved Australian writer extends herself easily into the growing YA fantasy genre with the first in her new series about the oppressed magical land of Alban. Though rife with well-known and often overdone fantasy tropes - the "chosen one", the slow realization of virtues of the protagonist, usually during the long long quest filled with some few adventures and then more walking, the medieval feel to the country and culture - Marillier manages to infuse these often used conventions and make them exciting, fun, and emotional. Boasting a well-rounded cast operating on a lively stage, Shadowfell is occasionally formulaic but still manages to shine and involve readers in Neryn's journey for safety in a land wracked by distrust, suspicion, and fear. Combining fey legends ("The Good Folk") with pieces of Celtic lore, Marillier builds a novel that enchants and entertains all at the same time.

Neryn is the likable, kind, and also incredibly naive protagonist of Shadowfell. It's both easy to like the canny girl and root for her on her trek, but also to become increasingly frustrated with the character's guileless attitude as the tension increasingly grows and her awareness of who to trust, what to do in these situations does not. I liked the character, she's easy to empathize with early on, but often enough her reactions would be silly, too trusting and thus lead to contrived, frustrating situations with her secondary protagonist and obvious love interest, Flint. The book is more internal and personal struggle-driven than moved by action or adventure - though there are incidences of both throughout - and Neryn's wide-eyed acceptance of whatever is most recently told to her can get a bit wearying. Her inner monologue and thoughts are very readable and easily engrossing, but I do think that a more skeptical eye, a more discerning look at what she sees and hears, would clear up a lot of unnecessary conflicts that pop up more than once with Flint.

Flint is a character of contradictions as well. His is a dangerous world without the benefit of neryn's black and white morality, and the role he is forced to play shows a clear hand at the author's ability to evoke pathos from her readers. Flint's relationship with the young girl is delicate balance (just like his with the King), full of equal amounts of cautious trust, doubt, and attraction (hopefully, unlike his interactions with the King). Like Neryn, he is more than he seems and is wonderfully fleshed out as the story progresses and more of his character is revealed. He's also a great love interest, outside of the "do what I tell you because I can't give you any pertinent information." It's an obvious ploy to cause drama between the two, and I must admit that it got old after a while. I did get frustrated with the lack of communication between the two, but I still came out of reading this pretty enamored with Flint. The slow burning mutual attraction and connection between Flint and Neryn are core parts of the story, but romance is not what drives the plot forward. Neryn's quest(s) for safety, knowledge, and self-awareness do the heavy lifting.

Shadowfell clocks in at a respectable 416 pages, but the characters, setting, and even the message at the heart of everything (though non too subtle) make for a fast-engrossing, easy, and fun read. It's a fantasy novel with two interesting characters wrestling with their future roles in the fight to free Alban, their mutual growing attraction to one another, their independent wants and hopes, which makes for a cast of well-rounded, distinct people with a well-crafted plot to keep interest high and the pages turning with alacrity. This was a one-day read, and I found myself severely jonesing for the next in the series as soon as I finished. Juliet Marillier has impressed me, and I won't be waiting long to try my hand at her more well-known and widely loved adult fantasy titles. (less)

6 likes · like · see review

Mar 30, 2013 Eunice is currently reading it · review of another edition

Shelves: book-club, recent-purchases-impulse-buys, medieval-fantasy-historical-fiction

***Will Flint make it into my 'Best Book Boyfriends' list? Update to come***

~~omfg I am so lame and immature how am I not single.~~

5 likes · like · see review

Apr 26, 2012 Kristin (Beneath Shining Stars, I Read) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Overall Rating: 4.5 stars

*is in the process of typing up my review* But seriously, I enjoyed Shadowfell--which is why it sort of jumped to the front of my TBR pile. *shifty eyes*

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 11, 2013 Miss J rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: wishlist, faeries, love, fantasy, adventure

Review at Miss Book Reviews .

I am a huge fan of Juliet Marillier’s writing and I love nearly all of her books. I think because of this I loved Shadowfell, like absolutely loved it. I’m used to her style of writing and as for the plot this reminded me of her Sevenwaters books and I love that series. So I do have to say that this book felt typical of her. The travelling, the good folk, the element of suspense of wanting to know why Neryn is running from the Enforcers, why she can’t ask for anyone’...more

4 likes · like · see review

Nov 14, 2012 Leonor (Ner) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: EVERYONE!!!

Shelves: juliet-marillier, 2012-reading-challenge, fantasy, magic, read-in-pt, romance, fairy-tale, favourite, review

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. When founding out about the book:
OMG!!!
I'm just so excited about a new series from the Master herself!!!

After reading the book:
Why do you do this to me, Juliet?! Why?!

The Review:

Also published in "A Cup of Coffee and a Book"

Well, you all know (and if you don’t, now you do) that I’m a HUGE fan of Julie Marillier. I love her work so much her books are my babies, my precious and I never, but NEVER lend them to anyone apart from my mother. Her books are on my restricted-shelf and they never, NEVER...more

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 25, 2012 Rae M. rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ebook, net-galley, read-in-2012, favorites-2012, fantasy, high-fantasy, young-adult, heartbreakers, romance, fantastic-hero, fantastic-heroine, favorite-hero, tortured-hero, female-authors, arcs, review-or-comment, 04-stars, longing-for-a-love-story, hero-crush, survival

Thanks for the copy, netgalley!

Shadowfell impressed me from the moment I started reading. I don't read a lot of fantasy, so maybe that's why I'm so impressed, but I think it's more favorable to believe that Shadowfell is just that good.

Be warned though, much of the book is just Neryn stumbling around, sick or starving. But I definitely find both of those necessary for her growth as a character. She starts out as a fairly weak heroine, in my opinion, and blossoms into a heroine who matures with t...more

6 likes · like · see review

Nov 25, 2012 Liana rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Okay, once again: I wanted to read a book because of its fantabulous cover. I'm kind of stuck between the choices of 4 stars or 5 stars. Um. I'll just go with 5 just because.

Anyways.

The main character, Neryn, is kind of annoying and rude and everything. Even if I can understand her difficulties, I think that she would have been better off as a guy character because her attitude and personality is just so boyish I thought she was a boy in the first few pages. Until the father was like, "Daughter....more Okay, once again: I wanted to read a book because of its fantabulous cover. I'm kind of stuck between the choices of 4 stars or 5 stars. Um. I'll just go with 5 just because.

Anyways.

The main character, Neryn, is kind of annoying and rude and everything. Even if I can understand her difficulties, I think that she would have been better off as a guy character because her attitude and personality is just so boyish I thought she was a boy in the first few pages. Until the father was like, "Daughter." And I was like, OH.

Shadowfell has a lot of adventure in it. It reminds me a lot of Kristin Cashore's Graceling (but of course Graceling is so much more amazing).

I haven't read a first-person narrated book in a while, so I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

The author actually created a really good plot. Also the dramatic chapter-endings. Keeps the reader reading.

So, even if the character of Flint, (main male role) doesn't narrate the story, he's really important and I would like to talk about him. He's, first of all, not exactly my idea of attractive. I mean, his eyes have depth and everything but judging by how the main character looks on the cover, they don't make a cute couple. And he's 5 years older than her. It's so awkward though. Despite that, he's actually a really sweet and gentle guy (still keeping his masculinity, if you're wondering) that cares for Neryn the whole time. But what annoyed me was that he kept leaving her and telling her to stay put when he was the one that didn't take responsibility for her and take her along. Even so, Neryn still got known as "Flint's girl." Screams awkwardness.

However, even if I don't LOVE either character very much, I still like them. In the end, I figured out that they actually make a really cute couple. The romance progressed out slowly, and they finally showed some affection at the end. And then the freaking story ends.

So, the title. Shadowfell. In the story, it's quite a big part. It's actually a place that Neryn has to get to for specific reasons.

The ending is so dramatic. Not quite cliffhanger--- but really, really, really really really dramatic. Now I want the rest of the books in this trilogy. Oh gosh, please don't be a love triangle. I just know that there's going to be more romance in the rest of the books.

Anyways, that's all I really have to say. I actually liked this book well enough to finish it in one sitting.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Apr 26, 2013 Chrissy rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy

I love Juliet Marillier's stories. They're enchanting and romantic. Shadowfell is the first book of a new trilogy for young adults.The story is basically about a fifteen year old girl called Neryn who is on the run from the evil king's men because of her special ability.

I found the first two chapters engaging enough but then it becomes rather dull reading when Neryn starts her journey alone travelling through the woods. Not a lot happens, mainly the occasional meeting with the Good Folk. This ta...more

2 likes · like · see review

Jul 01, 2012 Lexie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, genre-young-adult, genre-fantasy, review-blog

Prelim Review: One thing I know whenever I go into one of Marillier's books is that the heroine will doubt herself and the hero will do some shady things (but for good reasons). This isn't a condemnation, but an expectancy that I've grown to have after 9 books in the last ten years that I've read of hers. And you know I don't mind knowing that. Each time Marillier builds a character who I want to root for. I want them to find the strength to continue their journey, to soldier on even when everyt...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 18, 2012 Susana rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, juliet-marillier, ya

2,5 stars

Well...this one was somewhat a disappointment...for me of course. I'm perfectly aware that many Juliet Marillier fans (HEY, I'M of of THEM AS WELL!!) must be throwing daggers in my direction..but i really had to force myself to finish it. And i'm trying to be honest here...

Where to start??
Well first of all, i admit that i'm not a big fan of stories that envolve quests. Mainly because of the lack of originality of the plot...look i admit, Frodo's adventures bored me senseless. I don't ca...more

2 likes · like · see review

Jul 14, 2012 Ebony rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review and a Q & A with the author at The Hundred Book Project

The problem I have with the fantasy genre is that a lot of the books in the market feel geared towards a male audience - often female characters are scarce, and I never know what I’m going to get. I have a similar problem with the crime-fiction genre. That is why Marillier’s women-centric fantasy novels and I are a match made in heaven.

A die-hard fan, I’ve read all Marillier’s novels and commonly devour them in one sitting. A...more

3 likes · like · see review

Sep 06, 2012 Krystle rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Juliet Marillier, you haven’t disappointed me yet!

I was already a fan of her writing before I picked this book up. I know it’s shameful but my introduction into her writing didn’t begin with the Sevenwaters series but her Wildwood one, which I read and devoured like it was prized chocolate.

She writes the most wonderful fantasy stories that are subtle and have female characters that are all portrayed with depth, spirit, and personality. These are not your lifeless women pulled along by the plot o...more Juliet Marillier, you haven’t disappointed me yet!

I was already a fan of her writing before I picked this book up. I know it’s shameful but my introduction into her writing didn’t begin with the Sevenwaters series but her Wildwood one, which I read and devoured like it was prized chocolate.

She writes the most wonderful fantasy stories that are subtle and have female characters that are all portrayed with depth, spirit, and personality. These are not your lifeless women pulled along by the plot or squashed down by the presence of men.

Neryn is much of the same. At first her young age threw me off and younger voice was a bit different than I was used to but I warmed up to her in no time. She is determined, resilient and the most very important thing that really had me rooting for her was common sense. Something that’s lacking in so many YA heroines these days. She was always suspicious, cautious, and wary of her kidnapper/guide, Flint. She does not go googoo eyed and trust him explicitly after one sob story. No, she does not. She keeps him at bay and always questions his motives and tries not to open herself up to him which he can exploit as a weakness.

Flint, too, is fun. He’s kind of your typical stoic, enigmatic male figure but he’s a lot softer and opens up more throughout the story. A lot of his personality stems from his cynical attitude and vulnerability that makes him behave in some ways in certain situations. I liked that we get to see things from his eyes from time to time so we can balance our opinions of him together with the ones we have of Neryn.

Honestly, I loved the romance. It was just awesome. It’s a really long and slow gradual process. They don’t fall in love or like each other because of the other person’s looks. In fact, this is infrequently mentioned and usually it’s on the part of Neryn. She doesn’t describe him as someone hot, droolworthy with overbearingly good looks, which is refreshing. They grow to like each other for what they are and what they do, and not what they look like.

I can see why a lot of people couldn’t get into this book. The long journey/questing portions where our characters spend a lot of time in the forest camping and hiding out. Things seem to pass by in slow motion and every ache and pain, sickness, temperature change is detailed for its effect on the protagonist. I had no problem with it all. In fact, I just flew by those portions. I love the long travelling scenes in Lord of the Rings, the camping scenes in Harry Potter, and all that good stuff. So if those weren’t your favorite parts in those books you probably won’t like the first half of it in here.

Ah, I love her prose. If there’s one thing you know she’ll never disappoint you on, it’s her prose. She writes such beautiful descriptions that you can feel it touch some part deep in your writerly brain and soul that makes you coo like a morning bird. Her worldbuilding might be a bit stock, generic medieval fantasy, and the plot a bit too linear but her writing makes up for all of that.

A delicious, gorgeous tale, and I can’t wait to read the next installments!(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Apr 12, 2013 William Bentrim rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shadowfell by Juliet Marillier
This is a poignant tale of a gifted girl who grows into a woman in an environment that either kills or exploits those with uncanny gifts.
This is the first book in a series. The author does a superb job in crafting a confused young woman facing self doubt and distrust on every side. Neryn is likeable but she is troubled, unable to trust in herself or anyone else. Flint comes into her life. Flint is unbelievably noble and self sacrificing.
The combination of these t...more

like · see review

Dec 08, 2012 James Theo rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy-romance

I found this book because I needed a good fantastical romance to read after I got my wisdom teeth out. It was perfect. I find that most of the time, my life is too busy to read slow paced novels, usually, all the reading I can get in is in 15 minute chunks here and there, those 15 minute chunks have to be exciting, or I start to loose interest in the book. This book required several hours lying on a couch with nothing to do, it is a slow book, it needs time.

Let's get the negatives out of the wa...more

like · see review

Nov 24, 2012 Ori rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, romance, reviewed, supernatural-things

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I think I've been spoiled by Juliet Marillier's earlier works, because as enchanting as Shadowfell is, and as thoroughly as it had reeled me in to the exclusion of all other things in my life, I still can't help thinking that it's missing something. I'm pretty sure that if some other author had written the exact same book, I'd be perfectly satisfied, but I guess I've come to expect more when her name is on the cover.

Trying to pinpoint what exactly fell short of the Marillier Mark is a bit tricky...more

like · see review

Oct 31, 2012 Beth rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I loved this new fantasy by Juliet Marillier. The writing is beautiful and enchanting as her writing always is. I really the liked Neryn the young protagonist, alone and hiding from the King's enforcers. This book her long journey towards Shadowfell a mythical place where she might find safety and kinship among the rebel group allegedly in hiding there. I like her, but it is Flint who really carried this story for me. He is complicated and conflicted. One minute he is a quiet stranger and the ne...more

like · see review

Oct 25, 2012 BookHookup rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup

**The publisher gave a copy of this book to Celeste via NetGalley but that did not influence the review**

My initial thoughts after I was done reading: I think I sighed and quickly jumped on Goodreads to see when the next book will be out. I may have also put my hand over my heart because I felt all warm and fuzzy. But don’t let that deceive you. This is in no way a warm and fuzzy book. This novel is about Neryn, who has no family left so she de...more This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup

**The publisher gave a copy of this book to Celeste via NetGalley but that did not influence the review**

My initial thoughts after I was done reading: I think I sighed and quickly jumped on Goodreads to see when the next book will be out. I may have also put my hand over my heart because I felt all warm and fuzzy. But don’t let that deceive you. This is in no way a warm and fuzzy book. This novel is about Neryn, who has no family left so she decides to try and find Shadowfell, a place where she can be safe with her “gift”. However, getting there is no easy task. The king’s men are out to get her because her gift is so valuable and the king would like her under his control. She is intercepted by Flint, a ruggedly handsome man of few words. This is the story of Neryn’s journey and her fight to save what she believes in.

The heroine: I loved Neryn. She is young, but brave with a huge heart. She is so generous, even when her situation is so dire.

The hero: I love Flint. LOVE. He is quiet, never smiles or shows any emotion. However, his reason for this unemotional behavior is to keep Neryn safe. He is stuck in an impossible situation, yet forges ahead. He is brave and totally confident….at least on the outside. RAWR. I want him.

The Secrets: There were soooooo many secrets, but there had to be. If you knew something the Enforcers could get it out of your head with magic. So secrets were actually necessary to keep people safe. It definitely ramped up the mystery!

The ending: I loved. LOVED. The pace picked up and I could not put the book down.

Gripes: Well, none really, but if I have to nit-pick it would be that setting the scene took too long in the beginning and I missed Flint terribly. I know, it’s pretty picky and I’m such a sucker for romance so his absence was a big hole for me. I also would have liked a little more romance, but I understand that it wouldn’t have fit into the story at this point. There just wasn’t time for a love affair when lives were at stake.

Rec it? Absolutely. Shadowfell is a great story built up gradually that will keep your interest the whole time. Then it was topped off with a brewing romance that was such a tease for the next book. This is a great addition to any TBR list. Happy reading! :) (less)

like · see review

Sep 22, 2012 Paradoxical rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-reading-list, books-otherwise

I suppose the first thing one learns about Shadowfell is that it is slow. It is painfully slow, and a bit of a cumbersome read, so if you're not prepared to read pages upon pages of the main character traveling and the hardship of being on the run, then this isn't the book for you. The thing is, it would have been a lot more palatable if Neryn, the main character, was more than this drab girl who spends most of her time being afraid.

Don't get me wrong. It's completely understandable why she fee...more I suppose the first thing one learns about Shadowfell is that it is slow. It is painfully slow, and a bit of a cumbersome read, so if you're not prepared to read pages upon pages of the main character traveling and the hardship of being on the run, then this isn't the book for you. The thing is, it would have been a lot more palatable if Neryn, the main character, was more than this drab girl who spends most of her time being afraid.

Don't get me wrong. It's completely understandable why she feels the way she does, on the run by herself, never being able to trust anyone, not understanding her powers, being hunted by the men of a king who wants to eliminate all of her kind (magic users, I mean) or recruit them. But the world isn't as vivid as I would want even if I feel as if it's been etched out carefully by the author.

The main Good Folk that you see are a bit bland. What really shines is the Good Folk you see in passing; the stanie mon, the urisk, the brollachan and his pookie. The rest either seem more like convenient plot devices than interesting beings in their own right. And, unfortunately, the time you spend with the more interesting Good Folk is fleeting at best.

It's also disappointing when I'm much more interested in Flint rather than Neryn, because I tend to enjoy the main character best. But Flint seemed to have so many more layers to him than Neryn did. He did his best with what power he had. He had this agency to him that I enjoyed. Neryn, on the other hand, was a lot more directionless except for her goal to get to Shadowfell. She does slowly (painfully so) make up her mind as to what she wants and what she's willing to do, but, again, it's a brutally slow progression (though, I do have to be glad about the fact that at least she evolves over the course of the book).

I don't need pages of action to enjoy a book, but not connected to Neryn all that much really put a damper to what I was reading. I just wish that she had a little bit more to her, that she stood out just a little bit more. But it's not a bad read. Pacing wise aside, it's nicely written and fits the mood of the world well. 2-3 stars, rounding up to 3.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Sep 20, 2012 Amy Lignor rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This is a stunning story that will thrill lovers of the Tolkien world.

Readers begin by meeting a young girl named Neryn as she and her father try to find some kind of shelter from the elements with only a small amount of money in their pockets. Neryn’s father soon spies a boat in the harbor that is basically a floating gambling den. Seeing as that he and his daughter need money in order to survive, and he is an avid gambler, he decides that this is the way to a small fortune. So away he goes to...more This is a stunning story that will thrill lovers of the Tolkien world.

Readers begin by meeting a young girl named Neryn as she and her father try to find some kind of shelter from the elements with only a small amount of money in their pockets. Neryn’s father soon spies a boat in the harbor that is basically a floating gambling den. Seeing as that he and his daughter need money in order to survive, and he is an avid gambler, he decides that this is the way to a small fortune. So away he goes to find money that will see them on their way. Of course, what actually does happen is startling. Dad loses and he, more or less, sells his daughter in a card game and she ends up being taken away by a man named, Flint.

Soon the King’s Enforcers come into town and kill just about everyone in it…along with Neryn’s father. Now Neryn has not only been sold but she’s also an orphan - all alone in the world except for Flint. Although her new ‘owner’ says he wants to help her, Neryn is out of trust and full of fear, choosing to run away.

Neryn soon shows that she is no ordinary young girl. In fact, she has a magical gift that was handed down to her from her grandmother, and the King’s Enforcers are looking for her so that she can help the King keep his power. How can she do that?

Apparently her gift is that she can see and talk to the ‘little’ people in the land and Neryn is on her way to Shadowfell - a place that is home to a band of rebels who are training to overthrow the King and bring the land back to the people. On her journey, Neryn runs up against some very unusual people, not to mention fearing everything from the harsh, cold weather to the fact that perhaps everyone was wrong and Shadowfell doesn’t even exist.

From the ‘Good Folk’ who help her out when she gets into some pretty sticky situations; to Flint, who is actually an extremely kind individual, this is a fascinating adventure. Being the first in this series, readers can look forward to even more secrecy, romance and mind-boggling survival!

Until Next Time, Everybody,
Amy(less)

like · see review

Sep 17, 2012 Wandering Librarians rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: action, fairy-tale, fantasy, journeys, romance, series, ya

I liked this book, I didn’t have strong feelings of joy while reading it but it definitely held my interest and I am most likely going to read the next one.

The beginning was strong, and I loved the introduction of Flint’s character. The entire premise of Neryn’s abilities was also interesting and well explained. What threw me for a bit of a loop is the fact that the mythos that the Good Folk are based on is all Celtic inspired (or at least I’m assuming it is). I didn’t know this until about two-...more

1 like · like · see review

Sep 17, 2012 Leslie Grady rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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
Admirers of Julie...: Shadowfell	21	43	Jan 09, 2013 08:44pm

combine
Other Editions (9)

More editions...

Genres

Young Adult

195 users

Fantasy

103 users

Romance

59 users

Fantasy > Magic

51 users

Young Adult > Young Adult Fantasy

34 users

Fantasy > High Fantasy

31 users

Paranormal > Fairies

23 users

Fantasy > Paranormal

23 users

Adventure

19 users

Fantasy > Epic Fantasy

13 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

Vessel
by Sarah Beth Durst
The Assassin's Curse
by Cassandra Rose Clarke
Falling Kingdoms
by Morgan Rhodes
Ironskin
by Tina Connolly
Poison
by Bridget Zinn

About Juliet Marillier

Juliet Marillier was born July 27, 1948 in Dunedin, New Zealand and grew up surrounded by Celtic music and stories. Her own Celtic-Gaelic roots inspired her to write her first series, the Sevenwaters Trilogy. Marillier was educated at the University of Otago, where she majored in music and languages, graduating BA and a B Mus (Hons). She has said in an interview that this academic training strengt...more

More about Juliet Marillier...

Books by Juliet Marillier

Daughter of the Forest (Sevenwaters, #1)

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About Shadowfell

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

Quotes from Shadowfell

“She went on because there was no going back.” — 21 people liked it

“You don't like it that I am the one you need to keep the wolf from the door; that comes as no surprise. But I am the one you have. At some point we'll both have to risk telling the truth.” — 11 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: Shadowfell
avg rating	preview: Shadowfell Goodreads rating: 3.98 (2489 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13574702-shadowfell?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1344028457l/13574702.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13574702-shadowfell?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Shadowfell by Juliet Marillier[/url]

Shadowfell (Shadowfell #1)

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website