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Without a Shadow
It was just a game at the start.
Adlai Bringer remembers going to the desert market with her father: The colorful tents, the wink of gold, and her father’s shadow, black as night, as it moved of its own accord and stole whatever trinket she wanted. He called it the Shadow Game.
You can only teach your shadow one trick.
After her father disappears, Adlai keeps going back to the market determined to find some trace of him and stealing what she can with her shadow. Until one day she picks the wrong mark—someone who knows her little trick and tries to take her shadow for himself.
The game has only just begun.
Everything Adlai thought she knew about her shadow is turned upside down, and her father’s disappearance takes on a new light as she’s forced to flee the city or risk being hunted. From the desert to the Shadow World to even more unlikely places, Adlai knows one thing for certain: her shadow is a gift worth killing for.
Adlai Bringer remembers going to the desert market with her father: The colorful tents, the wink of gold, and her father’s shadow, black as night, as it moved of its own accord and stole whatever trinket she wanted. He called it the Shadow Game.
You can only teach your shadow one trick.
After her father disappears, Adlai keeps going back to the market determined to find some trace of him and stealing what she can with her shadow. Until one day she picks the wrong mark—someone who knows her little trick and tries to take her shadow for himself.
The game has only just begun.
Everything Adlai thought she knew about her shadow is turned upside down, and her father’s disappearance takes on a new light as she’s forced to flee the city or risk being hunted. From the desert to the Shadow World to even more unlikely places, Adlai knows one thing for certain: her shadow is a gift worth killing for.
Hardcover
Published December 1, 2023
4 people are currently reading
7075 people want to read
About the author
H. J. Reynolds
1 book49 followersH. J. Reynolds is a British writer. She was born in Reading and studied Film Studies at the University of Exeter. She then went on to complete her Masters in Creative Writing at the University of Lincoln. She now lives in Lincoln with her husband, two little ones and her even more needy cat. You can follow her on her blog where she posts reviews of books, dabbles in writing advice, and features bonus content of short stories, usually of the surreal/supernatural variety; because fiction is magical, so why not add zombies or pirates with wings? Without a Shadow is her debut novel.
https://hjreynoldswriter.wixsite.com/...
https://hjreynoldswriter.wixsite.com/...
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 29, 2023
“You will give the appearance of weakness,” he said. “They will never suspect your strength.”
What starts as a classic tale about an orphan thief in a desert market becomes so much more. Reynolds masterfully crafts a refreshing fantasy world with a magic system of shadow powers and continually entices the reader to question which side we should be on. The side of the shadow casters or the suncasts. At times neither are desirable, at others both.
With deliciously human nuance, we see Adlai struggle with the same question as her ties to family, friends, and her love interest pulls her backwards and forwards over the line.
A magic world falls apart if the magic system is weak and Reynolds tackles the complexity of shadow powers masterfully.
I will say that the story lulls a little in the middle when Adlai is sent to master her shadow powers as there is a lot for the reader and Adlai to learn (and she has the unfortunate habit of skipping class), but overall it is a deeply compelling read and a breath of fresh air for fantasy readers looking to shake things up.
A little mention of Erikys is needed, because I love him. That's all. He was such a beautifully constructed character. If Aladdin were a little better at banter, you'd have yourself an Erikys. Thank you, Reynolds, for making that happen!
I was fortunate enough to receive and ARC and this is an honest review.
What starts as a classic tale about an orphan thief in a desert market becomes so much more. Reynolds masterfully crafts a refreshing fantasy world with a magic system of shadow powers and continually entices the reader to question which side we should be on. The side of the shadow casters or the suncasts. At times neither are desirable, at others both.
With deliciously human nuance, we see Adlai struggle with the same question as her ties to family, friends, and her love interest pulls her backwards and forwards over the line.
A magic world falls apart if the magic system is weak and Reynolds tackles the complexity of shadow powers masterfully.
I will say that the story lulls a little in the middle when Adlai is sent to master her shadow powers as there is a lot for the reader and Adlai to learn (and she has the unfortunate habit of skipping class), but overall it is a deeply compelling read and a breath of fresh air for fantasy readers looking to shake things up.
A little mention of Erikys is needed, because I love him. That's all. He was such a beautifully constructed character. If Aladdin were a little better at banter, you'd have yourself an Erikys. Thank you, Reynolds, for making that happen!
I was fortunate enough to receive and ARC and this is an honest review.
April 7, 2024
3.5 💫
First and foremost, a big thank you to netgalley and the publisher for accepting my application for an ARC!
This book was innovative and interesting. People with shadow powers being hunted and put in laboratories? Yes, please! The storyline was well thought through and the plot-twist near the end quite interesting. Unfortunately, I though this book lacked in some aspects, which makes it impossible for me to give it five stars.
One of those aspects, is the characters. The MC, Adlai, didn't make a grand impression on me for a few different reasons: for one, she didn't really have a personality at all and for two, her actions didn't always make sense. This is probably a me problem though.
Also, this book started of very strong, but then proceeded to lose some of its fervour in the last fifty pages. This made the ending seem a little bit rushed.
Over all, this was a good book, though! I definitively think you should give it a chance once it's out!
First and foremost, a big thank you to netgalley and the publisher for accepting my application for an ARC!
This book was innovative and interesting. People with shadow powers being hunted and put in laboratories? Yes, please! The storyline was well thought through and the plot-twist near the end quite interesting. Unfortunately, I though this book lacked in some aspects, which makes it impossible for me to give it five stars.
One of those aspects, is the characters. The MC, Adlai, didn't make a grand impression on me for a few different reasons: for one, she didn't really have a personality at all and for two, her actions didn't always make sense. This is probably a me problem though.
Also, this book started of very strong, but then proceeded to lose some of its fervour in the last fifty pages. This made the ending seem a little bit rushed.
Over all, this was a good book, though! I definitively think you should give it a chance once it's out!
January 26, 2024
I went into this book with no expectations. I thought the blurb sounded intriguing, but it didn;t really give me much of an idea of what the book would be. I really enjoyed this book. A fast-paced, thrilling read, with a couple of twists and turns that I didn't expect.
Adlai is a wonderful character - she feels very well-rounded, and well fleshed out, and her struggles feel real, and not overblown. Her relationships with the other characters, and her emotions when these shift are a shining part of the book, especially when they shift suddenly and dramatically, like with Pen.
I really enjoyed reading this book, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys YA fiction, fantasy, and a book that will keep you on your toes throughout.
Adlai is a wonderful character - she feels very well-rounded, and well fleshed out, and her struggles feel real, and not overblown. Her relationships with the other characters, and her emotions when these shift are a shining part of the book, especially when they shift suddenly and dramatically, like with Pen.
I really enjoyed reading this book, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys YA fiction, fantasy, and a book that will keep you on your toes throughout.
January 5, 2025
The magic system in this story is unique. The use of shadows in this book was unlike anything I’ve seen before, which kept me intrigued. Overall I liked the book.
However, my main frustration lies with the ending. It left me with more questions than answers. I’m left wondering about the fates of some characters, did they really die? The lack of closure is particularly disappointing since there doesn’t seem to be a follow-up book on the horizon.
I would recommend it to anyone who enjoy fresh take on the use of shadows and are okay with a bit of ambiguity in the ending.
However, my main frustration lies with the ending. It left me with more questions than answers. I’m left wondering about the fates of some characters, did they really die? The lack of closure is particularly disappointing since there doesn’t seem to be a follow-up book on the horizon.
I would recommend it to anyone who enjoy fresh take on the use of shadows and are okay with a bit of ambiguity in the ending.
March 26, 2024
This was a fast-paced story with a few unexpected twists! Adlai is a wonderful character! She doesn't always have it easy but her problems feel real and realistic for the book and I really enjoyed learning her relationships with the other characters! The plot is complex and engaging and the magic system is really interesting! This was a great read. Hopefully there will be more to come! I would love to read more about Adlai or just more from this world!
April 2, 2024
I can't believe my book is going to be out in the world soon! This book has been an on/off idea since 2016 and I have loved exploring this world of shadow magic and death gods and following the freaking stars. I had a blast writing it, learned so much editing it and, perfect or not, I could not be prouder of my little purple book.
Favourite character: the villain, of course (although there's a few to pick from...)
Favourite chapter: Behind the Door
Favourite chapter title: Should Have Stolen a Sock, closely followed by chapter 19 being called Eighteen.
If you read this, I'd love to know yours!
Favourite character: the villain, of course (although there's a few to pick from...)
Favourite chapter: Behind the Door
Favourite chapter title: Should Have Stolen a Sock, closely followed by chapter 19 being called Eighteen.
If you read this, I'd love to know yours!
January 5, 2024
4.5 stars
April 11, 2024
What starts as a classic tale about an orphan thief in a desert market becomes so much more.
With deliciously human nuance, we see Adlai struggle with the same question as her ties to family, friends, and her love interest pulls her backwards and forwards over the line.
A magic of words is a talent that not a lot of people have but this author definitely did. It's an interesting and eye catching book.
In the middle and a little in the end the story goes border line boring to interesting again because of how the characters acted.
A little mention of Erikys is needed, because I love him. That's all. He was such a beautifully constructed character. Although Aladdin was a good character,if he was into a little more banter then it would have been more fun. Overall this book was a good one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With deliciously human nuance, we see Adlai struggle with the same question as her ties to family, friends, and her love interest pulls her backwards and forwards over the line.
A magic of words is a talent that not a lot of people have but this author definitely did. It's an interesting and eye catching book.
In the middle and a little in the end the story goes border line boring to interesting again because of how the characters acted.
A little mention of Erikys is needed, because I love him. That's all. He was such a beautifully constructed character. Although Aladdin was a good character,if he was into a little more banter then it would have been more fun. Overall this book was a good one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 16, 2024
You can only teach your shadow one trick. Adlai’s father taught her’s the Shadow Game. Adlai can use her shadow to steal anything she sets her eye on. But when her father is murdered by trappers and they set their sights on her, Adlai comes under the protection of her Uncle. He wants to teach her to use her powerful shadow to bring down the trappers once and for all.
The premise of this book was really unique. Casters can control their shadows to do all sorts of magic: travel long distances in a flash, hide things, heal, kill, even revive themselves from the dead. But the Suncasts, people with normal shadows, have been hunting them to experiment with the magic. In fact in one of the opening scenes one of the researchers uses shadow magic to heal an elderly prince by returning his youth. This sounds chilling and inhumane, until we learn later that the Suncasts have been using this research to create healing elixers for the sick and to provide strength to the weak. The conflict between both sides is the driving force for the plot. Is it okay to sacrifice a stranger to save someone you love?
The twists were a little bit predictable for me. I figured something had to be up with Erikys when he refused to join Adlai in her shadow training classes to learn how to use his own powers. And then when he was snooping around the library and Luth’s house I had guessed he was a spy.
The romance fell a little flat for me too. There wasn’t much chemistry between them. The only thing that really bonded them was both of them being arrested at the same time and having to depend on each other to escape. I honestly felt like Kanwar would have been a better love interest. But who knows, maybe that will pop up in book two.
Overall a fun, adventure filled fantasy with unique magic and likeable characters.
The premise of this book was really unique. Casters can control their shadows to do all sorts of magic: travel long distances in a flash, hide things, heal, kill, even revive themselves from the dead. But the Suncasts, people with normal shadows, have been hunting them to experiment with the magic. In fact in one of the opening scenes one of the researchers uses shadow magic to heal an elderly prince by returning his youth. This sounds chilling and inhumane, until we learn later that the Suncasts have been using this research to create healing elixers for the sick and to provide strength to the weak. The conflict between both sides is the driving force for the plot. Is it okay to sacrifice a stranger to save someone you love?
The twists were a little bit predictable for me. I figured something had to be up with Erikys when he refused to join Adlai in her shadow training classes to learn how to use his own powers. And then when he was snooping around the library and Luth’s house I had guessed he was a spy.
The romance fell a little flat for me too. There wasn’t much chemistry between them. The only thing that really bonded them was both of them being arrested at the same time and having to depend on each other to escape. I honestly felt like Kanwar would have been a better love interest. But who knows, maybe that will pop up in book two.
Overall a fun, adventure filled fantasy with unique magic and likeable characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2024
Tropes: unique magic system, witty banter, plot twist, forced proximity, Arabian nights
I really enjoyed this book. I love Arabian nights themed books, and especially when I found out it had a unique magic system. The book did lull in the middle, and like why was she skipping classes when she could’ve improved her skills?
I loved the MMC, he’s literally Aladdin but better at bantering:)
I really enjoyed this book. I love Arabian nights themed books, and especially when I found out it had a unique magic system. The book did lull in the middle, and like why was she skipping classes when she could’ve improved her skills?
I loved the MMC, he’s literally Aladdin but better at bantering:)
May 31, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, although it did take a little while to really get into. Once I reached the halfway point I didn’t want to put this down. It’s important to note that this obviously is book one of a series. I can’t wait for book 2!
May 13, 2024
A good read
January 20, 2024
"Without a Shadow" by H. J. Reynolds is an impressive debut fantasy revolving around an orphan thief who can steal with her shadow.
Adlai Bringer is a caster, a person born with a special shadow. Those born with this gift can use it to their advantage, as opposed to those born without it, called suncasts. When Adlai's father disappears one night, she is left to her own devices. Her father told her she can only teach her shadow one trick, so she teaches it to steal stuff from the desert market. She used to play the 'Shadow Game' with her dad, so now she does it without him. The plot thickens when she picks the wrong mark and finds herself on the run for her life, together with a fellow thief named Erikys. Thus began a grand adventure, chock-full of magic, mystery, and even a bit of romance.
I loved the book! It is an interesting book with a clearly thought-out plot and a refreshingly original premise. The plot is complex and engaging, and the polished execution makes this an enjoyable read. The story unfolds beautifully, and the narrative pulled me in time and time again. Strong writing, unique characters, superior world-building, a well-crafted magic system, and a suspenseful plot made it an enjoyable and engaging read.
The world-building is wonderfully done and draws the reader into the story. I liked the way the author slowly revealed information regarding the magic system and the characters, not spoon-feeding the readers. I didn't find it confusing and hard to follow at all. The heroine's moral dilemmas, her nightmares, and her choices were dealt with superbly by the author. I did feel Adlai was a bit impulsive and didn't think enough before acting.
All in all, I loved the book. It is a surprisingly refreshing tale. The story is well-paced and kept my interest from start to finish. There were lots of little moments in the book that made the characters seem like real people, such as the disappointments Adlai had when she failed to harness her powerful shadow. I also loved the interactions between the characters and the built-up of the suspense.
The ending was mind-boggling, leaving me biting my nails and afraid for the fate of the heroine. The author tied most loose ends, leaving just one or two loose. Hopefully, another book is on the cards. Adlai, the main character, is just one of those characters that you don't want to leave behind when the book ends. If you’re looking for a fresh, original read, then H. J. Reynolds’ novel might just be the book for you! Full stars from me and highly recommended!
* Thank you Edelweiss and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review in my Blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2024...
Adlai Bringer is a caster, a person born with a special shadow. Those born with this gift can use it to their advantage, as opposed to those born without it, called suncasts. When Adlai's father disappears one night, she is left to her own devices. Her father told her she can only teach her shadow one trick, so she teaches it to steal stuff from the desert market. She used to play the 'Shadow Game' with her dad, so now she does it without him. The plot thickens when she picks the wrong mark and finds herself on the run for her life, together with a fellow thief named Erikys. Thus began a grand adventure, chock-full of magic, mystery, and even a bit of romance.
I loved the book! It is an interesting book with a clearly thought-out plot and a refreshingly original premise. The plot is complex and engaging, and the polished execution makes this an enjoyable read. The story unfolds beautifully, and the narrative pulled me in time and time again. Strong writing, unique characters, superior world-building, a well-crafted magic system, and a suspenseful plot made it an enjoyable and engaging read.
The world-building is wonderfully done and draws the reader into the story. I liked the way the author slowly revealed information regarding the magic system and the characters, not spoon-feeding the readers. I didn't find it confusing and hard to follow at all. The heroine's moral dilemmas, her nightmares, and her choices were dealt with superbly by the author. I did feel Adlai was a bit impulsive and didn't think enough before acting.
All in all, I loved the book. It is a surprisingly refreshing tale. The story is well-paced and kept my interest from start to finish. There were lots of little moments in the book that made the characters seem like real people, such as the disappointments Adlai had when she failed to harness her powerful shadow. I also loved the interactions between the characters and the built-up of the suspense.
The ending was mind-boggling, leaving me biting my nails and afraid for the fate of the heroine. The author tied most loose ends, leaving just one or two loose. Hopefully, another book is on the cards. Adlai, the main character, is just one of those characters that you don't want to leave behind when the book ends. If you’re looking for a fresh, original read, then H. J. Reynolds’ novel might just be the book for you! Full stars from me and highly recommended!
* Thank you Edelweiss and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review in my Blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2024...
April 2, 2024
Adventure, a legacy veiled within shadows, and a dash of romance—Without a Shadow by H.J. Reynolds promises its readers an exhilarating ride. The novel presents a fresh take on magic within the realm of Young Adult fantasy. Following Adlai’s transformation from an amateur thief to confronting a death god to rescue numerous souls from one of the most captivating villains we've encountered, you’re hooked from start to finish.
While this marks the inaugural installment of what we hope will become a series, we were swiftly drawn into Reynolds' fantasy world.
Diverting from the common path of magic and fantastical species, the concept of shadow powers was particularly interesting to explore. This was especially heightened by the portrayal of the main character, Adlai, as she grapples with the challenges of mastering her abilities. The audience is given insight into the tangible toll that wielding shadows exacts on its practitioners.
Without a Shadow presents us with a diverse cast, a rarity in many YA narratives, and refreshingly, they are not merely disposable characters who exist just to be killed off. Kanwar, despite his initial prickliness and antagonism, evokes excitement about the trajectory of his journey, prompting speculation about a potential enemies-to-lovers arc with Adlai. However, our favorite character was undoubtedly the villain, Dressla. It's her blend of beauty and brilliance that renders her a formidable presence within the story. Yet, it's chilling to witness her rationalization of experiments and the separation of shadows—resembling souls—in pursuit of her goals.
This book delivers an exhilarating adventure with a well-defined objective for Adlai Bringer. However, it's the unexpected twists and turns woven into the narrative that keep readers eagerly anticipating what comes next. Undoubtedly, this is a story that begs for sequels, as we're left yearning to explore the world further and uncover what else this author has in store.
This ARC was provided to RevolverReads for free in exchange for an honest review.
While this marks the inaugural installment of what we hope will become a series, we were swiftly drawn into Reynolds' fantasy world.
Diverting from the common path of magic and fantastical species, the concept of shadow powers was particularly interesting to explore. This was especially heightened by the portrayal of the main character, Adlai, as she grapples with the challenges of mastering her abilities. The audience is given insight into the tangible toll that wielding shadows exacts on its practitioners.
Without a Shadow presents us with a diverse cast, a rarity in many YA narratives, and refreshingly, they are not merely disposable characters who exist just to be killed off. Kanwar, despite his initial prickliness and antagonism, evokes excitement about the trajectory of his journey, prompting speculation about a potential enemies-to-lovers arc with Adlai. However, our favorite character was undoubtedly the villain, Dressla. It's her blend of beauty and brilliance that renders her a formidable presence within the story. Yet, it's chilling to witness her rationalization of experiments and the separation of shadows—resembling souls—in pursuit of her goals.
This book delivers an exhilarating adventure with a well-defined objective for Adlai Bringer. However, it's the unexpected twists and turns woven into the narrative that keep readers eagerly anticipating what comes next. Undoubtedly, this is a story that begs for sequels, as we're left yearning to explore the world further and uncover what else this author has in store.
This ARC was provided to RevolverReads for free in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2024
I really enjoyed the idea behind this book, and it was executed remarkably well especially with this being the author's debut novel. The characters were well-developed, the world was immersive, and the plot was fast-paced while not being too fast. This can be a difficult balance to strike, but Reynolds definitely hit the mark here. Sure, was some of the plot twists predictable if you were paying attention? Yes, but again, they were done well enough that I didn't necessarily care that I had guessed them.
Adlai's journey offers some interesting opportunities for development. First, having to hide her shadow from those around her even her closest friend as well as holding onto the hope that her father is still somehow alive. Second, finding out that there are lies that she has been told (to protect her) but still that was a blow as well. Third, determining that sometimes there isn't a clear good/bad side but rather there are people who are making choices based on what they believe are the best.
This book is not about romance (there is some but it definitely takes a backseat to everything). It is a book about self-discovery, about figuring out how to pick yourself back up when the world you thought you knew and understood shatters around you. Do be aware that this book ends on a cliffhanger that makes it clear that there are plans for a sequel in the future.
Adlai's journey offers some interesting opportunities for development. First, having to hide her shadow from those around her even her closest friend as well as holding onto the hope that her father is still somehow alive. Second, finding out that there are lies that she has been told (to protect her) but still that was a blow as well. Third, determining that sometimes there isn't a clear good/bad side but rather there are people who are making choices based on what they believe are the best.
This book is not about romance (there is some but it definitely takes a backseat to everything). It is a book about self-discovery, about figuring out how to pick yourself back up when the world you thought you knew and understood shatters around you. Do be aware that this book ends on a cliffhanger that makes it clear that there are plans for a sequel in the future.
April 11, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, H.J Reynolds and CamCat Publishing for providing me with a free copy of this book.
What a lovely story, the pacing was great, Adlai as a character was well realised and believable. The world building was alright but could have been stronger, some aspects were muddy but not in a deliberate way, if felt like the author was a bit lost - Is this a middle eastern type world and are we as the reader supposed to be picturing Aladdin? Is so, why is Adlai golden haired? Not that she cant be, but we need an explanation or it stands out as an error. Also - We have a ceiling fan? But torches? Is there electricity or is it magic? Or is there a water wheel outside turning the fan? Small aspects like this can really take a reader out of the story. It also felt like we raced to the ending at breakneck speed, but got a bit off track and the pace slowed down but the plot end felt rushed.
I would be happy to read more by this author
What a lovely story, the pacing was great, Adlai as a character was well realised and believable. The world building was alright but could have been stronger, some aspects were muddy but not in a deliberate way, if felt like the author was a bit lost - Is this a middle eastern type world and are we as the reader supposed to be picturing Aladdin? Is so, why is Adlai golden haired? Not that she cant be, but we need an explanation or it stands out as an error. Also - We have a ceiling fan? But torches? Is there electricity or is it magic? Or is there a water wheel outside turning the fan? Small aspects like this can really take a reader out of the story. It also felt like we raced to the ending at breakneck speed, but got a bit off track and the pace slowed down but the plot end felt rushed.
I would be happy to read more by this author
July 24, 2024
4.5 stars/5
I liked this book with its many plot twist, especially because the whole idea of the magic system is quite fresh.
The reading was quite immersive, with a well described world and easy to like characters. I really felt like I was following Adlai every step of the way, finding more and more about her family and about shadows.
At first I was confused with the other perspective, but I feel it was really helpful along the way and how I gasped when I finally understood what was going on.
I have to say that I liked most of this book, but especially the end, even if it was quite bittersweet, I think it was perfect and concluded the book beautifully.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-book copy in exchange for my honest opinion
I liked this book with its many plot twist, especially because the whole idea of the magic system is quite fresh.
The reading was quite immersive, with a well described world and easy to like characters. I really felt like I was following Adlai every step of the way, finding more and more about her family and about shadows.
At first I was confused with the other perspective, but I feel it was really helpful along the way and how I gasped when I finally understood what was going on.
I have to say that I liked most of this book, but especially the end, even if it was quite bittersweet, I think it was perfect and concluded the book beautifully.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-book copy in exchange for my honest opinion
April 11, 2024
This is a beautifully written, immersive YA desert fantasy, with such an original shadow-based magic system. The idea of a main character who is a thief who can steal with her shadow was a perfect hook to draw me in from the very beginning, and it only grows more interesting from there as we continue to learn more and more about what Adalai's shadow can do, just how powerful she truly is, and just how dangerous that makes her. The worldbuilding and mythology in this book was all so well-crafted, and the characters all spring from the page. It had everything I love about desert fantasy tales and then some.
April 24, 2024
I finished this book in two days. I listened to the audiobook and Abigail Reno did a great job with the narration. Once I started, I didn't want to stop. I love the shadow magical system, it was so new and different. I'm big on characters, if I don't like the characters, I won't stay with the book, and I loved Adlai, her sister relationship with Pen, and the other side characters she bumps into along the way. If you're a fantasy fan, you'll enjoy this one.
January 14, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and CamCat Publishing for this arc which will be released to the world on April 9,2024.
Ok I was confused by this book. I found it hard to follow along. I was not engaged by the plot nor really cared for the characters. I do think others will find this a good book but I just found it mediocre.
Ok I was confused by this book. I found it hard to follow along. I was not engaged by the plot nor really cared for the characters. I do think others will find this a good book but I just found it mediocre.
March 10, 2024
Unfortunately, this book did not live up to my expectations. I love the cover and the premise, but it just doesn't feel finished. The magic system is really cool, but I was confused about the setting. The cover and desert make it seem like it was maybe supposed to be middle eastern inspired, but the main character is described as having gold hair, which doesn't fit. So maybe it's not middle eastern inspired, which is fine. But I also was very unsure about what time period it's in. There is talk of lanterns and torches, but also a ceiling fan? Overall, it just feels like this book needs some heavy editing, not ready to publish in just a couple weeks.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC! All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC! All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews