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Eliza's Shadow
Eliza Gowan's past has come back to hunt her. Since her mother's mysterious disappearance, Eliza has enjoyed a quiet life under the care of her aunt in the sleepy town of Port Rune. But the moment magnetic Ren Alden appears in her high school classroom, Eliza is thrust into the exciting world of magic and the path of danger. Menaced by an otherworldly enemy, Eliza embarks on a quest to solve the mysteries of her past and end the hunt for good.
332 pages, Paperback
First published March 26, 2012
About the author
Catherine Scharf
1 book28 followersCatherine lives in the Southeast with her husband, two sons, one crazy dog and one adorable hamster.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 15, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was kind of the typical YA supernatural romance. Eliza is just enjoying another typical day at school when the new boy, Ren, at school affects her in a way that no boy has ever done before. See what I mean- very typical. Thank heavens this is where the typical YA theme ends!
Right after Ren appears Eliza starts to experience weird dreams and begins remembering things about her childhood that she never remembered before. In her dreams there is a very creepy woman that appears over and over and tells Eliza that they are waiting for her to join them. Then Eliza remembers that when she was little, on the night her mother disappeared, she had her first dream about this woman. She is so confused about the things she is remembering and luckily Ren is able to solve these riddles.
Ren tells Eliza she is a witch and Eliza is flabbergasted. Now she must learn to be a witch as well as solving the riddle of the strange nightmare woman and her mother’s disappearance. I can say that neither of these are easy tasks and Eliza must come to believe in herself and her powers in order to overcome all of the obstacles that she faces.
Eliza is such a great character. Whether on purpose or not the author describes her as a tiny girl, which seems to imply weakness, but she is a strong character and never gives up on herself. Even during her magic lessons, which in my opinion are a bit horrific, she is able to master her fear and see how to solve the problems presented and complete the lessons. School holds nothing on her magic lessons!
Ren is also a great character. He is so sweet to Eliza and puts up with all her meltdowns and self-doubts that she has as a new witch. He has been called as her mentor and traditionally relationships between mentors and mentees is forbidden. This allows for a lot of tension in the story because of course they are both extremely attracted to each other. I found myself continually wanting them to break the rules because they are meant to be together, especially by the end of the book and all they have gone through.
The book offers up an unexpected twist right at the end as Ren and Eliza are asked by the witch community to go on a secret mission. It is such a great ending and leaves you wanting to read book two. I know I am anxiously waiting to get me hands on it!
This book was kind of the typical YA supernatural romance. Eliza is just enjoying another typical day at school when the new boy, Ren, at school affects her in a way that no boy has ever done before. See what I mean- very typical. Thank heavens this is where the typical YA theme ends!
Right after Ren appears Eliza starts to experience weird dreams and begins remembering things about her childhood that she never remembered before. In her dreams there is a very creepy woman that appears over and over and tells Eliza that they are waiting for her to join them. Then Eliza remembers that when she was little, on the night her mother disappeared, she had her first dream about this woman. She is so confused about the things she is remembering and luckily Ren is able to solve these riddles.
Ren tells Eliza she is a witch and Eliza is flabbergasted. Now she must learn to be a witch as well as solving the riddle of the strange nightmare woman and her mother’s disappearance. I can say that neither of these are easy tasks and Eliza must come to believe in herself and her powers in order to overcome all of the obstacles that she faces.
Eliza is such a great character. Whether on purpose or not the author describes her as a tiny girl, which seems to imply weakness, but she is a strong character and never gives up on herself. Even during her magic lessons, which in my opinion are a bit horrific, she is able to master her fear and see how to solve the problems presented and complete the lessons. School holds nothing on her magic lessons!
Ren is also a great character. He is so sweet to Eliza and puts up with all her meltdowns and self-doubts that she has as a new witch. He has been called as her mentor and traditionally relationships between mentors and mentees is forbidden. This allows for a lot of tension in the story because of course they are both extremely attracted to each other. I found myself continually wanting them to break the rules because they are meant to be together, especially by the end of the book and all they have gone through.
The book offers up an unexpected twist right at the end as Ren and Eliza are asked by the witch community to go on a secret mission. It is such a great ending and leaves you wanting to read book two. I know I am anxiously waiting to get me hands on it!
August 11, 2016
I give this book a solid 4 stars. It had an engaging beginning with just enough information to capture my attention, but not too much that everything was immediately explained.
I really liked that the main two characters were not perfect as some teenage books tend to be (especially the guys). They each had their strengths and weaknesses.
The plot moved along at a nice pace. I don't remember it dragging at any points; neither did it rush through certain scenes.
And I really liked the ending. It was satisfactory without being a 'happily ever after' finish. And no cliffhangers. It did seem to me that there was an opening for a sequel. I would buy the sequel if the author wrote one.
I really liked that the main two characters were not perfect as some teenage books tend to be (especially the guys). They each had their strengths and weaknesses.
The plot moved along at a nice pace. I don't remember it dragging at any points; neither did it rush through certain scenes.
And I really liked the ending. It was satisfactory without being a 'happily ever after' finish. And no cliffhangers. It did seem to me that there was an opening for a sequel. I would buy the sequel if the author wrote one.
Want to read
August 8, 2012Can't wait to read it and I'm happy to say that I used to work with Catherine!
February 17, 2013
In an instant I was drawn into the story without knowing what to expect, and despite some pacing issues and character incongruities, this book did not disappoint. Eliza is a cleverly drawn, quiet, rather somber 16 year old girl, living with her aunt after her mother’s disappearance with no trace some six years earlier. Rather used to being on her own, or quietly passing time with her two friends, she is intelligent and rather sharp witted despite the great loss.
A new boy arrives in school, and instantly, dreams or nightmares long forgotten are suddenly creating chaos in her life, and this new arrival to town isn’t helping matters any. Inexplicably drawn to Ren, while simultaneously repulsed by the nightmares that appear with his proximity, the story then takes a huge leap into the paranormal ride that is part roller coaster, part hesitant flirtation and wholly entertaining.
Eliza is a witch of great potential, none of which she understood until Ren is able to explain some of the story to her. From that point forward, her abilities are slowly revealed in a series of high-tension events, where Eliza must rely on wits, intuition and some basic training to survive.
Where I found some difficulties with the story was in the pacing. With only one exception, there is not a single instance where Eliza is faced with her fears or needs to use her powers that could not be wholly catastrophic for herself, or those around her. This wasn’t an immersion into witchcraft by dipping your toes in, it was tossing a non-swimmer into the deep end and expecting their wits and instinct to carry them through. With the concerted emphasis from all the senior level witches in the story extolling the virtues of ‘practice’, there wasn’t a huge emphasis spent on it. Additionally, while one of Eliza’s specific talents is the ability to erase memories, her reaction of guilt, horror and even regret felt far more appropriate than Ren’s continued insistence that it was ‘intention’ that made the difference between right and wrong in adjusting memories. Yes, the ability to bend wills did provide Eliza with a specific upside in the climactic confrontation, but as it was one of only two skills she knew well, it rather left her without choice. This constant moments of breathe in between moments of heart-stopping action and danger were jarring, and made the slower moments even more so in contrast.
This is, after all, a story that combines the reality of a teen’s life, with one of those tentative romance against convention and rules, school friends who are unknowing, and some truly unique approaches to magic, it’s history, lore and infighting that I can see many readers finding it both interesting and entertaining. Add in the specific sense and feel of the outer banks and the Gullah people, and Eliza’s ties to both; the promise of a stronger romance and more challenges and learning to come leave me curious and excited about the next book.
I received an eBook copy for the author for purpose of honest review for Full Moon Bites tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
A new boy arrives in school, and instantly, dreams or nightmares long forgotten are suddenly creating chaos in her life, and this new arrival to town isn’t helping matters any. Inexplicably drawn to Ren, while simultaneously repulsed by the nightmares that appear with his proximity, the story then takes a huge leap into the paranormal ride that is part roller coaster, part hesitant flirtation and wholly entertaining.
Eliza is a witch of great potential, none of which she understood until Ren is able to explain some of the story to her. From that point forward, her abilities are slowly revealed in a series of high-tension events, where Eliza must rely on wits, intuition and some basic training to survive.
Where I found some difficulties with the story was in the pacing. With only one exception, there is not a single instance where Eliza is faced with her fears or needs to use her powers that could not be wholly catastrophic for herself, or those around her. This wasn’t an immersion into witchcraft by dipping your toes in, it was tossing a non-swimmer into the deep end and expecting their wits and instinct to carry them through. With the concerted emphasis from all the senior level witches in the story extolling the virtues of ‘practice’, there wasn’t a huge emphasis spent on it. Additionally, while one of Eliza’s specific talents is the ability to erase memories, her reaction of guilt, horror and even regret felt far more appropriate than Ren’s continued insistence that it was ‘intention’ that made the difference between right and wrong in adjusting memories. Yes, the ability to bend wills did provide Eliza with a specific upside in the climactic confrontation, but as it was one of only two skills she knew well, it rather left her without choice. This constant moments of breathe in between moments of heart-stopping action and danger were jarring, and made the slower moments even more so in contrast.
This is, after all, a story that combines the reality of a teen’s life, with one of those tentative romance against convention and rules, school friends who are unknowing, and some truly unique approaches to magic, it’s history, lore and infighting that I can see many readers finding it both interesting and entertaining. Add in the specific sense and feel of the outer banks and the Gullah people, and Eliza’s ties to both; the promise of a stronger romance and more challenges and learning to come leave me curious and excited about the next book.
I received an eBook copy for the author for purpose of honest review for Full Moon Bites tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
December 19, 2012
I'm am finding it very difficult to form an opinion on what I thought of this book. On one hand there were aspects I enjoyed but on the other hand there were things I didn't and for once I am confused as to what to think.
When reading the description I wasn't sure what to expect, it sounded like a book that would be full of twists, turns and action that involved some kind of paranormal things. In some cases this turned out to be true. The idea and plot that surrounded the story was intriguing and new to me so I enjoyed the story line. It was interesting and even though there weren't that many twists or surprises the book did keep me hooked and drew me into the world Wittmack created. I also really like the relationship between Jane and Eliza, it was believable and seemed natural. When Wittmack was describing scenes with just these two characters in the writing and speech seemed to flow effortlessly.
However there are a few things I didn't enjoy which leads me to the confusion over what I think of this book. The first is the relationship between Ren and Eliza. I liked the idea of building a romance between the two and it will be interesting to see how Wittmack develops it if she carries on the series however in Eliza's shadow it left a lot to be desired for. For me it seemed like an after thought rather than a planned part of the story with Wittmack just adding a bit of romance here and there for variety. I would have loved the romance to be developed more and kept hoping it would be but sadly, it never happened and it lead me to question whether or not the book really needed it as at some points it didn't seem to fit or seemed underdeveloped.
The other problem I had was for me the story moved at quite a slow pace and although the plot kept me hooked I found myself wishing for more action and less description or wondering how much longer the chapter would be. The language Wittmack uses to describe things in the novel is great and very visual but in my opinion there is sometimes too much "flowery" language which makes the book slightly disjointed as it does not move the book on at a fast enough pace.
Overall I enjoyed reading this book because of the interesting story line. For me this book is hard to some up because of my mixed feelings. It has its good points such as a few of the relationships, originality and the intriguing plot however it also has it's bad points like the slow pace, too much unnecessary description and Ren and Eliza's relationship. For me I would have loved for their relationship to be developed more and play a major role in the book rather than just an added detail that uses an excuse of their jobs as the reason why they can't be together. If you like paranormal/witch/magic as genres then you may want to take a chance on this book as it was an interesting read.
When reading the description I wasn't sure what to expect, it sounded like a book that would be full of twists, turns and action that involved some kind of paranormal things. In some cases this turned out to be true. The idea and plot that surrounded the story was intriguing and new to me so I enjoyed the story line. It was interesting and even though there weren't that many twists or surprises the book did keep me hooked and drew me into the world Wittmack created. I also really like the relationship between Jane and Eliza, it was believable and seemed natural. When Wittmack was describing scenes with just these two characters in the writing and speech seemed to flow effortlessly.
However there are a few things I didn't enjoy which leads me to the confusion over what I think of this book. The first is the relationship between Ren and Eliza. I liked the idea of building a romance between the two and it will be interesting to see how Wittmack develops it if she carries on the series however in Eliza's shadow it left a lot to be desired for. For me it seemed like an after thought rather than a planned part of the story with Wittmack just adding a bit of romance here and there for variety. I would have loved the romance to be developed more and kept hoping it would be but sadly, it never happened and it lead me to question whether or not the book really needed it as at some points it didn't seem to fit or seemed underdeveloped.
The other problem I had was for me the story moved at quite a slow pace and although the plot kept me hooked I found myself wishing for more action and less description or wondering how much longer the chapter would be. The language Wittmack uses to describe things in the novel is great and very visual but in my opinion there is sometimes too much "flowery" language which makes the book slightly disjointed as it does not move the book on at a fast enough pace.
Overall I enjoyed reading this book because of the interesting story line. For me this book is hard to some up because of my mixed feelings. It has its good points such as a few of the relationships, originality and the intriguing plot however it also has it's bad points like the slow pace, too much unnecessary description and Ren and Eliza's relationship. For me I would have loved for their relationship to be developed more and play a major role in the book rather than just an added detail that uses an excuse of their jobs as the reason why they can't be together. If you like paranormal/witch/magic as genres then you may want to take a chance on this book as it was an interesting read.
April 7, 2013
Eliza’s Shadow by Catherine Wittmack is an excellent book with paranormal events. As soon as I read the blurb, I knew right away that I am going to enjoy reading this book. It is a very interesting read from the beginning all the way to the end. This is a book that makes you want to keep reading to find out what happens next.
Eliza Gowan is a sixteen year old girl living in Port Rune, Massachusetts with her aunt Jane. When she was ten years old her mother mysteriously disappears one October evening with out a trace. At the time, she was a scared little girl who didn’t understand what happened to her mother. At first, it was very hard for Eliza to adjust living in a new place without her mother.
Eliza’s life unexpectedly changes one day when a young, handsome man, Ren Alden comes into her life. Out of the blue, she feels his presence before she even sees him. As he walks into her class room she experiences strange feelings about him she can’t explain. From that day on, she tries to avoid running into Ren but that doesn't last long. Eliza knows she can't avoid him and she will have to face him sooner or later. So many questions she wants answers to... Who is he? What is his story? Why is he here? Is she ready to find out?
One day, Ren tells Eliza everything. He tells her what she is, about the powers she has, what he is and the reason he is there. She is so confused. It is so much information for her to take in all at once, will she understand eventually? On top of everything she has just found out, Eliza’s past comes back to haunt her. Is her life in danger now? Will she be able to trust Ren and let go of the bad feelings she has towards him? Will he be able to help her?
This is the beginning of Eliza and Ren’s journey. Eliza is so determined to go back to Moco, GA to find out what happened to her mother. Is she prepared for what is to happen next?
As I was reading this book, I felt like I was also there with them on their journey. I can feel the emotions that Eliza was having about finding the answers to her mothers disappearance.
Catherine Wittmack has done an awesome job writing Eliza’s Shadow. It is well written and I am really looking forward to reading the sequel.
Eliza Gowan is a sixteen year old girl living in Port Rune, Massachusetts with her aunt Jane. When she was ten years old her mother mysteriously disappears one October evening with out a trace. At the time, she was a scared little girl who didn’t understand what happened to her mother. At first, it was very hard for Eliza to adjust living in a new place without her mother.
Eliza’s life unexpectedly changes one day when a young, handsome man, Ren Alden comes into her life. Out of the blue, she feels his presence before she even sees him. As he walks into her class room she experiences strange feelings about him she can’t explain. From that day on, she tries to avoid running into Ren but that doesn't last long. Eliza knows she can't avoid him and she will have to face him sooner or later. So many questions she wants answers to... Who is he? What is his story? Why is he here? Is she ready to find out?
One day, Ren tells Eliza everything. He tells her what she is, about the powers she has, what he is and the reason he is there. She is so confused. It is so much information for her to take in all at once, will she understand eventually? On top of everything she has just found out, Eliza’s past comes back to haunt her. Is her life in danger now? Will she be able to trust Ren and let go of the bad feelings she has towards him? Will he be able to help her?
This is the beginning of Eliza and Ren’s journey. Eliza is so determined to go back to Moco, GA to find out what happened to her mother. Is she prepared for what is to happen next?
As I was reading this book, I felt like I was also there with them on their journey. I can feel the emotions that Eliza was having about finding the answers to her mothers disappearance.
Catherine Wittmack has done an awesome job writing Eliza’s Shadow. It is well written and I am really looking forward to reading the sequel.
March 28, 2013
5 big honkin stars. That’s what I’ve got to give this book. 5 big stars. Bolded, underlined, italicized, 72pt font stars.
This is a mellow story. It is the captivating, well written storytelling that keeps you coming back, rather than action sequences stacked end on end. This story is very skillfully told with an amazing cast to round it out. It is an enchanting tale of self discovery and growing up with an enticing supernatural twist.
It is also extremely well written, flowing seamlessly from one section to the next. Wittmack builds a world that you can envision easily. Everything is clearly and logically laid out while keeping the reader captivated and satiated.
Wittmack uses a different, culturally based take on magic that doesn’t look towards the stereotypical pagan rites. It adds a uniqueness to this story that many authors don’t bother to look for. It is also an all encompassing view of magic. It’s not about wands, pointy hats, and capes. It takes the various different aspects of magic and combines them in a very down to earth, culturally based way to create a unified picture.
I really like how the author tells about the characters’ past in dreams and nightmares that also serve as a message for the main character. It helps keep the storyline flowing in a forward motion. She also incorporates theories and practices right into the storyline. By doing this, Whittmack has tactfully avoided long, drawn out narratives while still providing all necessary details.
I appreciate that Wittmack took the time to develop all aspects of her characters. All of the characters in this novel are real people. They are strong people, but also have self doubt. It makes them seem all the more realistic. They also have rich family histories that serve to enrich the storyline. I also appreciate the fact that these characters embrace their heritage, rather than trying to run from it. I was sad to see the characters go at the end, and am hoping that I get to encounter them again in the future.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a mellow story. It is the captivating, well written storytelling that keeps you coming back, rather than action sequences stacked end on end. This story is very skillfully told with an amazing cast to round it out. It is an enchanting tale of self discovery and growing up with an enticing supernatural twist.
It is also extremely well written, flowing seamlessly from one section to the next. Wittmack builds a world that you can envision easily. Everything is clearly and logically laid out while keeping the reader captivated and satiated.
Wittmack uses a different, culturally based take on magic that doesn’t look towards the stereotypical pagan rites. It adds a uniqueness to this story that many authors don’t bother to look for. It is also an all encompassing view of magic. It’s not about wands, pointy hats, and capes. It takes the various different aspects of magic and combines them in a very down to earth, culturally based way to create a unified picture.
I really like how the author tells about the characters’ past in dreams and nightmares that also serve as a message for the main character. It helps keep the storyline flowing in a forward motion. She also incorporates theories and practices right into the storyline. By doing this, Whittmack has tactfully avoided long, drawn out narratives while still providing all necessary details.
I appreciate that Wittmack took the time to develop all aspects of her characters. All of the characters in this novel are real people. They are strong people, but also have self doubt. It makes them seem all the more realistic. They also have rich family histories that serve to enrich the storyline. I also appreciate the fact that these characters embrace their heritage, rather than trying to run from it. I was sad to see the characters go at the end, and am hoping that I get to encounter them again in the future.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2013
I would rate this 3.5 if able. It is very well written, but similar to other readers, felt that at times it was slow or just a little boring. I tried to relate to Eliza and struggled a bit. For someone who is 16 and finds out she is a witch, you would have thought she would be more excited at what she could do. She was very cautious instead. Her childhood could explain that....losing her mom during a hurricane, moving in with an aunt she barely knew, no father, new town, school, life in general. However, what teenager would not be excited too? The book had a lot of moments where she could make decisions to embrace and try out her powers, but she always had to be talked into everything by Ren. Then be mad at him for not telling her everything...well first, he is supposed to be her "protector/teacher" and if she already baulked at everything, why would he tell her some things can be dangerous...she won't do it then and she needs to learn. Also interesting is she didn't want him to help her save her mom, yet she is a new witch, one who didn't go out of her way to learn to be one and yet she was going to take on powerful faeries to rescue her mom? Really? I wanted her to exceed, but she fell kind of short for me. Then there is Ren....at times I really liked him and at times he seemed kind of "old" for his age...could be that British upbringing. I think I understood where the author was going with him, but sometimes felt like she missed the mark in some cases.
I don't think Ren and Eliza clicked. You got the impression they should have with the humming and all, but that never really went anywhere...and I get rules, but still, it took towards the end of the book before they ventured even close to showing there was more...yes, Eliza would say she wants more, but then be mad at him or avoid him, etc. that showed the complete opposite.
Anyway, I rated this a 3.5 because I did like the storyline and found the book showed a lot of potential for this to be the start of a great series....
I don't think Ren and Eliza clicked. You got the impression they should have with the humming and all, but that never really went anywhere...and I get rules, but still, it took towards the end of the book before they ventured even close to showing there was more...yes, Eliza would say she wants more, but then be mad at him or avoid him, etc. that showed the complete opposite.
Anyway, I rated this a 3.5 because I did like the storyline and found the book showed a lot of potential for this to be the start of a great series....
September 26, 2012
Eliza's Shadow is a top-notch young-adult story by a talented new writer. The book drew me in immediately by its soulful, loving descriptions of life as experienced through the eyes of young Eliza. By the time the first chapter is finished the reader, along with Eliza, is swept away abruptly from her comfortable nursery-like worldview into a far different and (figuratively and literally) colder place. As the story skillfully weaves together the pieces, melancholy over Eliza's lost past gives way to mystery and then to menace.
In a young adult fiction world with massive supernatural hits like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson it would be easy and perhaps understandable to base this story's supernatural elements on something more familiar. Instead Eliza's Shadow opts for a more original path, allowing the reader to discover a mysterious and unknown world of magic along with Eliza herself. Instead of wands and potions, or gods and heroes, we get something at once enchanting, haunted, and challengingly sinister. This is not a "magic as a fun new toy" kind of world. In fact, on balance, Eliza's life would have been not only simpler, but seemingly far happier if magic never existed in her life at all. This is a surprisingly mature treatment of a plot element other writers often treat like a shiny new bauble to distract readers from weaknesses in the rest of their narrative. Not so in Eliza's Shadow, where the story and characters would be just as compelling, magic or no.
While I enjoyed the story myself, it is a work of young adult fiction and it very much succeeds on that level. I would have no compunction about handing this book to a tween or young teenaged reader. However some of the scarier scenes, combined with the author's talent for vivid imagery, are frightening enough that I might discourage young readers prone to nightmares.
In a young adult fiction world with massive supernatural hits like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson it would be easy and perhaps understandable to base this story's supernatural elements on something more familiar. Instead Eliza's Shadow opts for a more original path, allowing the reader to discover a mysterious and unknown world of magic along with Eliza herself. Instead of wands and potions, or gods and heroes, we get something at once enchanting, haunted, and challengingly sinister. This is not a "magic as a fun new toy" kind of world. In fact, on balance, Eliza's life would have been not only simpler, but seemingly far happier if magic never existed in her life at all. This is a surprisingly mature treatment of a plot element other writers often treat like a shiny new bauble to distract readers from weaknesses in the rest of their narrative. Not so in Eliza's Shadow, where the story and characters would be just as compelling, magic or no.
While I enjoyed the story myself, it is a work of young adult fiction and it very much succeeds on that level. I would have no compunction about handing this book to a tween or young teenaged reader. However some of the scarier scenes, combined with the author's talent for vivid imagery, are frightening enough that I might discourage young readers prone to nightmares.
December 15, 2012
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I received a copy of Eliza's Shadow from the author for review.
When Eliza was a girl her mother disappeared under suspicious circumstances. A "neighbor" is called in to take care of Eliza until her mother is found. Eliza always liked and loved the "neighbor" very much. But after Eliza starts having bad dreams the "neighbor" sends her to live with her Aunt. The "neighbor" believes that sending her away is the best thing for Eliza. She has to keep Eliza hidden to keep her safe. She is a very sweet little woman and Eliza is very sad to leave her to go stay with an Aunt that she has never met.
After Eliza moves to Port Rune and meets her Aunt she comes to care and love her a lot and would do anything for her. She also likes her new life and all the friends she has made while living in the town of Port Rune. Her life is going just great until a new guy Ren moves in town and starts going to her school. Ren introduces her to a whole new way of life. A life filled with magic and magic places. Ren is sent to help and guide Eliza in how to use her magic. A magic that she never new existed much less knew she had. Eliza is attracted to Ren as he is to her which is not a good thing. Ren is not suppose to get involved with the one he is sent to help and protect.
If you like witchy things and things that go bump in the night then you would really love Eliza's Shadow. It is filled with all of those things and more. Will Eliza find her mother? Does she find out where her mother disappeared to on that eventful night during the big storm? Why did her mother disappear? Who is Ren exactly and why was he the one sent to help her? What is Ren suppose to help her with? To find out you will need to get your hands on a copy of Eliza's Shadow to find out. It is a very great book.
When Eliza was a girl her mother disappeared under suspicious circumstances. A "neighbor" is called in to take care of Eliza until her mother is found. Eliza always liked and loved the "neighbor" very much. But after Eliza starts having bad dreams the "neighbor" sends her to live with her Aunt. The "neighbor" believes that sending her away is the best thing for Eliza. She has to keep Eliza hidden to keep her safe. She is a very sweet little woman and Eliza is very sad to leave her to go stay with an Aunt that she has never met.
After Eliza moves to Port Rune and meets her Aunt she comes to care and love her a lot and would do anything for her. She also likes her new life and all the friends she has made while living in the town of Port Rune. Her life is going just great until a new guy Ren moves in town and starts going to her school. Ren introduces her to a whole new way of life. A life filled with magic and magic places. Ren is sent to help and guide Eliza in how to use her magic. A magic that she never new existed much less knew she had. Eliza is attracted to Ren as he is to her which is not a good thing. Ren is not suppose to get involved with the one he is sent to help and protect.
If you like witchy things and things that go bump in the night then you would really love Eliza's Shadow. It is filled with all of those things and more. Will Eliza find her mother? Does she find out where her mother disappeared to on that eventful night during the big storm? Why did her mother disappear? Who is Ren exactly and why was he the one sent to help her? What is Ren suppose to help her with? To find out you will need to get your hands on a copy of Eliza's Shadow to find out. It is a very great book.
March 7, 2013
Eliza's Shadow is one of those books that takes you by storm. The cover is simple so it leaves it up to the imagination as to what the book is about. The blurb is simple so you think okay this is going to be a cute YA book but let me tell you what you get is so much more! I just could not put the book down because I wanted no I needed to know what was going to happen to the main character Eliza. Lord what happened totally took me by surprise. I mean I knew it was something but what it ended up being really shocked me in a good way.
Eliza is your average 16 year old girl enjoying her friends and school. She has had so much tragedy in her life that she is finally enjoying her life. See her mother disappeared when she was ten years old. She was sent to live with her aunt in this quiet town called Port rune. Living with her aunt is hard but she is making due and adjusting just fine. Then one day a new boy shows up at school and things start to get strange for. Eliza is not sure what the new boy has to do with her but she knows that she did not have nightmares until he showed up. Now she can't shake these nightmares that haunt her every night.
When Ren shows up at school he knows what Eliza is. He also realizes that she does not know who or what she is so he has to let her know. But how do you tell someone they have been living in the dark? Ren decides he will tell Eliza and when he does Eliza decides she needs to find out who she is and what really happened to her mother. She sets out on a mission to get the truth no matter what happens.
This is a must read with romance and action and finding the truth amoungst lies!
Eliza is your average 16 year old girl enjoying her friends and school. She has had so much tragedy in her life that she is finally enjoying her life. See her mother disappeared when she was ten years old. She was sent to live with her aunt in this quiet town called Port rune. Living with her aunt is hard but she is making due and adjusting just fine. Then one day a new boy shows up at school and things start to get strange for. Eliza is not sure what the new boy has to do with her but she knows that she did not have nightmares until he showed up. Now she can't shake these nightmares that haunt her every night.
When Ren shows up at school he knows what Eliza is. He also realizes that she does not know who or what she is so he has to let her know. But how do you tell someone they have been living in the dark? Ren decides he will tell Eliza and when he does Eliza decides she needs to find out who she is and what really happened to her mother. She sets out on a mission to get the truth no matter what happens.
This is a must read with romance and action and finding the truth amoungst lies!
January 16, 2013
When I first saw this book, I fell in love with the front cover. Even the title drew me in. I rad the synopsis and really did fall in love. I started reading and thought "Okay, kinda slow but, I gotta give it time!". When I got to the middle of the book, I only thought of one word that fit it. Pointless. I could not see the point in this story, AT ALL. I would always have to stop reading it to read another one because it just bored the crap out of me. When the cool fighting part came, it only lasted a few pages, which completely disappointed me. The characters barely developed and when I read it, it felt as if I had to eat medicine. Not the good tasting kind either. If I hadn't stopped to read other books, I would have already died from reading this. I felt like it wasted my time because the story line was flat the whole way through. This book did not give me any jolts of "energy", which is what I usually look for in the books. So, you are probably wondering "Well, Lemons, was there at least one good thing about it?". There was one. I think. If I can even remember it. It was something about Ren. Maybe that could be left for later. After all, horribly-terrified-of this-book is what I probably feel right now. (I'm sorry I sound so mean, I don't mean to but honestly, I really couldn't see anything to it that made me jump out of my bed and wake everyone in my house up) .
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Read more here: http://etherealbookreviews.blogspot.c...
May 4, 2013
What a fun little twist to the witching hour get it?! LOL anyways, this story is a fun read and fast paced, which of course makes me love it! There’s plenty to go around in the genre department. It’s a YA so anyone can grab it, it’s got suspense, it’s got romance, though it’s more like “I want but can’t break the rules” lol, it’s of course got some paranormal, and to top it off, it’s just good!
I love that Eliza is determined and even when she has melt downs and struggles, she keeps on going! She’s a very likable character. She’s easy to picture as real, even if she’s having some crazy flash backs and slight premonitions of crazy ladies I feel bad for her for having all these nightmares- like she didn’t have enough of a tragic beginning- and we’ll just have to blame it on Ren showing up
Ren’s pretty darn cool! I love his patients and kindness. I am maybe not so patient so maybe I need a Ren to balance me out! He’s got his own secrets and rules. I am still hoping things turn out like I want them to in the future, but what would romance be if it were easy? There’s always a reason not to be with “the one” we’ll just have to see…
The writing made it so easy to just keep reading. It’s well done, it’s got a very easy flow, and the author did a great job of keeping me in suspense to know what was going to happen. The characters have a journey now, and the future holds even more adventure! I definitely look forward to more and will be getting book two! 4 MAGICALLY NIGHTMARISH PAWS!!
I love that Eliza is determined and even when she has melt downs and struggles, she keeps on going! She’s a very likable character. She’s easy to picture as real, even if she’s having some crazy flash backs and slight premonitions of crazy ladies I feel bad for her for having all these nightmares- like she didn’t have enough of a tragic beginning- and we’ll just have to blame it on Ren showing up
Ren’s pretty darn cool! I love his patients and kindness. I am maybe not so patient so maybe I need a Ren to balance me out! He’s got his own secrets and rules. I am still hoping things turn out like I want them to in the future, but what would romance be if it were easy? There’s always a reason not to be with “the one” we’ll just have to see…
The writing made it so easy to just keep reading. It’s well done, it’s got a very easy flow, and the author did a great job of keeping me in suspense to know what was going to happen. The characters have a journey now, and the future holds even more adventure! I definitely look forward to more and will be getting book two! 4 MAGICALLY NIGHTMARISH PAWS!!
January 19, 2013
3.5 Stars
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
If you have read any of my other reviews, you will know that I love when the cover art ties in nicely with the book like this cover did. I liked the subtle way that it was done. I enjoyed the story- line, I found it to have that hint of mystery all the way up until the end when you find out what has been going on. I found that the middle of the book slowed down, but the ending picked right back up. I liked the paranormal elements and I enjoyed that it included more then one type of paranormal. I haven't encountered many books about nereids, so that was a nice change.
The characters were well thought out. Eliza went from being this little lost orphan to a kick- butt witch on her way to greatness. Out of all the characters, Eliza definitely grew the most. I loved Ren! He was such a down to earth guy and was genuinely nice. He also was a great protector and would have done anything for Eliza. I really hope that in future books we learn more about Cora and Nia, maybe even a prequel( hint, hint Catherine lol).
This was a great read for a debut novel and I can't wait to read more in the series and more from Catherine Wittmack. I would recommend this book to paranormal lovers, and anyone who wants to give a shot to a story featuring a different paranormal creature. I can't wait for the future books because I want to see if Ren and Eliza ever hook up!!! Thanks for the great read Catherine.
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
If you have read any of my other reviews, you will know that I love when the cover art ties in nicely with the book like this cover did. I liked the subtle way that it was done. I enjoyed the story- line, I found it to have that hint of mystery all the way up until the end when you find out what has been going on. I found that the middle of the book slowed down, but the ending picked right back up. I liked the paranormal elements and I enjoyed that it included more then one type of paranormal. I haven't encountered many books about nereids, so that was a nice change.
The characters were well thought out. Eliza went from being this little lost orphan to a kick- butt witch on her way to greatness. Out of all the characters, Eliza definitely grew the most. I loved Ren! He was such a down to earth guy and was genuinely nice. He also was a great protector and would have done anything for Eliza. I really hope that in future books we learn more about Cora and Nia, maybe even a prequel( hint, hint Catherine lol).
This was a great read for a debut novel and I can't wait to read more in the series and more from Catherine Wittmack. I would recommend this book to paranormal lovers, and anyone who wants to give a shot to a story featuring a different paranormal creature. I can't wait for the future books because I want to see if Ren and Eliza ever hook up!!! Thanks for the great read Catherine.
January 9, 2013
So I won the ebook version of this book at a giveaway and I'm really happy i did.
But first let's start with things I didn't like:
- insta love: that just never feels real to me ...
- main protagonist sometimes reacted a tiny bit unlogical
- time line was at some points unclear to me, meaning that I grasped the "months later" or "years later" jump very late
That being said:
I loved this book. I loved the story. I loved that book Eliza is meant to learn from. I loved the set-up. I even liked the love story part a bit, though I just don't get why they would assign a young and inexperienced boy to be pharos for a young and inexperienced girl lol.
This was definately an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to sequels.
But first let's start with things I didn't like:
- insta love: that just never feels real to me ...
- main protagonist sometimes reacted a tiny bit unlogical
- time line was at some points unclear to me, meaning that I grasped the "months later" or "years later" jump very late
That being said:
I loved this book. I loved the story. I loved that book Eliza is meant to learn from. I loved the set-up. I even liked the love story part a bit, though I just don't get why they would assign a young and inexperienced boy to be pharos for a young and inexperienced girl lol.
This was definately an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to sequels.
March 8, 2013
This book is about a girl named Eliza who discovers she is a witch when a new boy, Ren, comes to her school. You follow her on her journey of learning her powers and dealing with normal life.
I enjoyed this book. The beginning was very good and really drew me in. I like Eliza's character a lot, and she has decent development throughout the story. Her romance with Ren is cute, if a bit confusing at times.
The plot was okay. It seemed a little jumbled in parts with transitions, and the pacing wasn't consistent. I liked the overall idea of it though.
Overall, I would give it a 3.5 for a strong effort and good leading character. If you like witches and modern spins with them, I would recommend this to you.
I enjoyed this book. The beginning was very good and really drew me in. I like Eliza's character a lot, and she has decent development throughout the story. Her romance with Ren is cute, if a bit confusing at times.
The plot was okay. It seemed a little jumbled in parts with transitions, and the pacing wasn't consistent. I liked the overall idea of it though.
Overall, I would give it a 3.5 for a strong effort and good leading character. If you like witches and modern spins with them, I would recommend this to you.
March 6, 2013
After her mother's unexplained disappearance, Eliza Gowan went to live with her aunt Jane in Port Rune. Eliza has tried to put the past behind her, but when she meets Ren Alden the nightmares and questions come flooding back. Ren will help her unlock mysteries from the past, and the magic abilities she didn't know she possessed. A dangerous journey awaits them but are they up for the task.
The author did a great job capturing my attention through her vivid details and characters. I enjoyed watching the story unfold with its many twists and turns. There was a brief lull in the action but it quickly picked right back up. I will be looking forward to see what new adventure awaits Eliza and Ren.
The author did a great job capturing my attention through her vivid details and characters. I enjoyed watching the story unfold with its many twists and turns. There was a brief lull in the action but it quickly picked right back up. I will be looking forward to see what new adventure awaits Eliza and Ren.
April 13, 2015
Wow! Eliza's Shadow by Catherine Wittmack is a really great read. Yes, there were slow spots, as mentioned in some of the earlier reviews, but I found them to be full of details, and I do love the details. I cannot imagine that it would be easy to discover that you are a witch as a teenager when all other witches have been aware since birth. I loved that aspect, and the necessary training that went along with this scenario. I also loved how the characters had to work together to achieve a positive outcome. I certainly hope there is more like this to come.
March 11, 2013
Catherine pens "Eliza's Shadow" with well written, strong, intriguing story line filled with magickal adventures and strong characters. A nice easy read that you will find hard to put down. Highly recommended for all YA and not so YA readers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
August 26, 2012
I absolutely loved this book! It reminded me of the first time I read Harry Potter. I just walked around the house reading it, not able to put it down. Perfectly descriptive! Awesome magical characters! Really hope there's another one coming. Best book I've read this summer for sure!
June 8, 2013
For the genre, it was just okay. The beginning was extremely disjointed - so much so, I felt as though my electronic version was missing some files. It picked up over a few pages, but didn't create a "need to read" desire in me.
November 25, 2012
An interesting story, likeable characters, original and engaging. I read all of this book in one sitting and thoroughly enjoyed it.
It could have used more depth and detail, and a few times the story was a bit disjointed but still a nice read.
It could have used more depth and detail, and a few times the story was a bit disjointed but still a nice read.
August 23, 2012
This is a promising first novel by author (and dear friend) Catherine Wittmack. I look forward to more!
June 20, 2012
This is such a fun read and beautifully written. I am very hopefully there will be more to come from Catherine Wittmack!!
June 20, 2012
I put down Fifty Shades of Grey for this one...which happens to be a much better written book with a more gripping plot! Love it!
August 16, 2012
Loved this book! Such a fun young adult novel, I can't wait to read more about Eliza and Ren.
November 24, 2012
3.5 stars - review to come
Shelved as 'dnf'
September 2, 2014Decided to DNF at 8%.
Maybe I'm just not in the mood for paranormal, I don't know. I just couldn't get in to this one.
Maybe I'm just not in the mood for paranormal, I don't know. I just couldn't get in to this one.
February 11, 2013
I liked the book a lot, it just wasn't a favorite. Liked all the characters and the storyline, but it was kind of dragged out and boring.
January 15, 2014
Well-written.. I couldn't stop reading.
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