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A Shadow's Vow
“I’ll dream of you there, until time is but a shadow.”
Nicodemus Nightshade has long been accustomed to living in exile, but he never imagined he would draw Viola Windbright, once a valiant knight of the realm, into his solitary world.
Now stripped of her title and betrayed by the Crown she once idolised, Viola is driven by a new to liberate the oppressed and reveal the dark truths hidden by those in power. Yet, another harrowing secret threatens to unravel her fragile resolve.
As Viola and Nicodemus fight for their revenge, they risk losing the only thing they have each other. In the crucible of their struggle, love becomes their greatest strength—and their greatest vulnerability.
Nicodemus Nightshade has long been accustomed to living in exile, but he never imagined he would draw Viola Windbright, once a valiant knight of the realm, into his solitary world.
Now stripped of her title and betrayed by the Crown she once idolised, Viola is driven by a new to liberate the oppressed and reveal the dark truths hidden by those in power. Yet, another harrowing secret threatens to unravel her fragile resolve.
As Viola and Nicodemus fight for their revenge, they risk losing the only thing they have each other. In the crucible of their struggle, love becomes their greatest strength—and their greatest vulnerability.
- GenresFantasy
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2024
7 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Macdonald
37 books467 followersKatherine "Kate" Macdonald writes the books she wishes she could have read more of as a teen—stories of fierce girls and gentle boys, of romance and adventure, and where the "three Cs" (chemistry, communication and consent) reign supreme. There may still be a little bit of miscommunication along the way as the characters grow as people, but she tries not to rely on that trope too much!
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 14, 2024
This Duology makes me incredibly happy - the banter between Nico and Viola is incredibly sweet, and though they face difficult choices (the consequences of action vs inaction are featured heavily in this duology), and an uncertain legal status (will Nico and Lela's brand of magic ever be legal?), they face every moment without hesitation. I enjoyed in particular the exploration of Nico's backstory in the first half of this book, it added to his character, and I believe that if I did a reread of book 1 I would definitely be seeing his actions through a new lens.
Well worth the 5 stars!
Well worth the 5 stars!
December 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, but I think my mistake was trying to read it during the holiday season-only the most stressful time of year right? And can I tell you this book stressed me out! Every time our main characters left their little fortress I was so stressed one of them wouldn’t make it home. I paused reading for like 3 weeks because if I don’t read about the characters on dangerous situations, they can’t get hurt, right? Anyways, 4/5 stars for me, I felt like it just didn’t quite flow as well as the first one and it kinda had laggy areas of their downtime and then rush through all the tense parts and then they’re safe again for now and it lulls again so I got a tiny bit of emotional whiplash and hey, maybe that’s perfect for others but it kinda pulled me out of it. But I’m a super mood reader, so maybe it would have been 5 stars if I hadn’t read it in November/december.
Thanks to booksprout for the ARC.
Thanks to booksprout for the ARC.
November 30, 2024
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Katherine MacDonald delivers a stunning conclusion to her duology with A Shadow’s Vow, a tale of revenge, love, and redemption that pulls readers deeper into her enchanting and morally complex world.
The story centers on Nicodemus Nightshade and Viola Windbright, two deeply wounded characters navigating betrayal, isolation, and the fraught paths of justice. Nicodemus, long exiled and burdened by secrets, has found an unexpected ally in Viola, a once-honored knight whose disillusionment with the Crown fuels her mission to liberate the oppressed. Their bond evolves amidst these struggles, creating a love that is both a source of strength and vulnerability.
MacDonald expertly intertwines the protagonists’ personal journeys with broader themes of power and morality. The worldbuilding is lush and immersive, showcasing both the magic and the corruption that define their realm. As the stakes rise, the narrative weaves an intricate balance of plot and character development. Viola and Nicodemus are not just reacting to events but questioning their own beliefs and grappling with the consequences of their choices.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its exploration of good and evil in nuanced shades of gray. Villains are given depth, and even secondary characters reflect on the weight of their decisions. This realism makes the story more grounded, even as it unfolds in a fantastical setting.
The pacing, while deliberate, allows for meaningful character growth. Viola and Nicodemus are given the time to strategize, reflect, and mend, which creates a thoughtful and organic progression to their arcs. While this slower pace may momentarily reduce tension, it enhances the emotional payoff and gives the plot a refreshing sense of intentionality.
Readers seeking a blend of fairytale romance and philosophical depth will find much to love here. Nicodemus and Viola are a standout couple, their dynamic rooted in shared pain and mutual acceptance. Their relationship is beautifully developed, offering moments of tenderness that feel earned amidst the tension.
As the final book in the series, A Shadow’s Vow provides a deeply satisfying conclusion, balancing its romantic heart with a rich, morally complex narrative. For fans of epic fantasy with a personal touch, this duology ends on a note that is both self-indulgent in all the best ways and profoundly resonant.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Katherine MacDonald delivers a stunning conclusion to her duology with A Shadow’s Vow, a tale of revenge, love, and redemption that pulls readers deeper into her enchanting and morally complex world.
The story centers on Nicodemus Nightshade and Viola Windbright, two deeply wounded characters navigating betrayal, isolation, and the fraught paths of justice. Nicodemus, long exiled and burdened by secrets, has found an unexpected ally in Viola, a once-honored knight whose disillusionment with the Crown fuels her mission to liberate the oppressed. Their bond evolves amidst these struggles, creating a love that is both a source of strength and vulnerability.
MacDonald expertly intertwines the protagonists’ personal journeys with broader themes of power and morality. The worldbuilding is lush and immersive, showcasing both the magic and the corruption that define their realm. As the stakes rise, the narrative weaves an intricate balance of plot and character development. Viola and Nicodemus are not just reacting to events but questioning their own beliefs and grappling with the consequences of their choices.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its exploration of good and evil in nuanced shades of gray. Villains are given depth, and even secondary characters reflect on the weight of their decisions. This realism makes the story more grounded, even as it unfolds in a fantastical setting.
The pacing, while deliberate, allows for meaningful character growth. Viola and Nicodemus are given the time to strategize, reflect, and mend, which creates a thoughtful and organic progression to their arcs. While this slower pace may momentarily reduce tension, it enhances the emotional payoff and gives the plot a refreshing sense of intentionality.
Readers seeking a blend of fairytale romance and philosophical depth will find much to love here. Nicodemus and Viola are a standout couple, their dynamic rooted in shared pain and mutual acceptance. Their relationship is beautifully developed, offering moments of tenderness that feel earned amidst the tension.
As the final book in the series, A Shadow’s Vow provides a deeply satisfying conclusion, balancing its romantic heart with a rich, morally complex narrative. For fans of epic fantasy with a personal touch, this duology ends on a note that is both self-indulgent in all the best ways and profoundly resonant.
December 2, 2024
Oh this was everything I wanted and more.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Loved this book! This was a wonderful spin on the tale Jack and the Beanstock. There were moments in the first book that of course hinted to this story being like that original tale but this one brought it home. I loved getting the back story on Jack and Nicodemus. The back and forth from the past story and the present is something I love when it's done right and this one was perfect. When I can't decide what part of the story I want more you know it's good. I want it all, at the same time and more, more, more!
Hearing about what happened with Nico when we was young was heartbreaking. There was so much that should have been done differently and some things that were just right. He didn't talk but was studious and helpful growing up with Jack and Merissa. Hearing about their lives, the good moments the struggles. Then what led to Nico being alone and Jack becoming Jax, the King. I needed that story and loved it. It really made the moments that happened later that must more impactful to see the whole story.
I loved the brothers tale, I love Cordelia, and Heindrich. These side characters were vital and yes Freya made an appearance not that I cared but it's all fine. Cordelia is going to be a force, her power is quite impressive. While all these characters helped make the story great Nico and Viola's love story stole the show.
I could not get enough of them. Nico's letters, his words, even Viola's struggle with how she felt. I loved it all. Their time in Shadowfell together wasn't enough for me. I could have read their happiness for many more pages. However, the adventure could not be left unfinished. Neither one of them could have hid from the world and the truth for long. The fight to end was well worth it.
I don't want to give spoilers but oh there is a moment in the ending that I jut love love love. I'll hide this part
A wonderful adventure, filled with power, struggle of rights and wrongs, the family we are born with and the one we choose along the way.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Loved this book! This was a wonderful spin on the tale Jack and the Beanstock. There were moments in the first book that of course hinted to this story being like that original tale but this one brought it home. I loved getting the back story on Jack and Nicodemus. The back and forth from the past story and the present is something I love when it's done right and this one was perfect. When I can't decide what part of the story I want more you know it's good. I want it all, at the same time and more, more, more!
Hearing about what happened with Nico when we was young was heartbreaking. There was so much that should have been done differently and some things that were just right. He didn't talk but was studious and helpful growing up with Jack and Merissa. Hearing about their lives, the good moments the struggles. Then what led to Nico being alone and Jack becoming Jax, the King. I needed that story and loved it. It really made the moments that happened later that must more impactful to see the whole story.
I loved the brothers tale, I love Cordelia, and Heindrich. These side characters were vital and yes Freya made an appearance not that I cared but it's all fine. Cordelia is going to be a force, her power is quite impressive. While all these characters helped make the story great Nico and Viola's love story stole the show.
I could not get enough of them. Nico's letters, his words, even Viola's struggle with how she felt. I loved it all. Their time in Shadowfell together wasn't enough for me. I could have read their happiness for many more pages. However, the adventure could not be left unfinished. Neither one of them could have hid from the world and the truth for long. The fight to end was well worth it.
I don't want to give spoilers but oh there is a moment in the ending that I jut love love love. I'll hide this part
A wonderful adventure, filled with power, struggle of rights and wrongs, the family we are born with and the one we choose along the way.
November 18, 2024
“It was hard to love someone who had hurt you. It was easier to hate them. Hating them was a bandage to the wound, a way to plug the hole.”
“A Shadow’s Vow,” by Katherine MacDonald
I was so freaking excited to read book two!!! The first one blew me away at the end and I finally get some closure and answers to what will happen next. I loved EVERY SINGLE THING about this book. The characters were the absolutely best, I adore Nico so much. He is so sweet and so naughty at the same time, and I loved the shadow play scenes that they did in the bedroom, hilarious. I loved his character so much and how he was physical disabilities and tons of trauma. The FMC was solid, and she just wanted the best for everyone but became more realistic by the end. The story plot was so good and had enough action with enough romance with enough character development. Seriously so good, 5 out of 5 stars.
-Enemies To Lovers
-Diversity, Queer Rep
-Shadow Magic/ Shadow Daddy
-Necromancy
-Villain gets the girl
-Retell
-Magic
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
“Somewhere, deep inside of him, was the feeling that no one should have to plead with someone to be wanted. Even if he felt like he deserved to be left behind.”
“The silence between them wasn’t without its edges...”
“But he’d never planned on having anything but himself to lose.”
“He wanted to tire of her, to lover her less, if it meant he got to love her longer.”
“You can’t give someone something that they should’ve always had.”
“…it didn’t matter what the dead wanted when you were the one left alive.”
“A Shadow’s Vow,” by Katherine MacDonald
I was so freaking excited to read book two!!! The first one blew me away at the end and I finally get some closure and answers to what will happen next. I loved EVERY SINGLE THING about this book. The characters were the absolutely best, I adore Nico so much. He is so sweet and so naughty at the same time, and I loved the shadow play scenes that they did in the bedroom, hilarious. I loved his character so much and how he was physical disabilities and tons of trauma. The FMC was solid, and she just wanted the best for everyone but became more realistic by the end. The story plot was so good and had enough action with enough romance with enough character development. Seriously so good, 5 out of 5 stars.
-Enemies To Lovers
-Diversity, Queer Rep
-Shadow Magic/ Shadow Daddy
-Necromancy
-Villain gets the girl
-Retell
-Magic
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
“Somewhere, deep inside of him, was the feeling that no one should have to plead with someone to be wanted. Even if he felt like he deserved to be left behind.”
“The silence between them wasn’t without its edges...”
“But he’d never planned on having anything but himself to lose.”
“He wanted to tire of her, to lover her less, if it meant he got to love her longer.”
“You can’t give someone something that they should’ve always had.”
“…it didn’t matter what the dead wanted when you were the one left alive.”
November 30, 2024
There is something about Katherine’s writing style that I cannot get enough of. Her world building is incredible, her characters are all so raw and real and even though I wouldn’t describe this as cozy fantasy necessarily, the storytelling is just so comforting to me.
The banter and angst in this book is just as good as the first one, and I am in love with everything that Nico says or thinks about Viola. His quotes are some of my favorites in this book and the progression of their relationship is just incredibly sweet and such a slow burn. I loved every minute of it.
The backstory we get in this book broke my heart all over again, but it was so satisfying to finally see all the pieces of the past click into place.
Of course there were still so many twists and turns—even after the huge plot reveal in the first book—but that ending was everything I could have wanted! I especially loved the epilogue and all the little moments that were so perfectly resolved. I’m just sad to say goodbye.
Thank you Katherine for again letting me read this book ahead of its release date!
The banter and angst in this book is just as good as the first one, and I am in love with everything that Nico says or thinks about Viola. His quotes are some of my favorites in this book and the progression of their relationship is just incredibly sweet and such a slow burn. I loved every minute of it.
The backstory we get in this book broke my heart all over again, but it was so satisfying to finally see all the pieces of the past click into place.
Of course there were still so many twists and turns—even after the huge plot reveal in the first book—but that ending was everything I could have wanted! I especially loved the epilogue and all the little moments that were so perfectly resolved. I’m just sad to say goodbye.
Thank you Katherine for again letting me read this book ahead of its release date!
November 12, 2024
I loved this book. Do not read before reading A sword’s promise as this is the sequel. After reading A sword’s promise you will probably be desperate to read the sequel so my review is superfluous but here are a few thoughts. The start alternates between the present and Nico’s childhood . I found the past hard to read in the same way I struggle to watch Casualty, good stuff that you know is going to turn bad is sad, then the book challenges everything I thought I knew in the best way. There is less fun and banter than in the first book because bad stuff has happened and needs sorting. It could be argued that things are made too easy for Nico and Viola but I found the ending satisfying. The world has enough tragedy and sorrow so I was pleased to have a happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout, I couldn’t possibly wait till this book was published. I am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout, I couldn’t possibly wait till this book was published. I am voluntarily leaving a review
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May 5, 2025This review was a long time coming because I was kind of sad to write it, and I'm afraid it will be a bit unfair to the book.
I was excited for this book after finishing the last one on a high note. And it delivered what it promised, a nice love story, a very interesting plot, great characters, and much more. It was a Katherine Macdonald's book, with all that entails.
It had all the elements I enjoy so much. But this time, it kind of fell flat for me. I'm pretty sure it was my problem, November was kind of a dark moment for me. And it impacted how the story touched me.
I must give this book another go, as I'm sure it will not disappoint next time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was excited for this book after finishing the last one on a high note. And it delivered what it promised, a nice love story, a very interesting plot, great characters, and much more. It was a Katherine Macdonald's book, with all that entails.
It had all the elements I enjoy so much. But this time, it kind of fell flat for me. I'm pretty sure it was my problem, November was kind of a dark moment for me. And it impacted how the story touched me.
I must give this book another go, as I'm sure it will not disappoint next time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2024
The first book stuck with me, so I was happy to get to read the ending to this wonderful duology! The author’s expertise in banter is—as always—perfection, and I love how truly morally grey Viola, Nico, and Cordelia are. As for the plot, this is a revenge story that felt different, and the complexities of emotions and repercussions were handled very well. While it ended exactly as it needed to, I would absolutely love to see more stories set in this world (with maybe some familiar character cameos).
Contains:
-Violence and Brutality
-Grief
-Language
-Sexual Content
Contains:
-Violence and Brutality
-Grief
-Language
-Sexual Content
November 18, 2024
I definitely enjoyed the second book in this duology more than the first, in part due to the in-depth backstory we get on Nico. It’s difficult to read at times having the knowledge of what happened to him, but if there’s one thing Katherine Macdonald will do it’s mess with your heartstrings!!
It did wrap up a tad easy, but it was still very satisfying for a duology. And there’s a HEA for readers who like that type of ending.
4 stars
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout, however my review is completely my own unbiased personal opinion, left of my own volition.
It did wrap up a tad easy, but it was still very satisfying for a duology. And there’s a HEA for readers who like that type of ending.
4 stars
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout, however my review is completely my own unbiased personal opinion, left of my own volition.
November 27, 2024
Lovely continuation of Nico and Viola's story from book 1!
Macdonald surprised me in the last book and tricked me into reading a retelling of a fairy tale I usually avoid, but I really enjoyed her take on it and how everything came together.
This flowed just seamlessly from part 1, so I wish I'd read the books closer together! Looking forward to re-reading the duology at another point!
Macdonald's writing really shines in her characters and their banter. The found family in this one was particularly lovely ❤️
Thanks to the author for a review copy! Opinions are my own.
Macdonald surprised me in the last book and tricked me into reading a retelling of a fairy tale I usually avoid, but I really enjoyed her take on it and how everything came together.
This flowed just seamlessly from part 1, so I wish I'd read the books closer together! Looking forward to re-reading the duology at another point!
Macdonald's writing really shines in her characters and their banter. The found family in this one was particularly lovely ❤️
Thanks to the author for a review copy! Opinions are my own.
November 29, 2024
I absolutely loved this sequel of The Shadow and the Sword duology and devoured it in no time. I really loved Nico's backstory, which made his actions from the first part much easier to understand in retrospect and it contributed a lot to his character. The book captivated me from start to finish, the story itself but also the romance story between Viola and Nico. I loved all the characters and their character development in this duology.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2024
This series had me in a bit of a thrall.
Highly reccomend. It’s incredibly well written, the dialogue is just to die for, this author writes amazing dialogue- and the twists and turns you may never see coming.
The characters are loveable. The reading is super easy to fly through. The ending is perfect for the book, does not leave you hanging, but also lets you dream about future adventures.
Nicodemus Nightshade will live in my dreams for a little while. Viola and he make quite the pair - not to forget about Cordelia who completes their trio of found family.
Highly reccomend. It’s incredibly well written, the dialogue is just to die for, this author writes amazing dialogue- and the twists and turns you may never see coming.
The characters are loveable. The reading is super easy to fly through. The ending is perfect for the book, does not leave you hanging, but also lets you dream about future adventures.
Nicodemus Nightshade will live in my dreams for a little while. Viola and he make quite the pair - not to forget about Cordelia who completes their trio of found family.
October 15, 2025
(4,5)
My main issue was that part of the book was just... something that had already been explained in detail in the previous one, but this time we got a full on flashback from Nico's POV... not sure I really needed that. Yes, it helped a *little bit* in better understanding later plot twists, but... not enough to make it worth it, imho.
Also the ending was a little bit too deus-ex-machina for me... It was good, but... that part was a bit frustrating.
Otherwise a great book, though, and a beautiful finale for an amazing first book!
My main issue was that part of the book was just... something that had already been explained in detail in the previous one, but this time we got a full on flashback from Nico's POV... not sure I really needed that. Yes, it helped a *little bit* in better understanding later plot twists, but... not enough to make it worth it, imho.
Also the ending was a little bit too deus-ex-machina for me... It was good, but... that part was a bit frustrating.
Otherwise a great book, though, and a beautiful finale for an amazing first book!
November 20, 2024
This story has all of the best elements in it, with a pair of protagonists thrown together that have a love/hate relationship from the start. Each has a backstory that blends beautifully into the storyline until you see that it is all a very old tale that you might remember from when you were young. I was enthralled and entrapped by this wonderful tale and I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
December 20, 2024
This was a strong sequel in the Shadow and the Sword Duology series, it continued the world and was everything that I was hoping for. It continued the storyline that I was hoping for and enjoyed the enemy to lover element that I was looking for. The characters had that feel that I wanted and was hooked from the first page. Katherine Macdonald has a strong writing style and enjoyed these two books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2025
This books is a fitting conclusion to an action packed series. Nico and Viola escape the crown's clutches to exile. Viola, who once worked valiantly for the crown, has been stripped of her title and exiled. This story describes as she and Nico work to free the oppressed including the Giants and the wrongs committed by the crown. 4/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the continuance and ending of the second book in this series!!! The action did not let up, the romance element was perfectly executed, and the characters continued to grow and develop instead of remaining stagnant. Everything I have read from Katherine’s library of penned novels has been nothing short of a wonderful experience that has me caught in the worlds she develops. I thought the ending was perfect! This one does not disappoint!
November 26, 2024
Viola, Cordelia... were the absolutely best, I adore Nico so much. The story plot was so good-and original- and had enough action with enough romance with enough character development despite the lovely fact they are still truly morally grey characters.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 3, 2024
This was such a wonderful feel good duology and this book 2 was just chefs kiss perfection. The banter between Viola and Nico will forever be my fave and I love how much Cordelia grew in this one. The conflicts were resolved and the story came full circle. Love love love.
November 16, 2024
A thoroughly enjoyable conclusion to the first. This isn't cozy fantasy necessarily, but there were definite cozy elements in the middle that make you want to curl up by a fire.
December 24, 2024
Action and emotion
Beautiful ending to an enjoyable story. I was excited to see where the story would go and this book did not disappoint!
Beautiful ending to an enjoyable story. I was excited to see where the story would go and this book did not disappoint!
October 27, 2025
Another great novel by author Katherine MacDonald. Her books just seem to get better each time.
November 26, 2024
When your life turns 180° in an instant
Readers see more of the results/consequences of the trauma experienced by our two mains when they each suddenly and violently lost their family and at a young age. No worries - I’m not gonna spoil or trauma-dump…but what happens in childhood does not stay in childhood. The nightmares not only continue to haunt; the nightmares drive our thoughts and therefore our actions. At some point, self-destructive behaviors begin to hurt other people. The author does well to use this as an underlying theme and to subtly address the healing process.
Reading this brought up many questions regarding ethics:
Our stance on someone’s being ‘a criminal with a cause’?
Revenge versus justice - who decides and what are the parameters?
Using power ‘wisely and well’ – might doesn’t make right and do the ends justify the means?
Some sage advice from the author:
‘No one should have to plead with someone to be wanted’
Turn your shadows into sunshine (like Nico did by carving out a home).
Don’t bottle up your skills and interests – they’ll dry up and no longer be available for you to enjoy.
Fave lines:
‘Bone remembers.’
‘I don’t like secrets [ … ] they just taste like different flavoured lies.’
‘It was the kind of magic you could taste in the air, stale and new, thick as dust. It clung to the stone like the papery smell of a library, or bread in a bakery, a scent tangible enough to mould like clay.’
Forget about “Diagon Alley” of HP fame…gimme the Merrowport book hostel!
Readers see more of the results/consequences of the trauma experienced by our two mains when they each suddenly and violently lost their family and at a young age. No worries - I’m not gonna spoil or trauma-dump…but what happens in childhood does not stay in childhood. The nightmares not only continue to haunt; the nightmares drive our thoughts and therefore our actions. At some point, self-destructive behaviors begin to hurt other people. The author does well to use this as an underlying theme and to subtly address the healing process.
Reading this brought up many questions regarding ethics:
Our stance on someone’s being ‘a criminal with a cause’?
Revenge versus justice - who decides and what are the parameters?
Using power ‘wisely and well’ – might doesn’t make right and do the ends justify the means?
Some sage advice from the author:
‘No one should have to plead with someone to be wanted’
Turn your shadows into sunshine (like Nico did by carving out a home).
Don’t bottle up your skills and interests – they’ll dry up and no longer be available for you to enjoy.
Fave lines:
‘Bone remembers.’
‘I don’t like secrets [ … ] they just taste like different flavoured lies.’
‘It was the kind of magic you could taste in the air, stale and new, thick as dust. It clung to the stone like the papery smell of a library, or bread in a bakery, a scent tangible enough to mould like clay.’
Forget about “Diagon Alley” of HP fame…gimme the Merrowport book hostel!
December 30, 2025
Love everything!! We learn so much and meet more important characters. I love how things expand and resolve. I hope we get some spin off books, especially with Cordelia!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews