Review #371
I rated this YA paranormal novel a 4.7/5 stars I read this one in the span of 24 hours. So even though I gobbled it up, it has the potential to be not-memorable. I’m getting the sequel at the library asap.
First off, the chapter heading art is so pretty. Secondly, I’m already loving the vibes right from the beginning. Apparently Violeta’s younger brother is being overtaken by shadows. Their adoptive mother is trying to burn them out of him without success but Violeta sacrifices herself so her brother doesn’t get injured.
The Monster of Lakesedge has come into town to collect tithes from the citizens and sees the black marks on her brothers hands. The secret of his shadows may now be revealed. But the monster lended his personal gloves instead of warning the people.
Then he surprises them at their house by offering to teach the brother how to control his shadows. Violeta refuses to let her brother leave without her.
When they run away & our chased by a wolf, the monster saves Violeta’s life, contradicting all her assumptions.
It’s hard to determine what’s a dream vs real.
Whatever ritual happened at the lake was a bit confusing but I guess it’ll all be clarified in time. Rowan, the monster’s name, seems to have good intentions. I’d be truly trying to help? How does he even know about controlling shadows at the age of 19?
Why does Rowan’s blood specifically help?
What truly happened to Rowan’s three family members who all drowned in the same place in different years?
Does she have secret powers somehow?
Who or what exactly is the Lord Under?
At the halfway mark I’m glad they’ve had a vulnerable moment together. The writing and pacing flows fluidly and I like Violeta’s character.
At page 250 I’m gettin a bit annoyed by how often she lies
Okay so the last 100 pages were superb. So many sacrifices and the author was really trying to make it impact on my emotions and it worked. The ending is semi cliffhanger so I’m out to borrow the next one from the library, Forestfall.