Review: The Shadow of What Was Lost

The Shadow of What Was Lost by James Islington
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was immediately drawn in by the amazing universe that James Islington built in The Shadow of What Was Lost. I've only experienced this level of quality in a debut novel in Elantris by Brandon Sanderson, which is one of the best books I've ever read.

I've seen previously with The Will of the Many that Islington is a master of world-building. Here, once again, the author develops a society shaped by the dynamics of magic.

All the characters introduced have their own issues and some characteristic features that make them all rather complex. The protagonist, Davian, is a Gifted student preparing for his final test. His journey is more than just becoming an expert in magic; it is also about discovering who he is and where he fits in a world that is quick to pass judgement based on magic and power. I - pretty much - had no choice but to root for him as he faced personal and external challenges throughout the whole book.

An absorbing subplot develops around Caeden, who is wrapped in mystery due to his alleged involvement in an awful crime and his lack of ability to recall anything about it. I especially enjoyed how his journey intersected with Davian's, as both of them struggle with the consequences of their decisions.

"Everyone has a darker nature, Caeden. Everyone. Good men fear it, and evil men embrace it. Good men are still tempted to do the wrong thing, but they resist those urges. As you did. You have nothing to worry about."

Their relationships with the supporting cast raise questions of trust, betrayal, and developing conflicting loyalties. Adding to this, I also liked how their different perspectives on power and duty added dimension to the plot.

Furthermore, the way Islington merges intriguing plots and subplots, with his beautiful, writing, keeps the pace fast and the tension high, making it difficult to put the book down. With great twists, the story builds up to a climax that not only resolves some plot points but also brings up new ones.

Summing up, The Shadow of What Was Lost shows James Islington's ability to create refreshing worlds, relatable individuals, and compelling tales. I am anxious to see where it goes in the second book, which I am about to start.

Content Warnings

Graphic - Blood, Violence, Death

Moderate - Injury/Injury detail, Self harm, Confinement

Minor - Rape, Physical abuse, Sexual assault

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