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A review by stitchsaddiction
Sisters of Shadow by Katherine Livesey
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.0
This is a fantasy and coming of age story that follows the unplanned adventures of two best friends, Lily and Alice; an apothecary apprentice and a girl people call a witch and outcast…
Sisters of Shadow is a young adult novel and that's apparent by some of the darker and more violent moments of their misadventure along their journey, as well as the chemistry between the two girls and their respective partners. However, I did feel as though some of the writing and storytelling feels more middle grade in nature, which is somewhat disappointing as it lets the overall dynamic of the book down.
Everything about Sisters of Shadow should have appealed as there's magic, mystery, misadventure, and a group of truly evil witches who seem to live in a cult-like manner. However, I found the world building wasn't consistent in how strong and immersive it is, which is very important, especially when it's a fantasy novel. Due to this, there is a disconnect between both myself as the reader and the world they're in. I prefer books that truly pull me in and hold me there, so for example, I'd feel as though I'm a witch or a friend to Lily or Alice.
I did enjoy how the storyline is a dual perspective as the two girls are separated, so to is their adventures, feelings, and circumstances. The supporting cast of characters do add to their recollections both for the good and the dire moments and the connection between Alice and Grace especially was done so well that you experience their initial reticence and Alice's uncertainty of who to trust through to the two experiencing an intense and intimate chemistry. It wasn't in your face at all that either girl was attracted to the other nor that their sapphic romance would occur, so it felt natural albeit swift but sometimes when you know.. you know.
Sisters of Shadow had a great premise, but I was left with far too many questions. primarily, why are the witches so damn awful and cruel to those they themselves encouraged to seek out their coven? I was irritated. There wasn't more explanation, nor if I'm honest, any historic moments of why the coven exists, etc. I kept holding out for answers but instead got a cliffhanger instead.
Sisters of Shadow is a young adult novel and that's apparent by some of the darker and more violent moments of their misadventure along their journey, as well as the chemistry between the two girls and their respective partners. However, I did feel as though some of the writing and storytelling feels more middle grade in nature, which is somewhat disappointing as it lets the overall dynamic of the book down.
Everything about Sisters of Shadow should have appealed as there's magic, mystery, misadventure, and a group of truly evil witches who seem to live in a cult-like manner. However, I found the world building wasn't consistent in how strong and immersive it is, which is very important, especially when it's a fantasy novel. Due to this, there is a disconnect between both myself as the reader and the world they're in. I prefer books that truly pull me in and hold me there, so for example, I'd feel as though I'm a witch or a friend to Lily or Alice.
I did enjoy how the storyline is a dual perspective as the two girls are separated, so to is their adventures, feelings, and circumstances. The supporting cast of characters do add to their recollections both for the good and the dire moments and the connection between Alice and Grace especially was done so well that you experience their initial reticence and Alice's uncertainty of who to trust through to the two experiencing an intense and intimate chemistry. It wasn't in your face at all that either girl was attracted to the other nor that their sapphic romance would occur, so it felt natural albeit swift but sometimes when you know.. you know.
Sisters of Shadow had a great premise, but I was left with far too many questions. primarily, why are the witches so damn awful and cruel to those they themselves encouraged to seek out their coven? I was irritated. There wasn't more explanation, nor if I'm honest, any historic moments of why the coven exists, etc. I kept holding out for answers but instead got a cliffhanger instead.