Title: Magic in the Shadows
Author: Devon Monk
First published November 3, 2009
350 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780451462879 (ISBN10: 0451462874)
Rating: 4.03
Overview
Allison Beckstrom’s life has been forever changed by her magical abilities. The toll it has taken on her body is evident, and the memories of the man she loves are slipping away.
But there are more pressing matters at hand. Her late father, a powerful sorcerer, has found a way to inhabit her mind.
It’s a battle for control, and with the support of The Authority, a secret society of magic users, Allie is determined to gain the upper hand. With her father’s influence looming, she must learn to harness her own magic and find a way to banish him from her mind for good.
About the Author
Devon Monk is a successful author known for her urban fantasy novels, including Ordinary Magic, House Immortal, Allie Beckstrom, Broken Magic, and Shame and Terric. In addition to these series, she also writes steampunk novels under the Age of Steam series and short stories that can be found in her collection, A Cup of Normal, as well as various anthologies.
Living in Oregon with her husband and two sons, Devon enjoys knitting in her free time and indulging in her love of coffee.
Editoral Review
Magic in the Shadows by Devon Monk is a brilliant addition to the urban fantasy genre. Published on November 3, 2009, it is the second book in the Allie Beckstrom series.
Devon Monk is an American author who is best known for her urban fantasy and science fiction novels. Her writing style blends magic and technology, making for a unique and captivating read.
The book follows the story of Allie Beckstrom, a young woman who can use magic, but at a great cost to her memory. In this installment, Allie has to solve a case involving the death of a prominent businessman in Portland.
As she investigates the case, she realizes that the magic involved is much darker and more dangerous than she had anticipated. Along the way, she is aided by Zayvion Jones, a mysterious man with his own secrets to keep.
One of the strengths of the book is the character development. Allie is a relatable and flawed protagonist, struggling with her own personal demons while trying to do the right thing.
Zayvion is an enigmatic character with a complex backstory, and the chemistry between him and Allie is palpable. The pacing of the plot is also well-done, with enough action and mystery to keep the reader engaged from start to finish.
Monk’s writing is descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the world of magic and technology that Allie inhabits. The themes of memory, sacrifice, and the consequences of using magic are explored in depth and add depth to the story.
The book also touches on issues such as corporate greed and the exploitation of the environment, making it relevant to current events.
One of the weaknesses of the book is that some of the plot twists can be predictable. However, the strength of the characters and the world-building more than make up for any shortcomings in the plot.
The book can also be read as a standalone, although reading the first book in the series would provide more context.
Overall, Magic in the Shadows is a captivating read that blends magic and technology in a unique way. It is recommended for fans of urban fantasy, mystery, and science fiction.
The book receives a rating of 4.5 out of 5, with the half point deduction for the predictable plot twists.